Join the
prototype
phase

Participants benefit from close technical support, free software updates, and optional integration with drone systems – while also helping shape the final product through direct feedback.
Please note: prototypes are available exclusively for use in scientific research contexts.

ORder NOW
View Details

* price on request

Some words from our CTO.​

Hello and welcome to the edge of what’s technically possible.
Our motto, “We see what others can’t,” is more than just a slogan – it represents the worlds first spatially resolved remote sensing prototype for chlorophyll fluorescence.

This opens up a unique opportunity for scientists like you: to be at the very forefront of discovery and the advancement of new knowledge.
But with this opportunity comes a certain level of effort on your part.

So let me offer a few honest words – from scientist to scientist.
If you’re expecting a plug-and-play camera that drops seamlessly into any existing system, I’ll borrow the words of someone far wiser than me: “You shall not pass.” – Gandalf, LotR.
In that case, we encourage you to return once the prototype phase has passed. Leave us your contact information – we’ll keep you in the loop.

But if you’re ready to invest some sweat, patience, and brainpower into integrating the SIFcam into your system and learning how to use it,
you’ll find yourself standing at the frontlines of chlorophyll fluorescence research.

“Say friend and enter.” – Gandalf, LotR.

Just be aware: this is cutting-edge technology in its rawest, most powerful form – and it demands curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to explore the unknown.

And now, let’s dive into the technical details – how it works, what it includes, and what makes the SIFcam so unique.

– Luis Kremer

How it Works

a techniqual deep dive

System Overview

The SIFcam consists of two synchronized sCMOS cameras, each equipped with ultra-narrowband optical interference filters targeting specific spectral windows: one inside the O₂A band (~760.7 nm) and one just outside (~757.9 nm). By capturing images simultaneously through both filters, our postprocessing pipeline isolates the weak fluorescence signal from dominant reflected sunlight.

A built-in onboard computer handles camera control, synchronization, and data storage. The modular design enables integration with UAVs, gimbals, or fixed installations, and supports both field experiments and long-term monitoring setups.

The system can also be externally triggered via a dedicated input, allowing synchronization with other sensors or systems – ideal for coordinated measurements in multi-instrument platforms.

For geospatial referencing and structured mosaicking from aerial surveys, optional integration of GPS and orientation sensors is available. This supports precise positioning and alignment of image tiles during drone-based data acquisition.

Basic setup

A standard SIFcam setup includes:

  • The dual-camera optical head with pre-mounted narrowband filters (760.7 nm & 757.9 nm)

  • 25 mm f/1.8 C-mount lens

  • Onboard control unit (LattePanda Alpha with Windows 10)

  • 256 GB high-speed SD card

  • USB-C Power Delivery supply (15 V / 3 A)

  • D-Tap power adapter for UAV or battery use

  • Wi-Fi antenna for wireless access

  • Basic mounting interface (M5 × 0.8)

  • Pre-installed measurement software

  • Rugged Pelicase for safe transport and field deployment

  • Access to documentation, community support & updates

Custom mounts (e.g. for RGB co-integration), sensor modules (e.g. GPS or AMU), full UAV setups and mobile battery packs are available on request.

Camera

The eyes of the SIFcam are two high-performance sCMOS cameras, designed to detect extremely weak fluorescence signals.

Because the signal is extremely weak compared to reflected sunlight, the system relies on high sensor sensitivity and low electronic noise. The cameras feature a typical readout noise of just 2.1 e⁻ (median) and a dark current of approximately 15 e⁻/pixel/s at 21 °C ambient temperature.
Since sensor performance is temperature-sensitive, the accuracy of photon-to-signal conversion—and therefore the reliability of fluorescence measurements—depends directly on thermal conditions. So keep that in mind while using the SIFcam.

As a result, thermal management must be adapted to the use case: stationary setups may require active cooling, while UAV-mounted systems typically benefit from natural airflow during flight.

The sensors offer a quantum efficiency of up to 80%, with strong response in the 750–770 nm range – ideal for capturing chlorophyll fluorescence within the O₂A absorption band.

Each camera is equipped with a 2048 × 2048 pixel sensor at 16-bit depth, using a rolling shutter. The pixel size is 6.5 µm, and the sensor format is 13.3 mm × 13.3 mm (18.8 mm diagonal).
In combination with the lens and measurement altitude, these parameters define the spatial resolution of the recorded images – a key factor for mosaicking and quantitative analysis.

Want to learn more about spatial resolution in relation to measurement distance? See our Docs Page.

Filter

To isolate the fluorescence signal from the background of reflected sunlight, the SIFcam uses two precisely tuned optical interference filters. Each filter selects a narrow spectral window for imaging.

One filter is centered at 757.9 nm, just outside the O₂A absorption band, capturing primarily reflected sunlight. The second filter is centered at 760.7 nm, directly within the absorption band, where solar irradiance is naturally reduced. This spectral pairing enables selective extraction of the fluorescence signal using our post processing pipeline.

Both filters are ultra-narrow bandpass designs with a 1 nm FWHM and OD4 blocking from 200 nm to 1200 nm, manufactured on fused silica substrates and optimized for a 0° angle of incidence.

On request, filters can be customized or exchanged to target different spectral features or research needs.

Interested in alternative configurations? Contact us – we’re happy to advise.

Lens

The SIFcam uses a 25 mm f/1.8–f/16 lens designed for high-resolution scientific imaging. It offers excellent optical clarity, low distortion, and a minimum object distance of 100 mm. The distortion is limited to –0.83%, and a chief ray angle of 2.7° helps ensure even illumination across the sensor with minimal light fall-off – a crucial factor for stable and reliable fluorescence measurements.

The spatial resolution of each pixel is determined by the combination of lens focal length and measurement distance, making the lens a key parameter in overall system performance.

While the SIFcam is optimized for this specific lens @aperture 8, we understand that some applications may require alternative optics – for example, due to varying target sizes or working distances. However, changing the lens alters the optical path and may affect measurement accuracy. For this reason, any lens modification must go through a validation cycle with our team to ensure data integrity is maintained.

Interested in custom optics? Contact us to discuss your setup.

Computer

The brain of the SIFcam is powered by the LattePanda Alpha, a compact embedded computer that features an Intel® Core™ m3-8100Y processor (dual-core, 1.1 GHz base, up to 3.4 GHz boost), combined with an integrated microcontroller (ATmega32U4). It is equipped with a 256 GB high-speed SD card and can be optionally configured with up to 8 GB of LPDDR3 RAM to meet specific application needs.

This hybrid system architecture allows seamless communication between high-level control software and direct hardware-level functions – enabling features like synchronized triggering, real-time monitoring, and integrated sensor fusion, all from a single onboard platform.

Key specifications:

  • Processor: Intel® Core™ m3-8100Y (dual-core, 1.1 GHz base, up to 3.4 GHz boost)

  • Operating system: Windows 10

  • Storage: 256 GB high-speed SD card

  • RAM: Up to 8 GB LPDDR3 (optional)

  • Microcontroller: Integrated ATmega32U4 (Arduino-compatible)

  • Interfaces: USB-C, USB 3.0, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

This setup allows us to adapt the SIFcam to your specific measurement task, configuring and equipping the system to meet your requirements. Especially during the prototype phase, we’re open to collaborative ideas and custom requests.

Powering

The SIFcam operates on a 15 V / 3 A power input, and its power architecture is designed to support a wide range of deployment scenarios – from stationary lab setups to fully mobile field missions.

The standard package includes a USB-C Power Delivery power supply, allowing convenient operation in fixed installations or controlled environments.
To support aerial and mobile applications, the system also comes with a D-Tap adapter cable, enabling direct integration with drone gimbals or external power systems.

For maximum flexibility in the field, the SIFcam can also be powered by portable battery packs via D-Tap. Upon request, we offer matching mobile battery solutions to ensure long runtimes without compromising mobility.

This versatile power design ensures that the SIFcam can be deployed wherever your measurements take you – reliably and without infrastructure constraints.

Sensor data

In its standard configuration, the SIFcam includes an integrated Wi-Fi antenna, allowing for wireless access and control of the measurement software via laptop or tablet. This enables convenient system setup and stationary live monitoring without physical cable connections – ideal for use in the field.

Beyond that, the system is designed with modular sensor integration in mind. Since the system was originally developed with UAV-based remote sensing in focus, we offer optional modules during the prototype phase – including real-time GPS and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) for orientation tracking.

These additional inputs enhance georeferencing and image alignment, which is particularly valuable for large-scale mosaic generation.
For example, when flown on a drone equipped with GPS and AMU, the SIFcam can automatically log positioning and angle data for each capture – simplifying downstream stitching and map generation significantly.

While these tools are especially helpful in UAV applications, in principle, the SIFcam can be equipped with any external sensor as needed.  – and we are open to supporting custom sensor setups across a wide range of use cases.

Have something in mind? Contact us – we’d love to hear your idears.

  • WIF
  • GPS
  • AMU

Synchronizing

The SIFcam can operate fully autonomously without any external communication. Custom measurement sequences can be executed directly via the onboard computer or the integrated microcontroller, using either user-defined scripts or pre-configured routines provided by our team.

For integration into larger systems, the SIFcam includes a 3-pin 2.5 mm trigger input that accepts external signals to control image acquisition. This allows precise synchronization with other devices, such as multispectral or thermal cameras, GPS modules, or UAV flight controllers.

The system is configured for the “External Exposure Start” trigger mode, and supports standard LVTTL (3.3 V) logic signals. A pulse duration of ≥10 ms is recommended to ensure reliable triggering. The input is tolerant up to 5 V TTL. 

Need help integrating the trigger into your setup? visit our documentation page for detailed guidance.

Integration

The SIFcam is designed for flexible deployment and can be mounted like any standard camera system. It features a M5 × 0.8 mounting interface, measures 154 × 90 × 195 mm, and weighs approximately 1.7 kg in its standard configuration. This allows integration into a wide variety of setups – from fixed tripods and ground-based measurement rigs to airborne systems.

For UAV-based applications, we strongly recommend the use of a gimbal to stabilize the camera during flight. Due to the total system weight – camera plus gimbal – careful consideration must be given to drone compatibility and payload capacity. Our team brings years of experience in airborne sensing and is happy to support you in selecting a suitable platform, as well as with any other integration-related questions.

If your application requires synchronization with an RGB camera, we offer an optional pre-aligned mount and signal synchronization interface, which can be supplied with the SIFcam upon request.

The system has a mechanical durability comparable to an IP50 rating – meaning it is protected against dust, but not splash- or weatherproof. For outdoor or long-term deployments in exposed environments, we recommend using the camera within an appropriate housing.

Take a look at our services for support with custom integrations and field deployment.

Materials

The SIFcam is built with durability, thermal stability, and modularity in mind – and is specifically designed for in-field use in dynamic research environments.

The front plate is constructed from CNC-machined anodized aluminum, providing a lightweight yet highly robust structure that protects sensitive optical and electronic components during mobile and airborne operation. The remaining housing is made from a high-strength technical polymer, chosen for its durability and weight-saving properties.

Critical mechanical interfaces – such as the filter mounts, sensor supports, and lens holders – are precision-aligned and vibration-resistant, ensuring mechanical integrity even under movement, vibration, or changing ambient conditions.

Internal thermal coupling between core components and the housing enables passive heat dissipation, maintaining stable sensor performance in standard environments.
If you plan to operate the SIFcam in extreme temperatures, please contact our CTO for configuration advice and adaptation options.

 

The enclosure provides dust protection comparable to IP50 and is designed to support modular extensions such as sensor ports, mounting adapters, or sealed upgrade kits.
Please note that design and color may vary between units during the prototype phase.

Share your toughts

We’d love to hear what you think. Your feedback helps us improve and shape the future of SIFcam.

Envelope

Need Help?

FAQs

Here are answers to the most common ones – from setup to science. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out anytime.

The current prototype series is exclusively available for scientific institutions and research teams. If you’re unsure whether your project qualifies, contact us – we’re happy to clarify

The SIFcam is currently available as part of a limited early-access program. This means the system is scientifically usable, but still undergoing tests, developments and optimizations. Do not a expect a plug and play solution.

We currently expect the prototype phase to continue until the beginning of 2026. A first production-ready version is planned thereafter – depending on feedback and demand.
Participants in the prototype phase will receive free software updates and will have priority access to future upgrades and hardware extensions.

Simply contact us with a brief description of your intended use case. We’ll get back to you with details on availability, pricing, and next steps.

It captures two aligned 16-bit grayscale images in the NIR range (760.7 nm and 757.9 nm) for each acquisition. These are used to extract solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence using our post processing pipeline.

We offer documentation, setup support, training, and access to a dedicated online community. During the prototype phase, we provide close collaboration to help you succeed.

The SIFcam has IP50-level protection, which means it is dust-resistant but not waterproof. For use in extreme weather conditions, we recommend to contact our technical team in advance.

Yes – we’re happy to ship worldwide. However, please note that during the prototype phase, we currently rely on the receiving institution to handle local import regulations, taxes, and certifications. We’ll provide any required product documentation to support the process on your end.

The SIFcam requires 15 V / 3 A and comes standard with a USB-C Power Delivery power supply for lab or indoor use. For field applications, we include a D-Tap adapter for powering the system from UAV gimbals or external battery packs. Optional batteries can be provided upon request.

A standard SIFcam setup includes:

  • The dual-camera optical head with pre-mounted narrowband filters (760.7 nm & 757.9 nm)

  • 25 mm f/1.8 C-mount lens

  • Onboard control unit (LattePanda Alpha with Windows 10)

  • 256 GB high-speed SD card

  • USB-C Power Delivery supply (15 V / 3 A)

  • D-Tap power adapter for UAV or battery use

  • Wi-Fi antenna for wireless access

  • Basic mounting interface (M5 × 0.8)

  • Pre-installed measurement software

  • Rugged Pelicase for safe transport and field deployment

  • Access to documentation, community support & updates

Custom mounts (e.g. for RGB co-integration), sensor modules (e.g. GPS or AMU), and mobile battery packs are available on request.

The pricing of optional sensor modules – such as GPS, orientation sensors (AMU), or custom integrations – depends on the specific configuration and project needs. Since we are in the prototype phase, we offer flexible options and can advise you individually.

Just contact us with your requirements, and we’ll provide a tailored quote.

The SIFcam measures 154 × 90 × 195 mm and weighs approximately 1.7 kg in its standard configuration. Please note that additional modules (e.g. battery, GPS, gimbal) may increase the total weight.

The camera features an industry-standard M5 × 0.8 threaded mounting interface for easy integration into tripods, frames, UAV gimbals, and custom brackets. Optional mounting adapters are available on request.

Yes – the SIFcam is suitable for UAV use, but we strongly recommend using a gimbal to ensure stability and image quality during flight. Due to its weight, make sure your drone supports the necessary payload capacity. We’re happy to help you find the right setup. Just contact us.

Address List

Social Networks

  • @floronics
  • floronics.official

Links List

Floronics

We see what others can’t.