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Thanks for your input!  As in everything, there's a trade-off.  Still,
for us the spectral data will be worth it.

Craig

On 10/5/07, Robert Zucker <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
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> Craig
> The efficiency of detection is much less in the spectral mode due to the
> design of the multianode detector. In addition as Kurt Thorn said the
> light is split into a number of different bandpass channels instead of
> being detected by only one channel which also limits the detection in
> each channel.
> Nikon compensates for this decreased light by increasing the pixel dwell
> time. However photons are photons. With less photons you will get a
> noisier image.
> The spectral detection of any confocal system using a multianode
> detector will not be as good as a PMT designed for good sensitivity and
> low light detection. It will produce nosier images but if there is
> enough light you will be able to determine a valuable spectrum which can
> be used for scientific experiments and to manipulate images. Like
> everything with confocal microscopy there is trade-offs and no perfect
> system.
> Best wishes.
> Bob
>
> Robert M. Zucker, PhD
> U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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>              Craig Brideau
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>              RV.BUFFALO.EDU>          Re: Nikon C1si?
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>              10/04/2007 02:49
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> I was wondering if you saw this decreased throughput in spectral mode
> only, or also in conventional detection mode?  The spectral mode works
> with a multi-anode PMT, which has a lower quantum efficiency than a
> conventional PMT.  From what I have seen of the design, it also has
> the option to use a conventional PMT system with the device, and I am
> wondering if you have also tried that mode of operation?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Craig
>
> On 10/4/07, Robert Zucker <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> > One of the major limitations that we have seen with this unit and also
> > with  the Zeiss meta 510 is the decreased light throughput . This
> > creates images that are noisier than conventional confocal
> microscopes.
> > In our hands it appears you will need to have a bright sample to make
> > the spectral system work properly. ,
>