The QHY5III678M/C is QHY's latest addition to the new QHY5III Version 2 lineof planetary and guidance cameras.
Like the IMX178 sensor, the new Sony IMX678 sensor is back-illuminated with 1/1.8″ format. However, the IMX678 has higher resolution and higher QE, plus improved NIR sensitivity.
Extended near infrared sensitivity
In this latest generation of sensors, the photodiode part of the IMX678 pixel well is physically deeper than in previous sensors, allowing longer wavelength photons to penetrate deeper into the substrate. This dramatically increases the sensor's sensitivity to red and near-infrared (NIR) light.
The sensor exhibits nearly equal maximum sensitivity to NIR light as to light in the visible spectrum.
Inaddition, the QHY5III678M/C cameras are based on the new v.2 platform with enhanced features.
Introduction to the V2 Series of QHY5III cameras
512MB DDR3
The planetary and guidance cameras of the new QHY5III series (Ver. 2) are equipped with a 512MB DDR3 image buffer that can effectively reduce the transmission pressure of the computer. This is a great help for planetary photography, which often requires processing a large amount of data in a short period of time.
For example, today, some deep-sky astrophotography cameras on the market have only 256 MB. In comparison, the 512 MB DDR3 memory of the new 5III series cameras (Ver. 2) represents a significant improvement.
New front design with more compatibility
All cameras in the new QHY5III (Ver. 2) series share new features that make them more compatible.
The BFL of the V2 cameras is only 8 mm, which means you can easily attach a V2 camera with your OAG. The basic top adapter includes 1.25-inch threads and you can still use your 1.25-inch filter.
The top adapter glass of these cameras can be easily changed. One of the advantages of interchangeable top glass is that you can use a filter even with lenses!
You can use a 1.25 inch CS adapter to attach CS lenses or add a CS to C adapter for C-mount lenses. Both adapters (1.25″ to CS and CS to C) are standard accessories for V2 cameras.
In addition, a 1.25″ filter wheel adapter is included for connecting mono cameras to the QHYCFw3-S filter wheel.
USB 3.2 Gen1 Type C interface
All cameras in the new QHY5III series (Ver.2) include USB3.2 Gen1 Type-C. Compared to the USB3.0 Type-B interface used in the previous generation, Type-C has a longer life and is more flexible.
Tip: It is recommended to use the data cable supplied by the manufacturer. Many poor quality Type-C cables are currently on the market, the use of which may cause the camera to malfunction. If you use your own replacement cable, please confirm that it is a high quality cable beforehand
Universal guide interface
The custom interfaces of the previous generation of planetary guides and cameras have been replaced in this new QHY5III (Ver.2) series with a more universal ST-4 compatible guide interface. This makes it easier to find spare parts at an economical price.
LED indicator
All cameras include an LED indicator on the back. This is a multi-color indicator that will help determine problems in case of abnormal camera operation. During normal operation the LED remains off to avoid light pollution during the session.
Technical Specifications
| Model |
QHY5III678M/C |
| Sensor |
Sony IMX678 BSI Sensor - Mono or Color |
| Pixel Size |
2.0 um*2.0um
|
| Pixel area |
3856 x 2180 |
| Effective pixels |
8.4 Mega Pixels |
| Max. FPS |
41 FPS at 12-bit |
| Read noise |
3.3e- to 0.56e |
| AD sampling |
12bit (16bit and 8bit output) |
| Integrated image buffer |
512MB DDR3 |
| Shutter |
Electronic |
| Computer connection |
USB3.2 Gen1 Type-C |
| Guide Port |
st4 |
| Telescope connection |
1.25-inch, compatible with CS or C-mount by changing the front connector
(IR-Cut filter and IR850nm filter) |
| Backfocus |
8 mm |
| Weight |
90g |
Curves
Mechanical dimensions
Example images
Saturn by Michael Wong with camera QHY5III678M
Accessories
