Touptek G3M715C IMX715 USB3.0 Planetary Guide Color Camera

1. Introduction

The Touptek G3M715C is a high-performance planetary and guide color camera designed for astronomical photography. It features a USB3.0 interface for rapid video transmission to a computer and includes a built-in ST4 autoguiding interface for direct connection to an autoguider. This camera offers high sensitivity and low noise, providing performance comparable to astronomical cameras equipped with CCD image sensors.

Figure 1: Front view of the Touptek G3M715C camera.

2. Specifications

Figure 2: Key specifications at a glance.

Figure 3: Relative spectral response curves for Red, Green, and Blue channels.

Mechanical Dimensions

Figure 4: Mechanical drawing showing dimensions (e.g., Optical Distance 17.6±0.2, Diameter Ø 31.7, Lengths 16.8, 44.6, 72.4 mm).

Figure 5: Detailed mechanical drawing including optical distance (12.6±0.2 mm) and 1"-32 UNF-2B thread type.

Extender Dimensions

An extended planetary camera design is available for adapting to other brands' Off-Axis Guiders (OAGs). This design allows for a wider adaptable focal length without increasing the optical distance.

Figure 6: Diagram of the 1.25" extender with dimensions (e.g., 1" (32), 1.125" (42), 1.25", 20mm).

3. What's in the Box

Figure 7: Visual representation of the package contents.

• Camera Body (Touptek G3M715C)
• 1.25" Extender
• USB3.0 Cable
• 2.0m ST4 Auto Guiding Cable

4. Setup Instructions

1. Software Installation: Before connecting the camera, install the necessary drivers and imaging software on your computer. Refer to the manufacturer's website for the latest software packages.
2. Attach to Telescope:
   • Insert the camera body directly into your telescope's focuser or diagonal.
   • If your telescope requires a 1.25" barrel, attach the included 1.25" Extender to the camera body before inserting it into the focuser.
   • Ensure the camera is securely seated and tightened to prevent accidental drops.
3. Connect to Computer: Use the provided USB3.0 Cable to connect the camera to an available USB3.0 port on your computer. This connection is essential for video transmission and power.
4. Connect to Autoguider (Optional): If you are using the camera for autoguiding, connect the 2.0m ST4 Auto Guiding Cable from the camera's 'Guide' port to your telescope mount's ST4 autoguiding port.

Figure 8: Interface display showing the 'Guide' (ST4) and 'USB3.0' ports.

Figure 9: Example setup with the camera attached to an Off-Axis Guider (OAG).

5. Operation

1. Power On: The camera is powered via the USB3.0 connection. Once connected to your computer, it should be detected by your imaging software.
2. Imaging Software: Launch your preferred astronomical imaging software (e.g., SharpCap, FireCapture, ASCOM-compatible software). Select the Touptek G3M715C camera from the device list.
3. Adjust Settings: Configure exposure time, gain, frame rate (up to 47 FPS), and other imaging parameters within the software to suit your target and sky conditions. The camera's high sensitivity and low noise characteristics are ideal for capturing faint astronomical objects.
4. Autoguiding: If using for autoguiding, configure your guiding software (e.g., PHD2) to use the G3M715C as the guide camera and the ST4 port for mount control.
5. Capture and Process: Begin capturing images or video. Save your data and use appropriate astronomical image processing software to stack and enhance your captures.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning the Sensor: The camera sensor is a delicate component. If dust or debris appears on your images, use a specialized sensor cleaning kit for astronomical cameras. Never touch the sensor directly with your fingers or abrasive materials.
• Cleaning the Exterior: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the camera's exterior. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use, store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably in its original packaging or a padded case. Use the provided dust caps for the optical window and ports.
• Cable Care: Handle USB and ST4 cables with care. Avoid sharp bends or kinks that could damage the internal wiring.

7. Troubleshooting

• Camera Not Detected:
  • Ensure the USB3.0 cable is securely connected to both the camera and a USB3.0 port on your computer.
  • Verify that the camera drivers are correctly installed. Try reinstalling them if necessary.
  • Test with a different USB3.0 cable or port.
• No Image/Black Screen:
  • Check your imaging software settings for exposure time and gain. Increase them if they are too low.
  • Ensure the telescope's dust cap is removed and the focuser is properly adjusted.
  • Verify that the camera is correctly selected in your imaging software.
• Excessive Noise in Images:
  • Reduce the gain setting in your imaging software.
  • Ensure the camera is not overheating (though this model is not actively cooled, ambient temperature can affect noise).
  • Consider taking dark frames to calibrate and reduce noise during post-processing.
• Autoguiding Issues:
  • Confirm the ST4 cable is correctly connected to both the camera and the mount.
  • Check guiding software settings to ensure the correct camera and mount interface are selected.
  • Verify that the guide scope is in focus and a suitable guide star is visible.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.