What Does a CCD Pixel Measure?

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SUMMARY

A CCD pixel measures the flux of light that impinges upon it, calculated as F = I0 dx dy cos(α), where I0 represents the incident intensity, dx and dy are the pixel dimensions, and α is the angle of incidence. The pixel is directly sensitive to the flux F, which accounts for the angle of incidence, rather than just the intensity I0 cos(α). The distinction between the projected intensity vector and the actual area of the pixel is crucial for accurate measurements in optical applications.

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  • Understanding of CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) technology
  • Knowledge of optical physics, specifically light intensity and flux
  • Familiarity with geometric optics and angles of incidence
  • Basic mathematics involving area calculations
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  • Research the principles of light flux and intensity in optical systems
  • Explore the mathematical modeling of CCD pixel response
  • Learn about the Poynting vector and its applications in optics
  • Investigate the impact of angle of incidence on sensor performance
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Optical engineers, physicists, and anyone involved in the design and analysis of imaging systems utilizing CCD technology.

blue_leaf77
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I have a got a problem regarding what a CCD pixel actually measures. Suppose I have a pixel of area dx dy. A plane wave of intensity I0 is impinging on the pixel making an angle α with the normal of pixel surface. The flux going into the pixel would be F = I0 dx dy cos(α). My question what is the pixel directly sensitive to, is it F or I0 cos(α)?
 
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The I0 cos(a) is the intensity per unit area whereas your actual area is dx by dy. Right?
 
You can say so, but strictly speaking I0 cos(a) is the projection of intensity vector (or Poynting vector) to the normal of the pixel surface. The actual area is dx dy.
 

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