The ToupTek AE676M is a versatile monochrome astronomical camera equipped with the Sony IMX676 sensor. Its square format and lack of a Bayer filter array make it suitable for lunar and planetary imaging, as well as deep-sky imaging using filters. This product page allows you to choose either the camera alone or a kit that includes the camera and the AFW-mini wheel and, depending on the configuration, filters.
Price range: CHF 339.00 through CHF 699.00
Part Number TOUP-AE676M
The ToupTek AE676M is a versatile monochrome astronomical camera equipped with the Sony IMX676 sensor. Its square format and lack of a Bayer filter array make it suitable for lunar and planetary imaging, as well as deep-sky imaging using filters. This product page allows you to choose either the camera alone or a kit that includes the camera and the AFW-mini wheel and, depending on the configuration, filters.
The 1/1.6-inch monochrome sensor offers extended sensitivity, particularly in the near-infrared. ToupTek reports a relative response greater than 95 % between 600 and 750 nm and a response of 80 to 88 % between 800 and 850 nm. The anti-reflective protective window is specified for the 400 to 1100 nm range. The filter used must therefore be selected based on the desired type of acquisition.
The cooling system includes a removable magnetic rear fan module. Without the fan, the manufacturer states that the system can maintain a temperature up to 5 °C below ambient with a stability of ±0.1 °C. With the fan installed, the temperature can be lowered by up to 20 °C below ambient. These results are specified for long-term operation at an ambient temperature of 25 °C and with adequate ventilation; actual performance varies depending on the environment.
The electronics include a native 12-bit converter and a 512 MB DDR3 buffer. The HCG, LCG, and HDR modes are used to adjust the trade-off between noise and dynamic range. HDR mode provides 16-bit output, which is distinct from native conversion. The region-of-interest feature allows for high frame rates at reduced resolution; the advertised maximum of 993 frames per second applies to 8-bit operation within a reduced area.
Four configurations are available: camera only; camera with AFW-mini 5 × 1.25-inch; set with 1.25-inch LRGB filters; set with 1.25-inch LRGBSHO filters. The filters and filter wheel are included only in the corresponding configuration. The filter wheel has five slots: the LRGBSHO pack does not mean that all of its filters can be installed simultaneously. The loaded set must be tailored to the session.
The AFW-mini wheel is designed for lightweight systems and allows for motorized filter selection without having to repeatedly disassemble the optical train. For the camera, ToupTek specifies a USB-C connection for data and power, as well as control via StellaVita, ToupSky, and the ASCOM, INDI, or DirectShow environments. Software compatibility depends on the drivers and the computer’s configuration.
| Sensor | Sony IMX676 monochrome |
|---|---|
| Format | 1/1.6 inch, square |
| Native ADC | 12 bits |
| HDR Output | 16 bits |
| Tampon | 512 MB DDR3 |
| Pack Wheel | AFW-mini, 5 1.25-inch filters |
Here are a few accessories we've selected for this model, depending on your needs.
Contrôleur optionnel pour piloter l’AE676M. Vérifiez les pilotes, le micrologiciel, le câble USB et l’alimentation de l’installation ; choisissez la composition caméra selon vos besoins.
The AFW-mini wheel accommodates five 1.25-inch mounted filters. It is already included in the AE676M kits with wheel, LRGB, or LRGBSHO; select it separately only when purchasing the camera alone. Check the adapter, focus, and filters according to your setup.
