QHY5III568M

Introducing the QHY5III568M (monochrome) and QHY5III568C (color) cameras

The QHYCCD QHY5III568M (monochrome) and QHY5III568C (color) are new-generation planetary and guiding cameras designed for advanced astrophotography. Equipped with the Sony IMX568 backlit CMOS sensor, they use a global shutter for exceptional performance in terms of speed and precision. These compact, lightweight cameras are ideal for capturing detailed images of the planets, the Moon and the Sun (with suitable filters), and for guiding your telescopes with great reliability.

Main technical specifications

• Sony IMX568 CMOS sensor :
• Size: Type 1/1.8 (6.7 mm x 5.6 mm).
• Resolution: 5.1 megapixels (2472 x 2064 effective pixels).
• Pixel size: 2.74 µm, ideal for capturing fine details with short- and medium-focal length telescopes.
• Backlit structure (BSI) for high quantum efficiency and enhanced low-light sensitivity.
• Global shutter :
• Unlike rolling shutter sensors, the global shutter guarantees uniform exposure across the entire image, eliminating distortion when capturing fast-moving objects.
• Native sampling depth :
• 12-bit ADC with output in 16-bit or 8-bit formats.
• Full Well Capacity :
• Full resolution: 8.8 ke-.
• Material binning 2×2: 9.7 ke-.
• Low playback noise :
• Full resolution: Between 1.5 e- and 2.3 e-.
• Binning material 2×2: Between 1.6 e- and 2.7 e-.

Optical Performance

• Acquisition frequencies (Full Frame) :
• Full resolution (2472 x 2064) :
• 64.9 FPS @8 bits,
• 34.5 FPS @16 bits.
• ROI (Region of Interest) :
• Resolution adjusted for higher speeds :
• 1920 x 1080 (1080p): 115.6 FPS @8 bit, 62.1 FPS @16 bit.
• 800 x 600: 187.2 FPS @8 bits, 100.5 FPS @16 bits.
• 480 x 480: 221.2 FPS @8 bits, 118.5 FPS @16 bits.
• Charge-Domain Binning :
• Hardware binning improves the signal-to-noise ratio without introducing the additional noise of conventional digital binning.
• Example in 2×2 hardware binning: ROI at 1236 x 1032: Up to 283.2 FPS @8 bits, Up to 142.5 FPS @16 bits.

Design and Connectivity

• Integrated DDR3 buffer memory (512 MB) : Enables smooth data transfer even with large files generated by the high-resolution sensor.
• High-speed USB3.0 Type-C interface : Ensures fast, reliable throughput for high-resolution acquisitions.
• Integrated ST-4 port : Compatible with standard guide mounts for precise tracking.
• Specific optical window depending on version :
• QHY5III568M: Anti-glare AR+AR window.
• QHY5III568C: Window with integrated IR-Cut filter.

In the Box

When you purchase a QHY5III568M or QHY5III568C, you'll receive :

• The QHY5III568M or QHY5III568C camera.
• A high-speed USB3.0 Type-C cable.
• ST-4 cable for guidance.
• A C-Mount adapter.
• Instructions for downloading drivers.

Distinctive features

• Backlit Sony IMX568 CMOS sensor with global shutter for maximum precision when capturing fast-moving objects.
• Support for charge-domain binning, considerably improving the signal-to-noise ratio without loss of quality.
• Efficient passive cooling thanks to compact, lightweight design (just 80 g).
• On-board DDR3 buffer memory (512 MB) to prevent data loss during high-speed or high-volume acquisitions.
• Monochrome and color versions tailored to the specific needs of amateur and advanced astrophotographers.

Applications

• Fast planetary imaging: Jupiter, Saturn, Mars and the Moon.
• Solar imaging (with suitable filter).
• Precise guidance thanks to integrated ST-4 port.
• Scientific applications requiring a global shutter.