Detectors for fluorescence microscopy

Abstract

The low light levels originating from living cells viewed in the fluorescence microscope place significant limitations on the spatial and temporal resolution which can be achieved. The development of intensified video cameras has enabled the detection, visualization and measurement of these low level signals. The performance characteristics of popular intensified video cameras are compared and guidelines are given for the selection of the appropriate detector for various experimental requirements. Intensified or cooled CCD cameras appear to be the most suitable device for quantitative imaging at low light levels in fluorescence microscopy.