Welcome to The Binocular and Telescope Shop
Main menu
-
Telescopes
- Telescopes
-
Celestron Telescope
-
Smart Telescopes
-
Saxon Telescopes
-
Skywatcher Telescopes
-
TeleVue Telescopes
-
Planewave Telescopes
-
Vixen Telescopes
-
TEC Telescopes
-
BORG Telescopes
-
Founder Optics
-
Solar Astronomy
-
Binoculars
- Binoculars
-
Types of Binoculars
-
Vortex Binoculars
-
Nikon Binoculars
-
Swarovski Binoculars
-
Leica Binoculars
-
ZEISS Binoculars
-
Fujinon Binoculars
-
Gerber Binoculars
-
Vixen Binoculars
-
Pentax Binoculars
-
Olympus Binoculars
-
Kite Optics
-
Kowa Binoculars
-
GPO Binoculars
-
Zerotech Binoculars
-
Binocular Accessories
-
Spotting Scopes
- Spotting Scopes
-
ZEISS Spotting Scopes
-
Swarovski Spotting Scopes
-
Leica Spotting Scopes
-
Nikon Spotting Scopes
-
Vortex Spotting Scopes
-
Kowa Spotting Scopes
-
Pentax Spotting Scopes
-
Celestron Spotting Scopes
-
Spotting Scope Accessories
-
Microscopes
- Microscopes
-
Beaver Labs Microscopes
-
Celestron Microscopes
-
Digital Microscopes
-
Microscopes for Children
-
Biological Microscopes
-
Mounts & Tripods
- Mounts & Tripods
-
ZWO Mounts
-
Celestron EQ Mounts
-
iOptron Mounts
-
Vixen Mounts
-
Paramount EQ Mount
-
Saxon Mounts
-
PlaneWave Mounts
-
Skywatcher EQ Mounts
-
Losmandy EQ Mounts
-
Camera Tripods
-
Astro Star Tracker Mounts
-
Mount Accessories
-
Imaging
- Imaging
-
ZWO Cameras
-
QHY Cameras
-
Starlight Xpress
-
FLI Cameras
-
Atik Cameras
-
Pegasus Astro
-
Camera Lenses
-
SBIG Cameras
-
Focusing
-
Imaging Accessories
-
Filters (Imaging)
-
Autoguiding
-
Accessories
- Accessories
-
Eyepieces, Diagonals and Barlows
-
Adapters & Extensions
-
Books & Sky Guides
-
Bags, Cases & Covers
-
Cleaning and Maintanence
-
Collimation
-
Dew Control
-
Dovetail Bars & Plates
-
Filters (Visual)
-
Finderscopes
-
Tube Rings
-
Tele Vue Eyepieces
-
Bintel Eyepieces
-
Celestron Eyepieces
-
Vixen Eyepieces
-
Barlows & Powermates
-
Saxon Eyepieces
-
Eyepiece Kits
-
Diagonals
-
Tools
Your cart
Choose your Location
-
Bintel Glebe
Usually ready for pickup in 24 hours
Bintel 84 Wentworth park road, Glebe, 2073, NSW
Phone:(02) 9518 7255
Hours:
Monday9:30 am–5:30 pm
Tuesday9:30 am–5:30 pm
Wednesday9:30 am–5:30 pm
Thursday9:30 am–5:30 pm
Friday9:30 am–5:30 pm
Saturday9:30 am–4 pm
SundayClosed
Products
2027 products
2027 products
Sort by:
- Featured
- Most relevant
- Best selling
- Alphabetically, A-Z
- Alphabetically, Z-A
- Price, low to high
- Price, high to low
- Date, old to new
- Date, new to old
$29.99
Learn how to understand the skies with this comprehensive pocket guide to cloudspotting.
Clouds have been the object of fascination throughout history, their fleeting magnificence and endless variability providing food for thought for scientists and daydreamers alike.
Clouds may have many individual shapes, but there are a few basic forms. In this definitive guide to the clouds and the skies, Richard Hamblyn introduces you to all the different cloud species. The Pocket Cloud Book will enable you to identify individual clouds, skies, and phenomena. You will also be able to track their likely changes over time and predict the implications they have for the weather you may experience.
This brand-new pocket-size edition includes the 12 new cloud types only recently officially recognised by the World Meteorological Organization. Many of these previously only had informal names, but their new Latin classification brings them into the fold of officially adopted global meteorological terms. It also includes a new foreword from the Met Office's Chief Meteorologist and an updated section on climate change and the role that clouds might play in shaping future conditions on Earth.
Produced in association with the Met Office - the world's premier weather forecasting bureau - all things to do with the origin and development of a cloud are here. Whether you are looking at a giant cumulonimbus or a tiny shred of stratus factus, an everyday occurrence or a fleeting rarity, your cloudspotting will be expertly informed and much more satisfying with this handy reference guide. This book will enable you to not only identify individual clouds and skies as they might appear at any given moment, but also to track their likely changes over time, and thus predict weather patterns.
Illustrated with stunning images from around the globe, this pocket edition is the perfect size to take with you on walks and have it handy in the garden so that you can enjoy sky-gazing every day. This is the only guide to cloud classification that you will ever need, in handy and practical pocket-friendly size.
AUTHOR:
Dr Richard Hamblyn is the author of The Invention of Clouds (2002),which won the LA Times Book Prize and was shortlisted for the Samuel Johnson Prize. He is also the author of The Cloud Book (2008), Extraordinary Clouds (2009) and Extraordinary Weather (2012). He is currently Writer in Residence at the Environment Institute, University College London.
ISBN: 9781446310113
Author: HAMBLYN, RICHARD
Format: Hardcover
Publication date: 01/11/2023
Pages: 144
Dimension: 140mm X 106mm
Imprint: David and Charles
$39.00
Power cord for SDCC
$210.00
Our sealed and certified switching power supply unit is the perfect match for our Pegasus Astro Products. It can provide 12V and up to 10Amps. (120W of total power). Low ripple and noise ensures that you will provide the required and correct “electric juice” to your precious equipment. Comes together with a power cord (1.5m) for your country type.
Protections
- Over current/ Short protection: The power supply will self-protect any output to ground & auto recovery when abnormal circuit faults remove. An output short circuit is defined as any output impedance less than 0.1 ohms.
- Over Voltage: The power supply will be auto recovered when faults remove
- Input protection: F1:6.3A 250V Fuse The power supply shall be protected against power line surges and any abnormal condition
- No Load protection The power supply is provided with no load operation to prevent the power supply and system from damage.
- Protection class I, (ITU-T K.21 Surge 6KV on request)
Our high power, sealed and certified switching power supply unit is the perfect match for the Ultimate Powerbox v2, v3 and for high power demands! It can provide 12V and up to 20Amps. (240W of total power). Low ripple and noise ensures that you will provide the required and correct “electric juice” to your precious equipment.
Technical Specification
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage: | 12.5V |
| Loading: | 0-10 Amps |
| Max. Power : | 120 Watt |
| Input Voltage Range: | 90-264V |
| Frequency: | (47-63)Hz |
| Connector Size: | 5.5 * 2.1mm or 5.5 * 2.5mm or XT60 |
| Cord Length: | 150cm / 5 feet |
| Regulated Output With Low Ripple Noise | |
| Sealed / Protected Enclosure | humidity / dust cannot enter |
| Safety Agency Requirements and EMI/EMS Certified | |
| Efficiency level (ErP) | VI |
| CE and FCC certificate acquired | |
| Dimensions: | 169 x 61 x 39 |
$80.00
Powertech 12VDC 7.5A Adapter
| Type of Power Supply | Desktop |
| Output Lead Length | 1.5m |
| Output Connection | Female cigarette socket |
| AC current rating | 7.5A |
| AC Voltage rating | 240V |
| DC Voltage | 12V |
| Rated for AU Mains | |
| Mains Lead Length | 1.5m |
| Cable Length | 1.5m |
| Length | 157mm |
| Width | 90mm |
| Height | 57mm |
$475.00
The 12v ports are 2.5mm. We offer 2 x 2.5mm - 2.1 mm converters with this unit. Please contact the store if you need them.
With this advanced power station, you can keep your devices powered and charged when you don’t have access to mains power. This makes it ideal to take camping, to your picnic, on a boat, or to use at home in the event of a power blackout. A built-in 300W pure sine wave inverter enables you to power 240V devices like laptops, small power tools, and other mains powered devices. The cigarette lighter socket and two DC sockets provide 12VDC to power a 12V fridge/freezer, fan, CB radio, air compressor, 12V lights, etc. Charge your smartphone, tablet and other USB devices simultaneously via the four USB ports, which include 2 x USB-A, USB-A with Quick Charge™ 3.0, and Type-C with 55W Power Delivery for a faster charge. A wireless Qi charger built into the top of the power station provides up to 10W fast charge to compatible devices. An ultra bright 1W LED light means you won’t be left in the dark, large colour LCD screen shows you the power status at a glance, and a fold-out carry handle makes it easy to carry. A mains charger is included to charge the high-capacity Li-ion batteries. Al-ternatively, a DC input with an integrated high-performance MPPT charge controller enables you to charge the power station with a solar panel (not included).
High Capacity Li-ion Battery
2x 12V, 2x USB- A, 1x QC3.0, 1x 10W Wireless Charger and 1x USB-C Outputs
Charge multiple devices at once
Convenient wireless charger on top for mobile devices
Bright LED Light
Bright LCD Screen
Specifications
Battery Type
MB3774: 14.8V/20.4Ah 300Wh Li-ion Batteries
Charging
18V-21V Solar panel (not included)
12v Cigarette socket (not included)
19V 4A Adapter
Outputs
2 x DC12V (7A Max) (2.5mm)
2 x USB-A (2A Max)
1 x QC3.0 (2A Max)
1 x USB-C (55W)
1 x Wireless Qi charger (10W)
1 x Pure Sinewave Inverter (500W continuous, 1000W peak)
Charger Controller: MPPT 4A
LED: 1W
Dimensions: 225(W) x 170(H) x 150(W)mm
Weight: MB3774: 4kg
Includes Edison Screw 5w 4000K LED light & 2.9m cable w/switch, 1.5m Cigarette-socket charging cord, and 19v 4A mains power charger w/1.2m IEC C7 cable.
$349.00
PowerTech Lithium Power Tank v2
This is a fantastic new product. Firstly, it is a multipurpose power bank that can be charged from 240V mains or a solar panel via its built in MPPT charger. In other words, it can provide a campsite power completely independent from AC power charging, but provides AC and DC power itself!
This is what it does:
- 155Wh,14Ah/11.1V (Equivalent 42000mAh, 3.7V)
- 100W 240V Inverter (modified sine wave)
- Provides 12VDC to 3 x 5.5mm separate points. 9~12V at up to 15A.
- 2 x USB charging ports (Total 3.5A Max)
- 1 x USB charging port 5~9v/2A Qualcomm Quickcharge 3.0
- 1 x USB-c charging port 5~9v/2A Qualcomm Quickcharge 3.0
- It has a bright LED camping light built-in
- LED Display
This is how it does it:
- It has a high quality lithium Ion battery bank inside (155W/hr)
- It has a 240V AC adapter/charger, 15V, 2A
- Multiple USB Charging ports
Supplied
- 1 x Power Tank v2
- 1 x Car Charger
- 1 x Cigarette Lighter Adapter
- 1 x 15v/2A Power Adapter
- 1 x User Manual
$49.00
Capture high-resolution photos and Full HD to 4K video with the ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-I V30 Memory Card. Built for speed and reliability, this card features UHS-I interface and V30 video speed class, delivering fast read/write performance ideal for content creators, photographers, and videographers. Durable and dependable, it's ready for demanding shoots in any environment.
$2,099.00
Pocket-sized. Sees a kilometre in darkness.
At 300 g and 144 mm long, the Alaris XQ30 is the thermal monocular that’s always in your pocket – and always ready. Detect animals at 1,050 m through total darkness, fog, and dense scrub without carrying extra kit.
Pocket thermal. The one you actually carry, because you hardly know it’s there.
Detect what your eyes cannot – in any conditions.
The 384×288 uncooled sensor with 17 μm pixel pitch and system NETD below 20 mK picks out warm animals against cold backgrounds in dense bush, open paddock, fog, and smoke. Nine selectable colour palettes – including White Hot, Black Hot, and Red Hot – let you tune the display to conditions.
System NETD in millikelvin. Detects the faintest heat signatures, even in low-contrast environments where conventional night vision fails.
Wide scan to close detail. 2–8×.
The F30/1.2 objective and 13.3° field of view let you sweep paddock edges at 2× and zoom to 8× to confirm a species in seconds. Smooth digital zoom with no pause or button hunting.
Frost-resistant. Vivid at any temperature.
The frost-resistant AMOLED display at 640×400 pixels stays sharp and vivid from midsummer heat to winter pre-dawn cold. What the sensor captures, the screen renders faithfully.
Stream live to your phone.
Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 / 5 GHz) connects to the Pulsar Wild Vision app for live streaming to a smartphone, remote control, and over-the-air firmware updates – all without cables.
16 GB onboard storage
Capture photos in JPG and video in MP4 directly to 16 GB of internal memory. Charge via USB-C while recording in the field.
IPX7 waterproof, magnesium alloy body
Rated IPX7 for full waterproofing. The rugged magnesium alloy housing resists drops and dissipates heat, staying reliable from −20°C to +40°C.
Always with you. On-target the moment it leaves your pocket.
At 144×41×69 mm and just 0.3 kg with battery installed, the Alaris XQ30 disappears into a jacket pocket. The symmetrical form and intuitively placed buttons mean you are scanning the moment you raise it, whether that’s at dawn, dusk, or 2 am in the field.
Find warm bodies. Even in total darkness.
The 13.3° field of view sweeps tree lines, paddock edges, and wetland margins fast. Animals hidden in darkness, dense scrub, or heavy morning fog appear immediately as bright heat signatures – even before your eyes have adjusted to the dark.
Run all night without stopping. Swap in seconds if you do.
The removable APS 3 lithium-ion battery (3,200 mAh) delivers 7.5 hours of continuous use at 22°C. When it runs low, swap in a spare in seconds, no tools required. USB-C charging means one cable for everything you carry.
Night vision stops here. Thermal doesn’t.
Rain, fog, smoke, and total darkness defeat conventional night vision – not thermal. The 50 Hz frame rate delivers smooth, real-time video with every warm body rendered clearly, whatever conditions the Australian night throws at you.
Compact. Capable. Ready for the field. Nothing is there for show.
384×288 uncooled thermal sensor with 17 μm pixel pitch and system NETD below 20 mK
1,050 m detection range for spotting large animals across open ground
50 Hz frame rate for smooth, real-time thermal video at any zoom level
IPX7 waterproof rating and rugged magnesium alloy housing for Australian conditions
7.5 hours of battery life with quick-swap APS 3 system and USB-C charging
Nine colour palettes for optimised contrast in any lighting or environmental condition
Wi-Fi and Wild Vision app support for live streaming and remote access from a smartphone
16 GB internal storage for JPG photos and MP4 video direct to device
Three sensitivity amplification levels with advanced noise filtration for cleaner images
Pocket-sized form: 144×41×69 mm, 0.3 kg, with 1/4″ tripod socket
Pulsar Alaris XQ30
Available from Bintel, Australia’s trusted telescope and optics specialist since 1958. Expert advice from working naturalists and astronomers, ships from Sydney.
The Pulsar Alaris XQ30 thermal monocular. Backed by Bintel.
$6,599.00
See what others cannot. At distances that leave wildlife undisturbed.
The Lumion XL50 brings a 1024×768 HD thermal sensor, F/1.0 germanium lens and 2,300 m detection range to serious birdwatchers, wildlife researchers and conservation professionals. Identify species in total darkness, through foliage, across open water – without ever getting close enough to influence behaviour.
Authorised Australian distribution. Full local warranty support from Bintel, Sydney.
The detail to identify. The range to stay back. The Lumion XL50 is the thermal monocular serious wildlife observers have been waiting for.
The bird in the hedgerow. Clearly resolved.
Image Boost applies advanced algorithmic processing to the raw sensor output, pulling fine detail from scenes where standard thermals deliver flat, ambiguous blobs. A wader at the water’s edge, a raptor perched in dense canopy, a mammal at the treeline – each becomes sharply defined.
Sensor sensitivity, brightness and contrast are all adjustable on the fly, so you tune the image to the species and the scene rather than accepting a generic preset.
Every detail considered, for observers who never switch off.
The XL50 is built for marathon sessions – from predawn roost counts to late-night mammal surveys. Ergonomics, weather resistance and intuitive controls combine so that the tool never becomes the obstacle.
Lock on before it moves
Zoom and focus rings follow the same layout as a professional camera lens. The moment you lift the XL50, the controls are where you expect them – so you frame, focus and confirm identity before a fast-moving subject disappears.
Confident in your grip, whatever the conditions
Wear-resistant rubber armour wraps the chassis for a secure hold in rain, mud or cold. It absorbs knocks, repels dust and moisture, and wipes clean at the end of a long session in the field.
Rated for the conditions you actually work in
IPX7 waterproofing and an operating range of −25 to +40°C cover everything from an alpine winter survey to a tropical coastal count. The chassis is built to perform, not to be babied.
Set it up the way you work
A symmetrical layout, adaptable hand straps and programmable buttons suit left and right-handed observers, and a personal user mode stores the settings you reach for most.
Grab it and go – wherever the survey takes you
The included case is built to work, not just store. Modular straps integrate with your backpack or field harness for a genuine 3-point carry, so the XL50 is always within reach and never in the way.
Sharp from the first light, even in a frost
The frost-resistant AMOLED HD display delivers a crisp, true-to-sensor image regardless of temperature. On cold mornings when conventional optics fog and digital screens dim, the XL50 shows you everything.
All night. With a spare in your pocket if you need it.
The APS 3 Li-ion pack delivers around 7 hours at +22°C. When a survey runs long, swap in a fresh pack in seconds – no cables, no waiting, no missed sightings.
Recharge over USB Type-C with Power Delivery support for a faster top-up, or drop the removed pack onto any Qi wireless pad when you are back at base.
2,300 m of reach. Every pixel working for you.
A 14° field of view sweeps habitat fast. An F/1.0 lens draws in thermal detail at the far edge of detection range. The result is an instrument that keeps up with wildlife – and with observers who know what they are looking for.
Everything you need in the field. Nothing you have to add.
Detail at the limits of detection
An F/1.0 objective gathers maximum thermal energy, so fine detail holds up in cool ambient conditions and at the outer edge of the 2,300 m detection range – where lesser lenses give you noise.
Document what you see, without slowing down
Record video and stills directly to 64 GB of built-in memory as .mp4 and .jpg files. No SD card to lose in the dark, no phone to pair before you can capture.
Share the sighting in real time
Dual-band 2.4 / 5 GHz Wi-Fi pairs with the Wild Vision app for live streaming to a phone or tablet, instant sharing with a team, or full remote control when the XL50 is deployed on a mount.
Colour palettes
Choose from nine thermal colour palettes to match the scene, the species and your own preference.
Everything that matters. In a single instrument.
HD 1024×768 thermal sensor with sub-20 mK system NETD
2,300 m detection range for confident long-range observation
Wide 14° field of view for fast target acquisition
2.5× to 20× magnification with smooth 8× digital zoom
Fast F/1.0 aperture for better detail in low-contrast scenes
Pulsar Image Boost for sharper detail and contrast
Frost-resistant AMOLED HD display, sharp in the cold
Built-in 64 GB video recorder with .mp4 and .jpg output
Dual-band 2.4 / 5 GHz Wi-Fi with the Wild Vision app
Nine selectable colour palettes for every scene and species
IPX7 fully waterproof construction
Wide operating range from −25 to +40°C
Replaceable Li-ion battery pack with up to 8 hours of use
USB Type-C with Power Delivery and wireless charging
Symmetrical layout and straps for left or right-handed use
Ergonomic 3-point carrying system with modular straps
The complete Lumion XL50.
The premium Pulsar, backed by Bintel.
The Lumion XL50 is supplied through Pulsar’s authorised Australian distribution. Buy from Bintel and you get an expertly set-up unit, full Australian warranty support, and advice from the same optics specialists who outfit researchers, conservation professionals and serious birdwatchers across the country.
$3,999.00
Detect. Range. Identify. All from one device.
The Orni XG35 integrates 1,800 m thermal detection, a 1,500 m laser rangefinder, and electronic image stabilisation into a single monocular that runs for 12 hours. Built for birdwatchers and wildlife observers who push deep into the field.
Twelve hours of thermal. Stabilised views, integrated ranging, and the battery to use them all night.
Faint signatures. Long distances. Sharp results.
The 640×480 uncooled European sensor with 12 μm pixel pitch and system NETD below 20 mK resolves subtle heat differences at 1,800 m – through rain, fog, and dense scrub. Nine colour palettes let you tune contrast for the conditions at hand.
Kilometres of detection range in total darkness. No ambient light needed, no torch, no compromise to your night vision.
Range to 1,500 m, ±1 m
The Class 1 eye-safe laser rangefinder gives precise distance readouts up to 1,500 m in complete darkness. Switch between metres and yards on the fly.
Tripod-free clarity at 20×.
Electronic image stabilisation corrects hand shake across the full 2.5–20× zoom range. Hold a steady image on a perched raptor or a mammal at 1,500 m without reaching for a tripod.
Crisp 1024×768. Auto-brightness.
The frost-resistant AMOLED HD display at 1024×768 adjusts brightness automatically – readable at midnight, usable at dawn. What the sensor resolves, the display renders faithfully.
12 hours, quick-swap APS 5
A removable APS 5 (4,900 mAh) plus a 3,200 mAh built-in battery together deliver 12 hours. Swap the external pack in seconds without interrupting a session. Universal USB-C charging works with any power bank.
Ambidextrous, one-handed operation
Ergonomic grip works equally in left or right hand. Six conveniently placed buttons, haptic feedback for glove use, and a belt clip plus hand strap included. Optimised for long observation sessions in the field.
Identify species at range. Species-level detail without disturbing behaviour.
The 12.5° field of view sweeps treetops, paddock edges, and wetland margins efficiently. Zoom to 20× and the integrated rangefinder tells you exactly how far away that subject is. Built for the Australian birdwatcher who goes out before dawn and stays out after dark.
See through the dark. Find what hides.
The Orni XG35 resolves heat signatures at distances where conventional optics go blind – nocturnal animals, dense vegetation, fog, and rain are no longer obstacles. At 1,800 m, you are the apex observer.
12 hours. No recharge required mid-session.
The dual battery system pairs a quick-swap external APS 5 pack (4,900 mAh) with a 3,200 mAh built-in cell. When the external pack depletes, the device keeps running on the internal reserve while you swap. USB-C Power Delivery supports 5 V and 9 V fast charging.
IP67. Magnesium alloy. Ready for anything.
Full IP67 dust and waterproof protection paired with a magnesium alloy chassis handles the Australian bush, wet scrub, and desert heat alike – operating from −25°C to +40°C. It is built for observation, not for the shelf.
Range, detect, stabilise, record. All night, every night.
640×480 European uncooled thermal sensor, 12 μm pixel pitch, system NETD below 20 mK
1,800 m detection range for spotting wildlife and birds at extended range
Built-in Class 1 laser rangefinder with 1,500 m range and ±1 m accuracy in darkness
Electronic image stabilisation for steady 2.5–20× zoom views without a tripod
12-hour dual battery life with quick-swap APS 5 and USB-C Power Delivery charging
IP67 fully dustproof and waterproof to 1 m for 30 minutes
AMOLED HD 1024×768 display with automatic brightness and 64 GB built-in recording
Wi-Fi with Pulsar Wild Vision app for live streaming and remote control
Ambidextrous one-handed design with haptic feedback and picture-in-picture mode
Magnesium alloy housing operating from −25°C to +40°C with 1/4″ tripod socket
Pulsar Orni XG35
Available from Bintel, Australia’s trusted telescope and optics specialist since 1958. Expert advice from working naturalists and astronomers, ships from Sydney.
The Pulsar Orni XG35 thermal monocular. Backed by Bintel.
$8,399.00
Thermal binoculars. HD clarity, 2,300 m range.
The Ventex XT50 delivers Europe’s highest-resolution thermal binocular experience – a 1280×1024 sensor, 17.5° wide field of view, and dual-eye observation that keeps you scanning longer without fatigue.
Wide-binocular vision. A 17.5° field and European HD sensor that reveals every corner of the landscape at once.
Pulsar’s sharpest thermal sensor. In a binocular.
A 1280×1024 uncooled European sensor with 12 μm pixel pitch and system NETD below 20 mK renders subtle heat differences with extraordinary fidelity. Paired with the HD AMOLED 1280×960 microdisplay, every feather, fur edge, and distant body reads with defining clarity.
Kilometres of detection range. Spot distant animals, birds at flight altitude, and hidden subjects in conditions where conventional optics see nothing.
17.5° – the widest thermal binocular view.
At 17.5° horizontal (30.7 m at 100 m) and a 62–74 mm interpupillary range, the Ventex XT50 fills both eyes with terrain. Less panning, more finding. Survey wetlands, open plains, and forest canopies the way you experience them in daylight.
1,500 m ranging. ±1 m accuracy.
The built-in Class 1 eye-safe laser rangefinder reads distance to 1,500 m with ±1 m precision, in complete darkness, without disturbing your subject. Switch metres and yards on the fly. No separate device to carry or fumble for.
2–16× zoom. Detail at every level.
A 1280×1024 sensor behind 2–16× digital zoom means maximum magnification doesn’t mean maximum pixellation. Distant birds and animals retain identifying detail at full zoom, day surveys or overnight.
8 hours. Hot-swap capable.
A B-Pack Mini external cell (3,200 mAh) plus a 4,000 mAh internal battery deliver 8 hours of operation. When the external pack depletes, the device switches to the internal reserve while you swap. USB-C Power Delivery charges at 5 V and 9 V.
Magnesium alloy. IPX7. −25°C to +50°C.
A one-piece magnesium alloy chassis handles the weight of full binocular optics without flex. IPX7 waterproofing protects in driving rain and splashes. Operating range from −25°C to +50°C covers every Australian season.
Both eyes working. Hours without discomfort.
Thermal monoculars tire the dominant eye – the Ventex XT50 does not. Natural dual-eye observation distributes the load, so pre-dawn surveys stretch into mid-morning without strain. The 62–74 mm interpupillary adjustment and 15 mm eye relief accommodate the full range of observers.
You see them. They don’t see you.
The 1280×1024 European sensor detects heat at up to 2,300 m – revealing birds in flight, animals at scrub edges, and wildlife on distant ridgelines long before they sense your presence. No light, no noise, no disturbance.
Less sweeping. More observing.
A 17.5° horizontal field (30.7 m at 100 m) lets you read an entire wetland edge or track a moving flock without constant panning. Birdwatchers, naturalists, and wildlife carers all benefit from a view wide enough to hold multiple subjects simultaneously.
Dusk to dawn. Hot-swap ready.
The dual battery system – a 4,000 mAh internal cell plus a hot-swappable B-Pack Mini – keeps the Ventex XT50 running for eight hours straight. Swap the external pack mid-session without powering off. USB-C Power Delivery charges fast enough to be ready for the next night out.
Every capability, purpose-built. Night after night.
1280×1024 European uncooled thermal sensor, 12 μm pixel pitch, system NETD below 20 mK
2,300 m detection range for spotting wildlife and birds at true long range
17.5° binocular field of view with 62–74 mm interpupillary distance adjustment
Built-in Class 1 laser rangefinder, 1,500 m range, ±1 m accuracy in complete darkness
2–16× digital zoom with AMOLED HD 1280×960 display
8-hour dual battery life with hot-swap B-Pack Mini and USB-C Power Delivery
IPX7 waterproof, −25°C to +50°C operating range, magnesium alloy chassis
64 GB built-in recording, Wi-Fi, Pulsar Wild Vision app for live streaming
Nine colour palettes with picture-in-picture mode
Classic ergonomic design, six-button layout, 1/4″ tripod socket, 0.95 kg with batteries
Pulsar Ventex XT50
Available from Bintel, Australia’s trusted telescope and optics specialist. Expert advice from working naturalists and astronomers, ships from Sydney.
The Pulsar Ventex XT50 thermal binoculars. Backed by Bintel.
The QHY5III462 camera uses the Sixth Generation Sony 2.1 megapixel IMX462 STARVIS CMOS sensor. The pixel size is 2.9um making it the same size and resolution as the sensor used in the QHY5III290 camera that has been so successfully used for planetary imaging by some of the best planetary imagers in the world. Like other cameras in the 5III series, the QHY5III462 is USB 3.0 powered and controlled. No additional power is required.
The IMX462 sensor is back-illuminated and incorporates new technology that gives it some significant advantage over other planetary cameras: First, the IMX462 sensor has sHCG (Super High Conversion Gain) for very low read noise at high gain. This is ideal for stacking hundreds or thousands of short planetary images. Second, it is exceptionally sensitive in the NIR.
In this latest generation of sensors, the photodiode portion of the pixel well is physically deeper than in previous Sony BSI sensors, allowing photons of longer wavelength to penetrate deeper into the substrate. This dramatically increases the sensor’s sensitivity to red and near infrared (NIR) light. The RGB filters over the pixels become transparent at NIR wavelengths, so the sensor displays almost equal peak sensitivity to NIR light as it does to light in the visible spectrum.
The peak QE in the NIR around 800nm is as high as the peak QE in the visible wavelengths. For planetary imagers using a methane filter that passes light around 880nm this is welcome news.
BSI
One benefit of the back-illuminated CMOS structure is improved sensitivity. In a typical front-illuminated sensor, photons from the target entering the photosensitive layer of the sensor must first pass through the metal wiring that is embedded just above the photosensitive layer. The wiring structure reflects some of the photons and reduces the efficiency of the sensor.
In the back- illuminated sensor the light is allowed to enter the photosensitive surface from the reverse side. In this case the sensor’s embedded wiring structure is below the photosensitive layer. As a result, more incoming photons strike the photosensitive layer and more electrons are generated and captured in the pixel well. This ratio of photon to electron production is called quantum efficiency. The higher the quantum efficiency the more efficient the sensor is at converting photons to electrons and hence the more sensitive the sensor is to capturing an image of something dim.
Extended Near Infrared Sensitivity
Logically, one would think, each generation of Exmor sensor would be built upon and incorporate all of the improvements of the generation immediately preceding. However, this was not the case with the fifth generation Exmor R sensors.
The first back-illuminated sensors used shallower pixel wells (like the third-generation front- illuminated designs) than the physically deeper pixels of the fourth generation. So, while the back- illuminated structure increased the sensitivity in the visible range by 2X, the shallower pixels did not improve the NIR. The answer to this is seen in the latest, sixth generation, Sony Exmor R sensors, like the IMX462. Using physically deeper pixels in conjunction with the back-illuminated structure has dramatically improved the sensor’s sensitivity to both the visible and near infrared wavelengths.
sHCG Mode
Another advantage of the QHY5III462 is the camera’s “Super High Conversion Gain” capability. By using a lower capacitance, a small amount of charge can be converted to a high voltage resulting in higher sensitivity in low-light conditions. The readout noise of the QHY5III462 in high gain mode is as low as 0.5 electrons!
The test exposures below demonstrate the low light improvement over the IMX290 sensor. The QHY5III462C image is on the left and the corresponding QHY5III290C image is on the right. The low light conditions and exposures are identical for each top and bottom pair of images and a UV/IR filter was in place for each camera. So this test demonstrates the QHY5III462C’s increase in sensitivity and SNR over the QHY5III290C under the same conditions in the visual light spectrum alone.
Color and Mono Imaging
The filter matrix in the IMX462 uses organic dye filters. These filters are very efficient at visible wavelengths but become completely transparent in the NIR. For this reason, good RGB color balance requires an external UV/IR filter that blocks NIR wavelengths.
Many color cameras build this UV/IR filter into the camera or optical window for normal color imaging. However, in order to fully exploit the capabilities of the 462C sensor, in the QHY5III462C camera the optical window is AR coated only with no UV or IR blocking. Instead, the QHY5III462C camera includes two 1.25″ screw-in filters, a UV/IR cut filter to isolate the visible wavelengths for normal RGB imaging and an IR850 filter that will cut the visible wavelengths but pass wavelengths above 850nm.
Specifications
| Model | QHY5III462M/C |
| CMOS Sensor | SONY IMX462 BSI CMOS |
| Pixel Size | 2.9um x 2.9um |
| Effective Pixel Area | 1920 x 1080 |
| Effective Pixels | 2 MP |
| Fullwell | 12000e- |
| Readout Noise | 0.5e- |
| AD Sample Depth | 12-bit (output as 16-bit and 8-bit) |
| Sensor Size | Typical 1/2.8 inch (6.3mm) |
| Full Frame Rate | Full Resolution 135 FPS@8-bits (USB3.0 Port) |
| ROI Frame Rate | Higher rates at selected fields of interest (Supports any region ROI) |
| Exposure Time Range | 7us-900sec |
| Shutter Type | Electronic Rolling Shutter |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 |
| Guide Port | Yes |
| Telescope Interface | 1.25-inch |
| Optic Window Type | Changeable 1.25-inch filter as optical window
(462C: Includes free 1.25-inch UV/IR cut filter and free 1.25-inch IR850 filter 462M: Includes a free 1.25-inch IR850 filter) |
| Back Focal Length | 12mm (±0.5) |
| Weight | 88g |
Camera Curves
The new CFW3 series filter wheels are available in four sizes to accommodate filters from 1.25-inch to 50 millimeters square.
For filter wheel control a custom QHY 4-pin filter wheel port is included that provides power and control signals for QHY dual control filter wheels like the series 3 filter wheels. Both the series 2 and new series 3 filter wheels can be controlled by either an independent external program using the filter wheel’s USB port or via the QHY 4-pin serial port. When connected to the QHY 4-pin port there is no need for an additional power cable or control program. All of the filter wheel functions are controlled through the camera and its operating Software.
The series 3 filter wheels utilize a new motor with direct drive and will reverse direction to take the shortest path when moving from one filter to another. For Example, in this demonstration the wheel moves from filter position 1 to position 2 to position 3 and then back to 1 again, over to position 7 and back to position 1 without ever making a complete rotation of the carousel. This saves time if you’re doing a lot of filter changes in one imaging session.
LED changes color for each filter position. The tricolor LED assigns one unique color or combination of colors to each filter position so you can tell if it’s moved to the correct position without removing it from the Telescope.
The CFW3 is also thin. This feature and the short back focus of the COLDMOS cameras means you can add one of several camera lens adapters for Canon and Nikon camera lenses for wide field imaging with the filter wheel.
In the center of the back plate is a 12-volt DC power port. This port is threaded for a short extension cable that is supplied with the camera that securely attaches such that it will not accidentally disconnect while you are imaging.
| Filter Wheel | Filter Supported | Recommended Gears | Back Focus Consumed* | Weight | Note |
| CFW3S-SR CFW3S-US |
7*1.25-inch mounted/31mm unmounted | QHY533M, QHY183M QHY5III Mono Planetary Cams (CFW1.25”Adapter needed) |
20mm (SR)+4mm (Adapter) 15.5mm (SR)+4mm (Adapter) |
About 430g | There’s no difference between S-SR and S-US expect their depth, but S-SR can be compatible with thicker 1.25” mounted filters. |
| CFW3M-SR | 5*2-inch mounted/50mm unmounted | QHY268M, QHY600M | 20.5mm+2mm (Adapter) | About 720g | |
| CFW3M-US | 7*36mm unmounted | QHY163M, QHY294M, QHY268M | 17mm+2mm (Adapter) | About 700g | |
| CFW3L | 7*2-inch mounted/50mm unmounted | QHY600M (PH/Pro) | 21.5mm | About 900g | |
| CFW3XL | 9*2-inch mounted/50mm unmounted
or 7*50mm square unmounted |
QHY461PH
QHY600M-PH SBFL |
21.5mm | About 1500g | A special adapter needed when connecting QHY600 SBFL and CFW3XL, see https://www.qhyccd.com/qhy600sbfl-cfw3xl-adapter/ |
$409.00
The new CFW3 series filter wheels are available in four sizes to accommodate filters from 1.25-inch to 50 millimeters square.
For filter wheel control a custom QHY 4-pin filter wheel port is included that provides power and control signals for QHY dual control filter wheels like the series 3 filter wheels. Both the series 2 and new series 3 filter wheels can be controlled by either an independent external program using the filter wheel’s USB port or via the QHY 4-pin serial port. When connected to the QHY 4-pin port there is no need for an additional power cable or control program. All of the filter wheel functions are controlled through the camera and its operating Software.
The series 3 filter wheels utilize a new motor with direct drive and will reverse direction to take the shortest path when moving from one filter to another. For Example, in this demonstration the wheel moves from filter position 1 to position 2 to position 3 and then back to 1 again, over to position 7 and back to position 1 without ever making a complete rotation of the carousel. This saves time if you’re doing a lot of filter changes in one imaging session.
LED changes color for each filter position. The tricolor LED assigns one unique color or combination of colors to each filter position so you can tell if it’s moved to the correct position without removing it from the Telescope.
The CFW3 is also thin. This feature and the short back focus of the COLDMOS cameras means you can add one of several camera lens adapters for Canon and Nikon camera lenses for wide field imaging with the filter wheel.
In the center of the back plate is a 12-volt DC power port. This port is threaded for a short extension cable that is supplied with the camera that securely attaches such that it will not accidentally disconnect while you are imaging.
| Filter Wheel | Filter Supported | Recommended Gears | Back Focus Consumed* | Weight | Note |
| CFW3S-SR CFW3S-US |
7*1.25-inch mounted/31mm unmounted | QHY533M, QHY183M QHY5III Mono Planetary Cams (CFW1.25”Adapter needed) |
20mm (SR)+4mm (Adapter) 15.5mm (SR)+4mm (Adapter) |
About 430g | There’s no difference between S-SR and S-US expect their depth, but S-SR can be compatible with thicker 1.25” mounted filters. |
| CFW3M-SR | 5*2-inch mounted/50mm unmounted | QHY268M, QHY600M | 20.5mm+2mm (Adapter) | About 720g | |
| CFW3M-US | 7*36mm unmounted | QHY163M, QHY294M, QHY268M | 17mm+2mm (Adapter) | About 700g | |
| CFW3L | 7*2-inch mounted/50mm unmounted | QHY600M (PH/Pro) | 21.5mm | About 900g | |
| CFW3XL | 9*2-inch mounted/50mm unmounted
or 7*50mm square unmounted |
QHY461PH
QHY600M-PH SBFL |
21.5mm | About 1500g | A special adapter needed when connecting QHY600 SBFL and CFW3XL, see https://www.qhyccd.com/qhy600sbfl-cfw3xl-adapter/ |
$185.00
Specifications
|
Model
|
miniGuideScope |
|
Diameter
|
30mm |
|
Focal Length
|
130mm |
|
Aperture
|
1:4.3 |
|
Object Lens Type
|
Doublet |
|
Focus System
|
Front Side Focuser |
|
Focus Locker
|
Yes |
| Camera Interface | C/CS Mount |
| Compatible Cameras | QHY5II and QHY5III series |
| Anti-Scatter Light Matt Paint | Yes, Internal painted |
| Weight (OTA only) | 111g |
| Telescope Connector | Optional Standard ViewFinder Scope Connector with Tripod Screw Thread |
| Diameter of the OAT | 31.6mm |
| Focus Adjustable Range | Inf. to 1.5 meter |
Suggested Guide Cameras
$1,249.00
At just over 4 inches in diameter and a few inches thick (IMX585), the new miniCAM8 is a compact, high-resolution, high-performance, cooled imaging system capable of exceptional, high-quality deep space images as well as high-quality, high-resolution planetary images.
So often, compactness in astroimaging is achieved at the expense of some other critical feature found in multi-component cooled systems, such as sensor quality or thermoelectric cooling, etc. Such is not the case with the new miniCAM8. Based on Sony’s IMX585 8 MP sensor, the miniCAM8 includes full TE cooling capable of reaching a delta of -45℃ from ambient along with a built-in 8-position filter wheel for complete LRGB and narrowband imaging.
High Near-Infrared Sensitivity
The IMX585 is a Sony Starvis II processor that enables high sensitivity and high dynamic range (HDR). It also improves sensitivity in the near-infrared range by approximately 1.7 times* compared to the IMX485. The new camera miniCAM8 has a maximum quantum efficiency of 60% in the near-infrared band and 92% in the visible wavelength band.
*This data is officially provided by Sony: https://www.sony-semicon.com/cn/news/2021/2021062901.html
BSI
One benefit of the back-illuminated CMOS structure is improved full-well capacity. This is particularly helpful for sensors with small pixels. In a typical front-illuminated sensor, photons from the target entering the photosensitive layer of the sensor must first pass through the metal wiring that is embedded just above the photosensitive layer. The wiring structure reflects some of the photons and reduces the efficiency of the sensor.
In the back-illuminated sensor, the light is allowed to enter the photosensitive surface from the reverse side. In this case, the sensor’s embedded wiring structure is below the photosensitive layer. As a result, more incoming photons strike the photosensitive layer, and more electrons are generated and captured in the pixel well. This ratio of photon to electron production is called quantum efficiency. The higher the quantum efficiency, the more efficient the sensor is at converting photons to electrons, and hence the more sensitive the sensor is to capturing an image of something dim.
Zero Amplify Glow
miniCAM8 is also a zero amplifier glow camera.
Anti-Dew Technology
Based on almost 20-year cooled camera design experience, the QHY cooled camera has implemented the fully dew control solutions. The optic window has a built-in dew heater, and the chamber is protected from internal humidity condensation. An electric heating board for the chamber window can prevent the formation of dew, and the sensor itself is kept dry with our silicon gel tube socket design for control of humidity within the sensor chamber.
Cooling
In addition to dual-stage TE cooling, QHYCCD implements proprietary technology in hardware to control the dark current noise.
Filters
The astronomical filters included with the miniCAM8 deepsky combos are custom-designed to match the specific characteristics of the cameras. The size is 19 mm * 12 mm * 1.1 mm. The LRGB and SHO narrowband filters for the miniCAM8M deepsky combo are customized by XiMei Filters. The LRGB filters have an optical density (OD) value of 3, while the narrowband filters have an OD value of 5.
| Model | miniCAM8 |
| CMOS Sensor | Sony IMX585 |
| Mono/Color | Both Available |
| BSI/FSI | BSI |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.2inch |
| Pixel Size | 2.9μm*2.9μm |
| Total Pixel Area | 3856*2180 |
| Effective Pixels | 8 MP |
| Full Well Capacity | 54ke-
Linearity HDR Mode: 46ke- |
| Readout Noise | 0.76 – 7.8 e-
Linearity HDR Mode: 1.0e- |
| Peak QE | M: 92%
C: R: 82%; G: 87%; B: 75% |
| Dynamic Range | Linearity HDR mode: The dynamic range reaches up to 46,300:1, equivalent to 93 dB or 15.5 stops. |
| A/D | Dual 12-bit (output as 16-bit) |
| Full Frame Rates | Full Resolution: 41.5FPS@8bit,23.5FPS @16bit |
| ROI Frame Rates | Full Resolution 1080Lines, 82FPS@8bit, 47FPS@16bit;640Lines, 177FPS@8bit, 105FPS@16bit |
| Exposure Time Range | 11μs-900sec |
| Shutter Type | Electronic Rolling Shutter |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 512MB DDR3 |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 |
| Telescope Interface | 1.25 inch |
| Optic Window Type | AR+AR |
| Filter Wheel | Built-in 8-Position Carousel |
| Back Focal Length | 17.5mm |
| Cooling System | Dual Stage TEC cooler:
Long exposures (> 1 second) typically -45℃ below ambient |
| Weight | 480g |
From $179.00
(Only Compatible with QHY MiniCAM8 Camera)
Deep Sky Filter Set
Includes LRGB and narrowband SHO filters sized at 19 mm × 12 mm × 1.1 mm. The LRGB filters have an optical density (OD) of 3, while the narrowband filters have an OD of 5, providing high contrast and minimal light leakage for deep sky imaging.
Planetary Filter Set
Ideal for planetary observation, this set includes LRGB filters along with a 20nm Methane filter, 40nm UV filter, and 10nm Sodium (Na) filter. Great for capturing fine atmospheric and spectral details.
Photometric Filter Set
A complete Sloan filter set: u’, g’, r’, i’, z’. Suitable for scientific imaging and precise photometric measurements.
Ar III Standalone Filter
The Ar III (Argon III) filter is a narrowband filter centered around 713nm, designed to capture the specific emission line of triply ionized argon. This emission line is commonly observed in planetary nebulae, H II regions, emission-line galaxies, and in the spectroscopy of ionized gases in laboratory plasmas.
From $1,349.00
At just over 4 inches in diameter and a few inches thick (IMX585), the new miniCAM8 is a compact, high-resolution, high-performance, cooled imaging system capable of exceptional, high-quality deep space images as well as high-quality, high-resolution planetary images.
So often, compactness in astro-imaging is achieved at the expense of some other critical feature found in multi-component cooled systems, such as sensor quality or thermoelectric cooling, etc. Such is not the case with the new miniCAM8. Based on Sony’s IMX585 8 MP sensor, the miniCAM8 includes full TE cooling capable of reaching a delta of -45℃ from ambient along with a built-in 8-position filter wheel for complete LRGB and narrowband imaging.
High Near-Infrared Sensitivity
The IMX585 is a Sony Starvis II processor that enables high sensitivity and high dynamic range (HDR). It also improves sensitivity in the near-infrared range by approximately 1.7 times* compared to the IMX485. The new camera miniCAM8 has a maximum quantum efficiency of 60% in the near-infrared band and 92% in the visible wavelength band.
*This data is officially provided by Sony: https://www.sony-semicon.com/cn/news/2021/2021062901.html
BSI
One benefit of the back-illuminated CMOS structure is improved full-well capacity. This is particularly helpful for sensors with small pixels. In a typical front-illuminated sensor, photons from the target entering the photosensitive layer of the sensor must first pass through the metal wiring that is embedded just above the photosensitive layer. The wiring structure reflects some of the photons and reduces the efficiency of the sensor.
In the back-illuminated sensor, the light is allowed to enter the photosensitive surface from the reverse side. In this case, the sensor’s embedded wiring structure is below the photosensitive layer. As a result, more incoming photons strike the photosensitive layer, and more electrons are generated and captured in the pixel well. This ratio of photon to electron production is called quantum efficiency. The higher the quantum efficiency, the more efficient the sensor is at converting photons to electrons, and hence the more sensitive the sensor is to capturing an image of something dim.
Zero Amplify Glow
miniCAM8 is also a zero amplifer glow camera.
Anti-Dew Technology
Based on almost 20-year cooled camera design experience, the QHY cooled camera has implemented the fully dew control solutions. The optic window has a built-in dew heater, and the chamber is protected from internal humidity condensation. An electric heating board for the chamber window can prevent the formation of dew, and the sensor itself is kept dry with our silicon gel tube socket design for control of humidity within the sensor chamber.
Cooling
In addition to dual-stage TE cooling, QHYCCD implements proprietary technology in hardware to control the dark current noise.
Variants
MiniCAM8M Deep Sky Combo -
The astronomical filters included with the miniCAM8 deepsky combo are custom-designed to match the specific characteristics of the cameras. The size is 19 mm * 12 mm * 1.1 mm. The LRGB and SHO narrowband filters for the miniCAM8M deepsky combo are customized by XiMei Filters. The LRGB filters have an optical density (OD) value of 3, while the narrowband filters have an OD value of 5.
MiniCAM8M Planetary Combo -
Includes: miniCAM8M x1; LRGB filter set x1; 20nm Methane filter x1; 40nm UV filter x1; 10nm Na filter x1
MiniCAM8M Photometric Combo -
Includes: miniCAM8M x1; u’, g’, r’, i’, z’ sloan filter set x1
| Model | miniCAM8 |
| CMOS Sensor | Sony IMX585 |
| Mono/Color | Both Available |
| BSI/FSI | BSI |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.2inch |
| Pixel Size | 2.9μm*2.9μm |
| Total Pixel Area | 3856*2180 |
| Effective Pixels | 8 MP |
| Full Well Capacity | 54ke-
Linearity HDR Mode: 46ke- |
| Readout Noise | 0.76 – 7.8 e-
Linearity HDR Mode: 1.0e- |
| Peak QE | M: 92%
C: R: 82%; G: 87%; B: 75% |
| Dynamic Range | Linearity HDR mode: The dynamic range reaches up to 46,300:1, equivalent to 93 dB or 15.5 stops. |
| A/D | Dual 12-bit (output as 16-bit) |
| Full Frame Rates | Full Resolution: 41.5FPS@8bit,23.5FPS @16bit |
| ROI Frame Rates | Full Resolution 1080Lines, 82FPS@8bit, 47FPS@16bit;640Lines, 177FPS@8bit, 105FPS@16bit |
| Exposure Time Range | 11μs-900sec |
| Shutter Type | Electronic Rolling Shutter |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 512MB DDR3 |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 |
| Telescope Interface | 1.25 inch |
| Optic Window Type | AR+AR |
| Filter Wheel | Built-in 8-Position Carousel |
| Back Focal Length | 17.5mm |
| Cooling System | Dual Stage TEC cooler:
Long exposures (> 1 second) typically -45℃ below ambient |
| Weight | 480g |
$239.00
QHYCCD has designed a dedicated Off-Axis Guider (OAG) for the miniCAM8, featuring a large 14×10mm prism. The oversized prism maximizes light throughput to the guide camera, enabling higher guiding precision. It comes with a standard M48 telescope interface for easy connection and maintains a 55mm back focal distance for broad compatibility with imaging setups.
Stable and Strong
High Parallelism
Direct connection to the camera with six screws ensures connection accuracy and parallelism, providing a reliable mechanical connection for your photography
Precision Connection
No Deflection
The main purpose of the QHY OAG-S is to use the same optical path as the main camera. This avoids the problem of differential deflection that can occur when using a separate optical system for guiding. In the case of the OAG, a part of the image is picked-off from the edge of the imaging circle which does not block the main CCD. This method provides more accurate guiding and sharper images.
Multiple Adapters
Flexible Combinations
In addition to the connection with the A-series cameras, you can also use the various standard or optional accessories provided by QHYCCD to achieve complex and adaptable connections, including the use of the QHY OAG-S as a stand alone unit, connection to QHY filter wheels, etc.
Stable and Strong
Precise Easy Focusing
The QHYOAG includes a precision 1.25-inch helical focuser that accepts our QHY5II and QHY5III cameras. The focusing process is comfortable. After focusing, you can lock the focus mechanism with thumbscrews.
|
QHYOAG Speficiations
|
|||
|
Model
|
QHYOAG-S
|
QHYOAG-M
|
QHYQAG-L |
|
Telescope Interface
|
M42/0.75 | M54/0.75 | M62/0.75 |
| Diameter of 6 x M3 screw hole positions | 54mm | 62mm | 68mm |
| Suitable for CCD/CMOS Size | 4/3-inch | APS-C, APS-H, 36 x 24mm | 36 x 24mm, 37 x 37mm, 48 x 36mm, (50100 CCD requires special adapter) |
| Compatible Products | QHY90A, QHY695A, QHYCFW2-S, QHY183, QHY163 | QHY16200A, QHYCFW2-M, QHY165C, QHY128C, QHY247C, QHY367C | QHY16803, QHY09000, QHYCFW-XL |
| Guide Camera Interface | 1.25-inch | 1.25-inch | 1.25-inch |
|
Weight
|
127g
|
145g
|
149g
|
$449.00
The PoleMaster is an easy, convenient and fast way to achieve excellent polar alignment. It has been recognized by astronomy enthusiasts around the world and has become a must-have for anyone using an equatorial mount for visual use or for imaging. The PoleMaster electronic polar axis alignment device is a patented product of QHYCCD and is protected by Chinese, US patents and International PCT.
As any seasoned astronomer would agree, achieving good polar alignment is not an easy task. You may spend hours under precious dark sky trying to get that perfect polar alignment, but in the end you may not know whether good alignment has in fact been achieved. Even after you have obtained good alignment, a gentle knock on the mount may send the polar alignment off and you may have no other choice but to start from scratch again. With an hour here and an hour there trying to get polar aligned, it soon will be dawn and time to pack up the gear.
The PoleMaster is a great solution to this problem. The PoleMaster is an innovative product pioneered by QHYCCD to relieve the pain of polar alignment. Using PoleMaster and following a few simple, easy-to-follow, steps you can achieve perfect polar alignment in 2-3 minutes, with an accuracy of up to 30 arc seconds.
With PoleMaster, You don’t need to rotate the telescope to some uncomfortable position to keep the optical polar axis of the equatorial mount unobstructed. Also, you don’t need to squat down to look through the polar axis scope. You don’t need to turn off all the light sources to allow the naked eye to adapt to the darkness and look for the Polaris in the field of view. You also don’t need to enter the date and time and then rotate the equatorial mount to a strange angle, finally you don’t need to adjust the equatorial level. With the PoleMaster you can observe the alignment of the polar axis at any time, as well as continuously monitor the polar axis. When the equatorial mount moves inadvertently, you can also tune it back without having to redo everything.
The PoleMaster’s pixel resolution is approximately 30 arc seconds. The camera’s pixel matrix itself is a good ruler, so the accuracy it measures is much higher than the accuracy of the macroscopic lens. In the best case it can achieve an alignment accuracy of 30 arc seconds.
Wide Field of View: The electronic polar mirror has a large field of view of 11 degrees x 8 degrees, so it is easy to find the Polaris.
Once you have calibrated with a PoleMaster, you only need to perform a single-star sync (one-star calibration). This greatly facilitates the setup of an equatorial mount.
With a suitable adapter ring, the PoleMaster can be mounted to any equatorial mount. Even single-axis equatorial mounts that have no ability to correct in declination will benefit because with the PoleMaster, after the polar axis is aligned, the amount of drift in the declination direction will be very small, which can further improve the performance of such an equatorial mount.
| Model | PoleMaster |
| Field of View | 11 degrees x 8 degrees |
| Sensitivity | 9th Magnitude |
| Coarse Adjustment | 5 arc minutes |
| Fine Adjustment | Up to 30 arc seconds |
| Computer Interface | Mini USB2.0 Port |
| Software | QHYCCD PoleMaster Calibration Software |
| Internal non-volatile memory | Non-volatile internal EEPROM memory capable of storing several small frames for calibration routines, focus, optic analysis, etc. |
| Weight | 106g |
From $49.00
Maximize the precision and accuracy of your observations with QHY Polemaster Adapters. These adapters, specifically designed for QHY Polemaster, fit seamlessly with a variety of mounts for easy setup and use. Take your astrophotography to the next level with these high-quality adapters.
From $360.00
QFocuser comes in two versions: Standard Version and High Precision Version.
The Standard version is designed to be installed on the side of the standard adjustment axis of the telescope focusing mechanism. This is the same with most focusers available in the market. The High Precision version is installed on the other side — the precise adjustment axis of the telescope focusing mechanism.
If you need the ability to manually tweak focus after installation, the High Precision version may be the better fit. But for most astrophotographers, the Standard model offers the ideal balance of performance, payload capacity, and value.
QHY Q-Focuser Standard
- Lightweight & Compact: Just 43 × 39 × 50 mm and 210 g
- Strong Payload: Supports up to 10 kg, perfect for heavy imaging trains
- Precision Motor Control: Uses a reduction motor; small backlash can be corrected in software such as NINA or ASCOM autofocus routines
- Temperature Compensation: Built-in external sensor adjusts focus as conditions change
- Flexible Power: Run from USB-C (5 V) for portable setups or 12 V DC for extra torque
Best for: Astrophotographers who want reliable, automated focus at an affordable price, with simple installation and strong load capacity.
QHY Q-Focuser High Precision
- Ultra-Precise Control: Equipped with a high-precision motor for minimal backlash and smoother operation
- Supports Manual Adjustment: Allows you to fine-tune focus manually even after installation
- Same Mounting & Power Options: USB-C or 12 V DC input, with adjustable mounting plates
- Stable Performance: Ideal for setups where ultra-fine focus and manual override are required
Best for: Advanced astrophotographers and observers who demand the highest level of precision and flexibility in their focusing system.
Shared Features
- USB-C connection (USB 2.0 interface)
- Compatible with Windows (ASCOM 6.5+) and Linux
- Firmware upgradeable for future improvements
- Includes mounting plates, couplers, power cable, USB-C cable, and temperature sensor
Why Choose the QHY Q-Focuser?
The QHY Q-Focuser takes the hassle out of manual focusing by combining precision engineering, automation, and flexibility in one elegant unit. Both versions make it easy to keep your stars sharp and your imaging sessions productive — whether you’re setting up a lightweight travel rig or running a fully equipped observatory.
Choose the Standard model for the best balance of performance and value, or the High Precision model if you need manual override and ultra-smooth control. Either way, you’ll enjoy consistent, accurate focusingevery time you head under the stars.
| Version | QFocuser(Standard Version) | QFocuser(High Precision Version) |
| Body Size/mm | About 43*39*50 | About 43*39*50 (excluding the button) |
| Weight | About 210g | About 265g |
| Motor | Reducing motor | Non-reducing motor |
| Backlash | It has some backlash, which can be calibrated in software like NINA | Almost zero backlash* |
| Step size | 28.125 ″ | 13.5 ′ |
| Max. Loads | About 10kg | About 7.5kg |
| Manually Focus After Installing | Not supported | Supported |
| System Supported | Windows (ASCOM)
Linux |
|
| External Temperature Sensor | Supported | |
| Data Interface | USB2.0 Type-C | |
| Power Supply | 5v/12v | |
QHY183C is a model designed for astrophotography beginners. It exhibits excellent sensitivity and low noise, with the back illuminated QHY183C having higher sensitivity and somewhat higher resolution. It is well suited to planetary and deep-space imaging particularly when mated with the CFW3 filter wheel. This model has two-stage thermal electric cooling of the sensor to about minus 40 degrees C below ambient for maximum reduction of dark current noise in long exposures.
QHY183 incorporates QHY’s Anti-Amp Glow technology to significantly reduce typical CMOS amplifier glow to a minimum, allowing excellent calibration by subtracting a dark frame.
QHY183 utilizes the Anti-Dew features common to the QHY COLDMOS cameras. Dew is moisture that condenses from the air onto the outside of the chamber window. Frost is water vapor that freezes when it comes into contact with the inside of the chamber window or the surface of the sensor. QHY has nearly 20 years of experience designing cooled cameras and these models benefit from those years of anti-dew and anti-frost design experience. To help prevent dew from forming on the chamber window heating elements are built into the light shield just above the chamber. To avoid frost from forming inside the chamber a desiccant tube is provided that can easily be attached by the user to the outside of the camera when needed to dry the internal atmosphere of the chamber and remove any built-up moisture.
QHY183 models can be used as guiding devices, too. The opto-isolated guiding port is a standard ST-4 configuration using an RJ11 style Jack. A guiding cable is included with each camera.
The 183 with its smaller higher resolution sensor is a good match to short focal length telescopes or for imaging smaller dim objects through a large scope. The larger 163 gives a greater field of view and would be a good choice for imaging larger areas of the sky such as nebula or when coupled to a longer focal length telescope to take greater advantage of the scopes full field.
The QHY183M is a one-inch, 20 Megapixel back-illuminated monochrome CMOS camera with a peak QE of 84%. The pixel size is 2.4um, yielding high-resolution with modest size telescopes. The camera is capable of producing 15FPS@20 Megapixels. It has a two-stage TEC that cools the sensor to -40C to -45C below ambient. The ADC is 12-bit / 16-bit with 1e- read noise! The computer interface is USB 3.0 and exposure times can be set from 50us to 3600sec.
Specifications
| Model | QHY183M/C |
| CMOS Sensor | SONY IMX183 BSI CMOS |
| Mono/Color | Both |
| FSI/BSI | BSI |
| Pixel Size | 2.4um*2.4um |
| Effective Area | 5544*3684 |
| Effective Pixels | 20 mega |
|
Sensor Size
|
Typical 1 inch
13.3mm*8.87mm |
| Fullwell | 15.5ke- |
| AD Sample Depth | 12bit (output as 16bit and 8bit) |
| Max Full Frame Rate and ROI Frame Rate | 5544*3684 Full Resolution
19FPS@8BIT 7.5FPS@12BIT 4096*2160 4K HD Video 31FPS@8BIT 12FPS@12BIT 1920*1080 HD Video 60FPS@8BIT 24FPS@12BIT 800*600 SVGA 106FPS@8BIT 42FPS@12BIT 640*480 VGA 130FPS@8BIT 53FPS@12BIT* |
| Readout Noise | 2.7e-@lowest gain
1.0e@high gain |
| Dark Current | 0.0024e/pixel/sec @ -15C |
| Exposure Time Range | 50us-3600sec |
| Unity Gain | 10 |
| Anti-Glow Control | Yes |
| Shutter Type | Electric Rolling Shutter |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 128MByte DDR2 memory |
| Cooling System | Dual Stage TEC cooler (-40C below ambient)(Test temperature +20°) |
| Optic Window Type | QHY183M: AR+AR High Quality Multi-Layer Anti-Reflection Coating QHY183C: IR cut filter |
| Anti-Dew Heater | Silicon gel tube socket |
| Telescope Interface | M42/0.75 |
| Back Focal Length | 17.5mm |
| Weigth | 650g |
QHY183M is a model designed for astrophotography beginners. It exhibits excellent sensitivity and low noise, with the back illuminated QHY183M having higher sensitivity and somewhat higher resolution. It is well suited to planetary and deep-space imaging particularly when mated with the CFW3 filter wheel. This model has two-stage thermal electric cooling of the sensor to about minus 40 degrees C below ambient for maximum reduction of dark current noise in long exposures.
QHY183 incorporates QHY’s Anti-Amp Glow technology to significantly reduce typical CMOS amplifier glow to a minimum, allowing excellent calibration by subtracting a dark frame.
QHY183 utilizes the Anti-Dew features common to the QHY COLDMOS cameras. Dew is moisture that condenses from the air onto the outside of the chamber window. Frost is water vapor that freezes when it comes into contact with the inside of the chamber window or the surface of the sensor. QHY has nearly 20 years of experience designing cooled cameras and these models benefit from those years of anti-dew and anti-frost design experience. To help prevent dew from forming on the chamber window heating elements are built into the light shield just above the chamber. To avoid frost from forming inside the chamber a desiccant tube is provided that can easily be attached by the user to the outside of the camera when needed to dry the internal atmosphere of the chamber and remove any built-up moisture.
QHY183 models can be used as guiding devices, too. The opto-isolated guiding port is a standard ST-4 configuration using an RJ11 style Jack. A guiding cable is included with each camera.
The 183 with its smaller higher resolution sensor is a good match to short focal length telescopes or for imaging smaller dim objects through a large scope. The larger 163 gives a greater field of view and would be a good choice for imaging larger areas of the sky such as nebula or when coupled to a longer focal length telescope to take greater advantage of the scopes full field.
The QHY183M is a one-inch, 20 Megapixel back-illuminated monochrome CMOS camera with a peak QE of 84%. The pixel size is 2.4um, yielding high-resolution with modest size telescopes. The camera is capable of producing 15FPS@20 Megapixels. It has a two-stage TEC that cools the sensor to -40C to -45C below ambient. The ADC is 12-bit / 16-bit with 1e- read noise! The computer interface is USB 3.0 and exposure times can be set from 50us to 3600sec.
Specifications
| Model | QHY183M/C |
| CMOS Sensor | SONY IMX183 BSI CMOS |
| Mono/Color | Both |
| FSI/BSI | BSI |
| Pixel Size | 2.4um*2.4um |
| Effective Area | 5544*3684 |
| Effective Pixels | 20 mega |
|
Sensor Size
|
Typical 1 inch
13.3mm*8.87mm |
| Fullwell | 15.5ke- |
| AD Sample Depth | 12bit (output as 16bit and 8bit) |
| Max Full Frame Rate and ROI Frame Rate | 5544*3684 Full Resolution
19FPS@8BIT 7.5FPS@12BIT 4096*2160 4K HD Video 31FPS@8BIT 12FPS@12BIT 1920*1080 HD Video 60FPS@8BIT 24FPS@12BIT 800*600 SVGA 106FPS@8BIT 42FPS@12BIT 640*480 VGA 130FPS@8BIT 53FPS@12BIT* |
| Readout Noise | 2.7e-@lowest gain
1.0e@high gain |
| Dark Current | 0.0024e/pixel/sec @ -15C |
| Exposure Time Range | 50us-3600sec |
| Unity Gain | 10 |
| Anti-Glow Control | Yes |
| Shutter Type | Electric Rolling Shutter |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 128MByte DDR2 memory |
| Cooling System | Dual Stage TEC cooler (-40C below ambient)(Test temperature +20°) |
| Optic Window Type | QHY183M: AR+AR High Quality Multi-Layer Anti-Reflection Coating QHY183C: IR cut filter |
| Anti-Dew Heater | Silicon gel tube socket |
| Telescope Interface | M42/0.75 |
| Back Focal Length | 17.5mm |
| Weigth | 650g |
$3,190.00
The QHY268M/C is a new generation of back-illuminated CMOS cameras with true 16-bit A/D and 3.76um pixels. This new Sony sensor is an ideal CMOS sensor exhibiting no amplifer glow. 16-bit A/D gives high resolution sampling of the whole full well range. Digitizing 0-65535 levels yields a smooth image with continuous gradation of greyscale levels. The QHY268M/C is a cooled, back-illuminated, CMOS camera based on the Sony IMX571 sensor with native 16-bit A/D and 3.76um pixels.
1GB DDR3 image buffer
In order to provide smooth uninterrupted data transfer of the entire 26MP sensor at high speed, the QHY268 has 1GB DDR3 image buffer. The pixel count of the latest generation of CMOS sensors is very high resulting in greater memory requirements for temporary and permanent storage. The QHY268 has adopted a large-capacity memory of up to 1GB. Data throughput is doubled. This large image buffer meets the needs of high-speed image acquisition and transmission of the new generation of CMOS, making shooting of multiple frames smoother and less stuttered, further reducing the pressure on the computer CPU.
QHY268M has a unique internal humidity sensor (while QHY268C doesn’t). The Blue curve shown below represents humidity.
Multiple Readout Modes are special for QHY 16-bit Cameras (QHY600/268/461/411). Different readout modes have different driver timing, etc., and result in different performance. See details at “Multiple Readout Modes and Curves” Part.
You may find some types of thermal noise can change with time in some back-illuminated CMOS cameras. This thermal noises has the characteristic of the fixed position of typical thermal noise, but the value is not related to the exposure time. Instead, each frame appears to have its own characteristics. The QHY600/268/461/411 use an innovative suppression technology that can significantly reduce the apparent level of such noise.
UVLO(Under Voltage Locking) is to protect the electronic device from damage caused by abnormally low voltages.
Our daily life experience tells us that the actual operational voltage of an electrical device must not significantly exceed the rated voltage, otherwise it will be damaged. For such precision equipment as cameras, long-term work at too low input voltage can also be detrimental to the working life of the camera, and may even make some devices, such as power manager, burn up due to long-term overload. In the all-in-one driver and SDK after 2021.10.23 stable version, the camera will give a warning when the input voltage of the camera is below 11V.
It is common behavior for a CMOS sensor to contain some horizontal banding. Normally, random horizontal banding can be removed with multiple frame stacking so it does not affect the final image. However, periodic horizontal banding is not removed with stacking so it may appear in the final image. By adjust the USB traffic in Single Frame mode or Live Frame mode, you can adjust the frequency of the CMOS sensor driver and it can optimize the horizontal banding appeared on the image. This optimized is very effective to remove the periodic banding in some conditions.
A typical Periodic Horizontal Noise under certain USB_TRAFFIC values.
Reboot the camera by power off and on
The camera is designed to use the +12V to reboot the camera without disconnecting and reconnecting the USB interface. This means that you can reboot the camera simply by shutting down the +12V and then powering it back on. This feature is very handy for remote controlling the camera in an observatory. You can use a remotely controlled power supply to reboot the camera. There is no need to consider how to reconnect the USB in the case of remote control.
| Model | QHY268M | QHY268C |
| CMOS Sensor | SONY IMX571 M | SONY IMX571 C |
| Mono/Color | Mono | Color |
| FSI/BSI | BSI | |
| Pixel Size | 3.76um x 3.76um | |
| Effective Pixel Area | 6280*4210 (includes the optically black area and overscan area) | |
| Effective Pixels | 26MP | |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | |
| A/D Sample Depth
|
Native 16-bit (0-65535 greyscale) A/D | |
| Full Well Capacity (1×1, 2×2, 3×3) | 51ke- 75ke- or above in extended full well mode |
|
| Full Frame Rate | USB3.0 Port: Full Resolution 6.8FPS @8BIT 6FPS @16BIT 2048lines 13.6FPS @8BIT 11.5FPS@16BIT 1080lines 25.4FPS @8BIT 19.5FPS@16BIT 768lines 35FPS @8BIT 25FPS@16BIT 480lines 50FPS @8BIT 34FPS@16BIT |
|
| Readout Noise | 1.1e- High Gain,
3.5e- Low Gain (5.3e- to 7.4e- in extended full well mode) |
|
| Dark Current | -20C,0.0005e /pixel/sec
-10C,0.001e /pixel/sec |
|
| Exposure Time Range | 30us-3600sec | |
| Recommend Gain* | 30 (PH Mode,or Extended Full Well Mode)
56 (High Gain Mode) *With the improvement of the CMOS technology, For these 16bit CMOS cameras, even in lowest gain it has beyond the requirement of unit gain (less than 1e/ADU due to sufficient samples). Learn more at the “Readout Modes” part of this page. |
|
| Amp Control | Zero Amplifer Glow | |
| Firmware/FPGA remote Upgrade | Fully support via Camera USB port | |
| Shutter Type | Electronic Shutter | |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 | |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 1GByte DDR3 Memory | |
| Cooling System | Two-stage TEC cooler
Less than 1S lower than ambient temperature -30C in continuous mode More than 1S continuous mode or lower than ambient temperature -35C in single frame mode (Test temperature +20°) |
|
| Optic Window Type | AR+AR High Quality Multi-Layer Anti-Reflection Coating | |
| Anti-Dew Heater | Yes | |
| Humidity Sensor* | Yes | No |
| Telescope Interface | Support M54 or M48 (Combined with adapters ) | Support M54 or M48 (Combined with adapters ) |
| Back Focal Length | QHY268M: 12.5mm* *If companied with the QHY filter wheel, the BFL consumed is counted as 12.5mm. The actual BFL (the intercept from the CMOS chip to the top of the camera) is 14.3mm (±0.3). Since most users will match CFW with monochrome cams, please take 12.5mm as major reference. |
QHY268C: 14.3mm(±0.3)*
*Since 2023, the top part of QHY268C is the same as 268M. |
| Weigth | About 810g | About 810g |
Camera Curves
With the advantage of low readout noise and high-speed readout, CMOS technology has revolutionized astronomical imaging. A monochrome, back-illuminated, high-sensitivity, astronomical imaging camera is the ideal choice for astro-imagers.
The QHY268M/C is a new generation of back-illuminated CMOS cameras with true 16-bit A/D and 3.76um pixels. This new Sony sensor is an ideal CMOS sensor exhibiting no amplifer glow. 16-bit A/D gives high resolution sampling of the whole full well range. Digitizing 0-65535 levels yields a smooth image with continuous gradation of greyscale levels. The QHY268M/C is a cooled, back-illuminated, CMOS camera based on the Sony IMX571 sensor with native 16-bit A/D and 3.76um pixels.
1GB DDR3 image buffer
In order to provide smooth uninterrupted data transfer of the entire 26MP sensor at high speed, the QHY268 has 1GB DDR3 image buffer. The pixel count of the latest generation of CMOS sensors is very high resulting in greater memory requirements for temporary and permanent storage. The QHY268 has adopted a large-capacity memory of up to 1GB. Data throughput is doubled. This large image buffer meets the needs of high-speed image acquisition and transmission of the new generation of CMOS, making shooting of multiple frames smoother and less stuttered, further reducing the pressure on the computer CPU.
QHY268M has a unique internal humidity sensor (while QHY268C doesn’t). The Blue curve shown below represents humidity.
Multiple Readout Modes are special for QHY 16-bit Cameras (QHY600/268/461/411). Different readout modes have different driver timing, etc., and result in different performance. See details at “Multiple Readout Modes and Curves” Part.
You may find some types of thermal noise can change with time in some back-illuminated CMOS cameras. This thermal noises has the characteristic of the fixed position of typical thermal noise, but the value is not related to the exposure time. Instead, each frame appears to have its own characteristics. The QHY600/268/461/411 use an innovative suppression technology that can significantly reduce the apparent level of such noise.
UVLO(Under Voltage Locking) is to protect the electronic device from damage caused by abnormally low voltages.
Our daily life experience tells us that the actual operational voltage of an electrical device must not significantly exceed the rated voltage, otherwise it will be damaged. For such precision equipment as cameras, long-term work at too low input voltage can also be detrimental to the working life of the camera, and may even make some devices, such as power manager, burn up due to long-term overload. In the all-in-one driver and SDK after 2021.10.23 stable version, the camera will give a warning when the input voltage of the camera is below 11V.
It is common behavior for a CMOS sensor to contain some horizontal banding. Normally, random horizontal banding can be removed with multiple frame stacking so it does not affect the final image. However, periodic horizontal banding is not removed with stacking so it may appear in the final image. By adjust the USB traffic in Single Frame mode or Live Frame mode, you can adjust the frequency of the CMOS sensor driver and it can optimize the horizontal banding appeared on the image. This optimized is very effective to remove the periodic banding in some conditions.
A typical Periodic Horizontal Noise under certain USB_TRAFFIC values.
Reboot the camera by power off and on
The camera is designed to use the +12V to reboot the camera without disconnecting and reconnecting the USB interface. This means that you can reboot the camera simply by shutting down the +12V and then powering it back on. This feature is very handy for remote controlling the camera in an observatory. You can use a remotely controlled power supply to reboot the camera. There is no need to consider how to reconnect the USB in the case of remote control.
| Model | QHY268M | QHY268C |
| CMOS Sensor | SONY IMX571 M | SONY IMX571 C |
| Mono/Color | Mono | Color |
| FSI/BSI | BSI | |
| Pixel Size | 3.76um x 3.76um | |
| Effective Pixel Area | 6280*4210 (includes the optically black area and overscan area) | |
| Effective Pixels | 26MP | |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | |
| A/D Sample Depth
|
Native 16-bit (0-65535 greyscale) A/D | |
| Full Well Capacity (1×1, 2×2, 3×3) | 51ke- 75ke- or above in extended full well mode |
|
| Full Frame Rate | USB3.0 Port: Full Resolution 6.8FPS @8BIT 6FPS @16BIT 2048lines 13.6FPS @8BIT 11.5FPS@16BIT 1080lines 25.4FPS @8BIT 19.5FPS@16BIT 768lines 35FPS @8BIT 25FPS@16BIT 480lines 50FPS @8BIT 34FPS@16BIT |
|
| Readout Noise | 1.1e- High Gain,
3.5e- Low Gain (5.3e- to 7.4e- in extended full well mode) |
|
| Dark Current | -20C,0.0005e /pixel/sec
-10C,0.001e /pixel/sec |
|
| Exposure Time Range | 30us-3600sec | |
| Recommend Gain* | 30 (PH Mode,or Extended Full Well Mode)
56 (High Gain Mode) *With the improvement of the CMOS technology, For these 16bit CMOS cameras, even in lowest gain it has beyond the requirement of unit gain (less than 1e/ADU due to sufficient samples). Learn more at the “Readout Modes” part of this page. |
|
| Amp Control | Zero Amplifer Glow | |
| Firmware/FPGA remote Upgrade | Fully support via Camera USB port | |
| Shutter Type | Electronic Shutter | |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 | |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 1GByte DDR3 Memory | |
| Cooling System | Two-stage TEC cooler
Less than 1S lower than ambient temperature -30C in continuous mode More than 1S continuous mode or lower than ambient temperature -35C in single frame mode (Test temperature +20°) |
|
| Optic Window Type | AR+AR High Quality Multi-Layer Anti-Reflection Coating | |
| Anti-Dew Heater | Yes | |
| Humidity Sensor* | Yes | No |
| Telescope Interface | Support M54 or M48 (Combined with adapters ) | Support M54 or M48 (Combined with adapters ) |
| Back Focal Length | QHY268M: 12.5mm* *If companied with the QHY filter wheel, the BFL consumed is counted as 12.5mm. The actual BFL (the intercept from the CMOS chip to the top of the camera) is 14.3mm (±0.3). Since most users will match CFW with monochrome cams, please take 12.5mm as major reference. |
QHY268C: 14.3mm(±0.3)*
*Since 2023, the top part of QHY268C is the same as 268M. |
| Weigth | About 810g | About 810g |
Camera Curves
The QHY294 Pro is a 4/3-inch back-illuminated camera, equipped with Sony IMX294 (Color) and IMX 492 (Mono) sensor. The 294 Pro has 11.7 MP at 4.63um, 14-bits A/D. The IMX294 and IMX492 chips have 46.8 million 2.315um pixels, which Sony 2×2 bins on-chip to create the sensor’s advertised 11.7 million 4.63um pixel array. The QHY294 Pro series camera is capable of locking and unlocking the on-chip binning to provide two readout modes. The first mode reads the sensor “locked” mode to produce 11.6mp images with 4.63um pixel size and 14 bits per pixel. The second read mode unlocks the binning to produce 46.8mp images with 2.315um pixel size at 12 bits per pixel.
The QHY294 Pro CMOS sensor has a dual gain mode, HGC (high gain) and LGC (Low gain). The QHY294 Pro will switch the two modes automatically when the gain is set to 1600 you will get the benefits of the ultra low read noise (1e- to 1.6e-) of the HGC mode and a full well capacity of about 14.5ke- at the switch point setting.
One benefit of the back-illuminated CMOS structure is improved full well capacity. In a typical front-illuminated sensor, photons from the target entering the photosensitive layer of the sensor must first pass through the metal wiring that is embedded just above the photosensitive layer. The wiring structure reflects some of the photons and reduces the efficiency of the sensor.
In the back- illuminated sensor the light is allowed to enter the photosensitive surface from the reverse side. In this case the sensor’s embedded wiring structure is below the photosensitive layer. As a result, more incoming photons strike the photosensitive layer and more electrons are generated and captured in the pixel well. This ratio of photon to electron production is called quantum efficiency. The higher the quantum efficiency the more efficient the sensor is at converting photons to electrons and hence the more sensitive the sensor is to capturing an image of something dim.
In the DSLR implementation there is a RAW image output, but typically it is not completely RAW. Some evidence of noise reduction and hot pixel removal is still visible on close inspection. This can have a negative effect on the image for astronomy such as the “star eater” effect. However, QHY Cameras offer TRUE RAW IMAGE OUTPUT and produces an image comprised of the original signal only, thereby maintaining the maximum flexibility for post-acquisition astronomical image processing programs and other scientific imaging applications.
Based on almost 20-year cooled camera design experience, The QHY cooled camera has implemented the fully dew control solutions. The optic window has built-in dew heater and the chamber is protected from internal humidity condensation. An electric heating board for the chamber window can prevent the formation of dew and the sensor itself is kept dry with our silicon gel tube socket design for control of humidity within the sensor chamber.
Cooling
In addition to dual stage TE cooling, QHYCCD implements proprietary technology in hardware to control the dark current noise.
| Model | QHY294M Pro |
| COMS Sensor | SONY IMX492 (MONO) |
| Mono/Color | Mono only
(QHY294C Discontinued in 2022) |
| FSI/BSI | BSI |
| Pixel Size | 4.63um*4.63um |
| Effective Pixel Area | 4164*2796 |
| Effective Pixels | 11.7MP
46.8MP(Extended Pixel Mode) |
| Sensor Size | 4/3 inch
19.28mm*12.95mm |
| AD Sample Depth | 14bit |
| Fullwell | 65ke- |
| Full Frame Rate | Standard 11.6mega pixel mode
4164*2796 16.5FPS@14BIT 2160lines(eg.4164*2160,4096*2160) 21FPS 1080lines(eg.4164*2160,1920*2160) 41FPS 960lines(eg.4164*960,1280*960) 46FPS 768lines(eg.4164*768,1024*768) 56FPS 480lines(eg.4164*480,640*480) 87FPS 240lines(eg.4164*240,320*240) 156FPS 100lines(eg.4164*100,240*100) 290FPS
“Unlock” 47mega pixel mode 8340*5644 4FPS@14BIT and 8BIT
*Note:QHYCCD has optimized the cmos drive freqency and limit the max frame rate. The CMOS sensor may not work under the maxium frequency to ensure the better noise performance. If you need the customized higher frame rate version please contact QHYCCD. |
| Readout Noise | 1.6-1.2e- High gain mode
6.9-5.2e- Low gain mode |
| Dark Current | 0.002e/pixel/sec @-20C 0.005e/pixel/sec @-10C |
| Exposure Time Range | 60us-3600sec |
| Unity Gain | 1600 (11MP Mode)
2600 (47MP Mode) |
| Hardware Anti-Glow Reduction | Yes. Can reduce the amp glow of the sensor in long exposure. |
| Shutter Type | Electric Rolling Shutter |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 256MByte DDR3 Memory |
| Cooling System | Dual Stage TEC cooler(about -35C below ambient) |
| Optic Window Type | AR+AR High Quality Multi-Layer Anti-Reflection Coating |
| Anti-Dew Heater | Yes |
| Telescope Interface | M42/0.75 |
| Back Focal Length | 17.5mm |
| Weigth | 650g |
Multiple Readout Modes
Multiple Readout Modes are special for QHY 16-bit Cameras (QHY600/268/461/411). Different readout modes have different driver timing, etc., and result in different performance. See details at “Multiple Readout Modes and Curves” Part.
Random change thermal noise suppression function
You may find some types of thermal noise can change with time in some back-illuminated CMOS cameras. This thermal noises has the characteristic of the fixed position of typical thermal noise, but the value is not related to the exposure time. Instead, each frame appears to have its own characteristics. The QHY600/268/461/411 use an innovative suppression technology that can significantly reduce the apparent level of such noise.
UVLO Protection
UVLO(Under Voltage Locking) is to protect the electronic device from damage caused by abnormally low voltages.
Our daily life experience tells us that the actual operational voltage of an electrical device must not significantly exceed the rated voltage, otherwise it will be damaged. For such precision equipment as cameras, long-term work at too low input voltage can also be detrimental to the working life of the camera, and may even make some devices, such as power manager, burn up due to long-term overload. In the all-in-one driver and SDK after 2021.10.23 stable version, the camera will give a warning when the input voltage of the camera is below 11V.
Optimizing USB Traffic to Minimize Horizontal Banding
It is common behavior for a CMOS sensor to contain some horizontal banding. Normally, random horizontal banding can be removed with multiple frame stacking so it does not affect the final image. However, periodic horizontal banding is not removed with stacking so it may appear in the final image. By adjust the USB traffic in Single Frame mode or Live Frame mode, you can adjust the frequency of the CMOS sensor driver and it can optimize the horizontal banding appeared on the image. This optimized is very effective to remove the periodic banding in some conditions.
A typical Periodic Horizontal Noise under certain USB_TRAFFIC values.
After Adjusting the USB Traffic to avoid the periodic horizontal noise.
Reboot the camera by power off and on
The camera is designed to use the +12V to reboot the camera without disconnecting and reconnecting the USB interface. This means that you can reboot the camera simply by shutting down the +12V and then powering it back on. This feature is very handy for remote controlling the camera in an observatory. You can use a remotely controlled power supply to reboot the camera. There is no need to consider how to reconnect the USB in the case of remote control.
Specifications
| Model | QHY461PH |
| Image Sensor | SONY IMX461 BSI CMOS Sensor |
| Pixel Size | 3.76um x 3.76um |
| Color / Mono Version | Mono Only |
| Image Resolution | 11760 × 8896 |
| Effective Pixels | 102 Megapixels |
| Effective Image Area | 44mm x 33mm |
| Sensor Surface Glass | AR+AR Multi-Coating Clear Glass |
| Full Well Capacity (1×1, 2×2, 3×3) | 50ke- / 200ke- / 450ke- in Standard Mode 80ke- / 320ke- / 720ke- in Extend Full Well Mode |
| A/D | 16-bit (0-65535 greyscale) for 1X1Binning18bit in 2X2 19BIT in 3X3 20BIT in 4*4 software Binning |
| Sensor Size | TYPICAL 3.4inch |
| Read Noise | 1e to 3.7e (in HGC mode) |
| Dark Current | Approx 0.003e/pixel/sec @ -20C |
| Exposure Time Range | 50us – 3600sec |
| Frame Rate | 2.7FPS @ 8BIT 1.3FPS@16BIT on USB3.0 2.7FPS @ 16BIT 6FPS @ 14BIT on 10Gigabit Fiber |
| Shutter Type | Electric Rolling Shutter |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 |
| Filter Wheel Interface | 4PIN QHYCCD CFW Port |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 1GByte DDR3 Buffer |
| Cooling System | Dual Stage TEC cooler(-35C below ambient with air cooling). |
| Anti-Dew Heater | Yes |
| Telescope Interface | – |
| Optic Window Type | AR+AR High Quality Multi-Layer Anti-Reflection Coating |
| Back Focal Length | 32.5mm |
Camera Curves
BSI
One benefit of the back-illuminated CMOS structure is improved full well capacity. This is particularly helpful for sensors with small pixels like the QHY533 Colour. In a typical front-illuminated sensor, photons from the target entering the photosensitive layer of the sensor must first pass through the metal wiring that is embedded just above the photosensitive layer. The wiring structure reflects some of the photons and reduces the efficiency of the sensor.
In the back- illuminated sensor the light is allowed to enter the photosensitive surface from the reverse side. In this case the sensor’s embedded wiring structure is below the photosensitive layer. As a result, more incoming photons strike the photosensitive layer and more electrons are generated and captured in the pixel well. This ratio of photon to electron production is called quantum efficiency. The higher the quantum efficiency the more efficient the sensor is at converting photons to electrons and hence the more sensitive the sensor is to capturing an image of something dim.
TRUE RAW Data
In the DSLR implementation there is a RAW image output, but typically it is not completely RAW. Some evidence of noise reduction and hot pixel removal is still visible on close inspection. This can have a negative effect on the image for astronomy such as the “star eater” effect. However, QHY Cameras offer TRUE RAW IMAGE OUTPUT and produces an image comprised of the original signal only, thereby maintaining the maximum flexibility for post-acquisition astronomical image processing programs and other scientific imaging applications.
Based on almost 20-year cooled camera design experience, The QHY cooled camera has implemented the fully dew control solutions. The optic window has built-in dew heater and the chamber is protected from internal humidity condensation. An electric heating board for the chamber window can prevent the formation of dew and the sensor itself is kept dry with our silicon gel tube socket design for control of humidity within the sensor chamber.
In addition to dual stage TE cooling, QHYCCD implements proprietary technology in hardware to control the dark current noise.
Amplify Control
Compare last generation’s astrocam for beginners, like QHY183 or QHY 163, QHY533M has much better amplify control.
QHY533M Dark Frame, 300s
QHY183M Dark Frame, 300s
QHY533M Dark frame
600s, with highest gain (170) and strech–only very slight amplify can be detected at the corner.
| Model | QHY533M | QHY533C |
| COMS Sensor | SONY IMX533 M | SONY IMX533 C |
| Mono/Color | Mono | Color |
| FSI/BSI | BSI | |
| Pixel Size | 3.76um x 3.76um | |
| Effective Pixel Area | 3008*3028 (includes the optically black area and overscan area) | |
| Effective Pixels | 9MP | |
| Sensor Size | 1 inch | |
| A/D Sample Depth
|
Native 14-bit A/D | |
| Full Well Capacity (1×1, 2×2, 3×3) | 58ke- | |
| Full Frame Rate | USB3.0 Port: Full Resolution 26.5FPS @8BIT 20FPS @16BIT2160Lines 37FPS @8BIT 28.5FPS@16BIT1080Lines 71.5FPS @8BIT 55FPS @16BIT768Lines 97FPS @8BIT 76FPS @16BIT480Lines 152FPS @8BIT 117FPS @16BIT240Lines 280FPS @8BIT 215FPS@16BIT |
|
| Readout Noise | 1.3 to 3.4e- | |
| Dark Current | -20C,0.0005e- /pixel/sec | |
| Exposure Time Range | 30us-3600sec | |
| Unity Gain | 68 | |
| Shutter Type | Electronic Shutter | |
| Computer Interface | USB3.0 | |
| Built-in Image Buffer | 1Gbyte DDR3 Memory | |
| Cooling System | Two-stage TEC cooler
Less than 1S lower than ambient temperature -30C in continuous mode More than 1S continuous mode or lower than ambient temperature -35C in single frame mode (Test temperature +20°) |
|
| Optic Window Type | AR+AR High Quality Multi-Layer Anti-Reflection Coating | |
| Anti-Dew Heater | Yes | |
| Telescope Interface | – | Support M48 (with adapter) |
| Back Focal Length | Actual Back Focal Consumed: 14 mm (Combined with CFW)
Standard BFL: 17.5mm(±0.5) |
17mm |
| Weight | 845g | 845g |
Showing 1050/2027
Explore Related Collections
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
- Opens in a new window.