Flat Panel Imaging
Instruments
Sapphire Biomolecular Imager
The Sapphire Biomolecular Imager (Azure Biosystems Inc.) is a tabletop imaging system capable of providing near-infra-red (NIR) fluorescent imaging and phosphor imaging. It features a unique design where spectrally separated solid state lasers in combination with Avalanche Photodiodes (APD) are used to detect fluorescent signals. The system also integrates the Photomultiplier tube (PMT) for high gain amplification for phosphor imaging capability. The Sapphire Biomolecular imager has the following main features:
Main Imaging Features
- Wide linear dynamic range: at least 5 orders of
magnitude. - High sensitivity: detecting at femtogram levels for fluorescent applications
- High Resolution: adjustable resolution from 1000 micron to 10 microns, making it ideal for scanning slides and arrays
- Two-channel NIR imaging capability: Two fluorescent solid-state laser diodes at 685 nm and 784 nm with 3nm narrow band
- Phosphor imaging capability: using laser light and PMT detector, providing high resolution imaging of phosphor screen at 25 um resolution.
Sample Images and Study Examples
To see sample images from our optical imaging systems please follow this link.
Study Initiation, Training and Scheduling
The SAI offers training on our Sapphire system so that users can conduct imaging themselves within our facility, please click on this link to learn more.聽 The Sapphire Biomolecular Imager can be scheduled after training by SAI staff through iLab.聽 Staff supported imaging is also available upon request with additional fees.聽 Please follow the instructions at the Schedule a Study link for more details or contact us at bricsai@unc.edu or call 919-966-2855 with questions.
Cost
The current internal rate for flat panel imaging is $58/hr.聽 Imaging time is highly dependent upon the study protocol so please contact the SAI for budget information. You can also see our rates at this link.