English term (edited): binned / unbinned

Here is a quote I found that explains what "binning" is — I had trouble downloading the PDF version, so here is an extract from the relevant section:

SBIG CCD Cameras: Users Guide

See the section “What Is Binning?” for more information about binning. ... left-most image shows the unbinned data. The middle example is binned 2x2, ...

www.ruf.rice.edu/~ruco/manuals/CCDOps v5 Manual.pdf

What Is Binning?
Binning is a technical term for grouping pixels when imaging. Binning increases the sensitivity of the camera for short exposures by combining the output of multiple pixels (reducing resolution). It is useful for finding objects and where high resolution can be sacrificed for speed of image acquisition.There are three modes of binning that are typically used when imaging:1x1 - Also called unbinned or High Res mode. Every pixel in the CCD sensor is represented in the image. No pixel combining of any kind occurs in this mode.2x2 - Pixels are grouped in two by two squares, for a total of four CCD pixels making up one image pixel. This is also called Medium Res mode. The signal from all four pixels is combined into one “super pixel” which improves sensitivity. Resolution, however, is cutin half. This type of trade-off is fundamental to binning. When you bin at 2x2 or greater,you get more photons per pixel but lower resolution.3x3 - Pixels are grouped in three by three squares, for a total of nine CCD pixels makingup one image pixel. This is also called Low Res mode. This provides still more photons per pixel in the final image, but it also results in still lower resolution.In addition, there are some specialized binning modes used for spectroscopy and otherpurposes. See the CCDOps Help system for information about these specialized modes.


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Note added at 1454 days (2011-01-16 08:41:39 GMT) Post-grading
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Note: this would have been a reference entry, if that facility had existed at the time this question was originally asked.

I just wanted to add that I have just come across the term 'fusionner les pixels' explained as 'binning' in an official document from the INSERM (French national institute for health and medical research) — I assume they of all people know what they are talking about!