Color vs. Black and White: How to Choose a FlowCam Camera

Color vs. Black and White: How to Choose a FlowCam Camera

While most imaging particle analyzers are equipped with black and white (monochrome) cameras for image acquisition, FlowCam 8100 instruments offer a choice of either black and white or color cameras.

Each configuration performs differently in common particle analysis tasks like particle sizing and morphology analysis. It is important to select the appropriate set-up for your specific application and particle analysis goal.

Table showing advantages and common applications for FlowCam colors vs. black and white cameras

This technical note will describe the strengths and weaknesses of each camera choice and discuss which is better suited for specific applications. 

FlowCam technical note thumbnail - Color vs. Black and White: How to Choose a FlowCam CameraA color FlowCam 8100 configuration would be preferred when monitoring for harmful algal blooms (HABs). In this application, researchers are interested in identifying toxin-producing species. Particle type identification is the focus of the analysis where particles of interest exhibit intrinsic coloration. A black and white camera configuration is preferred when particle sizing accuracy is the priority. An example here would be in a biotherapeutic application where it's essential to accurately size particles in different ranges for quality control measures. 

Selecting the appropriate camera type for your FlowCam will help ensure that you obtain the desired particle information for your specific application. If you like to learn more, please download our technical note.

Download Technical Note

Post Topics

Related Posts

Scientists gathered around FlowCam monitor looking at data
From Aquaculture and Organoids, to Zebrafish Embryos: Experience the Versatility of FlowCam
FlowCam applications are wide-ranging, from aquatic systems monitoring and marine organism research to cell therapy development and advanced …
Read Post
gloved hands holding flow cell cleaning setup over sink
How to Care for Your FlowCam 8000 Flow Cell
Your FlowCam and and accompanying hardware are built to last. Our new technical note describes how you can keep your field-of-view (FOV) flow cell …
Read Post
Need Supplies?

Find supplies and spare parts for your FlowCam instrument or ask for a quote. 

Order Now

Need Help?

Get technical support and application help. Request training or preventative maintenance.


Submit a Support Ticket

Need Information?

Check out our knowledge base including white papers, application notes, technical notes, and videos.

View Resources