User Manual

Description of the data path
PIKE Technical Manual V5.1.2
170
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 and thus the amount of data while
retaining the original image area angle
• an increase in the frame rate (vertical binning only)
• a brighter image, also resulting in an improvement in the signal-to-noise
ratio of the image
Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and signal-to-noise separation specify the qual-
ity 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 inten-
sity.
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.