The QHYCCD QHY5III485C
The QHYCCD QHY5III485C is a versatile color camera, designed for planetary, lunar, solar (with suitable filter) and guidance imaging. Equipped with the Sony IMX485 backlit CMOS sensor, it offers 4K resolution with 8.4 megapixels, high sensitivity and low read noise. Its wide field of view and fast performance make it an ideal choice for capturing precise details of celestial objects or for advanced guidance applications.
Main technical specifications
- Sony IMX485 CMOS sensor :
- Size: 1/1.2 inch (11.1 mm x 6.3 mm).
- Resolution: 8.4 megapixels (3864 x 2180 effective pixels).
- Pixel size: 2.9 µm, ideal for medium- and long-focus configurations.
- Backlit structure (BSI) for enhanced red and 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 :
- Between 0.6 e- and 2.4 e-, offering excellent image quality even in low light.
- Exposure time :
- Adjustable exposure range from 10 µs to 300 seconds, allowing great flexibility for different types of celestial objects.
Optical Performance
- Acquisition frequencies (Full Frame) :
- Full resolution (3864 x 2180) :
- 44 FPS @8 bits,
- 18.5 FPS @16 bits.
- ROI (Region of Interest) :
- Resolution adjusted for higher speeds :
- 1200 lines: 78.5 FPS @8 bits.
- 1080 lines: 87 FPS @8 bits.
- 960 lines: 97.5 FPS @8 bits.
- 768 lines: 121 FPS @8 bits.
- 480 lines: 190 FPS @8 bits.
Design and Connectivity
- On-board DDR2 buffer memory (128 MB) : Reduces pressure on data transmission to the computer during fast imaging sessions.
- 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.
- Fisheye lens included (All-Sky option) : Transforms the camera into an All-Sky camera with a 180° field of view, ideal for monitoring auroras, meteors or other celestial events.
In the Box
When you purchase the QHY5III485C, you will receive :
- The QHY5III485C camera.
- A high-speed USB3.0 cable.
- ST-4 cable for guidance.
- A C-Mount adapter.
- An optional fisheye lens for All-Sky applications.
- Instructions for downloading drivers.
Distinctive features
- Backlit Sony IMX485 CMOS sensor offering high sensitivity in the visible and near-infrared ranges.
- Fast acquisition with frame rates up to 44 FPS @8 bits in full resolution.
- On-board DDR2 buffer memory (128 MB) to prevent data loss during fast acquisition.
- Wide field of vision thanks to its large-format sensor and All-Sky option.
- Compact and lightweight (just 90 g), perfect 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.
- All-Sky applications: monitoring meteors, auroras and other celestial events.
Conclusion
The QHY5III485C is a versatile color camera that combines high resolution, low readout noise and fast performance in a compact format. Whether you want to explore the unique details of gas giants or survey the entire sky with the included fisheye lens, this camera is a powerful tool for your advanced astrophotography sessions or scientific applications.