ZWO ASI183MC USB3.0 Color Astronomy Camera
A High Resolution Color Astronomy Camera from ZWO!
This 20 megapixel planetary camera from ZWO is packed with qualities! Resolve beautiful details on the planets, our Moon, and even small deep space objects. Through its high sensitivity, careful circuitry, and great versatility, this ZWO ASI183MC delivers incredible astrophotography performance!
Noting its large resolution, this 5496x3672 sensor offers remarkable detail. Take stunning images with the peak QE value of 84%, low readout noise of 1.6e, and 12bit ADC. Providing great depth to the frames taken is the full well capacity of 15Ke and small pixel size. Transfer your data securely and efficiently with the onboard USB3.0, or utilize the high sensitivity of this ASI183MC as a capable guide camera! With these aspects, the ASI183MC Color Astronomy camera from ZWO is sure to impress!
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 IMX183CQJ-J CMOS Sensor
The sensor the ZWO ASI183MC utilizes is the 20.18-megapixel Sony IMX183CQJ-J. This large 5496x3672 resolution sensor has a small pixel size of 2.4um delivering excellent performance in its resolution of detail. Aiding in contrast and allowing for a wide range of signal collection is the full well capacity of 15Ke and 12bit ADC. This sensitive camera has a low readout noise of 1.6e in combination with an exceptional peak QE value of 84%, resulting in a high signal to noise ratio.
Electronic Highlights
In typical CMOS sensors, the metal wiring for the sensor is on top of the pixel wells, blocking some of the light from entering the sensor. In order to increase the collection of photons, this Sony IMX183CQJ-J has been designed with innovative crafstmanship. The ASI183MC has a back illuminated sensor design where the wiring is behind the pixels for maximum light collection. This increase in light gathering ability allows for an improvement in signal to noise ratio for higher quality photos.
USB 3.0 and ST4 Guide Port
Two types of connection ports are available on the ASI183MC for great versatility. While engaging in high speed imaging, a reliable mode of data transportation is necessary in order to reduce buffer time and preserve the frames captured. The large 5Gb bandwidth USB3.0 port allows the ASI183MC to run at 19 fps (12bit, normal mode) or 19 fps (10bit, high speed mode) at full resolution. Wanting to utilize this highly sensitive camera for guiding? Connect your camera to your telescope mount through the ST4 port, or directly to your computer with the USB3.0 port!
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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