VT-Infinity

VT-Infinity - Overview

The VT-Infinity 2D array scanner heralds a new generation of high speed multi-point confocal systems targeted at the study of dynamic processes in living cells. This latest innovation in confocal microscopy from VisiTech International offers superior benefits to other confocal microscopy technologies.

The VT-Infinity offers faster scan rates without the frame to frame variations inherent in other multi-point scanning techniques and its variable scan rates enable simple synchronisation to eliminate image 'streaking'. The VT-Infinity also preserves the exceptionally low photo-bleaching performance associated with multi-point confocal systems.

Live cell experiments particularly benefit from the low photo-bleaching characteristics of the VT-Infinity, maintaining the viability of samples for extended experiment durations when compared with conventional point scanning confocal systems.

Variable Speed Synchronised Imaging

The basic optical path consists of a stationary micro-lens array illuminated with an expanded laser beam. A galvanometer mirror scans the array over the sample and de-scans the returning fluorescence light. This light is separated from the illuminating beam by a dichroic mirror, and passes through a stationary pinhole array to create the confocal image.

This image is re-scanned in perfect synchronisation by the reverse side of the galvanometer mirror onto an ultra sensitive CCD camera. The galvanometer scanner is readily synchronised to the selected camera capture parameters, both exposure time and frame capture rate.

Infinity Light Path

Optimised Scanning Performance

Selectable pinhole sizes permit users to vary the degree of confocality and throughput to match their experiment requirements for optimal imaging conditions.
The appropriate choice of pinhole size for the stationary pinhole array enables full optimisation of experiment requirements in terms of objective magnification, spatial resolution and light throughput.
Exceptionally fast scanning performance derives from the galvanometer mirror requirement to scan only at frame rates.

Multi-Wavelength Compatibility (UV to near-IR)

The VT-Infinity offers a massive choice of fluorophores for your experiments since its optical design is compatible with wavelengths from ultra violet to near infra red.
To simplify multi-labelled experiments, the compact mechanical design incorporates motorised dichroic and emission (barrier) filter changers.
Laser technology is developing rapidly and VisiTech is constantly integrating custom combinations of laser lines to suit new applications.
Multiple laser line sources, either multiple-line lasers or multiple lasers in any combination, may be coupled with an AOTF for high speed (~microsecond) laser line selection and intensity control. Coupling of the excitation illumination is available by optical fibre or by direct coupling.
When integrated with VisiTech International’s AOTF technology the VT-Infinity provides complete control and seamless integration of illumination and acquisition.

Patented Technology

The patented design of the VT-Infinity offers excellent excitation efficiency, fine resolution, and high speed scanning in a surprisingly cost-effective package.
The VT-Infinity is a fully self aligning system. The dichroics and filters can be exchanged on-site; there is no requirement for factory returns in order to change the dichroic/filter configuration. The patented dichroic design requires no alignment of the dichroics to maintain image registration

High Speed Scanning

Even when scanning at high speed, the VT-Infinity provides full field of view images and does not rely on sub-sampling or line scanning as in a conventional confocal.
Fully integrated intelligent speed control provides perfect synchronisation between scanner, camera and other devices. Random striping and field to field intensity variations associated with other technologies are a thing of the past. This also makes easy work of synchronising frame transfer cameras, preventing the appearance of image streaking associated with other solutions.

Real-time 3D visualisation

Real-time confocal imaging at speeds of up to 1000 fps. This coupled with the 3D-RTTM module supports ‘on-demand’ 3D reconstruction of experimental data as it is being acquired.

Modular Design

The modular design offers freedom of choice to the user for the selection of the major system components, the microscope, the laser sources, the camera and the imaging system.
Initially you may start with components already available in your lab in order to keep costs to a minimum. For the future you have access to simple, convenient, cost effective upgrades of these components, thus permitting the system specification to keep pace with changes in your requirements. The VT-Infinity offers adaptability without involving major expensive changes.

Universal Fittings

An industry standard C-mount fitting connects the VT-Infinity to any microscope imaging port in both upright and inverted configurations.
A C-mount fitting on the output port makes the VT-Infinity suitable for use with most imaging systems independent of the camera type Intensified (ICCD), Electron Multiplied (EMCCD) or a conventional CCD camera.