Among the most important, most far-reaching applications of high speed cameras is PIV or Particle Image Velocimetry. Barely 25 years old, the practice is an expansion of early scientific interest in the measurement and qualification of matter in flux. Using reflective or otherwise distinct particles of comparable density to a medium, researchers illuminate the areas of interest with a flattened laser beam and record two consecutive images. Whereas in the past the multiple exposures were necessarily limited to individual frames, IDTs own CMOS sensors capture at intervals as fast as 1 μs, and thus are able to provide temporal distance between exposures and sharper resulting images for more accurate measurement.

Ultimately, the best camera for PIV is dependent on the application, and given the variety of applications, from product optimization to biological study to thermal interactions, the concern becomes the desired speed and space considerations. For research on extremely fast moving objects, the Y-Series is the best bet, with the Y4 providing the fastest speed at full megapixel (1016x1016) resolution of 5100 frames per second with its S3 option.

In tight quarters, the N-Series is superior, at one-sixth of the volume and one third of the weight. Although the smaller size results in a maximum speed of roughly half of the Y4, 3000 frames per second, in most circumstances the speed will be sufficient; and, as with all quality high speed cameras, the frame rate increases as the resolution decreases, thus allowing for increased speed should it become necessary.