Use of Digital SLRs with CMOS Full Format Sensors in Microscopy

The Canon EOS 5D is the first affordable digital reflex camera with full format sensor. The body costs approx. EUR 2,700 (as of February 2006). Combined with the LM Digital Adapter it is perfectly suitable for use in microscopy. Colour reproduction and image detail fidelity is extraordinary. With the optional 12.8 megapixels WLAN adapter (WFT-E1) the Canon EOS 5D leaves nothing to be desired. The 2.0 High-Speed USB interface enables you to transmit data to your computer without delay.

Due to the larger sensor format the number of pixels of the EOS 5D has also increased which leads to better light absorption because of the larger pixel plane. As a result the signal-noise ratio and the image quality is much better at high ISO values. Low-noise and light-sensitive sensors are especially important when capturing images by using extremely light absorbing methods, such as, e.g., fluorescent microscopy or polarisation microscopy.

  The images displayed on the 2.5" LCD screen are sharply defined and rich in contrast.

Side view of the Canon EOS 5D: 2.0 High-Speed USB (Mini-B, PTP), video output (PAL/NTSC), port for remote control release (via N3 contact), output for external flash

In addition, with the software included in the delivery you can store the images directly on your computer hard disk. Therefor, the camera must be connected to the PC with a USB cable. Furthermore,  the mirror lock-up of the Canon EOS 5D must be activated. With this feature you can avoid fuzziness resulting from mirror vibrations.