The UltraVIEW VoX represents the next generation in 4D confocal imaging. The combination of the latest in spinning disk technology synchronized with high speed, high sensitivity detection, driven by intuitive software, produces image data of truly outstanding quality. Once acquired, the image data can be immediately visualized and analyzed using a comprehensive suite of image analysis tools. The UltraVIEW VoX is a fully integrated 4D, high performance system for life science research, offering new and exciting solutions to the challenges of live cell imaging.

Key Features

• New spinning disk technology– very fast and very optically efficient

• Fully integrated with Volocity for 4D multi-channel image acquisition and analysis

• Modular solid-state laser unit – from one to six lines in a wide range of wavelengths

• Complete synchronization for maximum speed and superb image quality

• FRAP acquisition and analysis in one solution with optional accessory

• Versatile, easy to use system, designed to meet the challenges of live cell imaging research

The images shown here were taken from an experiment to measure the velocity of red blood cells circulating in a 4 day old zebrafish embryo, using the 3D tracking capabilities of Volocity Quantitation. Objects and tracks can be overlaid to the image data for a better understanding of results. 4 day old Fli1:GFP /GATA1:dsRED transgenic zebrafish embryo. Green - endothelial cells Red - red blood cells. Dr Tim Chico, MRC Centre for Developmental and Biomedical Genetics, University of Sheffield.

High Speed Acquisition and Exceptional Image Quality
Spinning disk confocal imaging is widely accepted as the technique that provides the best results for imaging live cells. This is because of the high optical efficiency of the spinning disk head, which means that a lower level of illumination can be used, reducing photobleaching of fluorochromes and phototoxicity to cells.

• The UltraVIEW VoX includes the CSU-X1 spinning disk head, the latest technology from Yokogawa ® . The CSU-X1 has been engineered to provide twice the optical efficiency of the CSU 10 or 22, so that the required laser power is even lower than before, thereby ensuring even better sample protection. Even low intensity emission can be detected and captured using this highly efficient confocal system.

• The system also includes the PerkinElmer ProSync ® synchronization technology, which synchronizes the scanning disk speed, camera acquisition, wavelength selection and Z position so that the highest acquisition rates can be achieved with superb image quality.

• Samples are exposed to excitation light only during image capture, to further reduce photobleaching and phototoxicity. This means that cells are less affected by the imaging process and therefore their behavior is closer to the natural state.

• A choice of cooled CCD and EMCCD cameras is available, including the Hamamatsu® 9100-50 EMCCD camera. This option is unique to PerkinElmer and was developed by Hamamatsu using proprietary technology, optimized for live cell imaging. It offers high resolution and high sensitivity, and allows the fastest possible acquisition speeds, so is the optimum choice for high speed, live cell experiments.

Modular Laser System
The UltraVIEW VoX is equipped with a Modular Laser System which uses solid-state laser technology.

• The lasers are housed in a configurable unit that does not need dedicated cooling, reducing the physical space required as well as energy costs for the system.

• Up to six lasers can be included in the unit and these can be chosen from a wide range of wavelengths for maximum flexibility. You could start with just one laser and build up to a full set of six as your science progresses.

• The lasers need minimal alignment for ease of use and have AOTF or direct on/off control for faster switching, which is critical for high speed, multi-channel time lapse experiments.

Powered by Volocity – Fully Integrated Acquisition and Analysis
The UltraVIEW VoX includes Volocity for a complete 4D image acquisition and analysis experience. Working with your samples in 3D can reveal new information and lead to a better understanding of cellular processes, as well as providing more accurate results, especially when tracking objects. Now you can acquire, analyze, create movies and images for publication, all within one software environment.

• Volocity Acquisition provides the interface to all the acquisition hardware in the system, including the objective turret, light paths, focus drive and XY stage on any motorised microscope. Setting up the acquisition protocol is quick and easy, and protocols can be saved for repeated use. For time lapse experiments, once the first time point has been acquired you can immediately begin to review the image data, so that you can be sure your protocol is working right away.

• Volocity Visualization provides a choice of ways to explore your 3D and 4D image data – as XYZ slices and as high resolution rendered volumes. Fully interactive, even with 3D time lapse data. See your samples as you never have before!

• Volocity Quantitation provides a comprehensive set of tools to measure, analyze and track objects in 3D. Measurement analysis features are included to summarise and extract data, and charts and graphs can be automatically created for export and publication, all within Volocity.

FRAP - Acquire and Analyze in One System
You can add the optional FRAP PhotoKinesis™ Accessory to your UltraVIEW VoX, which is fully integrated with the system and controlled by Volocity. This provides all the tools needed to acquire and analyze FRAP images, providing both raw and graphical data. In addition to FRAP experiments, the unit can be used for techniques such as FLIP, photoswitching (photoconversion) and acceptor photobleaching.

If you would like to have more information, receive a quotation or request a demonstration of the Ultra VIEW VoX please use the contact form. You can also see the system at one of our workshops or events - please visit the Events page to see your nearest opportunity.