title: Statistical connection of binomial photon counting and photon averaging in high dynamic range beam-scanning microscopy.
abstract: Data from photomultiplier tubes are typically analyzed using either counting or averaging techniques, which are most accurate in the dim and bright signal limits, respectively. A statistical means of adjoining these two techniques is presented by recovering the Poisson parameter from averaged data and relating it to the statistics of binomial counting from Kissick et al. [Anal. Chem. 82, 10129 (2010)]. The point at which binomial photon counting and averaging have equal signal to noise ratios is derived. Adjoining these two techniques generates signal to noise ratios at 87% to approaching 100% of theoretical maximum across the full dynamic range of the photomultiplier tube used. The technique is demonstrated in a second harmonic generation microscope.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA.
authors.forename: Ryan D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Muir
authors.forename: David J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Kissick
authors.forename: Garth J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Simpson
mesh_terms: D003198:Computer Simulation; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D015233:Models, Statistical; D010783:Photometry / Q000295:instrumentation*; D017785:Photons