CCD Cameras: Electronics and Charge Conversion

This lecture covers the electronics involved in CCD cameras, focusing on the output amplifiers and charge conversion processes. The instructor begins by explaining the structure of a CCD camera, highlighting the sensitive area with a matrix of CCD cells and the readout register. The discussion includes the role of output amplifiers located at the corners of the register and how they function in converting photo charges into a readout voltage. The lecture details the use of a source follower for charge conversion, emphasizing the importance of resetting the system before measurement. The instructor elaborates on the electronic capacities involved, including the output diffusion capacity and the gate capacity of the first MOSFET. The process of transferring charges and measuring voltage is explained, along with the integration of reset transistors on the chip. The charge conversion factor is introduced, illustrating the relationship between charge and capacity, and the significance of minimizing capacity to enhance measurement accuracy.