Introducing the QHY5III462M (monochrome) and QHY5III462C (color) cameras
The QHYCCD QHY5III462M (monochrome) and QHY5III462C (color) are specialized cameras for planetary, lunar, solar (with suitable filter) and guidance imaging. Equipped with Sony's 6th-generation IMX462 STARVIS backlit CMOS sensor, they offer 2.1-megapixel resolution and exceptional sensitivity in the visible and near-infrared (NIR) ranges. Thanks to their low read noise and high acquisition speed, these cameras are ideal for capturing precise details of celestial objects.
Main technical specifications
- Sony IMX462 CMOS sensor :
- Size: Typical 1/2.8" (6.46 mm x 3.64 mm).
- Resolution: 2.1 megapixels (1920 x 1080 effective pixels).
- Pixel size: 2.9 µm, ideal for medium- and long-focus configurations.
- Backlit structure (BSI) with enhanced near-infrared sensitivity.
- Native sampling depth :
- 12-bit ADC with output in 16-bit or 8-bit formats.
- Full Well Capacity :
- Up to 12 ke-, for capturing high-contrast scenes without saturation.
- Low playback noise :
- As low as 0.5 e-, ideal for short exposures or low-light images.
- sHCG (Super High Conversion Gain) technology :
- Enables efficient conversion of small loads to high voltage, increasing sensitivity in low-light conditions.
- Exposure time :
- Adjustable exposure range from 7 µs to 900 seconds, offering great flexibility for different types of celestial objects.
Optical Performance
- Acquisition frequencies (Full Frame) :
- Full resolution (1920 x 1080) :
- 135 FPS @8 bits,
- 60 FPS @16 bits.
- ROI (Region of Interest) :
- Resolution adjusted for higher speeds in selected areas.
- Enhanced near infrared (NIR) sensitivity :
- The IMX462 sensor is almost as sensitive to NIR light as to visible light, with a quantum efficiency peak around 800 nm. This enables detailed observations at these wavelengths, particularly for gas giants such as Jupiter and Saturn.
Design and Connectivity
- High-speed USB3.0 interface : Ensures fast, reliable transfer for high-resolution acquisitions.
- Integrated ST-4 port : Compatible with standard guide mounts for precise tracking.
- Interchangeable optical window :
- The QHY5III462C comes with two 1.25" screw-on filters:
- A UV/IR-cut filter to block infrared radiation when observing in the visible spectrum.
- An IR850 filter for capturing near-infrared details.
In the Box
When you purchase a QHY5III462M or QHY5III462C, you'll receive :
- The QHY5III462M or QHY5III462C camera.
- A high-speed USB3.0 cable.
- ST-4 cable for guidance.
- Two 1.25" screw-on filters (UV/IR-cut and IR850 for color version only).
- Instructions for downloading drivers.
Distinctive features
- Backlit Sony IMX462 STARVIS CMOS sensor offering exceptional sensitivity in the visible and near-infrared ranges.
- Low playback noise (0.5 e-) thanks to Super High Conversion Gain technology.
- Fast acquisition with frame rates up to 135 FPS @8 bits at full resolution.
- Interchangeable optical window with filters (color version only).
- Compact and lightweight (just 88 g), ideal for mobile or fixed configurations.
Applications
- Detailed planetary imagery: Jupiter, Saturn, Mars and the Moon.
- Solar imaging (with suitable filter).
- Precise guidance thanks to integrated ST-4 port.
- Scientific applications requiring high near-infrared sensitivity.
Conclusion
The QHY5III462M and QHY5III462C are versatile cameras that combine outstanding performance with a compact, lightweight design. Their enhanced visible and near-infrared sensitivity and low readout noise make them ideal for exploring the unique details of gas giants, or for precise guidance during advanced astrophotography sessions.
