IRC 900 series SWIR cameras

Choose the IRC906-SWIR when 640 × 512 resolution, a standard 20 µm pixel pitch and a 7 million-electron well capacity match the measurement requirement. Its detailed configuration also permits a 12 µm option, which changes the well capacity to 2 million electrons and raises the full-window rate to 475 Hz. The IRC912-SWIR is more appropriate when the design requires 1280 × 1024 resolution, 12 µm pixels or reduced-window rates above 6800 Hz. Both models operate at approximately 120 Hz across their standard full image. The final choice should account for spatial resolution, optical field of view, signal level, frame rate and available acquisition bandwidth.

Both cameras use an InSb focal-plane array with a standard detector response extending from below 900 nm to above 5000 nm, but cold filtering defines the practical SWIR operating band. The IRC906-SWIR has a standard 900–2600 nm cold-filter option, while the IRC912-SWIR uses a 960–2600 nm filter and has a standard system response extending from below 900 nm to 2600 nm. Custom filters can be specified when a narrower or differently positioned band is required. A motorised four-position warm filter wheel can hold 25.4 mm diameter, 1.0 mm thick filters. Engineers should select the spectral configuration alongside the lens mount because the filter wheel is unavailable with C-mount versions.

Yes, both models combine approximately 120 Hz full-frame imaging with integration times below 150 ns and user-defined windowing. The IRC906-SWIR can operate at 475 Hz when configured with the optional 12 µm pixel array, while the IRC912-SWIR can exceed 6800 Hz when its active window is reduced. Window dimensions are adjusted in 4 × 1 pixel increments, with minimum heights of 32 pixels for the IRC906-SWIR and 8 pixels for the IRC912-SWIR. A 13-bit mode is available when increased small-window frame rate is prioritised over the standard 14-bit depth. The acquisition system must be sized for the selected resolution, bit depth, interface and sustained frame rate.

Image data can be delivered simultaneously through Camera Link, Gigabit Ethernet and HDMI, giving system designers several integration paths. Serial communication is available over Camera Link and GigE, while cross-platform GenICam compliance supports compatible control and acquisition software. Camera Link can be assigned to high-rate image capture, with GigE and HDMI available for network integration or monitoring as the system architecture requires. Sync I/O and an integration output allow image acquisition to be coordinated with external equipment. Optional IRIG-B and GPS data stamping can add a timing reference when frames must be correlated with test events, position data or other instruments.

The IRC906-SWIR supports standard f/2.3 and f/4.0 configurations, while the IRC912-SWIR also offers f/2.0. Bayonet, M42 and C-mount interfaces are available, and custom cold shields can be specified to match particular optical arrangements. The optional four-position warm filter wheel accepts 25.4 mm diameter, 1.0 mm thick filters but cannot be used with a C-mount configuration. Both camera bodies measure 8.96″ × 5.13″ × 6.70″ and weigh less than 13 lb. Mechanical designs should provide suitable support for that mass, access to the selected lens mount and clearance for the filter wheel, connectors and cooling system.

Each camera requires a 24 VDC supply and has a stated power consumption of 35 W. The closed-cycle Stirling cooling system should be considered when planning supply capacity, thermal management, vibration control and installation space. Operation is specified from −40°C to +55°C, with storage permitted from −55°C to +80°C. The enclosure carries an IP-51 environmental rating and provides 2 × 1/4-20 plus 4 × #10-24 mounting holes. For field installation, engineers should verify that the application enclosure, power conditioning, mounting structure and environmental protection meet the conditions expected at the deployment site.