An InGaAs short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) camera uses laser-induced fluorescence for high-throughput solar cell inspection. It delivers 640 × 512-pixel resolution with dynamic range response up to 2.2 μm. Cracks and dead or weak responding areas are unveiled on sliced wafers, enabling automatic sorting and selection of quality pieces at rates faster than 3000 wafers/hour. Peak quantum efficiency is >70% at 1100 nm and >65% from 1000 to 1600 nm. The read-while-expose mode enables a 100% shutterless duty cycle and high sensitivity operation in low-light-level conditions.
Photonic Science
Robertsbridge, UK
-- Posted by Vision Systems Design
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NEW PRODUCT PRESS RELEASE
Infrared (SWIR/ InGaAs) camera for high-throughput solar cell inspection
ROBERTSBRIDGE, UK — Photonic Science Ltd. has introduced a high-resolution InGaAs short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) camera for high-throughput solar cell inspection using laser-induced fluorescence. It delivers 640 × 512-pixel resolution with extended dynamic range response up to 2.2 µm.
The camera detects voids, cracks and dead areas through sliced and bulk silicon and captures faint laser fluorescence-induced emissions from individual photovoltaic cells and bare silicon wafer substrates. Cracks, and dead or weak responding areas are unveiled on sliced wafers, enabling automatic sorting and selection of the best pieces at up to >3000 wafers/h.
It captures faint electroluminescence and photoluminescence emissions from individual photovoltaic cells that are directly proportional to their efficiency. Peak quantum efficiency is >70 % at 1100 nm and >65% from 1000 to 1600 nm.
Features include a high-responsivity InGaAs sensor, low-noise electronics and deep cooling. The read-while-expose mode enables a 100% shutterless duty cycle and high sensitivity operation in low-light-level conditions. Input pixel size is 25 × 25 µm, responsivity in low-gain mode is 1.2 µV per electron and, in high-gain-mode, 31 µV per electron. The camera operates at 25 fps at full resolution at 10 MHz and has a 16-bit extended dynamic range.
Supplied with state-of-the-art SWIR optics, it delivers high resolution and contrast modulation and lower distortion than the conventional near-infrared optics that are used with CCD cameras. Other applications include astronomy, industrial thermal imaging, imaging spectroscopy, thick sample and tissue infrared microscopy, laser profiling, telecommunications, and low-light-level and range-gated infrared imaging.
SOURCE: Photonic Science
