Camera Sensor
▶IMX071
The ASI071MC Pro is a popular OSC camera based on the highly appreciated sensor from Sony – the IMX071 – in APS-C format. A good set of specifications combined with a good price makes it a great choice for those who want to take the step from DSLR to a dedicated astronomy camera. Some of the highlights include:
- APS-C format (28.4 mm diagonal) with 4.78 um pixel size – ideal for many types of telescopes
- 14-bit ADC– giving high dynamic range of 14 stops
- A high 46ke- full well capacity – helping to reduce the issue of for example saturated stars
- 16-megapixel sensor with 4944*3284pixels – plenty of detail can be captured in high resolution
- Electronic shutter– no vibration problems compared to a mechanical shutter
- Very low read noise of 2.3 e-at 24 dB gain – bringing out more details in your images with improved dynamic range
If you are looking for an APS-C type OSC camera for astrophotography, you can’t go wrong with the ASI071MC Pro. It will provide low read noise and a high dynamic range.
ZWO ASI071MC Pro (color)
Description
Specifications
DDR Memory Buffer
ASI071MC 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.
Astrophotography Performance
ASI071MC Pro offers very good performance for astrophotography. Low read noise, high dynamic range.
USB 3.0 Port & USB2.0 HUB
USB 3.0 Port: Provide 5Gb bandwidth to make it possible for ASI071MC Pro to run at 10 fps (14bit, normal mode) at full resolution(16Mega).
USB 2.0 HUB: Can connect with various accessories, including a filter wheel, guide camera or electronic focuser, allowing you to manage your cables better. There are two short 0.5m USB2.0 cables included with the ASI071 Pro. The hub is powered by the external power supply if you connect one.
New mechnical design and Anti-Dew Heater
The ASI071MC-PRO camera comes with a completely upgraded anti-dew and mechanical body.
The diameter of the camera body is increased to 86mm compared to the ASI071MC Cool (78mm).
▶6 screws seal the chamber
This new structure seal the CMOS chamber better.
▶Anti-dew and cooling system
Thanks to the two-stage TEC cooling, ASI071MC Pro can lower the CMOS sensor temperature to more than 35-40 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature, which can greatly reduce dark current generation and sensor noise even during extended exposure times.
*The Delta T 35-40℃ 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 also decrease.
Please notice that the camera needs to be connected to an external 11-15v power supply to implement the cooling function. We recommend you use 12V@3A DC adapter (5.5*2.1mm, center pole positive) or lithium battery with 11-15V to power the camera.
The anti-dew heater will heat the AR protect window to avoid any dew problems. The heat anti-dew heater power is around 3.6W and can be turn off in software to save power.
