The Z640 Submersible Fluorometer is designed to measure fluorescence of underwater organisms – plants, corals, or seaweed. The measuring compartment is equipped with a holder that allows easy manipulation under water. Maximum operating depth of the instrument is ca 1 meter (40 inches). The Submersible Fluorometer is supplied with three sets of light-emitting diodes and a PIN diode detector with 1 MHz/16-bit AD converter and software controlled gain and integration time.

The light-emitting diodes of Z640 Submersible Fluorometer can generate

• Measuring flashes: typically 2-5 µs long. Standard color is red-orange (λmax=617 nm).
• Single-turnover saturating flashes: typically 20-50 µs long. Standard color is red (λmax=630 nm).
• Continuous actinic light of the maximum intensity of 1,500 µmol (photons)/m-2/s. Standard color is red (λmax=630 nm

The Z640 Submersible Fluorometer has light intensities and timing controlled by software, separately for each LED set. The data are processed and the instrument is controlled by the Windows 95/98/2000/XP compatible FluorWin software.

FluorWin Software:

• Creates and archives experimental protocols.
• FluorWin Wizard for automated protocols.
• Retrieval and export of experimental data.
• Data manipulation and visualization.

FluorWin software wizard:

Software graph window:

References:

• Hill R. and Ralph P. (2006): Photochem. Photobiol. 82 (6): 1577-1585.

The Z200 Open- FluorCam is a highly modular instrument with flexible geometry.  The LED panels and the light source generating saturating flashes can be arranged at various angles and distances from the sample.  The position of the camera may also be adjusted for added precision.  The maximum area for imaging with standard hardware is 13 x 13 cm, or 20 x 20 cm, depending on the size of selected light sources.  Much larger areas, up to 200 x 100 cm, can be imaged by the addition of LED panels and/or by mounting the whole system on a movable frame. Please  Contact Qubit for further details.

Applications

• Screening for photosynthetic performance
• Stress resistance or susceptibility
• Stomatal patchiness
• Metabolic perturbations
• Growth and yield

Samples:

• Leaves, plants, fruits, vegetables.
• Cyanobacteria, green algae.
• Sample size up to 13 cm x 13 cm, 20 x 20 cm.
• Imaging masks for 384-well plate, 96-well plate, Petri dish, etc.
• Dark room for adaptation as an option.

Experiments and Measured Parameters

• QA reoxidation (optional accessories)
• Quenching
• Kautsky induction
• OJIP (needs optional accessories)
• Fast fluorescence induction with 1us resolution (optional accessories)
• PAR absorptivity (needs optional accessories)
• Measured parameters: Fo, Fm, Fv, Fo’, Fm’, Fv’, QY(II),
• More than 50 calculated parameters including: NPQ, Fv/Fm (Maximum efficiency of photosynthesis), Fv’/Fm’, Fq’/Fm’ (Operating efficiency of photosynthesis PSII), Rfd, qN, qP, PAR-absorptivity, photosynthetic electron transport rate (ETR) and others

Images of more than 50 calculated parameters in one measurement:

Light Sources

• 4 Super Bright LED panels with different wavelengths (eg. 390, 450, 470, 505, 570, 605, 630, 735 nm (other also available))
• STF – Single Turnover Flash
• IR 735 nm (FAR)
• Actinic light up to 3,000 µmol (photons)/m²s
• Super pulse up to 7,500 µmol (photons)/m²s
• Variable excitation color

Different Emission Bands:

• 8 position filter wheel (optional).
• Chlorophyll fluorescence (high pass 695 nm, low pass 780 nm), GFP (high pass 495, low pass 660 nm, band pass 505/560

Imaging

• CCD format: 512 x 512 pixels, A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels), 50 images per second, 8.2-8.4 um pixel size (standard)
• CCD format: 640 x 480 pixels, A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels), 30 images per second, 6.45×6.45 um pixel size (optional)
• CCD format: 1392 x 1040 pixels, A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels), 6.45×6.45 um pixel size, 15 images per second (optional)

optional imaging formats are designed for measurements of slow processes and for applications where the higher spacial resolution is of importance.

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view
• Numerous image manipulation tools
• Barcode reader support
• Export to Excel
• Windows 2000, XP, Vista

FluorCam software window:

Specifications:

• Fluorescence parameters (F0, FM, FV, FO’, FM’, FV’, QY(II)), Abs PAR-value, or the parameters that are calculated from fluorescence emission (e.g., NPQ, FV/FM, FV’/FM’, Rfd, qN, qP), PAR-absorptivity, photosynthetic electron transport rate (PS), and others
• Excitation light sources 390 nm, 450 nm, 470 nm, 505 nm, 570 nm, 605 nm, 630 nm, 735 nm, and others
• Saturating pulses intensity: Blue: Up to 6,000 µmol(photons)/m².s, Red: Up to 7,500 µmol(photons)/m².s, White: Up to 5,000 µmol(photons)/m².s
• Actinic light intensity Up to 3,000 µmol(photons)/m².s
• Filter wheel 8 positions
• Light regime Static or dynamic (sinus form)
• Actinic and saturating light Variable timing, special language and scripts
• Light regime Static or dynamic (sinus form)
• Custom defined protocols Variable timing, special language and scripts
• CCD detector wavelength range 400 – 1000 nm
• CCD format Standard: 512 x 512 pixels; optionally: 640 x 480 pixels or 1392 x 1040 pixels
• Pixel size 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm
• A/D bit resolution 12 bit
• Spectral response QE max at 540 nm (~70 %), 50 % roll-off at 400 nm and 650 nm
• Read-out noise Less than 12 electrons RMS – typically only 10 electrons
• Full-well capacity Greater than 70,000 electrons (unbinned)
• Imaging frequency 50 frames per second
• Bios Upgradeable firmware
• Communication port USB 2.0
• Dimensions 820 (W) x 820 (D) x 420 (H) mm in standard, 975 (W) x 975 (D) x 460 (H) mm in optional
• Weight Appr. 35 kg (standard), Appr. 55 kg (optional)
• Power Input Appr. 1100 W (standard), Appr. 1700 W (optional)
• Electrical 90 – 240 V

References:

• Berger S. et al. (2006): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (4): 797-806.
• Bartak M. et al. (2006): Ecophysiology 149 (4): 553-560.
• Zabka M. et al. (2006): Mycopathologia 162 (1): 65-68.
• Hajek J., Bartak M. and Dubova J. (2006): Biol. Plant. 50 (4): 624-634.
• Matous K. et al. (2006): Photosynth. Res. 90 (2): 243-253.
• Hogewoning S.W. and Harbinson J. (2007): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (3): 453-463.
• Bartak M. et al. (2007): Polar Biol. 31 (1): 47-51.

Applications:

• Screening for photosynthetic performance.
• Stress resistance or susceptibility.
• Stomatal patchiness.
• Metabolic perturbations.
• Growth and yield.

Samples:

• leaves, stems, seeds, roots whole small plants, fruits
• calluses and seedlings on petri plates
• Cyanobacteria, green algae.
• Sample size up to 13 cm x 13 cm.
• Imaging masks for 384-well plate, 96-well plate, Petri dish, etc.

Various Light Sources

• 4 Super Bright LED panels with different wavelengths (for example: 390, 450, 470, 505, 570, 605, 630, 735 nm, and others)
• Standard version of the FluorCam system includes one pair of LED panels (Measuring Light and Actinic Light 1) typically 618 nm. second pair of panels provides Actinic Light 2 and Saturating Pulse (these two panels are mounted on customer’s demand in blue (455 nm), red (618 nm), or white color), other colors also available as options
• Additional LED panel may be mounted around the camera to the top stand in infra-red (735 nm), ultra-violet (360 or 380 nm), or green (505 nm) (optional)
• Single Turnover Flash (STF): 120,000 µmol(photons)/m².s in 100µs pulse (in the Q_A re-oxidation version)
• Actinic light intensity:
  - 300-2,500 µmol(photons)/m²/s in the standard version depending on light wavelength,
  - up to 5,000 µmol(photons)/m²/s in the light-upgraded version
• Super pulse intensity:
  - up to 3,000 µmol(photons)/m².s (in the standard version),
  - up to 10,000 µmol(photons)/m².s (in the light-upgraded version

Different Emission Bands

• Filter wheel with 8 positions
• For chlorophyll fluorescence (high pass 695 nm, low pass 780 nm), GFP (high pass 495, low pass 660 nm, band pass 505/560 nm), PAR (clear glass), YFP, CY3, CY5 and other fluorescence colors (see Z125 GFP FluorCam-Closed)

Experiments and Measured Parameters

• Fv/Fm
• Kautsky induction
• Quenching analysis
• steady state fluorescence eg. ChlF, GFP and other FPs (filter wheel required)
• QA re-oxidation (needs optional electronic module)
• Fast fluorescence induction (OJIP) with 1µs resolution (needs optional electronic module)
• PAR absorptivity (needs optional accessories: filter wheel and additional IR LED panel)
• Measured parameters: F_O, F_M, F_V, F_O’, F_M’, F_V’, F_T
• More than 50 calculated parameters: F_V/F_M, F_V’/F_M’, Phi_PSII , NPQ, qN, qP, Rfd, PAR-absorptivity coefficient, electron transport rate (ETR), and many others

Images of more than 50 calculated parameter in one measurements:

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard.
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments.
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view.
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view.
• Numerous image manipulation tools.
• Barcode reader support.
• Export to Excel.
• Windows 2000, XP, Vista, W7 compatible

FluorCam Software window:

Specifications:

• Fluorescence parameters: (F0, FM, FV, F0’, FM’, FV’, QY(II)), Abs PAR-value, or the parameters that are calculated from fluorescence emission (e.g., NPQ, FV/FM, FV’/FM’, Rfd, qN, qP), PAR-absorptivity, photosynthetic electron transport rate (PS), and others
• Excitation light sources: 455 nm, 470 nm, 505 nm, 570 nm, 605 nm, 618 nm, 630 nm, 735 nm, white and others
• Saturating pulses intensity: 3,000 µmol(photons)/m²/s (in a standard version), 10,000 µmol(photons)/m²/s (in the light-upgraded version)
•  Actinic light intensity:   Up to 2,500 µmol(photons)/m²/s (depending on light wavelength)
• Filter wheel: 8 positions
• Light regime: Static or dynamic (sinus form)
• Actinic and saturating light: Variable timing, special language and scripts
• Custom defined protocols: Variable timing, special language and scripts
• CCD detector wavelength range:  400 – 1000 nm
• CCD format:512 x 512 pixels; optionally 1024 x 768 pixels or 1392 x 1040 pixels
• Imaging frequency: Maximum 50 frames per second
• pixel size: 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm; optionally 6.45 µm x 6.45 µm
• A/D bit resolution: 12 bit (4096 gray levels)
• Spectral response: QE max at 540 nm (~70 %), 50 % roll-off at 400 nm and 650 nm
• Read-out noise: Less than 12 electrons RMS – typically only 10 electrons
• Full-well capacity: Greater than 70,000 electrons (unbinned)
• Bios: upgradeable firmware
• Communication port: USB 2.0
• Dimensions: 471 x mm x 473mm x 512 mm
• Weight: 40 kg
• Power input: 1100 W
• Electrical: 90 -240V

References:

• Chi W. et al.(2008):Plant Physiol. 147:573-584.
• Miura E. et al.(2007): Plant Cell 19: 1313-1328.
• Hogewoning S.W. and Harbinson J. (2007): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (3): 453-463.
• Bartak M. et al. (2007): Polar Biol. 31 (1): 47-51.
• Pfalz J. et al. (2006): Plant Cell 18: 176-197.
• Berger S. et al. (2006): J. Exp. Bot. 58 (4): 797-806.
• Bartak M. et al. (2006): Ecophysiology 149 (4): 553-560.
• Zabka M. et al. (2006): Mycopathologia 162 (1): 65-68.
• Hajek J., Bartak M. and Dubova J. (2006): Biol. Plant. 50 (4): 624-634.
• Matous K. et al. (2006): Photosynth. Res. 90 (2): 243-253.
• Diaz C. et al. (2005): Plant Physiology 138: 898-908.

The Z300 Handy FluorCam is designed for kinetically resolved chlorophyll fluorescence imaging of leaves, small plants, stems, seeds, roots, tissues on plates both in a field and laboratory. The typical size of an investigated object is up to 3.5 x 3.5 cm.  The essential features of the Z300 Handy FluorCam are similar to the Z100 FluorCam Closed .

The Z300 Handy FluorCam is an easily portable system.  Optional accessories include  sealed lead acid batteries in a convenient bag carried on the shoulder, ultra light tripod, leaf clip, battery pack.

leaf Clip for Z300

Z300 Handy FluorCam generates images of fluorescence signal at any moment of the experiment and presents them using a false color scale. Full kinetic analysis is available.

In all applications, the camera allows imaging of fluorescence transients that are induced by actinic light or by saturating flashes. The timing and amplitude of actinic irradiance are determined by user-defined protocols.The FluorCam software package (included along with a PC computer) provides a Wizard with the most frequently used experimental protocols. For an experienced professional, the software offers a sophisticated programming language that can be used for designing novel timing and measuring sequences.

Applications:

• Screening for photosynthetic performance.
• Heterogeneity investigation within a single plant or leaf, e.g., for infection, necrotic changes, senescence, abiotic stress.
• Investigation for differences among many organisms, e.g., algal or cyanobacterial colonies, small plant canopies.
• Growth and yield.

Experiments and Measured Parameters:

• Quenching.
• Kautsky induction.
• QA reoxidation (needs optional accessories).
• Measured parameters: Fo, FM, FV, Fo’, FM’, FV’, QY(II).
• More than 50 calculated parameters: NPQ, FV/FM, FV’/FM’, Rfd, qN, qP, PAR-absorptivity, electron transport rate (ETR), and many others.

Images of more than 50 calculated parameters from one measurement:

Standard Imaging Format:

• 512 x 512 pixels.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels).
• 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm pixel size.
• 50 images per second.
• Advantageous for rapid processes measurements.

Optional Imaging Format:

• 640 x 480 pixels and 1392 x 1040 pixels, respectively.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels).
• 6.45 µm x 6.45 µm pixel size.
• 30 and 15 images per second, respectively.
• Great for slow processes measurements and for applications where the higher spatial resolution is of high importance.

Light Sources:

• Four super bright LED light panels.
• Panel size: 40 x 40 mm, each containing 25 LEDs.
• Standard configuration: white light (actinic light and superpulse); red-orange light 617 nm (measuring flashes).
• Measuring flash duration 10 µs – 250 µs.
• Continuous actinic light adjustable in duration and power (up to 2,000 µmol(photons)/m².s).
• Inquire for other color options.

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard.
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments.
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view.
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view.
• Numerous image manipulation tools.
• Barcode reader support.
• Export to Excel.
• Windows 2000, XP, Vista compatible

FluorCam software window:

References:

Vanova L. et al. Fluoranthene influences endogenous abscisic acid level and primary photosynthetic processes in pea (Pisum sativum L.) plants in vitro: Plant Growth Regulation 57:39-47 (2009)

 Yoshida K. et al. Influence of Chloroplastic Photo-Oxidative Stress on Mitochondrial Alternative Oxidase Capacity and Respiratory Properties: A Case Study with Arabidopsis yellow variegated 2: Plant Cell Physiology 49(4):592-603 (2008)

 Tashyrev O. et al. Structure and Functions of Microbial Cenoses in Model Ecosystem of Antarctic Oasis (Biogeographical Polygon of Galindez Island): Identification of Model Ecosystems in Extreme Environments (Carex). Spain (2008)

 Chi W, Ma J, Zhang D, Guo J, Chen F, Lu C, Zhang L. The Pentratricopeptide Repeat Protein DELAYEDGREENING1 Is Involved in the Regulation of Early Chloroplast Development and Chloroplast Gene Expression in Arabidopsis.  Plant Physiology V147: 573-584 (2008)

 Berger S, Benediktyova Z, Matous K, Bonfig K, Mueller MJ, Nedbal L, Roitsch T.  Visualization of dynamics of plant-pathogen interaction by novel combination of chlorophyll fluorescence imaging and statistical analysis: differential effects of virulent and avirulent strains of P.syringae of oxylipins on A. thaliana. Journal of Experimental Botany. V58: 797-806 (2007)

The Z125 GFP Closed FluorCam can serve for a number of applications using green fluorescent proteins in molecular and cellular biology.  The basic system of the Z100 Closed FluorCam (CCD camera, four fixed LED panels) is supplemented by a fully motorized and software-controlled filter wheel and appropriate filter sets for the detection and imaging of green fluorescent protein (GFP), red-shifted GFP, or yellow fluorescent protein (YFP).  The blue emitting and red fluorescent protein can be detected and imaged in absence of chlorophyll.  The device configuration also provides user-friendly and quick transition between the GFP and chlorophyll fluorescence detection and imaging.

Applications:

• GFP detection and expression studies.
• Screening of photosynthetic performance.
• stress resistance studies.
• Plant-microbe interactions research.
• Bacterial-protozoan interactions research.

Samples:

• Leaves, stems, seeds, roots whole small plants, fruits
• small animals
• calluses, seedlings on petri plates
• Cyanobacteria, green algae, bacteria.
• Sample size up to 13 cm x 13 cm.

GFP Arabidopsis seedlings on petri plate:

Experiments and Measured Parameters:

• Fv/Fm
• Quenching.
• Kautsky induction.
• QA reoxidation (needs optional accessories).
• OJIP (needs optional accessories).
• Fast fluorescence induction with 1µs resolution (needs optional accessories).

Key Features:

• Combines imaging of GFP and chlorophyll fluorescence.
• Included high-resolution CCD camera: full resolution 1392 x 1040 (15 fps), 30 fps at resolution 640 x 480; integration times from microseconds to seconds; binning options. The camera is specifically intended for detection of weak signals demanding long integration times; the setup retains most of the functionalities for chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics measurement.
• Four light-upgraded LED panels (4 panels 470 nm OR 2 panels 447 nm + 2 panels 470 nm OR 2 panels 627 nm and 2 panels 470 nm) Additional UV, 505, 570, 605, 630, 735 nm (optional).
• 8 position filter wheel – motorized and software-controlled (included).
• Adjustable shelf system for different plant sizes (included).
• Dark room for adaptation (included).
• Supplied with a high-end computer and user-friendly software (included).

Filter sets for the most commonly used GFP proteins:

Proteins of the GFP family demonstrate a great spectral diversity and they often have different excitation and emission spectra. Therefore it is important to use the most appropriate filter sets so as to obtain maximum sensitivity for GFP viewing.

• Red-shifted variants ( EGFP)

Single excitation peak is centered at about 488 nm and the emission peak is at 507 nm.
Suggested filter set: short pass 480 for excitation and 532/28 or 530/25 for emission.

• Original  GFP variants (GFP)

Single excitation peak is centered at about 395 nm and the emission peak is at 504 nm.
Suggested filter set: short pass 420nm for excitation and 532/28 or 530/25 for emission.

• Blue-emitting variants (EBFP)

Excitation peak around 384 nm and the emission peak near 448 nm.
Suggested filter set:  short pass 400nm for excitation and 469/35 for emission.

Tsien (1998). Annu. Rev. Biochem. 67: 509-544.

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard.
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments.
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view.
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view.
• Numerous image manipulation tools.
• Imaging masks for 384-well plate, 96-well plate, Petri dish, etc.
• Barcode reader support.
• Export to Excel.
• Windows 2000, XP, Windows 7, Vista compatible.

GFP expression in corn kernels as captured by GFP FluorCam – closed:

Corn kernels captured by the GFP FluorCam – closed.  GFP expressing kernels in upper rows, control kernels in bottom rows:

The Z450 Handy GFP Cam is designed for the investigation of green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression in small plants, leaves, animals, calluses and seedlings on plates, tissues or bacterial colonies both in the laboratory and the field.  Typical size of an investigated object is 3.5 x 3.5 cm or less.  Samples are placed within the field of view of the CCD camera, and fluorescence emission is monitored quantitatively.  Values are displayed numerically and are also used to construct a false colour image of the sample to show heterogeneity of the emission signal.   With modifications this fluorcam can also be used for chlorophyll fluorescence detection and imaging like the Z300 Handy FluorCam.  For imaging of  larger areas please see the  Z125 GFP FluorCam-Closed.

• Measuring unit consists of ultrahigh sensitivity CCD camera, objective, and a sample chamber with four integrated panels of LEDs. The measuring unit is portable and perfectly suited for field operation.
• Battery pack: GFP–FluorCam needs external NiMH batteries to operate. Small switching power supply for laboratory operation and battery recharging is provided. The batteries and the power supply fit inside a convenient shoulder bag.
• CCD camera is equipped with a F1/1.4 objective with zoom. It produces 512 × 512 pixel images of 12-bit  grey scale with a maximal frequency of 50 frames / sec. Images are recorded synchronously with measuring light flashes. Data transmission is facilitated via USB2.0 port.  Optional, high resolution CCD camera is available, 1392×1040 pixels (15 frames per minute) or 640×480 pixels (30 frames per minute).
• Light Sources: Measuring flashes and the continuous actinic light are generated in four panels, each containing 25 blue LEDs (max = 455 nm) or two blue LED panels and two cyan panels (475 nm). The LEDs generate measuring flashes of 10 μs -250 μs duration as well as continuous light of adjustable intensity (max. 2000 μmol photons m^-2 s^-1) and duration. The irradiance of the measuring flashes as well as of the actinic light at the sample level is uniform within ± 5 % over an area of 3.5 × 3.5 cm.
• Software: The instrument is controlled by a Windows 2000/XP, Vista compatible FluorCam software.  The easy-to-use software features various sophisticated mathematical operations for enhanced image contrast, noise filtering and many others: automated experimental protocols via a windows wizard, multiple experiments, intelligent image segmentation, automated labeling of samples (optional), kinetic analysis of data, image manipulation tools, export to Excel

• Computing: High-end notebook computer with USB 2.0 interface and the software are included.

Image of Arabidopsis seedlings on petri plate captured by GFP-cam.  GFP-expressing seedlings in red and WT seedlings in gray:

The Z450 Handy GFP-Cam is typically produced with 455 nm or 475 nm excitation LEDs and 510 nm emission filters. This combination is best suited for the popular EGFP (red-shifted variant).

Corn Kernels captured by the Z450 Handy GFP-Cam.  GFP containing kernels are in upper rows (lighter) and control kernels (no GFP expression) in bottom rows.

The Z500 Micro-FluorCam extends the complete capacity of kinetic Chlorophyll fluorescence imaging to the realm of individual cells and sub-cellular structures. All conventional fluorescence parameters can be mapped with micrometer resolution so that individual chloroplasts or even grana, stroma and thylakoid segments can be investigated.

The standard Micro-FluorCam allows imaging measurements of Chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics with a fixed set of excitation wavelengths (usually two); each wavelength is provided by an appropriate LED. It is based on a combined excitation/detection module that can be mounted to different microscope stands. For more sophisticated measurements and analysis see the Z550 Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope FC.

Key Features:

• 10 µs to 20 ms exposure time per frame
• 512 x 512 (or 640 x 480, or 1392 x 1040) pixels spatial resolution.
• 12bit dynamic range.
• 70 % peak quantum yield with about 4 electrons readout noise.
• Combination of kinetic Chl/GFP-fluorescence imaging and standard wide-field fluorescence microscopy (optional).
• Motorized 6-position filter wheel (optional).
• Multiple fluorophore imaging (optional).

Five Device Versions:

• Micro-FluorCam -ST
• Micro-FluorCam -EN
• Micro-FluorCam FC -MFW
• Micro-FluorCam FC -EFW
• Z550  Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope FC

1. Micro-FluorCam  -ST
Included Components: CCD camera; Simple microscope frame; Optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

2. Micro-FluorCam -EN
Included Components: CCD camera; Mechanically enhanced microscope frame (Olympus BX40) with exchangeable and extend able components; Mechanically enhanced optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

3. Micro-FluorCam -MFW
Included Components: 6-position mechanical filter wheel; CCD camera; Mechanically enhanced microscope frame (Olympus BX40) with exchangeable and extendable components; Mechanically enhanced optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

4. Micro-FluorCam -EFW
Included Components: 6-position fully software-controlled filter wheel; CCD camera; Mechanically enhanced microscope frame (Olympus BX40) with exchangeable and extendable components; Mechanically enhanced optical compartment; Control unit; High-performance PC; Excitation light sources; Software package; User’s guide.

5. Z550 Kinetic Fluorescence Microscope FC
Click here to learn more about the Kinetic Fluorescence Microscope.

Standard Camera:

• 512 x 512 pixels.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels).
• 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm pixel size.
• 50 images per second.
• Advantageous for rapid processes measurements.

Advanced Camera:

• 640 x 480 pixels and 1392 x 1040 pixels, respectively.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 gray levels).
• 6.45 µm x 6.45 µm pixel size.
• 30 and 15 images per second, respectively.
• Great for slow processes measurements and for applications where the higher spatial resolution is of high importance.

Imaging of Multiple Fluorophores:

• Chlorophyll fluorescence .
• Different fluorescence proteins (GFP, enhanced GFP, blue-emitting variant).
• Other fluorescent dyes (CY3, CY5).

References

• Kuepper H. et al. 2000. Photosyntetica 38 (4): 553-570.
• Ferimazova N. et al. 2002. Photochem. Photobiol. 76, 501-508.
• Vacha F. et al. 2005. Micron 36 (6): 483-502.
• Adamec F., Kaftan D. and Nedbal L. 2005. J. Phycol. 41, p. 835.
• Vacha F. et al. 2007. Micron 38, 170-175.

What leaf Image captured by the Micro FluorCam:

Z995 FluorPen PAR includes all the features of the Z990 FluorPen with all the extra options i.e. it measures Ft, QY, NPQ, OJIP, and Light Curve (QY).

In additions,  the FluorPen PAR incorporates an integrated Light Meter for direct digital readouts of Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) in the range from 400 to 700 nm, the span in which plants use energy during photosynthesis.  A modified Z995-D is adapted for use with detachable leaf clips for quick dark adaptation of leaves before the commencement of measurements (10 leaf clips included)

PAR is measured as Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD), which is indicated by units of quanta (photons) per unit time per unit surface area. The sensor has a uniform response to photons withing the 400-700 nm waveband. Instant readouts are provided as average values of 20 measurements.

Measured Parameters:

• Ft - continuous fluorescence yield in non-actinic light. Ft is equivalent to Fo if the leaf sample is dark-adapted.
• QY - Photosystem II quantum yield. In a dark-adapted leaf this is equivalent to Fv/Fm. In a light-adapted leaf it is equivalent to Fv‘/Fm‘.
• OJIP – Chlorophyll Fluorescence Induction Kinetics
• NPQ – Non-Photochemical Quenching
• Light Curve – Adaptation of Quantum Yield to Several Different Light Levels
• PAR - Photosynthetically Active Radiation

Measuring light power is adjustable by flash duration; actinic and saturating flashes are adjustable from 0 to 3,000 µmol photons/m2/s.

Herbicide Application:

• Improvement of the effectivity of herbicide application
• Testing of new herbicides
• High reduction of herbicide use

Photosynthesis Research:

• Field measurement
• Mutant screening
• Stress detection

Agronomy and Forestry:

• Mapping by fluorescence parameters
• Nutrient – Fertilizer analysis

Software :

• FluorPen 1.0 software (Windows 2000, XP, or higher compatible*)
• Bluetooth, USB or serial communication
• Real-time and remote control functions
• Export to Microsoft Excel
• GPS mapping plug-in (extra option)

Specifications:

• Measured Parameters: Fo, Ft, Fm, Fm’, Kautsky induction (OJIP), Fast kinetics
• Actinic and Saturating Light: Adjustable from 0-3000 uE
• Measuring Light: Adjustable by duration
• Detector Wavelength: Range PIN photodiode with 697nm – 750nm bandpass filters
• FluorPen Software: Windows 2000, XP, or higher
• Sample Holder: Mechanical leaf clip
• Bios Upgradeable firmware
• Communication:  Bluetooth 1.1 or USB/serial port
• Memory Capacity: Up to 4Mb
• Internal Data: Logging Up to 100,000 data points
• Display: 2 x 8 characters LC display
• Keypad: Sealed, 2-key tactile response
• Keypad Escape Time: Turns off after 5 minutes of no use
• Power Save Mode: Autosleep
• Power Supply: 4 AAA alkaline or rechargeable batteries
• Battery Lif:e 70 hours typical with full operation
• Low Battery Detection: Low battery indication displayed
• Size: 57 x 30 x 120 mm
• Weight: 180 gOperating Conditions: Temperature: 0 to +55ºC; 32 to +130ºF Relative humidity: 0 to 95% (non-condensing)
• Storage Conditions: Temperature: -10 to +60ºC; 14 to +140ºF Relative humidity: 0 to 95% (non-condensing)
• Warranty: 1 year parts and labor

FluorPen data capture screen:Light Curve data capture screen:

NPQ Protocol Includes Five Measurements in Actinic Light and three measurements during dark relaxation.
NPQ_Ln = (FM – FM_Ln) / FM_Ln
NPQ_Lss = (FM – FM_Lss) / FM_Lss
NPQ_Dn = (FM – FM_Dn) / FM_Dn

NPQ data capture screen:

References:

• Fernandez-Marin B. Becerril JM, Garcia-Plazaola JI.  Unravelling the roles of desiccation-induced xanthophyll cycle activity in darkness: a case study in Lobaria pulmonary: Planta 231:1335–1342 (2010)

• Ruiz-Sanchez. M. et al. The arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis enhances the photosynthetic efficiency and the antioxidative response of rice plants subjected to drought stress: Journal of Plant Physiology 167(11):862-869 (2010)

• Harding SA et al. Journal of Experimental Botany 60: 3443-3452 (2009)
• Zhang M. et al. : Ecology and Environmemtal Sciences 18 (6): 2272-2277 (2009).
• Kuvykin I.V. et al. Computer simulation study of pH-dependent regulation of electron transport in chloroplasts: Cell Biophysics 54(4):455-464 (2009)
• Woo N.S. Badger MR, Pogson BJ.  A rapid, non-invasive procedure for quantitative assessment of drought survival using chlorophyll fluorescence: Plant Methods 4(27) (2008)

The Z550 Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope FC is designed to be the most versatile tool for lab-based research. In addition to the capabilities of the standard Micro-FluorCam, the Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope allows measurements with various user-selectable excitation and emission wavelengths as well as the combination of imaging measurements with spectrally resolved or ultra fast (µs) spot measurements of fluorescence and absorbance kinetics.

The Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope system consists of an excitation module, a detection module and the microscope stand. All parts and functions can be controlled by the FluorCam software depending on individual configuration.

Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope FC schematics:

In the standard configuration, the wavelength selection in Fluorescence Kinetic Microscope FC is the same as in other research-grade fluorescence microscopes by the use of a white excitation light source combined with a set of excitation filters, dichroic mirrors, and emitter filters. As an additional option, a light source with tunable spectra for both measuring and actinic/saturating light is available. It increases the range of measurable chromophores and improves signal/noise ratio.

The spectrally resolved measurements are done via the Z800 Spectrometer synchronised to the measuring camera . The ultrafast kinetic measurements are performed by a microscope-adapted version of the double modulation fluorometer Z620 Fast Non-imaging Fluorometer, which again can be synchronized to the measuring camera. In this way, the spectrally resolved or ultrafast kinetic spot measurements can be done simultaneously on the same object and controlled by the same measuring protocol as the imaging kinetic record.

tasks performed:

• Pulse-amplitude modulated measurement of in vivo chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics and its imaging.
• Various parts of the light harvesting antenna (e.g. different phycobiliproteins vs. Chl-protein complexes) can be excited by selecting the optimal excitation wavelength. Different parts of the antenna can be excited in the same measurement by automatic switching between different excitation wavelengths.
• The complete Kautsky kinetics, including the analysis of photochemical and non-photochemical quenching, can be analysed with spectral resolution. In this way it is possible to decide, for example, which of the pigment-protein complexes of a photosynthetic system contribute most to photochemical or non-photochemical quenching. This information is key in analysis of the mechanisms of changes in photosynthetic performance.
• Analysis of any non-chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics, so that other physiological processes can be monitored in vivo (via their autofluorescence or via specific fluorescent dyes) and compared to the performance of photosynthesis of the same cells. In contrast to conventional fluorescence microscopes, the ultrahigh sensitivity of the measuring camera combined with modulated light measurement allows for imaging at extremely low light levels that do not disturb the metabolism of the cell.
• Investigating fast processes that cannot be captured by the speed of currently available cameras, e.g. direct (not pump-and-probe) measurements of Qa reoxidation, connectivity, or antenna size.

References:

• Andresen E. et al. (2009): New Phytologist.
• Mijovilovich A. et al. (2009): Plant Physiol. DOI: 10.1104/pp.109.144675.
• Kuepper H. et al. (2009): Plant Physiol. DOI:10.1104/pp.109.139717.
• Kuepper H. et al. (2009): BBA 1787: 155-167.
• Rocchetta I. and Kuepper H. (2009): New Phytologist 182: 405-420.
• Kuepper H. et al. (2008): New Phytologist 179: 784-798.
• Kuepper H. et al. (2007): New Phytologist 175: 655-674.
• Gachon C.M.M. et al. (2006): Eur. J. Phycol. 41: 395-403.
• Setlikova E. et al. (2005): Photosynth. Res. 84: 113-120.
• Kuepper H. et al. (2004): Plant Physiol. 135: 2120-2133.
• Ferimazova et al. (2002): Photochem. Photobiol. 76: 501-508.
• Berman-Frank I. et al. (2001): Science 294: 1534-1537.
• Kuepper H. et al. (2000): Photosynthetica 38: 553/570.

Z230 Arch FluorCam is a customized fluorescence imaging system for three dimensional studies. The stand and the frame are exceedingly steady, yet the whole structure provides very flexible viewing angles. Large plants can be analyzed from various positions without the need to move them. Three dimensional image data are collected and the software can generate 3-D images of Chl-fluorescence emission. Please  Contact Qubit for further details.

Key Features:

• Great for three dimensional imaging.
• Robust and stable stand.
• Flexible light positioning frame.
• Easy movement over rough terrain.
• Movable camera enabling observations from all sides.
• No need to detach or move samples.
• Software generation of 3-D images.

Experiments and Measured Parameters:

• Quenching.
• Kautsky induction.
• QA reoxidation (needs optional accessories).
• OJIP (needs optional accessories).
• Fast fluorescence induction with 1µs resolution (needs optional accessories).
• PAR absorptivity (needs optional accessories).
• Measured parameters: Fo, FM, FV, Fo’, FM’, FV’, QY(II).
• More than 50 calculated parameters: NPQ, FV/FM, FV’/FM’, Rfd, qN, qP, PAR-absorptivity, electron transport rate (ETR), and many others.

Light Sources:

• Actinic light up to 3,000 µmol(photons)/m².s.
• Super pulse intensity up to:
  - 3,000 µmol(photons)/m².s (in a standard version)
  - 5,000 µmol(photons)/m².s (in a specific device configuration – please inquire at: Contact Qubit
  - 7,000 µmol(photons)/m².s (in a QA-Reoxidation version).
• STF – Single Turnover Flash.
• IR 735 nm (FAR).
• The FluorCam system includes  super bright LED panels that provide measuring Light and actinic Light plus  saturating Pulse
• Additional light sources, mounted close to the camera stand or to the device side, may be provided, e.g., infra-red, ultra-violet, or green (optional).
• Variable excitation color.

Standard Imaging Format:

• 512 x 512 pixels.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 grey levels).
• 8.2 µm x 8.4 µm pixel size.
• 50 images per second.
• Advantageous for rapid processes measurements.

Optional Imaging Format:

• 640 x 480 pixels and 1392 x 1040 pixels, respectively.
• A/D: 12 bit (4096 gray levels).
• 6.45 µm x 6.45 µm pixel size.
• 30 and 15 images per second, respectively.
• Great for slow processes measurements and for applications where the higher spatial resolution is of high importance.

FluorCam 7.0 Software

• Automated experimental protocols via a Windows Wizard.
• Multiple (automatically repeated) experiments.
• Automated labeling of individual plants, or samples, within the field of view.
• Kinetic analysis of data from all samples within the field of view.
• Numerous image manipulation tools.
• Barcode reader support.
• Export to Excel.
• Windows 2000, XP, Vista compatible.
• See Z100 FluorCam – Closed for details of software operation

images of 50 parameter calculated in one measurements:

Please  Contact Qubit for details. We are happy to discuss your exact requirements.