Description of the data path
GUPPY Technical Manual
V4.0.1
87
Binning (b/w models)
2 x and 4 x binning
Binning
is the process of combining neighboring pixels while being read out
from the CCD chip.
GUPPY F-036 b/w cameras have this feature.
Binning is used primarily for 3 reasons:
•
a reduction in the number of pixels and thus the amount of data while
retaining the original image area angle
•
an increase in the frame rate (vertical binning only)
•
an improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio of the image
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 gain when binning two pixels, giving a theoretical SNR
improvement of about 3 dB.
However, the advantages of increasing signal quality are accompanied by a
reduction in resolution.
Binning
is possible only in video Format_7. The type of binning used
depends on the video mode.
In general, we distinguish between four types of binning:
•
2 x H-binning
•
2 x V-binning
•
4 x H-binning
•
4 x V-binning
and the full binning modes:
•
2 x full binning (a combination of 2 x H-binning and 2 x V-binning)
•
4 x full binning (a combination of 4 x H-binning and 4 x V-binning)