Custom Full Spectrum (UVIR) ICF Transmission Spectrum
Shane Elen
This is definitely an ongoing project and is subject to getting ICF from different model cameras. Some of the ICF spectra have been taken from my own supply and some from ICF contributed by others. If you have an unwanted, damaged or broken ICF (all models) that you would like to contribute to this project I would like to hear from you and would be happy to provide recognition for your contribution.
When venturing into the field of ultraviolet or infrared digital photography, a major consideration is whether to incur the additional expense of purchasing a modified DSLR for improved performance. Starting out in these techniques with an unmodified (off-the-shelf) DSLR is often a preliminary step towards obtaining a modified DSLR, therefore it is important to select the appropriate make and model.
The spectral bandwidth capability of an unmodified DSLR sensor is governed by both the sensor type and the transmission characteristics of the ICF (Internal Cut Filter). For consumer DSLR cameras it is often reported that the CCD sensor typically has a better UV response than the CMOS sensor and this is most likely due to the type of passivation (protective layer covering the circuitry) used in its construction. Since both sensor types respond well to IR it is only important to select a DSLR with a CCD sensor if the intended use is for UV.
The factory ICF imposes additional spectral constraints on the spectral bandwidth of the sensor and therefore typically defines the spectral bandwidth limitation of an unmodified DSLR. Conversely, the spectral bandwidth in a full spectrum (UVIR) modified DSLR camera is typically defined by the spectral bandwidth of the sensor. In an IR modified DSLR, the short wavelength limitation is defined by the custom ICF and the long wavelength limitation by the DSLR sensor.
Knowledge of the sensor type and spectral transmission characteristics of the ICF can be of use in the selection of unmodified DSLR cameras for ultraviolet, infrared or luminescence photography.
Custom Full Spectrum (UVIR) ICF Transmission Spectrum |
 Kodak DCS 760 ICF Transmission Spectrum |
 Nikon D70 ICF Transmission Spectrum (ICF dimensions 25.25 x 29.45 x 1.34mm) |
 Nikon D200 ICF Transmission Spectrum (ICF dimensions 25.25 x 29.50 x 2.15mm) |
 Nikon D100 ICF Transmission Spectrum (ICF dimensions 21.50 x 37.40 x 0.75mm) |
 Nikon D40X ICF Transmission Spectrum (ICF dimensions 25.25 x 29.50 x 2.15mm) |
 Sigma SD10 ICF Transmission Spectrum |
© Shane Elen 2006. Last updated Mar 30th, 2009.