ZWO ASI662MC USB3.0 Color Astronomy Camera
The ASI662MC Color Astronomy Camera from ZWO!
This ASI662MC color planetary camera produces beautiful images of our Moon, the Sun, and the planets within our solar system. Noting its low readout noise, large full well capacity, and exceptional QE value, the frames captured are sure to impress! Sony’s STARVIS 2 technology paired with the innovative craftsmanship from ZWO results in a camera optimal for planetary, lunar, and solar astrophotography!
The highly sensitive 1920x1080 Sony IMX662 sensor adopts a back illuminated design for maximum photon collection and frames filled with detail. Contributing to the impressive signal to noise ratio is the remarkable quantum efficiency of 91% and ultra-low read noise of 0.8e. For the highest image quality, this camera has been designed to eliminate amp glow all together! A fast 107.6FPS in full 2.07MP resolution is possible with the included USB3.0 port and 256MB DDR3 memory cache. These incredible aspects make the ASI662MC a great addition to any astrophotographer’s set up!
A High Performance, Professional Camera for Astrophotography
Let's Dig into the Data!
What sets one astrophotography camera apart from another? How is performance measured? Camera and sensor manufacturers provide certain interconnected specifications that give insight into the performance of a camera. These measurements include quantum efficiency, read noise, full well depth, gain, dark current, and dynamic range. While the graphs provided by the manufacturer may be confusing or intimidating, don't fret! Our team has put together a breakdown of these complicated topics to help you make sense of them. Take a look at the article here: Understanding ZWO Camera Charts and Graphs, and feel more confident making the right choice for your astrophotography needs!
Sony IMX662 CMOS Sensor
Utilizing the Sony IMX662 sensor, Sony’s STARVIS 2 development provides the ASI662MC with a higher sensitivity to near infrared (NIR) light as well as a sizable full well capacity of 38.2Ke. This back illuminated sensor gathers more light than its front illuminated counterparts, allowing for the high peak 91% QE value. The 1/2.8” sensor features a small 2.9um pixel size, and through its 12bit ADC and low readout noise of 0.8, capture images of our solar system neighbors filled with detail!
Electronic Highlights
High speed imaging, such as that during planetary photography, is made possible with the included 256MB memory cache. This added internal memory safely handles the transfer of large amounts of data and greatly reduces buffer time for a smoother imaging experience. As opposed to typical CMOS cameras, the ASI662MC features anti-amp glow circuitry, making post processing easier and maximizing image quality!
USB 3.0 and ST4 Guide Port
Further minimizing the buffer time is the included USB3.0 port. This port has a 5GB bandwidth, letting the ASI662MC run at 107.6FPS. Offering great versatility is a second mode of connection, the ST4 port. This port allows you to take advantage of the ASI662MC’s low light capabilities for guiding! Connect your camera directly to your mount to assist it in its tracking performance.
Astronomy Hub: Your one-stop-shop for Astrophotography Knowledge!
Our Gear Experts have compiled a wealth of information to help expand your astrophotography knowledge! Below you’ll find links to articles, videos and "how-to" guides. Just one more reason that our Astronomy Hub is a one-stop-shop for all your astronomy and astrophotography needs!
| Choosing the Best Planetary Camera |
| Autoguiding |
| Imaging the Planets |
| ZWO ASIAir Ultimate Guide |
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