The QSI 540 model camera employs a 4.2mp Kodak interline transfer CCD image sensor with microlens technology. The increased field of view, high quantum efficiency, wide dynamic range and low noise performance make the 540i ideally suited to a broad range of demanding astronomical, scientific, medical and industrial imaging applications. The compact design of the QSI 500 Series allows the 540 to set a new benchmark for cost and size in a high performance, full-featured scientific CCD camera. With optional features and upgradeability, the QSI 540 can be tailored to fit your needs today and in the future. Electronic Shutter The QSI 540ws utilizes the electronic shutter built into the KAI-04022 CCD image sensor to control exposures. Shutter timing is very precise and can range from as short as 100 microseconds up to 240 minutes. Mechanical Shutter The Model 540s camera incorporates an internal mechanical shutter in the 'mid-size' camera body configuration. When operating with an interline transfer CCD, a mechanical shutter is not used to actually make the exposure. This is still the responsibility of the electronic shutter. The mechanical shutter is employed to cover the CCD and simplify the creation of Dark and Bias frames for subsequent image processing.