SBIG's Aluma CCD Series
SBIG's newest, high performance Aluma CCD Series cameras offer one-of-a-kind capabilities that are not available in any leading scientific-grade imaging camera! You'll love the amazing features that this lightweight (2.2 lbs), compact (4.5" x 4.5" x 4" with handles) camera is equipped with, including fast low-noise readout, two-stage cooling, and ultra-reliable even illumination shutter.
You can use a wide variety of accessories with the Aluma CCD series cameras, including the StarChaser SC-2 off-axis guide camera, AO-8A adaptive optics, and the 8-position FW8S-Aluma filter wheel.
The Aluma CCD Series is a high-performance, new generation of research cameras that are sure to impress. SBIG has worked with top researchers to carefully refine the camera electronics for minimum amp glow, low noise, and overall improved performance. They represent the best value that you can get in a mid-sized 16-bit CCD detector, using SONY's sensors that will give you ultra-clean and precise images in a CCD with the sensitivity of CMOS technology.
The Aluma CCD 694 sports the ICX-694ALG CCD sensor, which is one of the best optical sensors ever produced. It gives you the opportunity to take cleaner images of super deep space objects, all while processing them much faster! From low read noise, large dynamic range, broad spectral sensitivity (with mind-blowing blue sensitivity!), and extremely low dark current, you'll notice the quality of your images will be top-tier. This sensor features microlens technology that concentrates light on the sensitive area of each pixel. The ICX-694ALG's sensitivity peaks in the center of the visible spectrum at 550 nm, while maintaining high sensitivity throughout the visible spectrum.
Aluma CCD cameras are all equipped with powerful SmartCooling technology, where the two-stage cooler, powerful fans, and advanced heat sink design that uses thermal flow stimulation combine to produce typical cooling delta from ambient of -50C. And you'd never suspect this type of technology from such a lightweight, compact designed camera! The Aluma CCD camera's firmware is constantly monitoring the sensor while controlling the cooler power. SmartCooling will prevent any possibility of overheating by backing off power if the heat sink gets too hot, meaning that you don't have to worry about your camera roasting in a hot observatory during the daytime.
All Aluma CCD cameras come with SBIG's Maxim LT software, which is a special version of the Maxim DL software that will provide complete control of your camera, filter wheel, and autoguider. Plus, you'll reap the benefits of amazing advanced image processing! The Aluma CCD cameras also support third-party applications through ASCOM and native drivers.
More Features
- Centered optical axis for near-perfect instrument balance
Full frame image buffering eliminates readout artifacts
- Built-in RBI pre-flash (full frame front-illuminated sensors only)
- Built-in 1/4-20 tripod mount
- Bulletproof firmware update capability - virtually impossible to "brick"
- Electronic shuttering for a minimum exposure of 0.001s, along with mechanical shutter that facilitates accurate dark / bias calibration frames
