Starlight Xpress SXVR-M26C - Manual (Page 28)

Handbook for the SXVR-M26C Issue 1 March 2010
28
The SXVR-M26C is designed to avoid condensation by minimising the volume of air
trapped within the CCD cavity and by preventing moisture ingress. This normally
works very well, but storage of the camera in a humid location can lead to the trapped
air becoming moist by diffusion through the optical window mounting thread etc. and
can result in condensation on the CCD window. If this becomes a problem, try storing
the camera in a warm, dry place, or in a plastic lunch box containing a sachet of silica
gel desiccant. If this is not effective, try opening the main barrel and loosening the
stand-offs to allow a gap to form between the heat sink and the front barrel assembly.
Now put the camera into a desiccator box (as above) or leave it in a warm place for
several hours before re-sealing it.
N.B. DO NOT leave the camera switched on for long periods between uses. The
cold CCD will collect ice by slow diffusion through any small leaks and this will
become corrosive water on the cooler and CCD pins when the power is removed. If
substantial amounts of moisture are seen, dismantle the camera and dry it
thoroughly.
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Alternative Software
Although we hope that you will be satisfied with our ‘SXV_hmf_usb’ software, other
companies are offering alternative programs with more powerful processing
functions. One of these is programs is ‘AstroArt’ by MSB software. You can purchase
AstroArt from many dealers Worldwide and more information may be obtained from
their web site at
http://www.msb-astroart.com
‘Maxim DL’ is another popular choice and you can find out more by visiting
http://www.cyanogen.com
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Some details of the camera and CCD characteristics
CCD type:
Sony ICX493AK ‘Super HAD’ interline Bayer matrix imager.
CCD size:
Active area 23.4mm x 14.9mm
CCD pixels: 3900 x 2016 pixel array. Each pixel is 6.05 x 6.05uM
Well depth: Full res. mode 25,000e. Binned 2x2 mode approx. 30,000e
Mean visual QE: 60%, 65% at peak (540nM)
Useful spectral response: 360nM – 1100nM
Readout noise: Approx. 5e RMS typical, 8e max.
Back focal distance: The CCD is approximately 17.5mm from the barrel front.
Camera size: 63mm diameter x 65mm long