ZWO ASI290MM 2.13 MP CMOS Monochrome Astronomy Camera with USB 3.0 - Cooled # ASI290MM-COOL

Our #: ZZPAIC-ZZZW-ASI290MM-COOL
Mfg #: ASI290MM-COOL
Sale Price: $587.00 Our Price: $699.00
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Out of Stock
Availability: Item has been discontinued by the manufacturer

Quick Overview

  • ZWO ASI290MM-COOL advanced monochrome astronomy camera with back illuminated 2.1 megapixel CMOS sensor with 1936x1096 resolution, 2.9 μm pixels, and 6.46 mm diagonal size
  • Integrated TEC cooling reduces sensor temperature to 35C to 40C below ambient to keep noise low to enable imaging of faint deep-sky objects
  • Ideal for capturing high-resolution images of the Moon, Sun, and planets
  • Advanced Sony IMX290 sensor with Exmor R technology for high-speed processing, low noise, and low power dissipation with back illuminated sensors
  • Fast USB 3.0 transfer at up to 170 fps at maximum 1936x1096 resolution and 381 fps at 640x480; interface is backward compatible to USB 2.0
  • Attractive red anodized CNC aluminum body stands up to heavy field use
  • Ready to go out of the box with cables, adapters, and manual; Software and drivers available from manufacturer's website
  • Compact body with 78mm diameter and weight of only 410 g (14.6 oz)

Product Details

The ZWO ASI290MM-COOL is a sensitive and state-of-the-art monochrome astronomy camera with 2.1 megapixel resolution and USB 3.0 download speed. Built around the Sony IMX290 back-illuminated sensor, this advanced camera has a resolution of 1936x1096 with 2.9 μm pixel size. With 12-bit ADC and low read noise, this monochrome camera is ideal for high-resolution imaging of the Moon, Sun (with safe solar filter), and planets, and works well on small deep-sky objects as well. And with regulated two-stage TEC cooling, this camera can cool the sensor to 35C to 40C below ambient to keep noise low.

The heart of this monochrome camera is a Type 1/2.8 CMOS sensor with 6.46 mm diagonal. This advanced sensor incorporates Sony's Exmor R technology that enables high-speed processing, low noise, and low power dissipation using column parallel A/D conversion with the back-illuminated sensor. The sensor also incorporates Sony's STARVIS technology features a sensitivity of 2000 mV or more per 1 µm2 and allows high image quality in the visible-light and near infrared light regions.

The rolling shutter and fast USB 3.0 interface on the camera allow transfer rates of up to 170 frames per second at full 1936x1096 resolution. At reduced resolution of 640x480, download rates up to 381 fps become possible. The camera enables exposure times of 32 μs to 2000 s (33.3 minutes).

On the camera body, next to the USB ports, a 2.1mm center-positive connector provides an input for the cooler power supply (not included). From the supply, the camera requires 12VDC @ 2A maximum. A Cooler Power LED shows when the cooler has sufficient power. There's also a large built-in heat sink which accounts for nearly 2/3 of the camera's size. At the top of the camera, an advanced and efficient MagLev fan removes heat from the TEC and control electronics while keeping acoustic noise low.

The ASI290MM has a robust and attractive CNC machined red-anodized aluminum body that stands up to heavy field use. An AR/IR-CUT glass window protects the sensor and helps keep images sharp. The camera body includes a standard but short 2" nosepiece and a female T thread (M42x0.75) as well.

The ZWO ASI290MM-COOL monochrome astronomy camera can be used with just about any telescope. When used for autoguiding, the camera can also work with Maxim DL or PHD when guiding with long exposures.

ZWO is phasing out software CDs, but the camera comes with instructions to help you download the required control software and drivers directly from the ZWO website.

Specifications:

  • Sensor: 1/2.8″ CMOS IMX290/IMX291
  • Resolution: 2.1 Mega Pixels 1936×1096
  • Pixel Size: 2.9µm
  • Exposure Range: 32µs-2000s
  • Interface: USB3.0/USB2.0
  • ADC: 12bit
  • Dimension: 78 mm Diameter
  • Weight: 410g
  • Back Focus Distance: 17.5mm
  • Protect Window: AR coated
  • Cooling: Regulated Two Stage TEC
  • Delta T: 35-40 degrees C
  • Cooler Power consumption: 12V at 2A Max

What's in the Box

  • Camera Bag
  • Camera Body
  • USB 3.0 Cable
  • USB 2.0 Cable (2x)
  • 1.25" Nosepiece
  • 1.25" Cover
  • Quick Guide
  • Instructions for downloading drivers and software from ZWO website

Useful Resources

This camera requires the newest version of the following software:

  • SharpCap V2.8.2325 and up
  • Firecapture V2.5.03 and up

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