What Does a CCD Pixel Measure?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the measurement of a CCD pixel and the factors that affect it. It is determined that the pixel is directly sensitive to the intensity per unit area, I0 cos(α), which is the projection of the intensity vector to the normal of the pixel surface. The actual area of the pixel is dx dy.
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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?
 
  • #3
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.
 

FAQ: What Does a CCD Pixel Measure?

1. What exactly is a CCD pixel?

A CCD pixel, or charge-coupled device pixel, is a small electronic component found in digital cameras and other imaging devices. It is responsible for capturing and converting light into electrical signals, which are then processed to create a digital image.

2. How does a CCD pixel measure light?

A CCD pixel measures light through the use of photodiodes, which are small semiconductors that can convert light into electrical current. Each pixel contains multiple photodiodes that are sensitive to different wavelengths of light, allowing it to capture a wide range of colors.

3. What does a CCD pixel measure in terms of image quality?

The quality of a CCD pixel's measurement is typically determined by its resolution, or the number of pixels in an image. Generally, the more pixels a CCD has, the higher the image resolution will be, resulting in a clearer and more detailed image.

4. Can the size of a CCD pixel affect its measurement?

Yes, the size of a CCD pixel can affect its measurement. Larger pixels are generally more sensitive to light and can capture more photons, resulting in a higher signal-to-noise ratio. However, smaller pixels can allow for higher resolution images due to their ability to pack more pixels into a smaller area.

5. How does a CCD pixel measure color?

A CCD pixel measures color through the use of a color filter array, commonly known as a Bayer filter. This filter is placed over the pixels and allows them to capture different colors of light. Each pixel only captures one color, so the colors are then interpolated to create a full-color image.

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