Starlight Xpress SXV-M8C - Manual (Page 30)

Handbook for the SXV-M8C Issue 1 Jan 2005
30
4) The entire camera electronic assembly can now be lifted away from the camera
front barrel and the CCD will be readily accessible. Note that a layer of white heat-
sink compound is applied to the periphery of the heat sink disc and this should be left
undisturbed by subsequent operations.
5) You can now closely examine the CCD faceplate under the spotlight using the
watchmaker's glass when any dust motes will show clearly. If there is only an odd
particle or two and the CCD is otherwise clean, carefully brush away the dust with a
corner of your lens cloth. A smeared or very dusty CCD will need a few drops of
alcohol to clean thoroughly and you may have to make several attempts before the
surface is free of contamination. One gentle wipe from one end to the other, with no
return stroke, will be found to be the most effective action. DO NOT rub vigorously
and be very careful to avoid scratching the window.
6) Before re-assembly, make certain that the inside surface of the front window is also
clean, and then carefully replace the camera front barrel and screw it into place. (If the
heat sink seal is disturbed, renew it with fresh compound before reassembling).
7) Replace all the camera parts in reverse order and the job is done.
Dealing with condensation:
The SXV-M8C 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.
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_M8C_USB’ software,
other companies are offering alternative programs with more powerful processing
functions. The most active and successful of these 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
I particularly like the colour synthesiser in Maxim DL7.
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