A Vidicon television camera is a type of imaging device used to capture and transmit video signals. It consists of a glass tube with a photosensitive surface called the Vidicon target, which converts light into electrical signals. This device was widely used in the early days of television broadcasting.
The Vidicon target in the camera tube is coated with a photosensitive material such as antimony trisulphide or lead dioxide. When light enters the tube, it strikes the target, creating an electrical charge. This charge is then amplified and converted into video signals, which are sent out to a display device.
One of the main advantages of a Vidicon television camera is its high sensitivity to light, allowing it to produce clear images even in low light conditions. It also has a long lifespan and is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of cameras.
One limitation of a Vidicon television camera is its susceptibility to blooming, which occurs when a bright light source overexposes the target and causes a halo effect on the image. It also has a lower resolution compared to modern cameras and can be affected by electromagnetic interference.
No, the Vidicon television camera is no longer in use due to advancements in technology. It has been replaced by other types of cameras such as CCD and CMOS, which offer better image quality and are more compact. However, the Vidicon camera played a significant role in the development of television broadcasting and remains an important milestone in camera technology.