CXC CORE Air Systems
Compact pnCCD-based Colour X-Ray Camera systems for energy-dispersive X-ray detection in ambient environments
CXC CORE Air Systems build on all features of the CXC CORE Systems platform and provide a compact, fully integrated mechanical design with detector and electronics housed in a single unit. This architecture is intended for fixed installations where simplicity, stability, and minimal system complexity are key requirements.
These systems are designed for energy-dispersive X-ray detection in ambient or near-ambient environments and are supplied as complete, ready-to-use detector instruments. With no external umbilical between detector and electronics, CXC CORE Air Systems offer straightforward installation and reproducible performance in laboratory setups, OEM instruments, and synchrotron end stations.
Key Features
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Builds on all features of the CXC CORE Systems platform, using a compact, fully integrated system architecture
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Detector head and control electronics housed in a single mechanical unit
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Fixed system geometry with short internal signal paths
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Simplified installation and alignment for permanent or semi-permanent setups
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Full pnCCD-based, energy-dispersive X-ray detection with single-photon spectroscopy and per-pixel spectral information
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Full access to both analysed and raw detector data, enabling transparent processing and re-analysis
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Supplied as a complete system including detector, cooling infrastructure, power supply, and PNCamSuite software
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Available in Pro and Prime variants to match different performance and operational requirements (see table below)
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Suitable for a wide range of applications, such as:
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Hyperspectral X-ray fluorescence (XRF) mapping
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Combined XRF–XRD measurements
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Energy-dispersive X-ray computed tomography (ED-XCT)
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Laboratory and OEM X-ray spectroscopy setups
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Further application examples are described on the Applications page
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X-ray entrance view of the CXC CORE Air camera head.
Rear interface view of the CXC CORE Air camera head.
CXC CORE Air camera head shown with the Supply Rack and system connections.
Technical Specification
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Backside-illuminated pnCCD with frame-store architecture |
| Pixel Size | 48 µm × 48 µm |
| Total Pixel Array | 264 x 264 (Sensitive area) 264 x 528 (Sensitve area + framestore) |
| Sensor Geometry | 12.3 mm x 12.3 mm active area |
| Sensor Sensitivity Range | 0.1 to 30 keV |
| Frame Rate | up to 1,000 fps (Full frame, continious readout) |
| Sensor Material and Thickness | 450 µm fully depleted silicon |
| Operating Enviroment | Ambient (in-air) |
| Connection | Fixed core electronics box |
| Control Software | PNCamSuite for setup, acquisition, and analysis Developer API (Python and C++) |
| Integration | OEM instrumentation, laboratory and beamline use |
Variants
| CXC CORE Air Pro | CXC CORE Air Prime | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Operation Type | Pro | Prime |
| Usage Profile | For applications requiring optimal spectroscopic performance and maximum energy resolution. | For flexible, easy-to-operate setups prioritising convenience and room-temperature operation, without the need for a Be window. |
| Typical Energy Resolution | ~145 eV (100 fps) @ Mn-Kα (5.895 keV) | ~185 eV (1000 fps) @ Mn-Kα (5.895 keV) |
| Reccomended Energy Range | 2 to 30 keV | 2 to 30 keV |
| Sensor Operating Temperature | Cooled (approx. −20 °C) | Room Temperature (approx. +23 °C) |
| X-Ray Entrance Window | Vacuum-tight 50 µm Be | Windowless with optional protective film |
| Vacuum Requirement | Sensor head under vacuum | Sensor head at atmospheric pressure (no vacuum required) |
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