FASTCAM NOVA S Series
The new FASTCAM NOVA S series is available in four different models. The NOVA S6/S9/S12 and S16 offer 12-bit image recording rates up to 16,000fps at megapixel resolution, and shutter speeds to 0.2us. Recording rates to 1,100,000fps are available at reduced resolutions.
FASTCAM NOVA
MODELS S6 / S9 / S12 / S16

The FASTCAM NOVA brings together unique CMOS image sensor technologies and extensive high-speed digital imaging expertise to provide a camera with the flexibility to be used in a wide variety of applications. Available in four different models, the FASTCAM NOVA offers 12-bit image recording rates up to 16,000 frames per second (fps) at megapixel image resolution, and shutter speeds to 0.2µs. Recording rates to 1,100,000fps are available at reduced image resolution. All of this available from a camera that is rugged, compact, lightweight and provides the best light sensitivity in its class.
Coming Soon
Performance Charts
1-Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor:
1024 x 1024 pixels at 16,000fps (Model S16)
1024 x 1024 pixels at 12,800fps (Model S12)
1024 x 1024 pixels at 9,000fps (Model S9)
1024 x 1024 pixels at 6,400fps (Model S6)
Maximum Frame Rate:
1,100,000fps (Nova S16 type 1100K)
1,000,000fps (Nova S12 type 1000K)
900,000fps (Nova S9 type 900K)
800,000fps (Nova S6 type 800K)
500,000fps (Nova S16 / S12 / S9 / S6 type 500K)
200,000fps (Nova S16 / S12 / S9 / S6 type 200KS)
Class Leading Light Sensitivity:
ISO 64,000 monochrome
ISO 16,000 color
Global Electronic Shutter:
1ms to 0.2µs independent of frame
rate (sub-microsecond shutter available subject
to export control)
Dynamic Range (ADC):
12-bit monochrome
36-bit color
Compact and Lightweight:
120mm (H) x 120mm (W) x 217.2mm (D)
4.72” (H) x 4.72” (W) x 8.55” (D)
Weight: 3.3kg (7.2 lbs.)
Internal Recording Memory:
8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB
Optional FASTDrive Removable High Capacity Data Storage:
4TB High-speed Solid State Drive
Fast 10-Gigabit Ethernet Interface:
Provides camera control and high-speed image download to standard PC
Fan Stop Function:
Remotely switch off cooling fans to eliminate
vibration when recording at high magnifications
Optional Removable Data Storage:
The FASTCAM NOVA can be supplied with the Photron FASTDrive high capacity removable SSD. The ultra-high data rate FASTDrive allows a 64GB camera recording to be transferred to a removable SSD drive in approximately 1 minute. Recorded data can then be directly accessed while coupled to the camera or the drive may be removed and inserted into the portable FASTDock station connected to any Windows PC.
High-Speed 10-Gigabit Ethernet Interface:
The FASTCAM NOVA S20 camera system is equipped with a high-speed Gigabit Ethernet Interface to provide reliable camera control and fast download of image data.
Dedicated I/O:
A dedicated BNC connection for a contact closure hardware trigger input is provided. In addition, two programmable inputs and two programmable output channels provide direct connection for common tasks such as synchronization of multiple cameras and operation in conjunction with Data Acquisition (DAQ) hardware.
Ruggedized Mechanical Calibration Shutter:
The ruggedized mechanical shutter fitted as standard to the FASTCAM NOVA camera allows sensor black balance calibration to be carried out remotely from the system control software.
Optional C-Mount and Canon EF Lens Mounts:
In addition to the standard Nikon G type lens adapter, all FASTCAM Nova models support an optional C-mount lens adapter and an optional Canon EF lens adapter which, through Photron FASTCAM Viewer (PFV), not only enables remote operation of lens focus and aperture but also adds Auto-Focus capability.
