Chapter 4. CAM1 Components

A CAM1 system comprises the following components:

• CAM1

  Includes CCD camera, laser, laser driver electronics, detector, detector electronics, optics, special microscope objective.

• IPS Isolator and Power Supply Module

  This provides power for the CAM1 and provides a safe opto-isolated interface to external equipment.

• CAM1/PC Interface Board

  This captures and digitises the Doppler signal from the CAM1, controls the laser, and provides an audio output for feedback to the operator to help position the laser beam.

• XYZ Micropositioners

  These provide fine focusing and positioning for the CAM1. Either uncalibrated, or optionally, calibrated micrometers may be fitted.

• Workplatform

  This provides a strong rigid stand for the CAM1.

• Finger Vice

  Enables a finger to be held in position under the CAM1.

• Restraint Arm

  This can be used in one of two ways: one end can be used with double sided adhesive pads to hold the tissue still during a measurement; the other end can be glued to the finger nail for rigid support of the finger.

• Light Source

  An array of ultra bright light emitting diodes provides light for imaging with the CCD camera.

• High Resolution Monochrome Monitor

  For locating capillaries and maintaining the CAM1 laser beam position.

• IBM Compatible Computer

  For processing the CAM1 Doppler signal output, saving and analysing data.

• CAM1 Windows Software

  For processing the CAM1 Doppler signal output, saving and analysing data.

• CAM1-IPS Cable

  Special cable for connection between the CAM1 and the IPS module.

• IPS-PC Cable

  Special cable for connection between the IPS module and the CAM1/PC interface board.

• Sound Card Cable

  Provides audio feedback of the Doppler signal to the operator. Enables the operator to select and maintain the laser beam position.

The following components are additional to the basic system, but can be purchased separately:

• Video Image Frame Grabber

  Allows images from the CAM1 camera to be viewed on the computer monitor, captured and saved to the computer's hard disk.

• CapiScope Image Analysis Software

  Enables the CAM1 software to capture images during a recording and store the images together with the velocity data. Also provides features for quick and accurate measurement of capillary morphological parameters.