Photometrics Cascade series User manual

USER MANUAL Cascade 650,1K,512F, 512B,128+, and 128

User Manual for Cascade®Systems
Model 650, Model 1K, Model 512F, Model 512B,
Model 128+, and Model 128

© Copyright 2003-2004 Photometrics
3440 East Britannia Drive
Tucson, Arizona 85706
Tel: [phone].889.9933
Fax: [phone]
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without the written
permission of Photometrics, a division of Roper Scientific, Inc.
Printed in the United States of America.
Acrobat and Reader are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or
other countries.
Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
QED Capture is a trademark and PVCAM, Cascade, and Photometrics are registered trademarks of Roper
Scientific, Inc.
Mac and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries.
Other brand and product names are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners and
manufacturers.
The information in this publication is believed to be accurate as of the publication release date. However,
Photometrics does not assume any responsibility for any consequences including any damages resulting from
the use thereof. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. Revision of this
publication may be issued to incorporate such change.

iii
LIMITED WARRANTY
Photometrics, a division of Roper Scientific, Inc., (“Photometrics,” us,” “we,” “our”) makes the following
limited warranties. These limited warranties extend to the original purchaser (“You”, “you”) only and no
other purchaser or transferee. We have complete control over all warranties and may alter or terminate any or
all warranties at any time we deem necessary.
Basic Limited One (1) Year Warranty
Photometrics warrants this product against substantial defects in materials and / or workmanship for a period
of up to one (1) year after shipment. During this period, Photometrics will repair the product or, at its sole
option, repair or replace any defective part without charge to you. You must deliver the entire product to the
Photometrics factory or, at our option, to a factory-authorized service center. You are responsible for the
shipping costs to return the product. International customers should contact their local Photometrics
authorized representative/distributor for repair information and assistance, or visit our technical support
page at www.photomet.com.
Limited One (1) Year Warranty on Refurbished or Discontinued Products
Photometrics warrants, with the exception of the CCD imaging device (which carries NO WARRANTIES
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED), this product against defects in materials or workmanship for a period of up to one
(1) year after shipment. During this period, Photometrics will repair or replace, at its sole option, any defective
parts, without charge to you. You must deliver the entire product to the Photometrics factory or, at our option,
a factory-authorized service center. You are responsible for the shipping costs to return the product to
Photometrics. International customers should contact their local Photometrics representative/distributor for
repair information and assistance or visit our technical support page at www.photomet.com.
Normal Wear Item Disclaimer
Photometrics does not warrant certain items against defect due to normal wear and tear. These items include
internal and external shutters, cables, and connectors. These items carry no warranty, expressed or implied.
Sealed Chamber Integrity Limited 24 Month Warranty
Photometrics warrants the sealed chamber integrity of all our products for a period of twenty-four (24)
months after shipment. If, at anytime within twenty-four (24) months from the date of delivery, the detector
should experience a sealed chamber failure, all parts and labor needed to restore the chamber seal will be
covered by us. Open chamber products carry NO WARRANTY TO THE CCD IMAGING DEVICE, EXPRESSED
OR IMPLIED. Responsibility for shipping charges is as described above under our Basic Limited One (1) Year
Warranty.
Vacuum Integrity Limited 24 Month Warranty
Photometrics warrants the vacuum integrity of all our products for a period of up to twenty-four (24) months
from the date of shipment. We warrant that the detector head will maintain the factory-set operating
temperature without the requirement for customer pumping. Should the detector experience a Vacuum
Integrity failure at anytime within twenty-four (24) months from the date of delivery all parts and labor
needed to restore the vacuum integrity will be covered by us. Responsibility for shipping charges is as
described above under our Basic Limited One (1) Year Warranty.
Software Limited Warranty
Photometrics warrants all of our manufactured software discs to be free from substantial defects in materials
and / or workmanship under normal use for a period of one (1) year from shipment. Photometrics does not
warrant that the function of the software will meet your requirements or that operation will be uninterrupted
or error free. You assume responsibility for selecting the software to achieve your intended results and for the
use and results obtained from the software. In addition, during the one (1) year limited warranty. The original
purchaser is entitled to receive free version upgrades. Version upgrades supplied free of charge will be in the
form of a download from the Internet. Those customers who do not have access to the Internet may obtain the
version upgrades on a CD-ROM from our factory for an incidental shipping and handling charge. See Item 12
in the following section of this warranty ("Your Responsibility") for more information.

iv Cascade User Manual
Owner's Manual and Troubleshooting
You should read the owner’s manual thoroughly before operating this product. In the unlikely event that you
should encounter difficulty operating this product, the owner’s manual should be consulted before contacting
the Photometrics technical support staff or authorized service representative for assistance. If you have
consulted the owner's manual and the problem still persists, please contact the Photometrics technical support
staff or our authorized service representative. See Item 12 in the following section of this warranty ("Your
Responsibility") for more information.
Your Responsibility
The above Limited Warranties are subject to the following terms and conditions:
1. You must retain your bill of sale (invoice) and present it upon request for service and repairs or
provide other proof of purchase satisfactory to Photometrics.
2. You must notify the Photometrics factory service center within (30) days after you have taken
delivery of a product or part that you believe to be defective. With the exception of customers who
claim a “technical issue” with the operation of the product or part, all invoices must be paid in full in
accordance with the terms of sale. Failure to pay invoices when due may result in the interruption
and/or cancellation of your one (1) year limited warranty and/or any other warranty, expressed or
implied.
3. All warranty service must be made by the Photometrics factory or, at our option, an authorized
service center.
4. Before products or parts can be returned for service you must contact the Photometrics factory and
receive a return authorization number (RMA). Products or parts returned for service without a return
authorization evidenced by an RMA will be sent back freight collect.
5. These warranties are effective only if purchased from the Photometrics factory or one of our
authorized manufacturer's representatives or distributors.
6. Unless specified in the original purchase agreement, Photometrics is not responsible for installation,
setup, or disassembly at the customer’s location.
7. Warranties extend only to defects in materials or workmanship as limited above and do not extend to
any product or part which has:
•been lost or discarded by you;
•been damaged as a result of misuse, improper installation, faulty or inadequate maintenance or
failure to follow instructions furnished by us;
•had serial numbers removed, altered, defaced, or rendered illegible;
•been subjected to improper or unauthorized repair; or
•been damaged due to fire, flood, radiation, or other “acts of God” or other contingencies beyond
the control of Photometrics.
8. After the warranty period has expired, you may contact the Photometrics factory or a Photometrics-
authorized representative for repair information and/or extended warranty plans.
9. Physically damaged units or units that have been modified are not acceptable for repair in or out of
warranty and will be returned as received.
10. All warranties implied by state law or non-U.S. laws, including the implied warranties of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose, are expressly limited to the duration of the limited warranties set forth
above. With the exception of any warranties implied by state law or non-U.S. laws, as hereby limited, the
forgoing warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties, guarantees, agreements, and similar
obligations of manufacturer or seller with respect to the repair or replacement of any parts. In no event
shall Photometrics’ liability exceed the cost of the repair or replacement of the defective product or part.

v
11. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights that may vary
from state to state and from country to country. Some states and countries do not allow limitations on
how long an implied warranty lasts, when an action may be brought, or the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above provisions may not apply to you.
12.
When contacting us for technical support or service assistance, please refer to the Photometrics factory
of purchase, contact your authorized Photometrics representative or reseller, or visit our technical
support page at www.photomet.com.

vi Cascade User Manual
Declaration of Conformity
Roper Scientific, Inc. declares on its sole responsibility that the equipment described in
this document is in conformance with the requirements of the European Council
Directives, listed below:
89/336/EEC EMC Directive & Amendments
93/68/EEC EMC Directive & Amendments
73/23/EEC Product Safety with Amendments
on the application of the laws of Member States relating to Electromagnetic
Compatibility & Product Safety.
This declaration is based upon compliance of the product to the following standards:
EN 55022, CISPR 22A RF Emissions Control
EN 61000-3 series Harmonics and Flicker Emissions
EN 55024 Immunity with Electromagnetic Disturbances
EN 60950 Product Safety
Product Description: Digital Camera
Models: Cascade 650 and Cascade 1K
Test Reports: Rpt 2K02-0325-014 Series
Responsible Person:
Steve Marcus, VP Engineering
Roper Scientific, Inc.
3440 E. Britannia Drive
Tucson, Arizona 85706
Manufacturer: Roper Scientific, Inc.

vii
Declaration of Conformity
Roper Scientific, Inc. declares on its sole responsibility that the equipment described in
this document is in conformance with the requirements of the European Council
Directives, listed below:
89/336/EEC EMC Directive & Amendments
93/68/EEC EMC Directive & Amendments
73/23/EEC Product Safety with Amendments
on the application of the laws of Member States relating to Electromagnetic
Compatibility & Product Safety.
This declaration is based upon compliance of the product to the following standards:
EN 55022, CISPR 22A RF Emissions Control
EN 61000-3 series Harmonics and Flicker Emissions
EN 55024 Immunity with Electromagnetic Disturbances
EN 60950 Product Safety
Product Description: Digital Camera
Models: Cascade 512F and Cascade 512B
Test Reports: Rpt 2K03-0319-028 A, B, C, & D
Responsible Person:
Steve Marcus, VP Engineering
Roper Scientific, Inc.
3440 E. Britannia Drive
Tucson, Arizona 85706
Manufacturer: Roper Scientific, Inc.

viii Cascade User Manual
Declaration of Conformity
Roper Scientific, Inc. declares on its sole responsibility that the equipment described in
this document is in conformance with the requirements of the European Council
Directives, listed below:
89/336/EEC EMC Directive & Amendments
93/68/EEC EMC Directive & Amendments
73/23/EEC Product Safety with Amendments
on the application of the laws of Member States relating to Electromagnetic
Compatibility & Product Safety.
This declaration is based upon compliance of the product to the following standards:
EN 55022, CISPR 22A RF Emissions Control
EN 61000-3 series Harmonics and Flicker Emissions
EN 55024 Immunity with Electromagnetic Disturbances
EN 60950 Product Safety
Product Description: Digital Camera
Models: Cascade 128+ and Cascade 128
Test Reports: Rpt 2K03-0319-028 A, B, C, & D; Rpt D0450029; Rpt D0450032;
and Test G0480097
Responsible Person: __________________________
E. J. Pisa, V.P. of Engineering
Roper Scientific, Inc.
3440 E. Britannia Drive
Tucson, Arizona 85706
Manufacturer: Roper Scientific, Inc.

ix
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction
Description.................................................................................................................................1
Technology Introduction .........................................................................................................2
System Components .................................................................................................................2
About This Manual...................................................................................................................3
Precautions.................................................................................................................................3
Environmental Requirements .................................................................................................4
Storage Requirements...............................................................................................................4
Microscopes, Lenses, and Tripods..........................................................................................4
Repairs........................................................................................................................................4
Cleaning .....................................................................................................................................4
Photometrics Customer Service ..............................................................................................5
Chapter 2. System Installation
Introduction...............................................................................................................................7
Software Compatibility Requirements...................................................................................7
Host Computer Requirements ................................................................................................7
Multiple Cameras......................................................................................................................8
Software Installation.................................................................................................................8
Installing the PCI Card.............................................................................................................8
Connecting Your Cascade Camera.........................................................................................9
Adjusting the C-Mount Adapter...........................................................................................10
Chapter 3. Operating Features
Common Features...................................................................................................................11
On-Chip Multiplication Gain .........................................................................................11
Offset (bias).......................................................................................................................11
Exposure-Readout Modes ..............................................................................................11
Triggered Operation........................................................................................................15
AIMO / Non-AIMO........................................................................................................16
Cascade:650/1K Features.......................................................................................................17
Conversion Gain ..............................................................................................................17
Readout Speed..................................................................................................................18
Binning ..............................................................................................................................18
Cascade:512F/ 512B/128+/128 Features.............................................................................19
Dual-Readout Port Operation........................................................................................19
Conversion Gain ..............................................................................................................21
Readout Speed..................................................................................................................21
Binning ..............................................................................................................................22
Application Examples: Cascade:512F and 512B ..........................................................22
Summary...........................................................................................................................23
Chapter 4.Troubleshooting
System Does Not Boot Normally..........................................................................................25
New Hardware Found Dialog Box Does Not Appear (Windows 2000/XP) ....................25
Images Not Displayed............................................................................................................25
Camera Running Too Warm .................................................................................................26

xCascade User Manual
PVCAM Error Message Appears..........................................................................................26
Lengthy Pauses During Imaging ..........................................................................................26
Chapter 5. Basic Specifications
Camera Dimensions (Front) .................................................................................................27
Camera Dimensions (Bottom) ...............................................................................................29
Focal Plane Measurement......................................................................................................31
Additional Measurements .....................................................................................................34
CCD Specifications and Orientation ....................................................................................34
Connectors ...............................................................................................................................36
POWER Connector Pinout..............................................................................................37
I/O Connector Pinout .....................................................................................................37
Power Supply Specifications and Dimensions....................................................................39
Index .................................................................................................................. 41
Figures
Figure 1. Comparison of Traditional CCD and Cascade CCD Array Structures............2
Figure 2. Adjustable C-Mount Adapter .............................................................................10
Figure 3. Required Settings for Non-Overlap Mode Operation ......................................12
Figure 4. Timing Diagram for Non-Overlap Mode...........................................................12
Figure 5. Required Settings for Overlap Mode Operation ...............................................13
Figure 6. Timing Diagram for Overlap Mode when Exposure Time < Readout Time14
Figure 7. Timing Diagram for Overlap Mode when Exposure Time > Readout Time14
Figure 8. Trigger-First Mode Timing Diagram: Overlap Mode.......................................15
Figure 9. Trigger-First Mode Timing Diagram: Non-Overlap Mode .............................15
Figure 10. Strobe Mode Timing Diagram ...........................................................................16
Figure 11. Bulb Mode Timing Diagram ..............................................................................16
Figure 12. DAC Setting vs. Charge Multiplication Gain for Cascade:650 and
Cascade:1K.......................................................................................................................17
Figure 13. DAC Setting vs. Charge Multiplication Gain for
Cascade:512F/512B/128+/128......................................................................................19
Figure 14. Cascade:512F and 512B CCD Array Structure................................................19
Figure 15. Software Selection of Readout Port...................................................................20
Tables
Table 1. Cascade:650 Readout Speeds and Typical Conversion Gains...........................18
Table 2. Cascade:1K Readout Speed and Typical Conversion Gains .............................18
Table 3. Cascade:512F and 512B Readout Speeds and Typical Conversion Gains .......21
Table 4. Cascade:128+ Readout Speed and Typical Conversion Gains..........................21
Table 5. Cascade:128 Readout Speed and Typical Conversion Gains ............................21
Table 6. Application Type and Cascade:512F Setup Parameters.....................................23

1
Chapter 1. Introduction
Description The Photometrics
®
Cascade
®
line of cameras from Photometrics uses an
advanced CCD technology called "impact ionization" to achieve charge
multiplication gain above the read noise. As a result, the cameras offer
unparalleled sensitivity even at high frame rates.
Cascade cameras are most suited for high speed and/or low-light level
imaging applications such as single molecule fluorescence, ion imaging, and
adaptive optics. With the traditional readout amplifier, Cascade: 512F and
512B can also be used for standard fluorescence and imaging applications
requiring higher dynamic range.
Currently the Cascade line consists of the following camera models:
•Cascade:650
oUses a 653x492 Front-illuminated CCD with 7.4x7.4 µm pixels
oHas one readout amplifier (charge multiplication gain).
•Cascade:1K
oUses a 1004x1002 Front-illuminated CCD with 8x8 µm pixels
oHas one readout amplifier (charge multiplication gain).
•Cascade:512F
oUses a 512x512 Front-illuminated CCD with 16x16 µm pixels
oHas two readout amplifiers – one that offers charge
multiplication gain and another for traditional readout.
•Cascade:512B
oUses a 512x512 Back-illuminated CCD with 16x16 µm pixels
oHas two readout amplifiers – one that offers charge
multiplication gain and another for traditional readout.
•Cascade:128+
oUses a 128+ x128+ Back-illuminated CCD with 24x24 µm pixels
oHas one charge multiplication gain readout port.
•Cascade:128
oUses a 128x128 Back-illuminated CCD with 24x24 µm pixels
oHas one charge multiplication gain readout port.
Note: The 512F and 512B are also offered with a "multiplication only" readout
amplifier. Check your camera configuration.
Note: Unless otherwise specified, the information in this manual applies to all Cascade
models (the 650, the 1K, the 512F, the 512B, the 128+, and the 128).

2 Cascade User Manual
Technology
Introduction
The principal difference between a charge-multiplying CCD and a traditional CCD
is the presence of an extended serial register in the new device (see Figure 1).
Electrons are accelerated from pixel to pixel in the extended portion of the serial
register (also referred to as a multiplication register) by applying higher-than-typical
CCD clock voltages. This causes secondary electrons to be generated in the silicon
by impact ionization. The degree of multiplication gain is controlled by increasing or
decreasing the clock voltages for this register (gain is exponentially proportional to
the voltage). Although the probability of generating secondary electrons is fairly low
(typically 0.01 per stage), over the large number of stages of a typical multiplication
register, the total gain can be quite high.
This technology combines the ease of use and robustness of a traditional CCD
with the gain capabilities of an intensified CCD in a single device. The
combination of this technology with frame-transfer readout makes the Cascade
cameras excellent choices for experiments where fast framing and low light
sensitivity are required.
Normal Voltage Clock Standard Serial Register
Frame-transfer Area
Sensor Area
High Voltage Clock
Readout
Amplifier
Output or Sensor Node
Extended Multiplication Register
Readout
Amplifier
Output or Sensor Node
Port #2 (non-multiplication)
For standard, high dynamic range
applications. Available only for
Cascade:512F and Cascade:512B.
Port #1 (multiplication)
For high speed, low light level
applications.
Cascade CCD
Normal Voltage Clock Standard
Serial Register
Output or
Sensor Node
Frame-transfer Area
Sensor Area
Traditional CCD
Readout
Amplifier
Figure 1. Comparison of Traditional CCD and Cascade CCD Array Structures
Cascade:512F and 512B also offer a non-multiplication readout similar to the one
available in traditional CCD cameras. This makes these more versatile cameras
that can be used for standard imaging applications requiring higher dynamic
range.
System
Components
In addition to the components shown below, the Cascade package also includes
PVCAM
®
drivers and QED Capture™software.
Camera (with Test Lens) and DATA Cable

Chapter 1. Introduction 3
PCI Card Power Supply with Power Cord
About This
Manual
The Cascade User Manual is divided into five chapters. It is suggested that you
read the entire manual before operating the camera in order to ensure proper
use. The chapters that follow this introduction are briefly described below.
Note: The information in these chapters applies to the Cascade:650, the Cascade:1K, the
Cascade:512F, the Cascade:512B, the Cascade:128+ , and the Cascade:128 models unless
otherwise specified.
•System Installation — Instructions for connecting your Cascade camera
to your computer via the Cascade PCI card.
•Operating Features — Discusses Cascade features such as on-chip
multiplication gain, readout, and trigger modes. Provides additional
information on dual-readout mode feature available on Cascade: 512F
and Cascade:512B.
•Troubleshooting — Provides answers to camera system problems.
•Basic Specifications —Provides specifications for Cascade system
components.
Precautions The CCD and other system electronics are extremely sensitive to electrostatic
discharge (ESD). To avoid permanently damaging the system, please observe
the following precautions:
•If you are using high-voltage equipment (such as an arc lamp) with your
camera system, be sure to turn the camera power on last and power the
camera off first.
•Never connect or disconnect any cable while the camera system is
powered on.
•Although you should switch off the camera’s power before disconnecting
any camera system cable, you do not need to power off your computer
to detach the cables.
•Use caution when triggering high-current switching devices (such as an arc
lamp) near your system. The CCD can be permanently damaged by
transient voltage spikes. If electrically noisy devices are present, an isolated,
conditioned power line or dedicated isolation transformer is highly
recommended.
•Always leave one inch of space around the camera’s external cooling
fins for airflow.
•Never open the camera. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the
Cascade camera. Opening the camera voids the warranty.
•Use only the PCI card, cables, and power supply designated for this
camera system. Using non-Cascade cables, PCI cards, or power supplies
may result in permanent damage to your system.
•Do not use a C-mount lens that has optics that extend behind the lens
flange.

4 Cascade User Manual
Environmental
Requirements
The Cascade camera system should be operated in a clean, dry environment.
The camera system’s ambient operating temperature is 0°C to 30°C with 80%
relative humidity, noncondensing.
Storage
Requirements
Store the Cascade camera system in its original containers. To protect the system
from excessive heat, cold, and moisture, store at an ambient temperature
between -20°C and 60°C with a relative humidity of 0%-90%, noncondensing.
Microscopes,
Lenses, and
Tripods
The camera has a standard threaded video mount and can be mounted to any
microscope that accepts a standard C-mount adapter. The camera also allows
you to install any lens that is compatible with a standard threaded video mount
as long as its optics do not extend behind the flange of the lens. The Cascade
camera can be mounted to a tripod using the tripod mounting attachment
located on the bottom of the camera. See Additional Measurements on page 34 for
more information.
The Cascade C-mount adapter is designed so it can be screwed in or out to
change the focal depth. Once the focal depth as been changed, the adapter is
secured by two setscrews. See Adjusting the C-Mount Adapter on page 10 for
more information.
Note: In microscopy applications, a 0.6x C-mount camera coupler is recommended for a
Cascade:650 to achieve proper field of view.
Repairs The Cascade camera system contains no user-serviceable parts. Repairs must be
done by Photometrics. Should your camera system need repair, contact
Photometrics Customer Service. Please save the original packing materials so you
can safely ship the camera system to another location or return it for repairs if
necessary.
Note: Do not open the camera. Opening the Cascade camera voids the warranty.
Cleaning
Clean exterior surfaces of the camera with a dry, lint-free cloth. To remove stains,
contact Photometrics Customer Service. To clean the camera’s imaging window,
use only a filtered compressed-air source. Hand-held cans are not recommended,
as they may spray propellant onto the window. Do not touch the window.

Chapter 1. Introduction 5
Photometrics
Customer Service
If you have any questions about your camera system, contact Photometrics
Customer Service. When you call, please have your Roper Scientific job number
or equipment serial numbers available.
•Tel: [phone].889.9933 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm MST
•Fax: [phone]
•E-mail: [email protected]
• Mail: Photometrics
3440 East Britannia Drive
Tucson, Arizona 85706
In Europe, you can reach Customer Service at:
BENELUX
•Tel: [phone]
•Fax: [phone]
•E-mail: [email protected]
• Mail: Roper Scientific, BV
Ir. D.S. Tuijnmanweg 10
4131 PN VIANEN, Netherlands
FRANCE
•Tel: [phone]
•Fax: [phone]
•E-mail: [email protected]
• Mail: Roper Scientific, SARL
Z.I. Petite Montagne Sud
4, rue de l'Oisans - C.E. 1702
91017 Evry Cedex, France
GERMANY
•Tel: [phone]
•Fax: [phone]
•E-mail: [email protected]
• Mail: Roper Scientific, GmbH
Rosenheimer Landstr. 87
D-85521 Ottobrunn, Germany
In Japan, you can reach Customer Service at:
•Tel: [phone]
•Fax: [phone]
•E-mail: [email protected]
• Mail: Nipon Roper, K.K.
D-10E 1-3 Nakase,
Mihama-ku, Chiba-shi
Japan 261-8501
General product information and answers to some customer service questions can
be found on our website: http://www.photomet.com

6Cascade User Manual
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7
Chapter 2. System Installation
Carefully review the Precautions section on page 3 before performing any of the
procedures outlined here. Again, use only a Cascade data cable and a Cascade PCI card
with your Cascade camera. Using a different cable or PCI card may result in permanent
damage to your system.
Introduction Your Cascade camera system has the following hardware components:
•PCI card
•Camera and Data cable
•Power supply with Power cord.
Cascade system components are linked by the data cable and controlled by your
host computer system. All of these hardware components should be included with
your shipment. Refer to the information and figures in System Components on page 2.
The CCD you selected is installed in your camera.
Keep all the original packing materials so you can safely ship the Cascade
system to another location or return it for service if necessary.
If you have any difficulty with any step of the instructions, call Photometrics
Customer Service.
Software
Compatibility
Requirements
The Cascade package includes the PVCAM drivers and the QED Capture
software program designed for use with your Cascade camera.
All other imaging software must also be PVCAM-compatible. For full access to
Cascade hardware functions, the current version of PVCAM must be used.
Host Computer
Requirements
The host computer (PC) for your Cascade camera must have the following:
•Windows
®
2000, or Windows
®
XP operating system
•1 GHz Pentium
®
4 (or greater)
•256 MB RAM (or greater)
•CD-ROM drive
•At least one unused PCI card slot
•16-bit color display (or greater)
Note: The above requirements are the minimum for operating a Cascade camera. A faster
computer (Pentium 4 or greater) with larger memory (RAM) will greatly enhance the
software performance during live mode operations.

8Cascade User Manual
If you are a Mac
®
user, the host computer for your Cascade camera must have
the following:
•Macintosh
®
OS X operating system
•G4/G5 computer
•256 MB RAM (or greater)
•CD-ROM drive
•At least one unused PCI or PCI-X card slot
•Video adapter that supports 24-bit color (millions of colors)
Multiple Cameras
PVCAM supports multiple open cameras. In order to use this function, it must also
be supported by your imaging software.
If your imaging software supports multiple cameras, there must be a separate
PCI card for each camera.
Software
Installation
An Installation Guide appropriate to your system is included as an insert in the
CD-ROM case. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing the
camera interface software and the application software for Windows-based
computers. Additional instructions are included for installing a PCI card in
your computer and capturing images.
The Photometrics CD-ROM contains the following files.
•Linux directory — this directory contains the files for installing on a
Linux PC.
•MacOS directory — this directory contains the files required for
installing on a Macintosh computer.
•Manuals directory — this directory contains user manuals in PDF format.
•Win OS directory — this directory contains the files for installing on a
Windows PC.
Installing the
PCI Card
You will be using a Cascade PCI card to allow the camera to communicate with
your computer.
Before installing the PCI card, refer to the Readme text files on the CD-ROM and
to the Software Installation insert. The insert instructions will step you through
the PCI card installation.
After installing the PCI card, continue to Connecting Your Cascade Camera.

Chapter 2. System Installation 9
Connecting Your
Cascade Camera
The following connectors are located on the back of the Cascade camera:
•DATA connector: 20-pin, high-density connector for data transfer.
•POWER connector: 5-pin, LEMO connector for camera power (see
POWER Connector Pinout on page 36 for details).
•I/O connector: DB26, high-density connector for input/output control
signals (see I/O Connector Pinout on page 37 for details).
•Power switch: Turns the camera on and off (|=on, 0=off).
To connect your Cascade camera:
1. Connect either end of the DATA cable to the Cascade PCI card that you have
installed in the host computer. The DATA cable (shown below) connects
your Cascade camera to the Cascade PCI card. This cable is identifiable by its
20-pin connectors. It is designed to serve as a conduit for data.
2. Connect the other end of the DATA cable to the DATA connector
located on the back of the camera (shown below).
3. Verify that the power switch on the back of the camera is in the off
position (|=on, 0=off).
4. Connect the power supply to the POWER connector on the back of the
camera.
5. Plug the power cord into the power supply and then into a suitable wall
outlet.
6. Switch on the camera (power switch on the back of camera).