Microcomputer system for ion microscopy digital imaging and processing

Analytical ion microscopy is a powerful tool for biological tissue analysis as it allows direct chemical distribution imaging, even at low element concentrations. A microcomputer based digital imaging system achieving acquisition at low light level is presented. It includes a high sensitivity video camera connected to a specialized image processor subsystem. Acquired images consist of 512 x 512 pixels with 8 bits accuracy. Real-time image processing software has been implemented so that image processing may be performed on-line. Image processing software allows off-line image manipulation and correlation for biological interpretation of elemental mapping images. System capabilities are illustrated by a study of stable and radio iodine mapping in rat thyroid tissue.