Pike Technical Manual
V5.2.0
165
Description of the data path
Binning (only Pike b/w models)
2 x / 4 x / 8 x binning
Definition
Binning
is the process of combining neighboring pixels while being read out
from the CCD chip.
Binning is used primarily for 3 reasons:
•
A reduction in the number of pixels; thus, the amount of data while retain-
ing the original image area angle
•
An increase in the frame rate (vertical binning only)
•
A brighter image, resulting in an improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio
of the image (depending on the acquisition conditions)
Signal-to-noise ratio
(SNR) and
signal-to-noise separation
specify the quality
of a signal with regard to its reproduction of intensities. The value signifies how
high the ratio of noise is in regard to the maximum achievable signal intensity.
The higher this value, the better the signal quality. The unit of measurement
used is generally known as the decibel (dB), a logarithmic power level. 6 dB is
the signal level at approximately a factor of 2.
However, the advantages of increasing signal quality are accompanied by a
reduction in resolution.
Only Format_7
Binning
is possible only in video Format_7. The type of binning used depends on
the video mode.
Types
In general, we distinguish between the following types of binning
(H=horizontal, V=vertical):
•
2 x H-binning
•
2 x V-binning
•
4 x H-binning
•
4 x V-binning
•
8 x H-binning
•
8 x V-binning
Note
•
Only
Pike b/w cameras
have this feature.
•
Binning does not change offset, brightness or black-
level.
Note
Changing binning modes involves the generation of new shad-
ing reference images due to a change in the image size.
