A gain series method for accurate EMCCD calibration

Calibration of the gain and digital conversion factor of an EMCCD is necessary for accurate photon counting. We present a new method to quickly calibrate multiple gain settings of an EMCCD camera. Acquiring gain-series calibration data and analyzing the resulting images with the EMCCD noise model more accurately estimates the gain response of the camera. Furthermore, we develop a method to compare the results from different calibration approaches. Gain-series calibration outperforms all other methods in this self-consistency test.

Automated summary

Calibrating the gain and digital conversion factor of an EMCCD is crucial for accurate photon counting. A new method has been developed to quickly calibrate multiple gain settings of the EMCCD camera, which involves acquiring gain-series calibration data and analyzing images with the EMCCD noise model to estimate camera gain response accurately. Furthermore, a method has been developed to compare results from different calibration approaches, with gain-series calibration outperforming all other methods in the self-consistency test.