Continuous sample rotation data collection for protein crystallography with the PILATUS detector

The PILATUS detector (pixel apparatus for the SLS) is a large all silicon quantum-limited area X-ray detector for protein crystallography. A three-module array with 1120×157 pixels covering an active area of 24.3×3.6 cm2 is in operation. Its main features are an excellent point-spread function, a very high dynamic range and a readout time of <7 ms. X-rays with energy above 6 keV can be detected in single photon counting mode. To demonstrate the potential of the detector, fine φ-sliced protein crystal data were collected in continuous sample rotation mode at beamline X06SA of the SLS.