Closed FluorCam
Chlorophyll Fluorescence Imaging from Individual Cells to Plant Populations
About...

Closed FluorCam FC 800-C is a popular, best-selling system for imaging chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics. It features an integrated dark chamber for accurate and controlled fluorescence measurements. The system is available in multiple configurations, including a multicolor module for capturing diverse fluorescent signals, and a GFP-optimized version for steady-state fluorescence studies. The standard configuration includes a 1.4 MPx CCD camera and four fixed LED panels, providing uniform illumination across sample areas up to 90 × 90 mm—ideal for small plants, detached leaves, algal suspensions, and similar specimens.

Key Features

  • Four high-intensity LED panels available in several wavelengths
  • High-resolution imaging with two camera options:
    either 1.4 MPx TOMI-2: 6.45 µm × 6.45 µm pixel size
    (Standard high-resolution camera) or 1.3 MPx TOMI-3: 6.60 µm × 6.60 µm pixel size (Fast camera for OJIP measurements)
  • Built-in dark chamber for light-controlled measurements


  • Adjustable shelf system to accommodate various plant sizes
  • Choice of imaging masks for 384-well plates, 96-well plates, Petri dishes, and more
  • Delivered with a laptop and fully integrated control and analysis software
  • Optional top-mounted LED panel for expanded excitation capabilities

Closed FluorCam and GFPCam FC 800-C

The FC 800-C is a robust, user-friendly, and world-wide used system for combined multispectral and kinetic fluorescence imaging. Designed for high-performance and versatility, it features a CCD camera, four fixed LED panels (with an optional fifth top-mounted panel), and the option to add a motorized filter wheel with up to seven emission filters.

The LED panels provide uniform illumination across a 90 × 90 mm area—ideal for imaging small plants (e.g., Arabidopsis thaliana), detached leaves, mosses, lichens, plated algal colonies, or algal suspensions. Its compact design includes an integrated dark chamber for easy and effective dark adaptation of samples.

The FC 800-C captures fluorescence images at any time during the experiment, presenting data as false-color maps for intuitive visualization. Full kinetic analysis is supported, including fluorescence transients induced by actinic light or saturating flashes, with customizable timing and intensity settings via user-defined protocols.

The system comes complete with a high-performance laptop and a comprehensive software suite FluorCam10 for system control, image acquisition, and data analysis. For advanced users, the software also optionally enables automated triggering of protocols via the Advanced Function software extension.



Light Panels


The standard FluorCam FC 800-C system includes four high-intensity LED panels, each measuring 130 × 130 mm. One pair provides Measuring Light and Actinic Light 1 (standard & GFPCam: red-orange, 619 - 626 nm), while the other pair delivers Actinic Light 2 and Saturating Pulses (standard: cool white 6 500 K CCT; GFPCam: Royal blue, 444 - 464 nm).

Alternative wavelengths are available in the customized FC 800-C/1010-C as replacements for the standard Actinic Light 2 and Saturating Pulse panels in custom configurations. These include:

  • Blue (460 - 470 nm)
  • Cyan (495 - 510 nm)
  • Green (525 - 530 nm)
  • Red (619 - 626 nm)
  • Deep red (635 - 666 nm)
  • Amber (585 - 595 nm)


An optional top-mounted LED panel can be added to expand the excitation spectrum for multicolor fluorescence or reflectance measurements. This panel is mounted around the camera and is available in the following wavelengths:

  • Far-red (720 - 740 nm)
  • Deep-red (635 - 666 nm)
  • Ultraviolet A (standard: 380 – 390 nm, optional: 360 – 370 nm, or 400 – 410 nm)
  • Ultraviolet B (303 – 317 nm)
  • Other wavelengths available upon request.


Light Intensity Specifications


  • Actinic light intensity:
  • - standard version: 300–2 000 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ (depending on wavelength)
    - light-upgraded version: up to 3 000 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ (please inquire)
  • Saturating pulse intensity:
  • - standard version: up to 4 000 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹
    - light-upgraded version: up to 6 000 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ (please inquire)
  • Single Turnover Flash (STF):
  • - 120 000 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ in a 100 µs pulse (available in QA re-oxidation version)



Camera options


  • Standard version:
    high-resolution
    CCD camera TOMI-2: 6.45 µm × 6.45 µm pixel size, frame period 50 ms
  • OJIP version:
    fast
    CMOS camera TOMI-3: 6.60 µm × 6.60 µm pixel size, frame period 20 - 2000 µs (please inquire)



Predefined Protocols

For use with the standard high-resolution TOMI-2 camera

  • FV/FM - Maximum quantum yield of photosystem II
  • Kautsky Induction - Time-resolved fluorescence response following dark adaptation
  • Quenching Analysis — Differentiation of photochemical and non-photochemical quenching
  • Light Curve—Measurement of photosynthetic responses across light intensities
  • Steady state fluorescence, e.g., ChlF, optionally GFP
  • Multicolor Fluorescence Imaging — Detection of UV-induced blue (F440), green (F520), and chlorophyll fluorescence (F680, F740), requires optional accessories: an additional UV A LED panel, and filter wheel with 4 filters
  • QA-Reoxidation Kinetics — Time-resolved analysis of electron transport chain recovery, requires optional electronic module
  • Fast Fluorescence Induction (OJIP) — Fast chlorophyll a fluorescence induction transient recorded by a method of multiple-flashes, requires optional electronic module
  • PAR Absorptivity Measurement — Estimation of photosynthetically active radiation absorption based on NDVI, requires optional accessories: an additional NDVI (deep red/far-red) LED panel, and a filter wheel with a glass filter

For use with the fast TOMI-3 camera:

  • Fast Fluorescence Induction OJIP — Fast chlorophyll a fluorescence induction transient with frame period 20, 100 or 500 µs
  • FV/FM — Maximum quantum yield of photosystem II
  • Quenching Analysis — Differentiation of photochemical and non-photochemical quenching
  • Light Curve— Measurement of photosynthetic responses across light intensities



Measured Parameters


  • Directly measured: FO, FM, FV, FO', FM', FV', FT
  • Calculated (50+): including FV/FM, FV'/FM', PhiPSII, NPQ, qN, qP, Rfd, ETR (via Light Curve protocol) and PAR-absorptivity coefficient




Applications


  • Screening of photosynthetic performance and metabolic responses
  • Detection of biotic and abiotic stress in plants
  • Assessment of plant resistance or susceptibility to environmental stressors
  • Functional studies in plant molecular biology, including mutant screening
  • Analysis of plant–microbe interactions
  • Applications in agriculture and horticulture
  • Monitoring of plant growth and developmental processes



Compatible Sample Types


  • Leaves, small plants, fruits, vegetables
  • Mosses and lichens
  • Cyanobacteria and green algae
  • Nematodes



Sample Handling Features


  • Selectable shelf system to accommodate varying plant sizes
  • Predefined imaging masks for 384-well plates, 96-well plates, Petri dishes, and more
  • Integrated dark chamber for proper sample adaptation prior to measurement




Software Features


  • Complete System Control
  • - Fully automated management of the entire FluorCam system
    - Compatible with Windows 10 and higher

  • Automated Experiment Execution
  • - Wide range of predefined protocols
    - Creation of custom protocols via program wizard
    - Optionally, Advanced functions for automated, repeated measurements
    - Optional Barcode reader integration for streamlined sample tracking

  • Image Acquisition & Analysis Tools
  • - Automatic or manual image segmentation (e.g., labeling individual plants)
    - Kinetic data analysis for all samples within the field of view
    - Extensive image manipulation and measurement tools

  • Data Export Options
  • - Export to Excel, text, AVI, JPEG, PNG, TIFF, BMP, or raw FluorCam data format




Versions


Closed FluorCam FC 800-C/1010-S

Standard configuration including: FluorCam control unit, measuring chamber with adjustable shelf, 1.4 MPx camera, four fixed LED light panels (130 × 130 mm; two red-orange and two cool white), chlorophyll fluorescence filter, control laptop with software package, user’s guide

Closed GFPCam FC 800-C/1010-GFP

GFP configuration including: FluorCam control unit, measuring chamber with adjustable shelf, 1.4 MPx camera, four fixed LED light panels (130 × 130 mm; two red-orange and two royal blue), chlorophyll fluorescence filter, GFP emission filter, motorized 7-position filter wheel, control laptop with software package, user’s guide



Closed FluorCam FC 800-C/1010-CUST

Customizable configuration including: FluorCam control unit, measuring chamber with adjustable shelf, 1.4 MPx camera, four LED light panels (130 × 130 mm) with selectable wavelengths, chlorophyll fluorescence filter (optional alternative filters or motorized filter wheel), control laptop with software package, user’s guide

Closed FluorCam FC 800-C/1010-S with fast TOMI-3 camera (OJIP version)

Fast CMOS camera with adjustable frame period (20–2000 µs), offered as an alternative to the standard high-resolution TOMI-2 camera. Recommended for fast OJIP measurements.

Built-in optional accessories

Additional LED Light Panels

A top-mounted LED panel enables expanded excitation capabilities. Only one built-in top panel can be installed per device. Available in single-channel (4 LEDs) or dual-channel (8 LEDs) configurations. Panel options include:

  • Far-red (720 - 740 nm): For F0' and PAR absorbance measurements.
  • PAR–NDVI Panel (Far-red, 720 - 740 nm & Deep-red, 635 - 666 nm): Included with the PAR-Absorptivity and NDVI Module.
  • Ultraviolet A (395 – 410 nm): For multicolor fluorescence (UV-excited) or as an excitation source for wtGFP/DAPI. Optional wavelengths: 360 – 370 nm, or 400 – 410 nm (please inquire).
  • Ultraviolet B (303 – 317 nm): For UVB sample treatment.

Note: Not compatible with the Multicolor Plant Module or the PAR-Absorptivity and NDVI Module in closed versions.

Fast Fluorescence Induction (OJIP) Module
Electronic module for capturing fast fluorescence induction (OJIP curve). Includes a specialized electronic board and measurement protocol, enabling detailed analysis through variable-delay light exposures.

Note: Compatible only with devices equipped with the standard high-resolution TOMI-2 camera. Not supported with the fast TOMI-3 camera.

Filter Wheel
Software-controlled 7-position filter wheel enabling multi-band fluorescence imaging. Accommodates up to seven easily interchangeable emission filters, offering enhanced flexibility for diverse experimental needs.

Light upgrade (optional for all versions)
Actinic light intensity up to 3 000 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹, Super pulse intensity up to 6 000 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹.

Multicolor Plant Module
Specialized option for analyzing plant emission spectra (according to Lichtenthaler and Buschmann). Includes a 7-position filter wheel, a UV LED light panel (4 × 380 nm LEDs), four filters (BLUE: FF01-440/40, GREEN: FF02-520/28, RED: FF01-690/8, FAR-RED: FF01-747/33), and specialized software extension.

Note: Not compatible with a different additional light panel or the PAR-Absorptivity and NDVI Module in closed versions.

PAR-Absorptivity and NDVI Module
Advanced module for assessing PAR absorptivity using NDVI reflectance index. It calculates the PAR absorptivity coefficient as a = (near-infrared reflectance - red reflectance)/(near-infrared reflectance + red reflectance). The system includes a 7-position filter wheel, 130 × 130 mm light panel (featuring 735 nm far-red and 650 nm red LEDs), and a glass filter. NDVI-based reflectance helps estimate photosynthetic activity.

Note: Not compatible with a different additional light panel or the Multicolor Plant Module in closed versions.

QA-Reoxidation Module
High-end module for measuring QA-reoxidation kinetics using a pump-and-probe approach. QA-reoxidation is recorded with repetitive flashes and variable delays after each flash to capture detailed kinetics.

Note: Compatible only with devices equipped with the standard high-resolution TOMI-2 camera. Not supported with the fast TOMI-3 camera.

Software & software extension

FluorCam10 Software
FluorCam10 is the latest 64-bit software platform for high-precision imaging and analysis with FluorCam systems. Designed for kinetic and steady-state fluorescence studies, it supports a wide range of applications involving chlorophyll a or fluorescent proteins. The software features intuitive scripting with predefined protocols, customizable light settings, and automated or manual masking for image segmentation. Results can be visualized, saved, and exported in multiple formats, with or without scale overlays. FluorCam10 integrates with all supported accessories, including the Thermoregulator TR 6000 for temperature-controlled experiments.

Several optional software extensions are available to expand FluorCam10’s capabilities:

  • Advanced Multiple Function – Automates repeated execution of a single measuring protocol
  • Advanced Circadian Function – Enables a two-phase sequence (e.g., light and dark), each using a different protocol, ideal for circadian rhythm studies
  • Advanced Multi-phase Function – Supports up to ten individually programmable phases, offering full flexibility for complex experimental designs (includes the functionality of both the above options)
  • Comprehensive Module for Image Acquisition & Data Management – Provides a fully automated environment for experiment scheduling, data storage in SQL format, and advanced batch analysis

FluorCam10 is included with every new FluorCam system and is also available separately on USB, with or without a pre-installed PC.

Optional accessories

Thermoregulator TR 6000 with Thermoblock TB-48W
TR 6000 is an advanced temperature control module for the Closed FluorCam FC 800-C system. The TR 6000 enables precise thermal regulation of up to 48 samples in a 6 × 8 format, supporting temperature ranges from 15°C to 75°C with high accuracy (±0.1°C control, ±0.3°C uniformity at 30°C). More about Thermoregulator TR 6000.

Extension for Multi-Well Imaging
This optional accessory enables inverted imaging of microplates, allowing fluorescence measurements from the bottom of wells. The set includes four support legs and a specially designed shelf that ensures precise, fixed positioning of microtiter plates (MTPs) during imaging. Ideal for experiments requiring bottom-read configurations. More about Extension for Multi-Well Imaging.

Interchangeable Objective Lenses
The Closed FC 800-C comes standard with the SV-0614H lens (6 mm, F1.4), providing a balanced field of view and brightness for most applications. For enhanced imaging flexibility, users can choose from additional tested lenses: the SV-0814H (8 mm, F1.4) and SV-1214H (12 mm, F1.4). These interchangeable C-mount lenses allow adjustment of magnification and field of view based on sample size and experimental needs, while maintaining compatibility with the system’s high-resolution imaging and fluorescence analysis. More about Interchangeable Objective Lenses.

Set of Grids for Sample Holders
Secure sample holders for Petri dishes and well plates. The set includes six grid options for 90 mm, 100 mm, 120 mm, 140 mm dishes; four 60 mm dishes; and 96-well plates.

Additional Protective Glasses
Radiation safety glasses designed to protect against high-intensity LED exposure. Each pair includes side shields and protective filters. One pair is included with each FluorCam system.

Barcode Reader with Supporting Software
Integrated barcode reader with dedicated FluorCam software for fully automated barcode detection and tracking.

[h1]Documents[/h1] [list] [*][b] FluorCam Operation Manual (pdf)[/b] [*][b] FluorCam Quick Start Guide (pdf)[/b] [*][b] NDVI Operation Manual(pdf)[/b] [*][b] Driver Instalation manual (pdf)[/b] [/list] [h1]Software[/h1] [list] [*][b] FluorCam 7 (installer), OS: Win 7/10[/b] [*][b] Legacy driver for USB cameras, OS: Win 7 (32 bit)[/b] [/list] [h1]Promotional Materials[/h1] [list] [*][b] FluorCams leaflet (pdf)[/b] [/list] [h1]Tutorial video[/h1] [list] [*][b] FluorCam Tutorial video (mp4)[/b] [/list]

Lenses

All FluorCam FC 800-C and FC 800-O systems come standard with a high-quality SV-0614H fixed focal length C-mount lens from VS Technology, Japan. This 6 mm lens is optimized for 2/3" sensor formats and features a wide aperture (f/1.4) for enhanced sensitivity to weak fluorescence signals. Unlike zoom lenses, the fixed focal length design ensures consistent optical conditions across repeated measurements—an essential factor for achieving high reproducibility in fluorescence imaging. The lens includes manual focus adjustment secured by a locking screw, with the iris permanently set to f/1.4 for maximum light throughput:

For users requiring a different field of view, PSI also offers two alternative fixed lenses tested for compatibility: SV-0814H (8 mm, f/1.4) and SV-1214H (12 mm, f/1.4), both by VS Technology. To replace the lens, rotate it clockwise (right) to remove, and counterclockwise (left) to attach a new one (Video guide). Always ensure the camera is powered off and the lens area is clean to prevent dust or damage to the sensor.


Field of View Comparison:



Signal Intensity Comparison Using a Technical Standard:



Performance on a Real Sample:


Thermoregulator TR 6000 with Thermoblock TB-48W

Thermoregulator TR 6000 with Thermoblock TB-48W is an advanced temperature control module for the Closed FluorCam FC 800-C system. The TR 6000 enables precise thermal regulation of up to 48 samples in a 6 × 8 format, supporting temperature ranges from 15°C to 75°C.



The system includes a powerful Peltier-based heating/cooling unit and user-friendly software (Thermoregulator GUI) that operates in both manual and protocol modes. Designed for integration with FluorCam 10 software, it allows synchronization with fluorescence imaging protocols, ideal for temperature-sensitive photosynthesis studies.

Plastic inserts are available to expand the well volume from 400 µL to 850 µL. Fast ramp rates (up to 5°C/min) and automatic data logging ensure high-throughput and reproducible results.

Extension for Multi-well Imaging

The FC 800-C, when used with the Extension for Multi-well Imaging, can be rotated to enable imaging of microtiter plates (MTPs) ranging from 6-well to 96-well formats. In this configuration, the plates are analyzed through their transparent bottom:

The extension consists of a dedicated shelf with an MTP holder and four additional support legs to ensure stability during operation:


Pricing


FluorCams

Version Characteristics Price
Closed FluorCam FC 800-C/1010-S Standard configuration with 1.4 MPx camera, four fixed LED panels
(130 × 130 mm; two red-orange, two white), chlorophyll fluorescence filter, control unit, laptop with software, and user guide.
19,290 €
Closed GFPCam FC 800-C/1010-GFP GFP configuration with 1.4 MPx camera, four upgraded LED panels
(130 × 130 mm; two red-orange, two royal blue), GFP and chlorophyll fluorescence emission filters, motorized filter wheel, control unit, laptop with software, and user guide.
26,850 €
Closed FluorCam FC 800-C/1010-CUST Custom configuration with 1.4 MPx camera, four LED panels
(130 × 130 mm; selectable wavelengths), chlorophyll fluorescence filter (optional filter wheel with up to six additional emission filters), control unit, control PC with software, and user guide.
Please inquire

Built-in Accessory

Version Characteristics Price
7-Position Filter Wheel Motorized, software-controlled for multispectral imaging. 3,770 €
Additional Far-Red
Light Panel
Recommended for F0' determination. 2,149 €
Additional Ultraviolet
A Light Panel
For multicolor fluorescence. Requires filter wheel and TOMI-2 camera. 3,229 €
Additional Ultraviolet
B Light Panel
For UVB sample treatment Please inquire
Emission Filters Tailored for required fluorescence measurements 490 €/each
Fast Fluorescence Induction (OJIP) Module Captures fast OJIP kinetics through variable-delay light exposures. Includes electronic board and protocol. 7,455 €
Light upgrade Increased light intensities: actinic light intensity to 3000 µmol.m-2.s-1, Super pulse intensity up to 6 000 µmol.m-2.s-1 Please inquire
Multicolor Plant Module Measures emission spectra (according to Lichtenthaler & Buschmann). Includes UV LED panel, filter wheel, four filters, and software module. Compatible with FC 800-C/1010, FC 800-O/1010 and FC 800-O/2020 variants. 9,690 €
PAR Absorptivity
& NDVI Module
Measures PAR absorptivity using NDVI. Includes filter wheel, 130 × 130 mm LED panel (735 nm + 650 nm), and glass filter. Compatible with FC 800-C/1010, FC 800-O/1010 and FC 800-O/2020 variants. 5,920 €
QA-Reoxidation Module Enables rapid QA-reoxidation kinetics measurements (Closed FluorCam only). 11,880 €
Surcharge for Fast TOMI-3 camera Fast CMOS camera TOMI-3 for OJIP measurements instead of the standard high-resolution TOMI-2 camera: 6.60 µm × 6.60 µm pixel size, frame period 20 - 2000 µs Please inquire

Software

Version Characteristics Price
FluorCam 10 software (without a Laptop) Latest 64-bit control software for FluorCam devices, enhancing data analysis, visualization, and data export capabilities. Delivered on a USB flash drive. (Requirements: PC with Win10 or higher, a decent x64-based processor, 16 GB RAM, storage 1 TB, a Gigabit Ethernet network card.) 2,700 €
FluorCam 10 Software with a Pre-installed Laptop Latest 64-bit control software for FluorCam devices, enhancing data analysis, visualization, and data export capabilities. Delivered on a pre-installed laptop. 3,900 €
Advanced Multiple Function for FluorCam 10 Software This software extension allows automated triggering of a single measurement protocol. Ideal for standardized data collection, this feature simplifies experimental workflows by automating protocol initiation. 490 €
Advanced Circadian Function for FluorCam 10 Software This extension is specifically designed for circadian rhythm studies, enabling the automated triggering of two distinct measuring protocols—one for the daytime phase and another for the nighttime phase. This feature ensures precise, automated control over the two-phase experimental setup, making it ideal for accurately monitoring diurnal and nocturnal changes. 990 €
Advanced Multi-phase Function for FluorCam 10 Software Enhances research versatility by allowing the integration and automation of multiple experimental phases, each with its own unique protocol. This extension is perfect for complex studies requiring varied conditions and sequential protocol activation. 1,690 €
Comprehensive Module
for Automatic and Programmable
Image Acquisition
and Data Management *
This all-encompassing software package provides a highly flexible platform for scheduling, executing, and managing experiments. It includes automated data acquisition and sophisticated data analysis capabilities, making it ideal for high-throughput and long-term studies. 6,490 €

Accessory

Version Characteristics Price
Thermoregulator TR 6000 Precision temperature control system (constant or programmable heating/cooling). Includes control unit, 48-well thermal block, and GUI software (compatible with FluorCam10 only). 11,880 €
Objective Lens SV-0814H Interchangeable C-mount lenses SV-0814H (8 mm, F1.4) Please inquire
Objective Lens SV-1214H Interchangeable C-mount lens SV-1214H (12 mm, F1.4) Please inquire
Set of Grids
for Sample Holders
Includes six holders for Petri dishes (90–140 mm) and 96-well plates. 99 €
Extension for
Multi-well Imaging
Enables inverted imaging of microplates with ergonomic support. 65 €
PSI Calibration Plate Set of three fluorescent size calibration standards. Included with each device. Shipping charged if ordered separately
Barcode Reader
with Supporting Software
Fully integrated with FluorCam for automatic barcode scanning. 990 €
Additional Protective Glasses * Radiation safety glasses protecting against excessive LED radiation – equipped with side cover and protective filters. One pair of glasses is provided with the device free of charge. 25 €