1. Introduction
The Astromania SGCMOS Series Telescope CMOS Camera is a high-performance imaging device designed for various astrophotography applications, including auto-guiding, lunar, planetary, and deep-sky imaging. It features a sensitive CMOS sensor, a USB2.0 interface for data transfer, and a built-in ST4 auto-guider port for seamless integration with guiding systems. The camera's robust aluminum CNC housing ensures durability and efficient heat dissipation.
Figure 1: Astromania SGCMOS Series Telescope CMOS Camera, showing its compact blue cylindrical design with USB and ST4 ports.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- Astromania SGCMOS Series USB2.0 C-Mount Camera
- 1.25 inch Nosepiece
- High-speed USB2.0 A male to B male gold-plated connectors cable (2.0m)
- 2.0m Guide Cable
- CD with Driver and Utilities Software
- Gift Box (packaging)
Figure 2: All components included in the Astromania SGCMOS Series Telescope CMOS Camera package, including the camera, cables, nosepiece, and software CD.
3. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sensor & Size | 1.2M/AR0130(C); 1/3"(4.8x3.6) |
| Pixel | 3.75 x 3.75 µm |
| G Responsivity | 5.5v/lux-sec; 85.3dB; 44dB |
| FPS/Resolution | 28@1280x960; 30@640x480 |
| Binning | 1x1, 2x2 |
| Exposure | 0.4ms~2000ms |
| Spectral Range | 380-650nm (with IR-Cut filter), 350-1050nm (with double side AR Coating protect window) |
| White Balance | ROI White Balance/ Manual Temp Tint Adjustment/NA for Monochromatic Sensor |
| Color Technique | Ultra-FineTM Color Engine/NA for Color Sensor |
| Capture/Control API | Native C/C++, C#, DirectShow, Twain |
| Recording System | Still Picture and Movie |
| Cooling System | Natural with High Performance Cooling Structure |
| Guiding Port | ST4-port |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C ~ 50°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C ~ 60°C |
| Operating Humidity | 30%~80%RH |
| Storage Humidity | 10%~60%RH |
| Power Supply | DC 5V over PC USB Port |
PC Requirements:
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP / Vista / 7 / 8 (32 & 64 bit). Contact Astromania for signed driver for Win10. Linux/Mac OSX support available.
- CPU: Equivalent to Intel Core2 2.8GHz or Higher
- Memory: 2GB or More
- USB Port: USB2.0 High-speed Port
- Display: 17" or Larger
- CD-ROM Drive
4. Setup Guide
4.1. Software Installation
- Insert the Software CD: Place the provided CD into your computer's CD-ROM drive.
- Run the Installer: Navigate to the CD drive and run the setup file for the camera drivers and utility software. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- Driver Verification: After installation, ensure the drivers are correctly recognized by your operating system. For Windows 10, specific drivers may need to be obtained from the Astromania website.
4.2. Hardware Connection
- Attach Nosepiece: If using with a telescope, screw the 1.25-inch nosepiece onto the camera's C-mount thread. This allows the camera to fit into standard 1.25-inch telescope focusers.
Figure 3: Illustration of attaching the 1.25-inch nosepiece to the camera body for telescope compatibility.
- Connect to Telescope: Insert the camera (with nosepiece attached) into your telescope's focuser. Secure it with the focuser's thumbscrews.
- Connect USB Cable: Connect the high-speed USB2.0 cable from the camera's USB port to an available USB2.0 port on your computer. The camera is powered via this USB connection.
- Connect Guide Cable (Optional): If using for auto-guiding, connect the 2.0m guide cable from the camera's ST4 auto-guider port to your telescope mount's ST4 guiding port.
Figure 4: The camera connected to a telescope and a laptop, demonstrating a typical auto-guiding setup.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Basic Imaging
- Launch Software: Open the dedicated astrophotography software installed from the CD.
- Select Camera: In the software, select the Astromania SGCMOS camera from the list of available devices.
- Preview and Focus: Use the live video preview function to adjust your telescope's focus. The software supports fast frame rates for easier focusing.
- Adjust Exposure: Modify exposure time and gain settings within the software to achieve optimal image brightness. The camera supports exposure times from 0.4ms to 2000ms.
- Capture Images/Video: Use the software's controls to capture still images or record video sequences.
- Process Data: The software includes tools for image processing, dark field correction, and raw data output.
5.2. Auto-Guiding
For auto-guiding, ensure your telescope mount has an ST4 guiding port and is properly aligned. The camera's ST4 port connects directly to the mount. Use compatible guiding software (e.g., PHD2, MaximDL) that supports ASCOM/WDM drivers to control the guiding process. The camera's high sensitivity is beneficial for detecting faint guide stars.
Video 1: Demonstration of the Astromania SGCMOS Series Telescope CMOS Camera's high sensitivity and fast frame rate capabilities, ideal for astrophotography and auto-guiding.
6. Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera's exterior. For the sensor window, use specialized optical cleaning solutions and cloths to avoid scratches.
- Storage: Store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use. Keep it in its original packaging or a padded case to protect it from physical damage.
- Temperature: Avoid exposing the camera to extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes, which can lead to condensation.
- Connections: Always handle cables and connectors carefully to prevent damage to the ports.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Camera not detected by computer. | Driver not installed or corrupted; faulty USB cable; incorrect USB port. | Reinstall drivers from the provided CD or Astromania website. Try a different USB cable or USB port. Ensure the camera is securely connected. |
| No image or very dark image in software preview. | Telescope cap on; incorrect exposure settings; camera not focused. | Remove telescope dust cap. Increase exposure time or gain in software. Adjust telescope focuser until stars appear. |
| Image is noisy or grainy. | High gain setting; long exposure without dark frames; high ambient temperature. | Reduce gain if possible. Capture dark frames and apply dark field correction in software. Allow camera to cool down if operating in warm conditions. |
| Auto-guiding not working. | Incorrect ST4 cable connection; guiding software not configured; mount not responding to commands. | Verify ST4 cable is securely connected to both camera and mount. Ensure guiding software is correctly configured for your mount and camera. Check mount's power and connection to computer. |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Astromania website. You can also contact Astromania Optics directly through their Amazon store page for assistance.
Astromania Optics Store: Visit Astromania Store on Amazon