Theoretical Framework and Simulation Results for Implementing Weighted Multiple Sampling in Scientific CCDs

Abstract: The Digital Correlated Double Sampling (DCDS) is a technique based on multiple analog-to-digital conversions of every pixel when reading a CCD out. This technique allows to remove analog integrators, simplifying the readout electronics circuitry. In this work, a theoretical framework that computes the optimal weighted coefficients of the pixels samples, which minimize the readout noise measured at the CCD output is presented. By using a noise model for the CCD output amplifier where white and flicker noise are treated separately, the mathematical tool presented allows for the computation of the optimal samples coefficients in a deterministic fashion. By modifying the noise profile, our simulation results get in agreement and thus explain results that were in mutual disagreement up until now.