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Three new color camera models from Aven, Inc. upgrade any microscope with one-click image capture and storage capability. The scientific-grade imaging systems include software with extensive options for user-defined processing, measurement and analysis.

Two CMOS models and a high-end CCD version support versatile applications in biotechnology research, medical labs, industrial inspection and science education. Each shoots in still or video mode.

The accompanying software, released recently as version 7.0 of a leading image processing program, allows a broad range of measurement, annotation, color change, contrast manipulation, stripping, reversal, dithering and other advanced editing to optimize image quality for varied needs.

These instruments do more than basic imaging. Lab techs, quality inspectors or R&D engineers can manipulate, calibrate, label and share uncompressed, high-resolution images or videos.

Each camera attaches easily to any trinocular port. A USB 2.0 interface connects to desktop or laptop computers.

CMOS models have 1.3 or 3.0 megapixel resolution, with 1/3" or 1/2" color sensor chips, respectively. White balance and exposure control can be automatic or adjusted manually. An electronic rolling shutter shoots 11 to 30 frames per second, depending on resolution.

Accessories provided include a calibration scale, six-foot USB high-speed cable, C-mount adapter and two eyepiece mount adapters.

For low-light microscopy, Aven offers a 3.3 megapixel CCD model suited to fluorescence or dark field imaging. With high-quality color reproduction over a wide range of light conditions, this camera's 1/1.8" Sony CCD Sensor chip makes it ideal for advanced clinical, ophthalmic, scientific and materials analysis applications.

Features include programmable gain, sub-windowing and region-of-interest selection. Shutter speed range is 5 to 30 frames per second. The software CD, compatible with Windows XP and Vista, also is included.

These functions can be performed via a familiar Windows interface, with a choice of horizontal toolbar or vertical menu shortcuts:

* Adjust contrast, brightness, gain, color and gray scale.
* Rotate or reverse image for "mirror view."
* Resize image.
* Add footnotes.
* Calibrate pixel density.
* Create transparency or high-contrast image.
* "Split" colors on basis of RGB or hue, saturation and lum (HSL).
* Apply linear filter to repair, sharpen or soften (Gaussian blur) image.
* Expand color palette through dithering effect.
* Create and name folders for image storage.

The CD includes a 55-page illustrated User Guide with image processing steps.

For more information, call Aven at (734) 973-0099. A digital catalog is at Optical Inspection Tools & High Performance Precision Hand Tools: Aven Tools.
Visit Aven at Booth E-4860 of the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago from Sept. 13-18, 2010 or at Booth 4308 of the Medical Design & Manufacturing expo (MD&M Midwest) near Chicago from Sept. 28-30, 2010.
Aven, Inc. manufactures and distributes high-performance precision tools and optical systems for industrial, scientific, research and education applications. More than 750 products include video inspection systems, integrated portable microscopes, video borescopes, task lights, stainless steel tools for lab use and precision hand tools such as tweezers, pliers, cutters, screwdrivers, crimpers, knives and alignment tools. Brands include Mighty Scope, iLoupe, iVue, Accu-Cut and Athlet.

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