Characteristics of large Ford and Reticon CCDs

Results of charge transfer efficiency and dark current tests for large Reticon and Ford CCDs are given, as well as a description of some experiments to improve the UV quantum efficiency, using a biased flash-gate for thinned CCDs and phosphor overlay for front-illuminated CCDs. The results indicate that large affordable CCDs suitable for astronomical work are now in reach, with excellent charge-handling characteristics, low dark current and readout noise and high quantum efficiency over the 300 nm to 1000 nm wavelength range. With buttable CCDs, whose production is planned for the future, even larger arrays of CCDs will be possible.