CXC Core Ambient Systems
Compact pnCCD-based Colour X-Ray Camera systems for energy-dispersive X-ray detection in ambient environments
CXC Core Ambient Systems build on all features of the CXC Ambient 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 Ambient 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 Ambient 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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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 | 12.3mm x 12.3mm active area |
| Sensor Sensitivity Range | 0.1 to 30keV |
| Frame Rate | 1,000fps (Full frame, continious readout) |
| Sensor Material and Thickness | 450 µm fully depleted silicon |
| Operating Enviroment | Ambient (in-air) |
| Connection | Flexible umbilical between sensor head and core electronics |
| Control Software | PNCamSuite for setup, acquisition, and analysis Developer API (Python and C++) |
| Integration | OEM instrumentation, laboratory and beamline use |
Variants
| CXC Flex Ambient Pro | CXC Flex Ambient 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. |
| Best Energy Resolution | ~145 eV (400 fps) @ Mn-Kα (5.895keV) | ~180 eV (400 fps) @ Mn-Kα (5.895keV) |
| Energy Resolution (400fps) | ~145 eV @ Mn-Kα (5.895keV) | ~180 eV @ Mn-Kα (5.895keV) |
| Reccomended Energy Range | 1 to 30keV | 0.2 to 30keV |
| Sensor Operating Temperature | Cooled (approx. −20 °C) | Room Temperature (approx. +20 °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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