Product Description

ASI294MC Pro

The ASI294 is the first camera in the world equipped with the latest Sony sensor IMX294CJK.

DDR Memory Buffer

The ASI294MC Pro camera includes a 256MB DDR3 memory buffer to help improve data transfer reliability. Additionally, the use of a memory buffer minimizes amp-glow, which is caused by the slow transfer speeds when the camera is used with a USB 2.0 port.

DDR memory buffer is the main difference between ASI “Cool” and “Pro” cameras.

14bit ADC w/ 13 stops DR

The ASI294 has a 14bit ADC unit, allowing it to achieve 13 stops of dynamic range. This is an excellent characteristic for deep sky imaging, which is inherently high dynamic range. At 13 stops, the ASI294 has even more dynamic range than the ASI1600.

HCG Mode

HCG (high conversion gain) mode, which reduces read noise to even lower levels at higher gain without loss to dynamic range, is automatically enabled when the gain setting is 120 or higher. Read noise will drop under 2e-, while dynamic range will remain at 13 stops.

Full well Capacity

63700e full well, which is 3 times than ASI1600’s capacity. Even bright stars won’t saturate under long exposure.

This camera can achieve higher SNR(signal to noise ratio) with just one single exposure.

Reliable Mechanics

ASI294MC Pro has same mechanics as ASI1600 Pro. There are four screws that seal the sensor chamber. Our camera design has been extensively tested and is very stable.

Even when used in higher humidity environments, ASI294MC Pro will still work fine without dew problems.

High QE

The IMX294 sensor is a BSI (backside illuminated type) sensor, which has very high QE (quantum efficiency, which we estimate is over 75% peak).

Dark Current

The dark current of the ASI294 is slightly higher than the ASI1600, based on our test results.

Dark frame sample @ Highest dynamic range settings, 300s, -10°C, bin1. Please check the dark frame to make sure you fully know the performance.

ASI294MC Pro Dark Frame

USB 3.0 Port & USB2.0 HUB

USB 3.0 Port: Provide 5Gb bandwidth to make it possible for ASI294 Pro to run at 16 fps (14bit, normal mode) or 19 fps (10bit, high speed mode) at full resolution(11.7Mega).

Recommended cooler power supply: 12V @ 3-5A (or more) DC adapter (2.1×5.5mm, center pole positive). Also suitable: DC battery with 9-15V. Buy the power supply from Bintel too!

Using a battery 9-15V is also suitable for the cooler power supply.

USB 2.0 HUB: can connect with various accessories, such as filter wheel, guide camera and electronic focuser, so you can better manage your cables. The ASI294 Pro includes two short 0.5m USB 2.0 cables. The integrated USB 2.0 hub is powered by the external power source if you connect one.

Cooling System

The ASI294 Pro has a 2-stage TEC cooling system that enables deep cooling (35°C-40°C below ambient). The cooler requires an external power supply, which is not included with the camera. You may order a suitable power supply from Bintel here.

Connecting Drawing

1. M43-T2 adapter (optional)

2. EOS-T2 adapter (optional)

3. 2” Filter (optional)

4. 1.25” T-Mount

5. 1.25” Filter (optional)

6. M42-1.25” adapter

7. T2 extender 11mm

Mechanical Drawing

What is in the box?

ASI294 Pro box includes all necessary cables, adapters, and manuals.

Notice：Cooled cameras need a 12v power adapter, If you don’t have one, please click this link to buy a 12V power adapter. There are 4 different standards for the different country, please choose it carefully.

Drivers and Softwares:

The ZWO website is always updated with the most recent camera drivers as well as software for DSO and planetary imaging. Please make sure the most recent drivers and software from the ZWO website has been installed before you start shooting:

It is also recommended to read the manuals first before shooting.

Product review:

https://www.cloudynights.com/topic/591441-asi-new-camera-294-pro-beta-testing/page-11#entry8165708

Camera Technical Details

Cooling & Power

Environmental Conditions

Max FPS at Full Resolution

Additional resolutions are available in software and support custom resolution selection.

ZWO ASI533MC-Pro

ASI 533MC-P is the new One Shot Colour cameras from ZWO.

Sensor is the square back illuminated Sony ExMor IMX533 sensor.

Resolution is 3008 x 3008 with 3.76um pixels.

The sensor size is 11.31mm x 11.31mm for 9.07Mp.

Max FPS at Full Resolution is 20FPS.

Read Noise is very low at 1.0e to 3.83e

QE peak up to 80%

Full Well is 50Ke

Exposure Range is 32us – 2000s

ADC 14bit

Cooling to -40 ° ambient temperature.

256MB internal DDR3 memory

The ASI533MC PRO features SONY’s latest back illuminated IMX533 sensor, with a 1-inch square, 9.07MP sensor that is ideal for astronomical photography needs and can be considered as the latest iteration of the venerable ASI183MC Pro.

As you would expect this latest generation camera not only retains key features of the ASI183 series such as an attractive QE figure, high frame rate and along with other excellent characteristics of the ASI183 cameras, but also now includes new and improved features such as zero amp glow, extreme low read out noise (as low as 1.0e), 3.76 microns pixel size and an improved 2 stage TEC cooler giving enhanced cooling capabilities.

1” square sensor

The IMX533 is a 1-inch, 9MP CMOS image sensor in a square format with a 3.76 um pixel size, capable of producing frames at 20 frames/sec in 14bit mode.

Read out noise is as low as 1.0e which makes it comparable to SCMOS or EMCCD sensors and highly suitable for high definition, low noise imaging.

IMX533 backlit sensor

Sony’s back-illuminated CMOS image sensor improves sensitivity and noise reduction – the key factors to enhancing image quality, while radically realigning their fundamental pixel structure from front-illumination to back-illumination. It has retained the advantages of CMOS image sensors such as low power consumption and high-speed operation.

With a conventional front-illumination structure, the metal wiring and transistors on the surface of the silicon substrate that form the sensor’s light-sensitive area (photo-diode) impede photon gathering carried out by the on-chip lens. A back-illuminated structure minimizes the degradation of sensitivity to optical angle response, while also increasing the amount of light that enters each pixel due to the lack of obstacles such as metal wiring and transistors that have been moved to the reverse of the silicon substrate.
Sony has newly developed a unique photo-diode structure and on-chip lens optimized for back-illuminated structures, that achieves a higher sensitivity and a lower random noise without light by reducing noise, dark current and defect pixels compared to the conventional front-illuminated structure.

Camera Performance

Low read-out noise, high dynamic range.

ASI533MC Pro – ASI183MC Pro Comparision

The NEW ZWO ASI 662MC One Shot Color Camera with High Sensitivity

The new ZWO ASI 662MC adopts the Sony IMX662 sensor, has a rolling shutter, a frame size of 1/2.8", and a pixel size of 2.9um, and has 2.07million pixels (1920 x 1080). In high-speed mode, the CMOS sensor can output 102.6 frames per second at full resolution and provide a low read noise level.

Large Full Well capacity, not easy to overexposure

The ZWO ASI 662MC adopts the Sony 662MC sensor with the latest technology. Compared to the previous generation of sensors, it has a very low readout noise and extremely large full well capacity which is 3 times larger than that of the IMX462MC. This helps effectively with overexposure issues and allows longer exposure s. In low light conditions, the camera performs excellently, capturing very clear images of celestial objects.

STARVIS 2

ZWO ASI 662MC adopts the latest Sony IMX662 sensor with advanced STARVIS 2 technology. Featuring zero amp glow, higher sensitivity to red and Near Infrared (NIR) light, 3 times the full well capacity. it can be regarded as an upgrade of the ASI462MC. Also, its dark current noise is several times lower than the ASI462MC.

USB3.0 and 256M DDR Memory

The camera is equipped with a USB 3.0 transmission interface and a built-in 256MB DDR cache to ensure stable and secure data transmission. Under long exposure, it effectively avoids frame dropping and greatly reduces the glow effect caused by slow reading speed.

No Amp Glow

ZWO ASI 662MC exhibits zero amp glow, no matter how long the exposure and how high the gain value is. Since it is implemented directly at the hardware level, it does not require software control.

300 Second exposure with ASI 462MC

300 Second exposure with ASI662MC

Quantum Efficiency

The QE curve and noise readout are very important parameters to measure the camera's performance. Higher QE and lower readout noise are necessary to improve the image signal-to-noise ratio.

Camera Curve low read noise, high dynamic range

Readout noise includes pixel noise, circuit noise, and ADC quantization noise. The lower the readout noise, the better. As can be seen, the readout noise of the ZWO ASI 662MC is very low compared to CCD camera. The built-in HCG mode can effectively reduce the readout noise at high gain and allow the camera to maintain the same high dynamic range as it does at low gain. When the gain is 252, the HCG mode is automatically tuned on and the dynamic range rises back to 12-bit.

What's in the box

ASI183MC Pro

Introducing the ASI183 camera series, the most sensitive cameras in ZWO history. Peak Q.E. of the mono sensor reaches 84%!

DDR Memory Buffer

The ASI183 Pro camera includes a 256MB DDR3 memory buffer to help improve data transfer reliability. Additionally, the use of a memory buffer minimizes amp-glow, which is caused by the slow transfer speeds when the camera is used with a USB 2.0 port.

Astrophotography Performance

The ASI183 cameras has a very large full well capacity（15000e） for such small pixel size, 1.6e read noise @ 30DB, and 12stops dynamic range @ Gain=0. The ASI183 cameras also utilize firmware features to minimize amplifier glow for maximum performance in astrophotography.

Reliable Mechanics

ASI183 Pro has same mechanics as ASI1600 Pro. There are four screws that seal the sensor chamber. Our camera design has been extensively tested and is very stable.

Even when used in higher humidity environments, ASI183 Pro will still work fine without dew problems.

High Speed

Fast FPS can be used in solar and lunar imaging, as well as for live viewing/EAA.The high speed readout may also be used for real-time focusing, true lucky imaging of double stars and other small objects, planetary imaging of the major planets in the solar system, and much more.

10Bit ADC
5496×3672 19fps
3840×2160 41.04fps
1920×1080 80.10fps
1280×720 117.30fps
12bit ADC
5496×3672 19fps
3840×2160 36.12fps
1920×1080 70.48fps
1280×720 103.23fps

High QE

Sony’s back-illuminated Exmor R technology, giving it excellent Deep Sky performance. ASI183 QE peak reaches a remarkable 84%. In Ha channel, QE is still over 60%.

Having high QE means more of the light that enters your telescope and reaches the sensor is actually used. With 84% peak Q.E. and no less than ~50% within the visible spectrum, the ASI183 will utilize a high percentage of the light that reaches it, improving your signal quality.

Dark Current

The dark current of the ASI183 is extremely low, based on our test results.

USB 3.0 Port & USB2.0 HUB

USB 3.0 Port: Provide 5Gb bandwidth to make it possible for ASI183 Pro to run at 19 fps (12bit, normal mode) or 19 fps (10bit, high speed mode) at full resolution(20.18Mega).

Recommended cooler power supply: 12V @ 3-5A (or more) DC adapter (2.1×5.5mm, center pole positive). Also suitable: DC battery with 9-15V.

Using a battery with 9-15V is also suitable for the cooler power supply.

USB 2.0 HUB: can connect with various accessories, such as filter wheel, guide camera and electronic focuser, so you can better manage your cables. The ASI183 Pro includes two short 0.5m USB 2.0 cables. The integrated USB 2.0 hub is powered by the external power source if you connect one.

Cooling System

The ASI183 Pro has a 2-stage TEC cooling system that enables deep cooling (40°C-45°C below ambient). The cooler requires an external power supply, which is not included with the camera.

Connecting Drawing

1. M43-T2 adapter

2. EOS-T2 adapter

3. 2”Filter (optional)

4. 1.25” T-Mount

5. 1.25” Filter (optional)

6. M42-1.25” adapter (optional)

7. T2 extender 11mm

Mechanical Drawing

What is in the box?

ASI183 Pro box includes all necessary cables, adapters, and manuals.

Camera Specifications

Cooling & Power

Environmental Conditions

Max FPS at Full Resolution (10-bit ADC)

Max FPS at Full Resolution (12-bit ADC)

Astronomical OSC camera with large full well capacity
ASI585MC

ASI585MC adopts Sony IMX585 CMOS sensor. As one of ZWO's latest OSC planetary cameras, it features a large sensor format of 1/1.2", a high resolution of 3840*2160, and a surprisingly amazing characteristic of ZERO AMP GLOW! The pixel size is 2.9um*2.9um. In 12-bit mode, it produces 46.9 FPS with super low readout noise!

8.29MP Senor

ASI585MC has the same pixel size of the ASI462MC at 2.9um, but its resolution is 4 times that of ASI462MC, which is a total of 8.29 megapixels. The sensor size is 11.13*6.26mm, and the diagonal length is 12.84mm. The 1/1.2" large sensor format makes it very suitable for solar and lunar imaging. It can also be used as an all-sky camera or live camera to observe and monitor cloud cover, rain, meteors and other weather conditions.

STARVIS 2

ASI585MC adopts the Latest SONY IMX585 sensor with STARVIS 2 technology. Featuring zero amp glow, lower dark current noise, and 3 times larger full well capacity, this camera is regarded as an upgrade of ASI485MC. It is also more sensitive to red, green and near infrared (NIR) lights compared to ASI485MC, especially in >850nm wavelength range, its light sensitivity is 1.5 times greater than ASI485MC.

Upgraded Model

The ASI585MC is an upgraded camera to the ASI485MC. Compared with the ASI485MC, it has the characteristics of a larger full well depth and no amp glow.
Model

Large Full Well Depth

Thanks to the back-illuminated sensor structure and advanced pixel technology, the camera has very low readout noise and a large full well depth. Especially in low light conditions, the camera performs excellent, capturing very clear images of celestial objects.

Camera Curve

Low read noise, high dynamic range

The camera has a built-in HCG mode, which can effectively reduce readout noise at high gain and allow the camera to maintain the same high dynamic range as it does low gain. When the gain is 252, the HCG mode is automatically turned on and the Dynamic range reaches a level close to 12bit. 

The readout noise is as low as 1.5.

aintain the same high dynamic range as it does at low gain. When the gain is 150, the HCG mode is automatically turned on and the dynamic range reaches a level close to 12bit. The readout noise is as low as 0.8e.

The ASI183MC, ZWO's most sensitive camera to date with a peak absolute Q.E. of 84% in mono made possible by a back illuminated sensor.

Introducing the ASI183 camera series, the most sensitivie cameras in ZWO history. Peak Q.E. of the mono sensor reaches 84%!

Astrophotography Performance

The ASI183 cameras has a very large full well capacity（15000e） for such small pixel size, 1.6e read noise @ 30DB, and 12stops dynamic range @ Gain=0. The ASI183 cameras also utilize firmware features to minimize amplifier glow for maximum performance in astrophotography.

High Speed

Fast FPS can be used in solar and lunar imaging, as well as for live viewing/EAA.The high speed readout may also be used for real-time focusing, true lucky imaging of double stars and other small objects, planetary imaging of the major planets in the solar system, and much more.

10Bit ADC
5496×3672 19fps
3840×2160 41.04fps
1920×1080 80.10fps
1280×720 117.30fps
12bit ADC
5496×3672 19fps
3840×2160 36.12fps
1920×1080 70.48fps
1280×720 103.23fps

High QE

Sony’s back-illuminated Exmor R technology, giving it excellent Deep Sky performance. ASI183 QE peak reaches a remarkable 84%. In Ha channel, QE is still over 60%.

Having high QE means more of the light that enters your telescope and reaches the sensor is actually used. With 84% peak Q.E. and no less than ~50% within the visible spectrum, the ASI183 will utilize a high percentage of the light that reaches it, improving your signal quality.

USB 3.0 Port & ST4 Port

USB 3.0 Port: Provide 5Gb bandwidth to make it possible for ASI183 to run at 19 fps (12bit, normal mode) or 19 fps (10bit, high speed mode) at full resolution(20.18Mega).

ST4 Port: Can be used connect with auto guide port of mount, for guiding.

ASI 183MC Instruction Manual

Mechanical Drawing

What is in the box?

ASI183 box includes all necessary cables, adapters, and manuals.

Camera Technical Details

Environmental Conditions

Max FPS at Full Resolution (10-bit ADC)

Max FPS at Full Resolution (12-bit ADC)

ASI585MC Pro is a new ZWO deep sky camera based on the 4k SONY CMOS sensor with a 1/1.2″ format and 2.9μm pixels. It has a super high sensitivity and a large resolution of 3840*2160 (8.29MP in total). It also features high transmission speeds – In high-speed mode, the fast frame rate can reach 47fps at full resolution! Being an entry-level DSO camera, it offers great advantages of high cost-effectiveness.

Note:

External power supplies are needed for all ASl-cooled cameras. We recommend you use a 12V@3A~5A DC adapter (D5.5×2.1mm, center pole positive) or a lithium battery with 11-14V to power the camera. You can also use ASIAlR to power the cameras. Be aware that using a power supply out of this voltage range will probably lead to irreparable damage to the camera.

One Camera for All

The STARVIS 2 technology brings ASI585MC Pro more advanced imaging performance compared to other cooled cameras. Its high frame rate makes it not only suitable for DSO photography but also solar/lunar/planetary photography.

Jupiter -Jim Rivera

Moon -Christopher Schementi

NGC3372 ( eta Carina) -Simon Lewis

M42, NGC 1976 (Great Orion Nebula) -Simon Lewis

STARVIS 2

STARVIS 2 was developed by SONY and evolved from STARVIS. It is the latest technology with a wider dynamic range and super-high sensitivity beyond the human eye. Benefiting from it, ASI585MC Pro’s sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio is greatly improved.

Large Full Well Capacity

The back-illuminated structure improves the camera’s full well capacity. Even with unbinned 2.9μm pixels, ASI585MC Pro has a full well capacity of 40ke-, nearly 3 times that of the last-generation sensor IMX485. A larger full well capacity gets the camera higher efficiency in collecting light, can effectively restrain the highlight area from being overexposed, and also can improve the signal-to-noise ratio.

Zero Amp Glow

ASI585MC Pro exhibits extremely clean dark frames with zero amp glow! No matter how long the exposure and how high the gain value is, you can easily get clean and smooth astro images!

Note: This feature is implemented directly at the hardware level, it does not require software control.

512MB DDR3

ASI585MC Pro uses a USB 3.0 interface, along with the built-in 512MB DDR3 cache, ensuring high-speed, smooth, and stable data transmission.

USB 3.0 Port & USB 2.0 HUB

USB 3.0 Port: Provides 5Gb bandwidth to allow ASI585MC Pro to run at 47fps at 8.29MP full resolution (10bit, high-speed mode).
USB 2.0 HUB: Can be used to connect various kinds of USB devices such as EFW, guide camera, and EAF.

Two-stage TEC Cooling

Thanks to the two-stage TEC cooling, ASI585MC Pro can lower the CMOS sensor temperature to more than 35 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature, which can greatly reduce dark current generation and sensor noise even during extended exposure times.

*The Delta T 35℃ is tested at 30℃ ambient temperature. It might get down when the cooling system is working for a long time. Also, as the ambient temperature falls, the Delta T would decrease.

Below is the dark current curve of ASI585MC Pro at the temperature from -20℃ to 30℃.

Camera Performance

Low read noise, High dynamic range

The camera has a built-in HCG mode, which can effectively reduce read noise at high gain and allow the camera to maintain the same high dynamic range as it does at low gain.

When the gain reaches 252, the HCG mode will be automatically turned on and the dynamic range reaches a level close to 11bit. The read noise in this case can be as low as 0.9e.

QE (Quantum efficiency)

Based on our testing results, the QE peak value of ASI585MC Pro is 91%.

Connection Methods (Back Focus Distance: 55mm)

Connection to External Devices

Structural Dimension Diagram

In the Box

ZWO ASI585MC Pro is a perfect match for either of these APO telescopes

ZWO ASI6781MC

ZWO ASI678MC adopts Sony's Latest generation sensor IMX678 with excellent near-infrared response. With the advantages of Large full well capacity, high dynamic range and low readout noise, this camera has been tested and found to have perfect performance in planetary imaging, solar and lunar imaging.

Clear in low light

Thanks to the back-illuminated sensor structure and advanced pixel techno[ogy, the camera has very low readout noise and an ultra-high sensitivity. Especially in Low light conditions, the camera performs very well and is able to capture very clear images of celestial objects.

STARVIS 2

ZWO ASI678MC can be regarded as an upgrade of ASI178MC. It adopts the latest SONY IMX678 sensor with advanced STARVIS 2 technology. Compared to ASI178MC, this camera features zero amp glow, lower readout noise and higher sensitivity. The dark current noise is greatly decreased; the performance of near-infrared is greatly improved.

USB 3.0 & 256M DDR3 Memory

The camera is equipped with a USB 3.0 transmission interface and a built-in 256MB DDR3 cache to ensure stable and secure data transmission. Under Long exposure, it effectively avoids frame dropping and greatly reduces the glow effect caused by slow reading speed.

Upgraded Model

The ZWO ASI678MC is an upgraded product of the ASI178MC. Compared to the ASI178MC, the ASI678MC has lower read noise, lower dark noise, and no amp glow.

No Amp Glow

ZWO ASI678MC exhibits zero amp glow, no matter how long the exposure and how high the gain value is. Since it is implemented directly at the hardware level, it does not require software control.

HCG Mode

The camera has a built-in I-ICG mode, which can effectively reduce readout noise at high gain. This allows the camera to maintain the same high dynamic range as it does at [ow gain. When the gain is 182, the I-ICG mode is automatically turned on. The readout noise is as low as 0.8e, and the dynamic range can still reach a level close to 12bit.

Quantum Efficiency

The QE curve and readout noise are very important parameters to measure the camera's performance. Higher QE and tower readout noise are necessary to improve the image signal-to-noise ratio.

Dark Current Noise

ASI678MC has much lower dark current noises than ASI178, bringing it has better image signal-to-noise ratios. If we compare the darks frames captured with these two cameras, it can be easily found that the frame from ASI678 has much Less noise and rooks much smoother.

Instruction Manual

SKU: ZWO-ASI678MC

The ASI2600 Duo CMOS Camera combines imaging and guiding sensor in one compact body. The main sensor is the Sony IMX571 coming with a native 16bit ADC, 14stops dynamic range and 3.76um square pixel array. The readout noise is as low as 1.0e, and the full well capacity reaches an incredible level of 80ke. And it has no amp glow!

The guide sensor is the Type 1/1.8 SC2210 with excellent NIR sensitivity. The sensor size is 7.68mm x 4.32mm. It has 4umx4um pixels with an array of 1920x1080 and a full depth of 8780e.

The stars on the corner of the guide images affected by reducers back focus distance might not be very round. It is not due to the sensor tilt and will not affect normal use.

Please note that external power supplies are required for all ZWO ASI cooled cameras. Contact BINTEL for the correct power supply or advice to suit your ZWO camera.

Two-in-one design

Thanks to the compact design, the ASI2600MC Duo only needs one USB cable for control. It reduces potential cabling issues and improves setup speeds. You don’t need a separate OAG and guide camera.

Tilt Adjustment from Rear（Optional）

The 3 points from the rear make tilt adjustment much easier without the trouble of removing the tilt plate from the camera.

Performance improvement comparison

Guide sensor

The SC2210 sensor taken from the ASI220MM Mini camera features very high sensitivity. The QE peak value reaches 92% at 500nm. The readout noise is as low as 0.6e. As the new generation of guide sensor, it has achieved great results in guiding, proved by hundreds of astrophotographers.

Main sensor

The main sensor IMX571 features an APS-C format and 26MP total pixels. The size is 23.5mm in width x 15.7mm in height, and the diagonal is 28.3mm. The 3.76um x 3.76um small pixel size accommodates an impressive full depth of 50ke. With the new hardware technology, it is even extended to 80ke.

STARVIS technology

ASI2600 Duo CMOS Camera is based on Sony STARVIS technology. Sony’s back-illuminated CMOS image sensor improves sensitivity and noise reduction – the key factors to enhancing image quality.

Camera performance

Native 16bit ADC

This 16-bit ADC is not a CCD 16-bit ADC. It can really achieve a dynamic range output of 14stops, which will significantly improve the image sharpness and contrast, and also create smoother and more natural color transitions.

FPS

ASI2600 Duo CMOS Camera’s max FPS in RAW 8 mode at full resolution is 15FPS, which is even quicker compared to ASI2600MC Pro.

Extended full well mode

The full well capacity of ASI2600MC Duo is extended to 80ke, which is 1.6x larger than ASI2600MC Pro.

USB 3.0 & 512MB DDR3 buffer

With the match of USB 3.0 and 512MB DDR3 buffer, ASI2600MCDuo provides stable and secure data transmission that can effectively avoid frame-dropping issues during long exposures.

No amp-glow

Traditional CMOS sensors produce a weak infrared light source during operation quite often seen in the corner of uncalibrated images. It is the tell-tale sign of amp glow. As the ASI2600MM Duo uses zero-amp glow circuitry, you won’t have to worry about amp glow even when using high gain, long exposure imaging.

QE (Quantum efficiency)

Based on our testing results, the QE peak value of ASI2600MC Duo is over 91%.

Two-stage TEC cooling

Thanks to the two-stage TEC cooling, ASI2600MM Duo can lower the CMOS sensor temperature to more than 35 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature, which can greatly reduce dark current generation and sensor noise even during extended exposure times.

*The Delta T 35℃ is tested at 30℃ ambient temperature. It might get downto this when the cooling system is working for a long time. Also, as the ambient temperature falls, the Delta T would decrease.

What’s in the Box

The AS1715MC is a sensitive color camera with a 1/2.8" sensor and 8.46 megapixel resolution. With the Sony STARVIS technology used, this camera has low readout noise (0.72e) and ultra-high sensitivity, making it ideal for astronomical imaging of the planets and smaller
deep-sky objects and also for microscope photography.

High Transmission Speed The camera is equipped with a USB 3.0 transmission interface and a built-in 256MB DDR cache to ensure stable and secure
data transmission.

USB 3.0 Port & ST4 Guide USB 3.0 Port: Provides 5Gb bandwidth to allow AS1715MC to run at
45.1fps (10bit, high speed mode). ST4 Port: Can be used to connect with the auto guide port of mount
for guiding

.

Readout Noise Readout noise includes pixel noise, circuit noise, and ADC quantization noise. The lower the readout noise, the better. As can be seen, the readout noise of ASI715MC is very low. As the gain value goes high, the readout noise goes down.

Quantum Efficiency The QE curve and readout noise are very important parameters to measure the camera's performance. Higher QE and lower readout
noise are necessary to improve the image signal-to-noise ratio. According to our estimation, the QE peak value of ASI715MC is about80%.

Introducing the ASI676MC, the all-sky camera featuring a unique square
1/1.6-inch image sensor and a super high resolution of 12MP! It is perfectly suited for meteor recording and full sky surveillance. The
square format facilitates easier composition, making mosaic stitch simpler and more efficient, and the high resolution brings you clear details of the Sun and our Moon. With this camera, you may start your marvelous journey
to explore the boundless night sky.

Why Square Format?

One of the biggest benefits of AS1676MC's square format is it makes the whole mosaic construction process much easier by eliminating the need to consider the difference between the long and wide
sides of the format during mosaic stitching. Not only that, the square format also makes the AS1676MC more compatible with various types of lenses such as fisheye lenses and wide-angle lenses. Thus,
ASI676MC is more suitable for tasks such as meteor
recording and full sky surveillance.

Starvis 2 Technology

STARVIS is a sensor technology developed by Sony that surpasses the sensitivity of the human eye. STARVIS 2 is an advancement of STARVIS technology,
supporting an even higher dynamic range. With this technology, ASI676MC exhibits lower readout noise and dark current, along with significantly enhanced
sensitivity in the near-infrared spectrum.

No Amp Glow

AS1676MC does not have any amp glow, no matter
how long the exposure and how high the gain value
you set.

256MB DDR3

The camera is equipped with a USB 3.0 transmission interface and a built-in 256MB DDR3
cache to ensure stable and secure data transmission.

Higher QE Lower Readout Noise

The camera has a built-in HCG mode, which can effectively reduce readout noise at high gain. This allows the camera to maintain the same high dynamic range as it does at low gain. When the gain is 180, the HCG mode is automatically turned on. The readout noise is as low as 0.56e, and the dynamic range can still reach a level close to 11stops.

Quantum Efficiency 

The QE curve and readout noise are very important parameters to measure the camera's performance. Higher QE and lower readout noise are necessary to improve the image signal-to-noise ratio. According to our estimation, the QE peak value of ASl676MC is about 83%.

Dark Current Noise

The ASI676MC's lower dark current noise means that the image signal-to-noise ratio is also higher, especially when photographing dark objects, it produces images with better sharpness.

IR-Cut Coated Window

ASI676MC is equipped with an IR-cut coated window in front of the sensor, with a diameter of 21mm and a thickness of 1.1mm. It effectively reduces infrared interference and improves image quality.

Full-Frame Products Comparison

The ASI4400MC Pro is the latest addition to ZWO’s full-frame deep-sky camera lineup.
Positioned between the ASI6200MC Pro and the ASI2400MC Pro, the ASI4400MC Pro strikes the perfect balance between image quality and efficiency, giving users a versatile option within the full-frame lineup.

Comparison Table:

Full-Frame for a wider field of view

The ASI4400MC Pro uses a full-frame, back-illuminated sensor measuring 36 × 24 mm with a 43.3 mm diagonal. With 44 megapixels and 4.4 μm pixels, it delivers incredible resolution and light sensitivity in every shot. The full-frame format lets you capture the entire field your optics can deliver - no cropping, no lost edges - perfect for wide-field targets and large deep-sky objects. Each pixel supports a full-well capacity of 74,600 electrons, providing exceptional dynamic range. Bright stars retain their natural color and detail, while faint nebula structures and galaxy arms remain beautifully visible. The result is cleaner, more balanced images with outstanding tonal depth across the frame.

High Dynamic Range, Capturing Both Highlights and Faintest Details

The ASI4400MC Pro features a 14-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that delivers a dynamic range of over 13 stops. This wide range allows a single exposure to capture both bright highlights and faint shadow details without clipping. Whether you’re imaging bright stars, nebula cores, or the delicate wisps of distant galaxies, more tonal information is preserved for smoother gradients and richer color depth. The result is a natural, well-balanced image straight out of the camera, with plenty of flexibility for post-processing and fine-tuning.

Efficient Cooling, Protecting Image Quality

The ASI4400MC Pro uses a powerful two-stage TEC cooling system capable of lowering the CMOS sensor temperature by 30°C to 35°C below ambient. This deep cooling dramatically reduces dark current and thermal noise, keeping your images clean and smooth - even during long exposures that last several minutes. The result is higher signal-to-noise ratio and improved image quality in every frame.
Note: Cooling performance varies with ambient temperature. The lower the ambient temperature, the smaller the achievable differential. Results are based on tests at 30°C ambient. While not found often in Australia, operation below -20°C is not recommended.

Glow Suppression Function*

The ASI4400MC Pro camera features ZWO’s proprietary Glow Suppression technology, which effectively controls sensor glow and maximizes overall imaging performance. This technology is implemented directly at the hardware level and does not require any software intervention.

USB 3.0 & 512MB DDR3 Memory

The ASI4400MC Pro includes a high-speed USB 3.0 interface with a built-in 512 MB DDR3 memory buffer. This design ensures fast and stable data transfer while reducing the risk of dropped frames or transmission errors. The result is reliable image capture, even during long exposures or high-speed downloads.

Anti-dew

The ASI4400MC Pro features a built-in polyimide heater bonded to the protective window to prevent dew and frost buildup, ensuring clear and reliable imaging throughout the night. 

* The heater draws about 5 watts of power and can be turned off through the software when conditions allow, not only to save power but also to reduce the load on USB hubs and external power supplies. 

*While Glow Suppression significantly reduces CMOS sensor glow, it does not eliminate it entirely. A small amount of glow may still be present; however, with dark-frame calibration, it has no impact on the final image quality.

Sensor Tilt Adjustment

The ASI4400MC Pro includes three sets of sensor tilt adjustment screws. Each set has a push and a pull screw that let you fine-tune the sensor’s alignment with your telescope’s optical axis. This adjustment helps correct any slight tilt that can cause stars to appear elongated or out of focus toward the edges of the frame, ensuring sharp, even focus across the entire image.

Camera Performance

The ASI4400MC Pro offers a dynamic range of up to 13 stops, allowing it to capture both bright highlights and faint shadow details in a single exposure. This wide range is key to achieving high dynamic range (HDR) performance, preserving fine tonal transitions and subtle color detail in deep-sky images. When the gain setting reaches 136, the camera automatically activates HCG (High Conversion Gain) mode, which greatly reduces read noise while maintaining full dynamic range. This means you can increase sensitivity for faint targets without adding unwanted gain noise, making it easier to capture clean, detailed images under a variety of conditions.

QE Value

The QE peak value of the ASI4400MC Pro camera is 80%.

Ultra-low Dark Current

Thanks to the ASI4400MC Pro’s advanced cooling system, thermal noise remains extremely low even during long exposures lasting several minutes. Dark current is a small electrical signal created by heat inside the sensor rather than by incoming light. By keeping the sensor temperature low, the camera minimizes this effect, producing cleaner, higher quality images with smoother backgrounds.

UV-IR Cut Filter

The ASI4400MC Pro is equipped with a UV-IR cut filter mounted in front of the sensor. This protective filter blocks unwanted ultraviolet and infrared light that can cause star bloat and color distortion, allowing only visible wavelengths to reach the sensor. By filtering out these non-visible wavelengths, the camera produces sharper stars, more accurate colors, and overall improved image quality in astrophotography.

Product Details

Lightweight Body: 700g
Interface Layout: USB 2.0, USB 3.0, DC
Fan Position & Heat Dissipation Vents
All-Metal Red Body

Connection Method

Mechanical Diagram

What's in the box?

Note：

External power supplies are needed for all ASl-cooled cameras. We recommend you use a 12V@3A~5A DC adapter (D5.5×2.1mm, center pole positive) or a lithium battery with 11-14V to power the camera. If the voltage exceeds this range, the camera will activate its automatic protection mechanism.