Altair 678C Colour USB3 Astronomy Camera

The 678C Colour Camera features the advanced Starvis 2 BSI sensor, offering impressive sensitivity for planetary imaging, particularly in the NIR (near-infrared) spectrum.

With a 2-micron pixel size, this camera is perfect for capturing lunar and planetary details when paired with telescopes around 1000mm focal length, such as the Celestron C8 SCT. (For solar imaging, the mono version 678M is recommended.)

This sensor is designed without amp glow, enhancing performance for deep-sky imaging or video astronomy with compact refractors.

Feature Summary of the 678C CMOS Camera:

• IMX678 Colour Starvis 2 CMOS Sensor
• On-chip HGC and LCG Support
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
• Pixel Size: 2 µm square
• Optical Format: 1/1.8 inch
• ADC: 12-bit
• 512mb DDR3 Memory Buffer
• G Sensitivity: 3637mv
• Low Noise: 0.42 to 2.43e-
• Frame Rate: Up to 47 FPS in 8-bit mode
• Binning Options: 1x1 to 8x8 in stacking or averaging modes

Speed & Stability

Utilising USB3.0 for reliable, high-speed data transfer, the 512mb DDR3 Memory buffer ensures consistent frame rates.

Included Software

The package includes an intuitive capture software that provides complete camera control in both video and still modes. The software is compatible with major file formats for astronomical and scientific imaging, in either 14-bit or 8-bit mode. Additionally, a 1-year SharpCap PRO Licence is included with all 678C cameras, supporting PHD Guiding, SharpCap PRO, APT, and NINA. ASCOM drivers are also available for easy download and installation.

Wide USB Compatibility

While the GPCAM3 is optimised for USB3.0, it is also compatible with USB2.0 when extended cable length or lower speed is needed, making it versatile for deep-sky and video astronomy in live stacking applications.

Auto-guiding Support

The camera’s ST4 auto-guiding port is compatible with mounts from major brands supporting the ST4 standard, including iOptron, Celestron, and Skywatcher. The sensor is highly sensitive, making it effective for auto-guiding applications.

File Formats

Capture software supports uncompressed .AVI and .SER video files for solar system imaging and commonly used still formats such as .JPEG, .PNG, .TIFF, .BMP, and .FITS for deep-sky imaging.

Technical Specifications:

• Sensor: Sony IMX678, back-illuminated
• Diagonal: 8.47 mm
• Resolution: 8.3 megapixels (3840x2160)
• Shutter Type: Rolling shutter
• Exposure Time: 0.1ms to 1000s
• Gain: 1x to 150x
• Dynamic Range: 74 dB
• Read Noise: 2.43 – 0.42 e-
• Peak QE: >83%
• Full Well Capacity: 11.6ke-
• Port: USB3.0/USB2.0
• Adapter: 1.25’’ for telescope connection, standard C-mount for industrial lenses
• Cooling: Passive cooling

 Package Includes:

• Camera body
• 1.5m USB cable
• 1.25-inch nosepiece with 1.25" astronomy filter thread
• CS-Mount insert (12.5mm back-focus, pre-installed on camera)
• Removable UV-IR Blocking or AR-coated front optical glass filter
• Dust caps for camera body and sensor
• Software CD with setup instructions

Compatibility and Requirements

The camera is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, with SDK support across multiple platforms (Windows/Linux/macOS/Android). Minimum system requirements include an Intel i3 PC with 4GB+ RAM and Windows 10, while more recent i5 models from 2013 or later are recommended for optimal USB performance.

 Optional Accessories:

• 2-inch nosepiece with dual 1.25” and 2” filter thread
• C-Mount 5mm extension adapter for lenses requiring 17.5mm back-focus
• Premium filters with UV/IR blocking and AR coating for imaging emission nebulae in urban areas.

 Warranty and Availability

Comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty against material and workmanship defects. For technical support, online resources and community groups are available to help users troubleshoot and share tips.

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