ZWO ASI183MC-P DSO Camera

ZWO’s Versatile and Sensitive Astronomical Camera

The ZWO ASI183MC-Pro color astronomy camera is adaptable and very sensitive, with applications including deep-sky imaging, lunar and solar imaging, and electronically-assisted astronomy. The camera features a huge, cutting-edge 13.2mmx8.8mm CMOS sensor with excellent quantum efficiency to enable you capture the most detail from your astrophotos while keeping noise and exposure time to a minimum. The camera also includes TEC cooling for exceptional low-noise performance in demanding imaging applications of faint celestial objects.

High-Quantum Efficiency CMOS Sensor

The ZWO ASI183MC-Pro color camera is equipped with a Sony IMX183 CMOS sensor measuring 20.1 megapixels and 5496×3672 pixels. Because of a unique photodiode structure and on-chip lenses, the monochrome version of this back-illuminated sensor has a peak quantum efficiency of 84%. Even at the hydrogen-alpha wavelength of 656nm, the QE exceeds 60%. The entire well capacity of the 2.4 micron pixels is 15,000e, with a low read noise of 1.6e at 30dB gain. This sensor’s low noise and high efficiency allow you to catch more light with less noise during a given exposure time. The ASI183MC-Pro also has enhanced firmware that reduces amp glow in the camera.

DDR3 Memory Buffer and Faster Data Transfer

The camera’s ‘Pro’ name stems from its integrated 256MB DDR3 buffer, which allows for rapid and steady data transfer while reducing amp glow. The USB3.0 interface has a rapid 19 fps capture rate at full resolution of 5496×3672 with 12-bit ADC, and significantly faster rates at reduced resolutions. These data rates are ideal for solar and lunar imaging, as they enable real-time focusing during EAA and imaging applications. This camera is also ideal for ‘lucky imaging’ of planets, double stars, and other small objects, particularly with telescopes with a larger focal ratio.

TEC Sensor Cooling Keeps Noise Low.

The two-stage TEC cooling mechanism reduces the sensor temperature to 40oC-45oC below ambient to minimize sensor noise, even on warm nights. The camera also has a sealed chamber and the same durable mechanical design as the ASI1600-Pro series cameras.

USB 3.0 data ports and a USB 2.0 hub

The camera draws 650mA@5V, which is greater than cameras with smaller sensors, but it can still draw all of its power from the primary USB3.0 connection. The camera’s TEC cooler requires 12V @ 3A from an external power supply (not included). If the camera is powered via a USB2.0 host, an extra 12V power supply is also required.

The ASI183MC-Pro color camera includes a USB2.0 hub to power peripherals like a guide camera and electronic focuser.

The camera has a diameter of 78mm and weighs 410g. It includes a cushioned carrying case, M42-M48 zero-length adapter, M42 21mm extension, and M48-M42 16.5mm extender, a 2″ cover, USB3.0 and USB2.0 cables, and a quick-start instructions.

This camera can be equipped with the following connections for attachment to telescopes and image accessories:

1.25-inch nosepiece
2″ nosepiece.
Female T/T2 thread (M42x0.75)
Male T/T2 Thread (M42x0.75)
Female M48x0.75 thread.
Female M28.5×0.6 thread with 1.25″ nosepiece or T2-1.25″ adapter.
ZWO has discontinued software CDs, but this camera comes with instructions for downloading the necessary control software and drivers directly from the ZWO website.

Specifications:

Sensor: 1-inch CMOS IMX183CLK-J/CQJ-J.
Diagonal: 15.9mm.
Resolution: 20.18 Mega Pixels. 5496*3672 pixels. Size: 2.4 μm.
Bayer Pattern: None.
Shutter: Rolling shutter
Exposure range: 32µs-2000s.
ROI: supported.
Read Noise: 1.6e at 30db increase.
QE peak: 84 percent.
Full well: 15ke.
ADC: 12bit DDRIII. Buffer: 256 MB.
Interface: USB3.0/USB2.0, adapter: M42X0.75.
Protect window: AR window (78mm diameter)
Weight: 410 grams.
Back Focus Distance: 6.5 mm.
Cooling: Regulated Two-Stage TEC
Delta T: 40°C-45°C lower than ambient temperature for camera. Power consumption: 650 mA at 5V.
Cooler Power consumption: 12 V at 3 A. Max working temperature range: -5°C to 45°C.
Storage Temperature: -20°C to 60°C.
Working Relative humidity: 20% to 80%.
Storage Relative Humidity: 20-95%.

What’s in the box:

• ZWO ASI183MC Pro USB 3.0 Cooled Color Imaging Camera

• Camera Bag

• USB3.0 Cable

• 2x 0.5 m USB2.0 Cable

• 1.25″ Nosepiece

• 1.25″ Cover

• T2 21 mm Extender

• T2-M48 16.5 mm Extender

• M42-M48 Adapter

• T2-1.25″ Adapter

• 4x Spacer

• Quick Guide