Comparison of the detectors

Here is a summary of the characteristics of the detectors used with PISCO.

1. The CP40 has a good quantum efficiency but a non-uniform sensitivity and a strong geometric distortion. The ``photon-counting hole'' affects the photometry and limits the photon flux to around 10000 ph/sec (limiting magnitude at the TBL: V 11-12).
2. The Ranicon has a very low geometric distortion, but a poor quantum efficiency, and a limitation of the usable photon flux to around 8000 ph/sec (V ).
3. The PAPA exhibits a flat-field pattern, and geometric distortion. The photon flux is limited to around 100,000 ph/sec, and V .
4. The ICCD of Nice Univ. has a lower gain than the previous detectors, no geometric distortion, virtually no limitation to the photon flux for normal astrophysical use, and V .

Hence, each detector has its qualities and defects. It should be chosen according to the observing program.