The new iOptron iCam family of astronomical imaging cameras consist of two color and one monochrome model using Sony IM X sensors.
The iCams deliver high sensitivity with low read out noise and each version utilizes a unique DPS (dead pixel suppression) technology and HCG ( high conversion gain) mode which respectively eliminate any abnormal/dead pixels and reduce high gain readout noise while retaining the high dynamic range as found when set at low gain. Each camera also has an ST-4 guiding port to facilitate a connection to the mount for autoguiding.
During image recording, the actual recording speed is affected by the hard drive writing speed. It is recommended to use a high-quality solid state drive to record data to realize the full benefit of the iCam’s USB3.0 data speed. An IR8 50 or CH4 filter can be used with the cameras for infrared imaging.
iCam 464C
The iCam 464C imaging camera uses a Sony IMX464 color sensor. The imaging area is 1/1.8″ with a 2.9um pixel size, 4.2MP resolution (2712*1538) and diagonal of 9mm. When the camera is connected to the USB3.0 interface and full-resolution preview is used, it can reach 93 fps in RAW8 mode (10bit ADC). The iCam 464C is priced at $309US.
iCam 462C
The iCam 462C uses a Sony IM X46 2 color sensor. The imaging area is 1/ 2.8″ with a 2.9um pixel size, 2.l MP resolution (1944*1096} and diagonal of 6.5mm. When the camera is connected to the USB3.0 interface and full-resolution preview is used, it can reach 136 fps in RAW8 mode (10bit ADC). The iCam 462C is priced at $259US.
iCam 178M
The iCam 178M imaging camera uses a Sony IMX178 mono sensor. The imaging area is 1/1.8″ with a 2.4um pixel size, 6.4MP resolution (2096* 2078} and diagonal of 9mm. When the camera is connected to the USB3.0interface and full-resolution preview is used, it can reach 60 FPS in RAW8 mode (10bit ADC). The iCam 178M is priced at $309US.
You can learn more about the new iOptron iCam family of astronomical imaging cameras here.
And to make it easier for you to get the most extensive news, articles and reviews that are only available in the magazine pages of Astronomy Technology Today, we are offering a 1 year magazine subscription for only $6! Or, for an even better deal, we are offering 2 years for only $9. Click here to get these deals which only will be available for a very limited time. You can also check out a free sample issue here.