Charged coupled device sensors, commonly referred to as CCD sensors, change an actual light image into a virtual electronic image. Photosensitive silicon is integral the electronic sensor CCD. In an analog CCD sensor, thousands of photosensitive elements correspond with pixels in a matrix of rows and columns. Amplifiers convert the charges from rows of elements into voltage signals, which then display as pixels on a monitor.

Since digital photography uses this type of sensor, sometimes its name is digital CCD sensor. Other applications for the CCD imaging sensor include photometry, fluoroscopy, spectroscopy, high-speed imaging and photography. There are many specifications for a CCD sensor, but here are the main points to consider when buying:

1. RGB filters facilitate color CCD imaging.

2. A mono CCD sensor has no RGB filter, and only displays monochrome tones, rather than colors.

3. The size of the imaging area (not the monitor) of a CCD sensor determines the sharpness of the picture. Generally, CCD sensor sizes range from 1/7 inches to 1 inch.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy CCD image sensors and cameras from quality CCD sensor sources

Find the CCD sensor sources that have the widest selection and the most information on their websites. This will not only help you make a better choice, but also help you avoid cut-rate merchandise.

I recommend: Andor Technology carries a wide range of CCD cameras, including electron multiplying CDD (EMCCD), intensified CCD (ICCD) and x-ray detection cameras. Sony carries CCD video cameras in both black and white (mono) and color formats, as well as scan systems and a CCD linear sensor.

Get industrial CCD sensors that have the right parameters for you application

The main points of difference between various CCD sensors include number of outputs; spectral response, which is the wavelength range; and the data rate, which is the quickness of the conversion expressed in megahertz (MHz). Also look for features like an anti-blooming gate, which reduces the likelihood that you'll see vertical streaks on your monitor. Also, some units are cooled for lower noise and operating temperature.

I recommend: SICK, Inc. publishes detailed information about their products so you can match a product with your specific industrial application. Hamamatsu also publishes detailed information, and they carry a huge number of products for most applications.

Locate CCD sensor parts and cleaners

CCD sensors require parts to adapt them to specific applications. They also need cleaning devises to keep them working optimally.

I recommend: For hand-held CCD cameras, Stellar Technologies International sells high precision focusing equipment, as well as adapters. Cleaning devises for CCDs include precision pens, blowers and swabs, like those available from Climax Photo & Digital.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Full-frame CCD sensors always require a mechanical shutter to limit exposure time, but frame transfer CCD sensors employ a technology with the sensor itself that often replaces the mechanical shutter.