Altair GPCAM3 290M USB3 Mono Guide Imaging EAA Camera

The Altair GPCAM2 290M Mono camera features the highly sought-after Sony Exmor IMX290 CMOS sensor, renowned for its high sensitivity and remarkably low read noise. This versatile camera is suitable for a range of applications, including solar, planetary, and lunar lucky imaging, as well as long-exposure deep-sky imaging and video astronomy. Additionally, it fully supports time-lapse all-sky imaging, with optional meteor lenses available.

The Sony Exmor IMX290 CMOS sensor boasts 2.9-micron pixels and a large 1920x1080 array, providing 2.07 megapixels. It is a Backside Illuminated (BSI) sensor with a STARVIS rating, ensuring excellent performance. Notably, the sensor's low read noise and effective suppression of amp glow make it an excellent choice for deep-sky imaging and video astronomy.

The camera's casing is equipped with an external heatsink surface designed to dissipate heat generated by the electronics, thereby reducing thermal noise. Furthermore, the USB3.0 connector is of the high-strength type, offering superior reliability compared to the micro-USB connectors commonly found in smartphones.

Special Offer

Take advantage of our special offer! All Altair GPCAM3 Cameras come with a FREE 1 YEAR SharpCap PRO License. Unlock a host of powerful features with SharpCap PRO, including the highly accurate guidescope polar alignment routine, focus assistance, live flat field subtraction, and much more. To benefit from this offer, simply download the latest SharpCap, connect your camera, register when prompted, and sign up for your complimentary license. With SharpCap PRO, enhance your deep-sky, EAA, or solar system imaging experience.

Download SharpCap now to access these fantastic features and make the most of this exclusive offer.

Solar System Imaging

The GPCAM3 290M is a versatile camera suitable for solar, lunar, or planetary imaging through video capture. It excels in producing detailed images, particularly with refractors of less than 3 meters focal length. With small pixels measuring only 2.4x2.4 micrometers, high frame rates, and low read noise, this camera is optimised for capturing fine details. The Region of Interest (ROI) feature can be utilised to achieve even higher frame rates when imaging planets, the Sun, or the Moon at high magnifications. This camera is a powerful tool for achieving exceptional results in various astronomical imaging scenarios.

EAA & Video Astronomy

The GPCAM3 290M is highly recommended for Full HD Electronically Assisted Astronomy (EAA) or Video Astronomy due to its impressive sensitivity, achieved through the implementation of Sony STARVIS back-side-illumination (BSI) and Exmor-R technology. These advanced technologies contribute to the camera's enhanced performance, making it well-suited for capturing high-quality video and providing an excellent experience in the field of Electronically Assisted Astronomy.

Deepsky Astro-Photography

The GPCAM3 290M comes equipped with amp glow suppression, a feature designed to minimise the undesirable effects of amp glow. In addition, users can further enhance the image quality by effectively removing any remaining amp glow. This can be achieved through the use of "Live" darkframe subtraction in software applications such as AltairCapture or SharpCap during the imaging process. Alternatively, darkframes can be employed during the post-processing stage to further reduce or eliminate amp glow, contributing to cleaner and more accurate astronomical images.

To sum it up, the most desirable features of the IMX290 sensor are:

• IMX290 Sensor Size: 1/2.8" (5.60x3.10mm)
• Mono is Approx. 4x more sensitive therefore ideal for guiding or narrowband deepsky imaging with filters
• SONY STARVIS and Exmor R Technology with a sensitivity of 2000 mV or more per 1µm²
• Low read noise, approx. 0.77-1.66e electrons (e-) or less. (See read noise vs. gain graph).
• Saturation (full well) capacity approx. 15Ke- electrons (e-)
• High Dynamic Range with 12 bit ADC for high image quality in both light and dark (high contrast) areas
• Digital binning

Video Astronomy and Long Exposure Deepsky Imaging

The GPCAM3 290M is a versatile camera that produces excellent results in both deep-sky imaging and video astronomy, also known as Electronically Assisted Astronomy (EAA). Utilising the Live Stacking features available in the free AltairCapture software or SharpCap PRO, users can achieve impressive results in real-time image stacking. The camera is also compatible with other software applications such as APT (Astro Photography Tool) and NINA (Nighttime Imaging 'N' Astronomy). With support for time-lapse all-sky imaging and video, as well as compatibility with DSLR lenses for capturing large areas of the sky, the GPCAM3 290M provides a wide range of options for astronomical imaging enthusiasts.

Solar and Lunar/Planetary Imaging

The GPCAM3 290M stands out as an excellent choice for solar system imaging. The Mono version not only offers 4 times greater sensitivity compared to the colour version but also boasts 4 times the effective resolution due to the absence of a Debayering layer. This makes it particularly well-suited for white light solar imaging when paired with a refractor and the Altair Imaging-Ready Solar Wedge. The camera's high speed and small 2.9-micron pixel pitch make it a suitable match for capturing detailed images of the sun. Its high sensitivity to red Hydrogen Alpha light also makes it a preferred option for solar imaging with dedicated solar telescopes and the Daystar Quark.

Speed and Reliability in One Camera

The GPCAM3 290M, equipped with USB3.0 and on-board memory buffering, achieves significantly faster transfer speeds than the GPCAM USB2.0 series. This push to the limits of USB3.0 technology occurs within a stable envelope. Memory buffering plays a crucial role in almost completely eliminating dropped frames and corrupted video files, issues frequently encountered with USB cameras. The result is improved consistency and stability for video capture sequences, making it particularly valuable for scientific applications. This enhancement ensures faster and more consistent frame rates, even when using less powerful notebook computers.

QUALITY Software and Drivers Included

Altair Astro distinguishes its GPCAM3 290M camera by providing extensive features and an intuitive user experience through the AltairCapture software. This software is a stable 64-bit Windows application that empowers users with full control over the camera in both high-speed video and still imaging modes. AltairCapture boasts automation features, supports major file formats relevant to astro imaging and professional scientific imaging (in 14-bit or 8-bit modes), and natively integrates with popular guiding software such as PHD Guiding and SharpCap. The camera is compatible with deep-sky imaging software like APT and NINA, and users can access ASCOM drivers for further flexibility. Regular driver updates are available at www.altairastro.help/.

Wide Compatibility

The Altair GPCAM3 290M camera offers versatility by being fully compatible with both USB3.0 and USB2.0 ports. This flexibility allows users to choose between faster data transfer speeds with USB3.0 or compatibility with USB2.0 ports when longer cables and reduced speed are preferred. AltairCapture, the accompanying software, supports Windows 7 to Windows 10 in 64-bit mode, providing wide compatibility for users across different operating systems.

Autoguiding

The Altair GPCAM3 290M camera is equipped with an ST4 auto-guiding port, enabling users to engage in auto-guiding with mounts from major manufacturers that support the ST4 format. Compatible mount brands include iOptron, Celestron, and Skywatcher. The camera's sensor boasts sufficient sensitivity for effective auto-guiding purposes.

Support & Warranty

Altair delivers proper on-shore English-speaking UK/EU support with a 2 year manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Now just try that with a Chinese camera! New users should definitely visit the Altair Astro Google User Group where you can get answers to technical questions, as well as sharing tips and techniques, to get the best out of your camera. The AltairCapture software interface supports most European languages including English, German, French, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Russian, Chinese, Spanish, Thai, and Turkish.

 
File Formats

The camera can be fully controlled in AltairCapture and SharpCap to output uncompressed .AVI and .SER video files for solar system imaging, as well as all common still image formats such as .JPEG .PNG .TIFF .BMP, and .FITS (for deepsky imaging) to mention just a few. The IMX290 Sensor supports 8bit or 12bit ADC output. The 12 bit output mode can be used for deep sky imaging with less frames needing to be stacked and a wider pixel intensity range. The sensor sensor is extremely sensitive and a good candidate for video astronomy, especially with small refractors  (final .FITS file is stretched to 16bit for post processing compatibility). Find out more about bit depth here. Find out more about video & file formats here.

 
Whats different about the GPCAM3 platform compared to the GPCAM1 and GPCAM2? 

GPCAM3 has additional electronics for USB3.0 support, and to make space for the FULL SIZE USB3.0 connector. (We feel USB micro connectors are not a good idea for imaging because they don't maintain a reliable connection and wear easily, so we used full-size dual port connectors on this camera).

Better Control with Trigger Mode

The Altair GPCAM3 290M camera features Trigger Mode, which facilitates the control of long exposures exceeding 5 seconds. In normal video mode, typical CMOS cameras lock up the controls during long exposures, requiring users to wait for the exposure to conclude before making any adjustments or aborting the frame. However, with Trigger Mode, users can instantly stop the camera, modify settings, and restart the looping process, offering flexibility and convenience for long exposures. This mode is particularly essential for capturing extended-duration images. The camera's enhanced circuitry improves data transfer stability at high frame rates, reducing dropped frames and increasing compatibility with a broader range of PCs. This enhancement ensures a more consistent data transfer rate over USB buses on laptops or desktop PCs.

What's Included

• Camera body.
• 1.5m High-speed USB3.0 cable.
• 1.5m ST4 guide cable.
• 1.25 inch x nosepiece with female 1.25" filter thread on the front.
• (Optional 2" OD Nosepiece with dual 2 and 1.25" filter threads is available, code GPCAM-2IN)
• CS-Mount insert (12.5mm back-focus) is pre-installed on camera. (Optional 5mm extension adapter is available for C-Mount lenses requiring 17.5mm back-focus.)
• Removable Clear blocking filter with AR anti-reflection coatings. (Removable for sensor cleaning).
• Silicon dust cap for sensor.

Note: This camera does not come with software in the box. To operate the camera you will need to download the latest camera drivers at www.altairastro.help (opens new window)
 

Sensor & Performance Specifications

• ALTAIRH290M: SONY Exmor R BSI IMX290 Mono CMOS sensor
• Sensor Size: 1/2.8" (5.60x3.10mm)
• Video exposure duration shortest/longest (Video Mode): 0.244 ms (0.000244 secs) - 5 secs
• Deepsky exposure duration (Trigger Mode): 0.244 ms (0.000244 secs) - 1000 secs (16.66mins)
• Bit depth: 8bit & 12bit mode switchable
• Pixel size microns: 2.9x2.9 um
• Resolution in pixels: 2.1MP 1920 x 1080 Full HD
• Recording System: Still Picture and Video
• Region of Interest (ROI) support: Available
• Approx. Max frame rates* (assuming computer Bus operating at full bandwidth):
• 8bit mode:
• 1920x1080 127 FPS
• 640x480 273 FPS ROI mode
• 320x240 507 FPS ROI mode
• 12bit mode:
  
• Approx 50% of above

 
* Realistic frame rates based on average user reports. May be revised as we get more data. The shorter the exposure duration, the faster the frame rate. An expensive PC does not guarantee a fast frame rate because PC bus and main board architecture vary.

 
Sensor QE / Quantum Efficiency: TBC

• Gain Sensitivity: Mono 1300mv Colour 2449mv
• Dynamic Range: 66db
• SNR Maximum: 38db
• Readout: Progressive Scan
• Shutter: Electronic Rolling Shutter

 
Software & OS support

• Drivers & AltairCapture software download (Windows only): www.altairastro.help/ (opens new window). 
• Driver support: PHD2, AltairCapture, SharpCap
• AltairCapture OS support: Win Vista/ 7/ 8/ 10 (32 & 64 bit) 
• NOTE: Windows 10 is recommended for best USB performance, with 2013 or later USB host controller v1.0 or later.
• SharpCap (a 3rd party application) is also fully supported and tested with native drivers.
• USB Port & Cable: 3.0 USB Cable, 1.5m cable (USB2.0 also supported at low frame rates).
• ST4 Port & Cable: Standard ST4 Opto-Isolated, 1.5m cable, iOptron, Celestron, Skywatcher SynScan GOTO.

 
Camera Format

• Cooling: High Performance CNC machined aluminium casing with external Heat-sink and internal cold-finger contacting rear of sensor.
• Camera body length: 73 mm
• Weight grams: 70 g (camera net weight)
• Sensor cover-glass transmission:
• Mono Camera: Clear Coverglass: AR-coated 350-1050nm transmission wavelength
• Colour Camera: UV/IR Blocking Filter with AR-coated coverglass: 400-700nm transmission wavelength

 
Back-Focus & Adapter Compatibility

• Cover glass is removable for cleaning and can be swapped with a clear or UV/IR blocking glass as required.
• CS-mount lens compatibility: C-Mount male threaded lens with 12.5mm back-focus (or flange-distance) requirement.
• C-mount lens adapter 5mm extension: Optional
• C-mount lens compatibility: C-Mount male threaded lens with 17.5mm back-focus (or flange-distance) requirement.
• Astro filter thread adapter: Included, 1.25" OD and 2 OD (optional), Female thread
• Sensor surface distance from flat end of CS-mount adapter: 12.5 mm
• Sensor surface distance from flat end of 1.25" / M42 Astro adapter: 37 mm

 
Operating Environment Conditions

• Power consumption: 
• 0.3 W (standby)
• 0.97w (running)
• Max operating temp: 50 °C
• Lowest operating temp: -10 °C
• Max operating humidity: 80 % RH
• Power source in Volts: 5V DC (via USB cable)

 
Windows PC Hardware Requirements

• Minimum PC: Equal to Intel i3 4GB+ RAM Windows 10 OS with separate graphics card.
• Recommended PC: ( 2013+ i5 4GB RAM Intel 1.0x USB Host Controller preferable with separate graphics)
• USB port compatibility: USB2.0 High-speed Port or USB3.0 High-speed Port
• (computers manufactured in 2013 or later give best USB speed).
• Monitor Display: 17" or Larger recommended.
• Software delivery: Downloaded online at www.altairastro.help and saved to hard drive.

 
Packaging

• Protective silicon rubber end-cap for camera CS-thread.
• Plastic end cap for 1.25" nosepiece.
• Padded cardboard storage box with durable foam inserts

 
Optional Accessories

• 2 inch x 22mm nosepiece with dual 1.25" and 2 filter thread, code GPCAM-2IN. See associated products.
• C-Mount 5mm extension adapter for C-Mount lenses requiring 17.5mm back-focus.
• Spare Clear AR coated or UVIR coated optical windows available as spares.
• Altair Astro Premium 1.25" CLS-CCD Filter with UV/IR Block & AR Coating (Code: F125CLSCCD) for imaging emission nebulae in light polluted urban environments.
• Altair Astro Premium 2" CLS-CCD Filter with UV/IR Block & AR Coating (Code: F200CLSCCD) for imaging emission nebulae in light polluted urban environments.

 
Software Delivery

Downloaded online at www.altairastro.help and saved to hard drive.

 
Quick Start & AltairCapture Instructions

Downloaded online at www.altairastro.help and saved to hard drive.
 

Warranty

2 years manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Return to point of purchase.

Availability

If out of stock, click on the red "Notify when in stock" button above to receive an email when product is ready to ship.
 

Altair Astro and dealers reserve the right to change the product specification and/or price at any time without notice.

Product Info