ZWO Colour CMOS Camera ASI294MC - Sensor D=23.2 mm

ZWO ASI294 Colour CMOS Camera for astrophotography

ASI cameras stand for very good workmanship and have modern CMOS sensors installed. This camera uses the state-of-the-art "back-illuminated" Sony IMX294CJK sensor.

Sony specifies a sensor diameter of 21.63 mm. However, measurements by ZWO have shown a true diameter of 23.2 mm. The 4.3 µm pixels of the ZWO ASI294MC make this camera an all-rounder with highest sensitivity for short exposure times.

The "single shot" color camera offers more comfort, compared with monochrome cameras. Not everyone wants to follow through the laborious L-RGB technique for beautiful colored nebula or planetary images. The color cameras offer a possibility to get beautiful images without changing filters.

Advantages and features of the ASI 294MC color camera:

♦ USB 3.0 for a fast download - can also be used with USB 2.0
♦ Sensitive CMOS sensor with 23.2 mm diameter
♦ Good resolution through 4.6 µm pixels
♦ Distance from T2 connection thread (female)to camera sensor: 17.5 mm
♦ Comes with AR protection window - full transmission also in IR. If infrared should be blocked, an IR-cut filter is necessary.
♦ Very high sensitivity - QE more than 75% - ideal astronomy camera for dim objects
♦ 14bit ADC
♦ HCG mode - if gain is higher than 120 (12 dB), read noise is reduced below 2e - result: low-noise images despite extremely high sensitivity.
♦ Full well capacity 63700e - even bright stars do not burn out anymore, you get a better signal-to-noise ratio.
♦ Adaptions, cables, ... are included in the scope of delivery

Application ranges of the camera:

♦ Lunar and planetary images: extremely short exposure times (due to high sensitivity) freeze the seeing. Through the high resolution of the sensor, many details can be reproduced even at shorter focal length. Video astronomy is also possible.

♦ Deep sky images (nebulae and galaxies): Due to the high sensitivity, nebulae and galaxies are captured after only a few seconds. Despite the camera is uncooled, it is possible to obtain low-noise images with high resolution. By increasing gain (like the ISO setting of DSLR cameras), you can reduce exposure times below 30 seconds. Effects from seeing or inaccuracies of the drive are eliminated.

Optimal support by Teleskop-Service before and after purchase:

We work with the cameras ourselves and can offer you optimal advice. Which camera matches your telescope, how do you achieve optimal adaption ...

Teleskop-Service is one of the biggest ZWO dealers. Due to our contacts, we offer best possible service also after purchase.

Downloads, Drivers:

ZW Optical supplies software and drivers online for free download.

Software and drivers for all ZWO cameras

Sensor:	4/3” CMOS Sony IMC294CJK
Resolution:	11.7 megapixels, 4144*2822
Pixel size:	4.63 µm
Sensor size:	23.2 mm diameter
Exposure time:	32 µs to infinity
Sensor protection:	Protective AR glass
Software demands:	USB 3.0 should be supported by operating system
Bit rate:	14 bit output
Telescope connection:	T2, 2″ and 1,25″
Distance T2-thread (female) to sensor:	17.5 mm
Dimensions:	62 mm diameter and 36 mm length
Weight:	120 grams