USB 3.0 camera is based on the Sony ICX825 CCD sensor

This sensor is the next generation of the ICX285 CCD, which has been the industry standard for scientific imaging due to its large pixel size, high saturation capacity, and excellent dynamic range. The ICX825 continues this legacy and maintains the same optical format and pixel size while improving upon the imaging performance and frame rate. The latest Grasshopper3 model is suitable for scientific and industrial applications such as fluorescent microscopy, electronics assembly and inspection.

Like all Point Grey USB 3.0 cameras, the GS3-U3-15S5 uses a proprietary USB 3.0 link layer and frame buffer-based architecture for optimal performance and reliability. The CCD camera uses an advanced image processing pipeline to enable colour interpolation, look up table, gamma correction, pixel binning and USB3 Vision support.

"There are many applications, particularly in the scientific and biomedical markets, where CCD is still preferred over CMOS," says Michael Gibbons, Director of Sales and Marketing, Point Grey. "CCDs like the ICX285 and ICX825, for example, have lower dark current, which is important for doing longer exposures in order to reduce noise. We're very excited to introduce this sensor from Sony, and happy to continue supporting our customers with CCD-based products."

The GS3-U3-15S5 is priced available now and priced at $1,595/€1225.