The Cairn OptoSplit II emission image splitter is a simple device enabling a single camera to record images simultaneously at two different optical wavelengths, polarisation states or other differentiated states.
Traditionally, dual channel imaging is performed using an electronic filter changer or an additional camera and beamsplitter, neither of which is ideal for all applications. The switching speed of an electronic filter changer limits the temporal resolution, whereas a second camera adds cost and complexity. The OptoSplit uses a unique rotating mirror cradle, which gives adjustable spatial separation, to ensure excellent image registration and features a fully adjustable rectangular aperture to enable cropped sensor imaging modes and reduced scatter.
The OptoSplit uses our own proprietary lens design to support sensors up to 29.4mm diagonal. The instruments have a correspondingly larger aperture and improved off-axis correction to give enhanced performance with all sensors.
Device drivers are included in most commercial imaging packages to assist registration and to allow real-time and offline ratioing, or fluorescence overlays. Alternatively, the OptoSplit can be used with simple image capture software and the processing carried out manually offline, or using our own MicroManager and ImageJ drivers. The simple and accessible design makes the OptoSplit II an excellent platform for alternative applications, such as dual polarisation imaging.
Whilst optimised for coupling to any scientific microscope, the image splitters can also be used with camera lenses or any other system of lenses which produce an image plane of suitable size and f/number (please ask for details).
Single-Molecule FRET-Tracking of InlB-Activated MET Receptors in Living Cells — December 2025
SlimVar for rapid in vivo single-molecule tracking of chromatin regulators in plants. Nature Communications — September 2025
Protocol for single-molecule labeling and tracking of bacterial cell division proteins. STAR Protocols — January 2024
A framework to validate fluorescently labeled DNA-binding proteins for single-molecule experiments. Cell Reports Methods — October 2023
Single-Molecule Localization Microscopy Using Time-Lapse Imaging of Single-Antibody Labeling. Current Protocols — October 2023
Single-Molecule Fluorescence Microscopy in Sensory Cilia of Living Caenorhabditis elegans. Methods in Molecular Biology — October 2023
Actin-generated force applied during endocytosis measured by Sla2-based FRET tension sensors. Developmental Cell — September 2021
Molecular mechanisms underlying bile acid-stimulated glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion. British Journal of Pharmacology — February 2011
Retinal Oxygen Saturation in Patients with Systemic Hypoxemia. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science — August 2011
Cairns’s design ethos is based on compatibility across a wide range of manufacturers. In the rare case where we do not have a compatible part, we have a custom design team available to provide a solution.
We provide a comprehensive 12-month warranty on all our products.
We aim for a delivery time of 2-4 weeks. However, the specific delivery time will be confirmed at the point of order.
We offer full training and support across our entire product range.
Yes, we have full custom design capabilities and a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers available to provide a solution that meets your needs.
Our CellCams are supported in Micro-Manager.
