Industrial Electronics

Hamamatsu Photonics unveils the ORCA-Quest IQ: The next evolution in qCMOS camera technology

20 October 2025

Hamamatsu Photonics has launched the ORCA-Quest IQ, the newest addition to the acclaimed ORCA- Quest series of qCMOS cameras. Based on groundbreaking qCMOS technology, this camera is set to advance quantitative imaging across various high-demand fields, including adaptive optics and quantum technology.

The ORCA-Quest IQ features an added Camera Link output, significantly enhancing the flexibility andSource: Hamamatsu PhotonicsSource: Hamamatsu Photonics compatibility of data transfer while maintaining the hallmark low-noise performance of the ORCA-Quest series. This new capability allows for high-speed feedback to peripheral devices relying on the Camera Link interface, making it an ideal option for applications requiring real-time response and data processing.
Key features of the ORCA-Quest IQ:

  • High resolution: Delivers 9.4 megapixels with a 4096 × 2304 pixel resolution for crystal- clear imaging.
  • Exceptional quantum efficiency: Achieves a peak quantum efficiency of 85% at 460 nm, offering superior sensitivity.
  • Low readout noise: Achieves a minimum readout noise of 0.3 electrons rms, resolving the tiniest signal changes.
  • Dynamic range: Demonstrates a robust dynamic range of 23,000:1 (rms), facilitating detailed imaging across varied light conditions.
  • Cooling options: Features both forced-air and water-cooling options, providing reliability and flexibility in temperature management.
  • Advanced triggering capacities: Equipped with flexible external trigger input modes and a software trigger mechanism, catering to diverse experimental setups.

ORCA-Quest IQ inherits the core features of the ORCA-Quest series while evolving into a more versatile camera by allowing image output to connected devices via Camera Link. It also retains support for CoaXPress and USB 3.1. Flexibility in data transfer translates into a variety of possibilities for feedback-based applications. These include:

  • Adaptive optics
  • Quantum technology
  • Super-resolution microscopy

In 2021, Hamamatsu Photonics introduced the world’s first qCMOS camera capable of photon number resolving, the “ORCA-Quest.” Since then, it has been widely adopted in pioneering research across the life sciences and physics fields. The ORCA-Quest is a camera with a qCMOS image sensor developed using Hamamatsu’s patented design technology and the latest manufacturing techniques. It reflects the manufacturer’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of quantitative imaging. The ORCA-Quest series continues to evolve.

To contact the author of this article, email GlobalSpecEditors@globalspec.com


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