I used ProShow Gold 5.0 by Photodex.

Hap


From: Bernard Miller
Sent: Sunday, April 08, 2012 12:19 PM
To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [ccd-newastro] New video of astrophotos


Hap,

Very nice. What software did you use to make the video?

Thanks,

Bernard

From: mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com
[mailto:mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Hap Griffin
Sent: Wednesday, April 04, 2012 1:10 PM
To: mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ccd-newastro] New video of astrophotos

I have posted a new version of a short video of my recent astrophotos at
http://www.photodex.com/share/hapgriffin/w4gccmg4

Be sure to click the “full screen” button and crank up the volume! I hope
you enjoy it.

Clear skies,
Hap Griffin

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hello Everyone,

I am on my third TCC II failure in less than four years.  So you can imagine my
current state of mind.  This is why the RCOS tech person won't help me.  He did
not like my rude reply after he pointed me to useless obsolete info in the help
file.

Regards,
Bob

Hi Bob,

	 The TCC II, being the version newer than the TCC I, does not have a jumper that
needs to be
changed to reload the flash memory. You need to have the latest firmware file
from the RCOS TCC
download section which I believe for the TCC II is RCOS RF 2-21a.zip if you have
the newer TCCII
Version 9. If you have the first version of the TCC II then I think you need
RCOS RF 2 20.S2 which
doesn't appear to be on the website anymore. On the RCOS Telescope Command
Center window, select
Tools | Firmware upgrade. Follow the instructions to locate the firmware file
and upload it to the
TCC. I would then power the TCC off and back on and try to establish
communications. HTH .....




>On 13 Apr 2012 10:49:09 -0000, ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com wrote:

>1a. Does anyone know how to force flash an RCOS TCC II?
>    Posted by: "Bob Franke" bfranke@... bob_franke
>    Date: Thu Apr 12, 2012 9:21 pm ((PDT))
>
>Hello Everyone,
>
>I am on my third TCC II failure in less than four years.  So you can imagine my
current state of mind.  This is why the RCOS tech person won't help me.  Here
did not like my rude reply after he pointed me to useless obsolete info in the
help file.
>
>Regards,
>Bob


Clear Skies ......

Klaatu Barada Nikto ...

Frank S (Sandy) Barnes III
TwinOaks Observatory
http://www.skyimager.com
SBarnes@...

I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.

I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.

With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward�..there is only one
dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.

Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that compares
cameras?  As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with specific
recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.

I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono camera is
purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that budget).

A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Bob

A lot of cameras _could_ work for you. The first place to start would be with
this information:

* Telescope. Focal length, aperture, f-ratio, type, etc.
* Mount model
* Seeing conditions (if known)
* How dark, or how bright with light pollution, is the sky where you will be
imaging?
* Do you need to work remotely (and remote could be your kitchen, or 2,000 miles
away)?
* Permanent (observatory) or nightly setup?

And any other pertinent facts.

given your budget, I would suggest you think seriously about a used camera.
Otherwise you might not get enough of a camera to improve on that DSLR. <g>

Ron Wodaski



On Apr 13, 2012, at 9:48 AM, Bob wrote:

> I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
>
> I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.
>
> With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward�..there is only
one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.
>
> Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that compares
cameras?  As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with specific
recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
>
> I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono camera
is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that budget).
>
> A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Bob
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
>
>
>

Bob: You may want to research the annual index's of Sky and Telescope, Astronomy
Mag, Sky News (Canadian Mag) etc. for their listing of tests of cameras.
Ron
   ----- Original Message -----
   From: Bob
   To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
   Sent: Friday, April 13, 2012 9:48 AM
   Subject: [ccd-newastro] Which camera to buy



   I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.

   I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.

   With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward...there is only
one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.

   Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that compares
cameras? As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with specific
recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.

   I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono camera
is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that budget).

   A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.

   Thanks,
   Bob





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

> * How dark, or how bright with light pollution, is the sky where you will be
imaging?

Why is this a factor?

Camera sensitivity and type play into this.

First, let's begin with first principles: the battle for dim fuzzies always has
to do with the ratio of signal to noise. A bright sky is unwanted extra signal,
so you strategy for selecting a camera should take that into account.

As with all things related to noise, however, the answers can be quite
non-intuitive. <g>

Let's say you have a medium-bright sky. What affect does this have on blooming
and non-blooming cameras?

Blooms limit your individual sub-exposure duration. (There is some length of
bloom that you find unacceptable, in other words.) But a bright sky also limits
sub-exposure duration. It's a good idea to know which of these two things is the
tighter limit.

If your sky brightness, rather than blooming, limits your individual exposure
duration, then you can go for the extra sensitivity of the blooming camera with
no real penalty.

Perversely, however, under dark skies, you may want to get a non-blooming camera
because it will allow very long sub-exposure durations. Even though it is less
sensitive, the ability to maximize sub-exposure duration can allow you to go
deeper faster (short bloomed exposures have more read noise relative to signal).

In some cases, a blooming camera may be limited to 5 minute exposures in a
situation where a non-blooming camera could well go 45 minutes. That's 9x the
exposure, and in very dark skies, you may need such long exposure to swamp read
noise with signal. So even if your non-blooming camera is less sensitive, it
_may_ still over come read noise more readily. (And there is a definite
convenience factor in not having to work at bloom removal by whatever means.)
It's not a pure improvement; some non-blooming cameras can give you very large
bright stars.

Ideally, when selecting a camera, you weigh all the factors that come into play.
Some will be obvious; some are subtle and you learn by experience. Others are
very non-intuitive, and even hard to accept.

And sometimes, there may not even be a practical benefit, but rather a
psychological one. even for cases where the read noise is very low, there's
something sweet about single very deep exposures. <g>

Ron Wodaski



On Apr 13, 2012, at 11:16 AM, CurtisC wrote:

>> * How dark, or how bright with light pollution, is the sky where you will be
imaging?
>
> Why is this a factor?
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
>
>
>

Thanks for the reply Ron.

* The principal scopes that I use for imaging are refractors, a 120mm f7.5 and
an 80mm f6.25. I also have two SCTs (8" and 11") f10 that I use for planetary.

* NEQ6 pro (Orion Atlas)

* Seeing Conditions vary but I usually try to only image on nights with mostly
stable conditions and little moonlight

* Primarily Bortle 5 (backyard) with a CLS filter but occasionally dark skies

* Occasionally work remotely (inside the house) depending on outside
temperature.

* Nightly setup that usually takes 30 minutes from start to finish

I would defiantly consider a quality used camera in good condition.....I'm just
struggling to figure out which one (new or used).

Thanks,

Bob


--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, Ron Wodaski <yahoo@...> wrote:
>
> A lot of cameras _could_ work for you. The first place to start would be with
this information:
>
> * Telescope. Focal length, aperture, f-ratio, type, etc.
> * Mount model
> * Seeing conditions (if known)
> * How dark, or how bright with light pollution, is the sky where you will be
imaging?
> * Do you need to work remotely (and remote could be your kitchen, or 2,000
miles away)?
> * Permanent (observatory) or nightly setup?
>
> And any other pertinent facts.
>
> given your budget, I would suggest you think seriously about a used camera.
Otherwise you might not get enough of a camera to improve on that DSLR. <g>
>
> Ron Wodaski
>
>
>
> On Apr 13, 2012, at 9:48 AM, Bob wrote:
>
> > I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
> >
> > I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.
> >
> > With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward�..there is only
one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.
> >
> > Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that
compares cameras?  As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with
specific recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
> >
> > I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono
camera is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that
budget).
> >
> > A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Bob
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > ------------------------------------
> >
> >
> >
> >
>

Bob, I suggest downloading Ron W's CCD Calculator, so you can plug into it your
telescopes and see what the various camera's give you in field of view and image
scale. It is really helpful in making a camera choice. I believe the latest
version is 1.5.0. Link below for downloading.
Mark

http://www.newastro.com/book_new/camera_app.php





--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, "Bob" <bobbach74@...> wrote:
>
> Thanks for the reply Ron.
>
> * The principal scopes that I use for imaging are refractors, a 120mm f7.5 and
an 80mm f6.25. I also have two SCTs (8" and 11") f10 that I use for planetary.
>
> * NEQ6 pro (Orion Atlas)
>
> * Seeing Conditions vary but I usually try to only image on nights with mostly
stable conditions and little moonlight
>
> * Primarily Bortle 5 (backyard) with a CLS filter but occasionally dark skies
>
> * Occasionally work remotely (inside the house) depending on outside
temperature.
>
> * Nightly setup that usually takes 30 minutes from start to finish
>
> I would defiantly consider a quality used camera in good condition.....I'm
just struggling to figure out which one (new or used).
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bob
>
>
> --- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, Ron Wodaski <yahoo@> wrote:
> >
> > A lot of cameras _could_ work for you. The first place to start would be
with this information:
> >
> > * Telescope. Focal length, aperture, f-ratio, type, etc.
> > * Mount model
> > * Seeing conditions (if known)
> > * How dark, or how bright with light pollution, is the sky where you will be
imaging?
> > * Do you need to work remotely (and remote could be your kitchen, or 2,000
miles away)?
> > * Permanent (observatory) or nightly setup?
> >
> > And any other pertinent facts.
> >
> > given your budget, I would suggest you think seriously about a used camera.
Otherwise you might not get enough of a camera to improve on that DSLR. <g>
> >
> > Ron Wodaski
> >
> >
> >
> > On Apr 13, 2012, at 9:48 AM, Bob wrote:
> >
> > > I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
> > >
> > > I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.
> > >
> > > With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward�..there is
only one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.
> > >
> > > Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that
compares cameras?  As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with
specific recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
> > >
> > > I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono
camera is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that
budget).
> > >
> > > A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
> > >
> > > Thanks,
> > > Bob
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > ------------------------------------
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
>

Actually, I would advise downloading the version in the File library of this
group instead. Not only will it be much faster, but that version has some
features that are not in the version on my site.

Ron Wodaski



On Apr 13, 2012, at 12:39 PM, mark_manner_spot_obsrv wrote:

> Bob, I suggest downloading Ron W's CCD Calculator, so you can plug into it
your telescopes and see what the various camera's give you in field of view and
image scale. It is really helpful in making a camera choice. I believe the
latest version is 1.5.0. Link below for downloading.
> Mark
>
> http://www.newastro.com/book_new/camera_app.php
>
>
>
>
>
> --- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, "Bob" <bobbach74@...> wrote:
>>
>> Thanks for the reply Ron.
>>
>> * The principal scopes that I use for imaging are refractors, a 120mm f7.5
and an 80mm f6.25. I also have two SCTs (8" and 11") f10 that I use for
planetary.
>>
>> * NEQ6 pro (Orion Atlas)
>>
>> * Seeing Conditions vary but I usually try to only image on nights with
mostly stable conditions and little moonlight
>>
>> * Primarily Bortle 5 (backyard) with a CLS filter but occasionally dark skies
>>
>> * Occasionally work remotely (inside the house) depending on outside
temperature.
>>
>> * Nightly setup that usually takes 30 minutes from start to finish
>>
>> I would defiantly consider a quality used camera in good condition.....I'm
just struggling to figure out which one (new or used).
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Bob
>>
>>
>> --- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, Ron Wodaski <yahoo@> wrote:
>>>
>>> A lot of cameras _could_ work for you. The first place to start would be
with this information:
>>>
>>> * Telescope. Focal length, aperture, f-ratio, type, etc.
>>> * Mount model
>>> * Seeing conditions (if known)
>>> * How dark, or how bright with light pollution, is the sky where you will be
imaging?
>>> * Do you need to work remotely (and remote could be your kitchen, or 2,000
miles away)?
>>> * Permanent (observatory) or nightly setup?
>>>
>>> And any other pertinent facts.
>>>
>>> given your budget, I would suggest you think seriously about a used camera.
Otherwise you might not get enough of a camera to improve on that DSLR. <g>
>>>
>>> Ron Wodaski
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> On Apr 13, 2012, at 9:48 AM, Bob wrote:
>>>
>>>> I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
>>>>
>>>> I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.
>>>>
>>>> With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward�..there is only
one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.
>>>>
>>>> Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that
compares cameras?  As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with
specific recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
>>>>
>>>> I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono
camera is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that
budget).
>>>>
>>>> A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
>>>>
>>>> Thanks,
>>>> Bob
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> ------------------------------------
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
>
>
>

Thanks Ron,

I have been doing that....going through back issues and reading reviews. One
magazine's review format that I like is the UK publication Sky at Night....they
generally take comparable items from a number of manufactures and review them
relative to each other. They then apply a head to head numerical score to each.

Bob

--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, "Ron Brant" <brant.r.d@...> wrote:
>
> Bob: You may want to research the annual index's of Sky and Telescope,
Astronomy Mag, Sky News (Canadian Mag) etc. for their listing of tests of
cameras.
> Ron
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Bob
>   To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Friday, April 13, 2012 9:48 AM
>   Subject: [ccd-newastro] Which camera to buy
>
>
>
>   I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
>
>   I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.
>
>   With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward...there is only
one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.
>
>   Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that
compares cameras? As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with
specific recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
>
>   I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono
camera is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that
budget).
>
>   A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
>
>   Thanks,
>   Bob
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Yes you can buy an excellent new camera for well under $2k for your equipment.
I would give serious consideration to the Atik 314L+ . Excellent performance,
low read noise and very clean chip. It is a 2/3" CCD sensor and would go well
with your smaller focal lengths.

  Unlike the Kodak sensors, Sony CCD's are much cleaner and you won't need to do
darks.

Parijat





--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, "Bob" <bobbach74@...> wrote:
>
> Thanks for the reply Ron.
>
> * The principal scopes that I use for imaging are refractors, a 120mm f7.5 and
an 80mm f6.25. I also have two SCTs (8" and 11") f10 that I use for planetary.
>
> * NEQ6 pro (Orion Atlas)
>
> * Seeing Conditions vary but I usually try to only image on nights with mostly
stable conditions and little moonlight
>
> * Primarily Bortle 5 (backyard) with a CLS filter but occasionally dark skies
>
> * Occasionally work remotely (inside the house) depending on outside
temperature.
>
> * Nightly setup that usually takes 30 minutes from start to finish
>
> I would defiantly consider a quality used camera in good condition.....I'm
just struggling to figure out which one (new or used).
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bob
>
>

I've been down your road over the past few years. Unless you go used, $2000 is a
limited budget, espcially if you go mono. If you go OSC, I would suggest
sticking with Sony chips. Mono, if you want a larger frame chip similar to your
DSLR, Kodak is your only choice. Deals can be had on Astromart. I sold a 6 month
old Atik 314 L OSC for $900. OSC does not get a very good resale. I just sold a
QSI 583 WSG mono with Astrdon filters installed including Ha for $2900. I would
avoid the Kodak 8300 chip in OSC. OPT explained something about microlenses
being bad on that OSC chip, although I'm not sure what microlenses do to a CCD
chip. My FOV with a 314 and a 4 in refractor was small, so the advice of testing
FOV's is great. If you want clean images bias frames to scale are a must. Darks
and dithering help elimiante hot pixels and noise no matter what chip. The
greatest advantage I found over DSLR was the cooled chip and ease of use. Mono
has a steeper learning curve but can produce better overall images IMO,  as you
can focus on Lumiance to get the desired results. If I had to do it all over
again, I would have bit the bullet and skipped OSC and went straight to mono. My
time spent processing is much greater but I much happier with the results.
Paitence is key, there's always fools like me who sell stuff cheaply to fund our
next purchase.



--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, "Bob" <bobbach74@...> wrote:
>
> I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
>
> I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.
>
> With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward�..there is only
one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.
>
> Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that compares
cameras?  As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with specific
recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
>
> I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono camera
is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that budget).
>
> A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Bob
>

Bob,



I own the SBIG 8300C and the STL 1301E and both give great results.  I have
heard that the QSI is not made well, but I have never seen one.  I have seen
some great results.  The 8400 is also at a great price right now.  I like
SBIG since they have been around for quite a long time.



Mike

Banner Creek Science Center and Observatory

Holton, Kansas



From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Michael
Sent: Friday, April 13, 2012 7:40 PM
To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy







I've been down your road over the past few years. Unless you go used, $2000
is a limited budget, espcially if you go mono. If you go OSC, I would
suggest sticking with Sony chips. Mono, if you want a larger frame chip
similar to your DSLR, Kodak is your only choice. Deals can be had on
Astromart. I sold a 6 month old Atik 314 L OSC for $900. OSC does not get a
very good resale. I just sold a QSI 583 WSG mono with Astrdon filters
installed including Ha for $2900. I would avoid the Kodak 8300 chip in OSC.
OPT explained something about microlenses being bad on that OSC chip,
although I'm not sure what microlenses do to a CCD chip. My FOV with a 314
and a 4 in refractor was small, so the advice of testing FOV's is great. If
you want clean images bias frames to scale are a must. Darks and dithering
help elimiante hot pixels and noise no matter what chip. The greatest
advantage I found over DSLR was the cooled chip and ease of use. Mono has a
steeper learning curve but can produce better overall images IMO, as you can
focus on Lumiance to get the desired results. If I had to do it all over
again, I would have bit the bullet and skipped OSC and went straight to
mono. My time spent processing is much greater but I much happier with the
results. Paitence is key, there's always fools like me who sell stuff
cheaply to fund our next purchase.

--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
, "Bob" <bobbach74@...> wrote:
>
> I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
>
> I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make
and model to choose.
>
> With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward...there is
only one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of
task appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when
looking at the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common
imager being used.
>
> Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that
compares cameras? As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with
specific recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
>
> I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono
camera is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that
budget).
>
> A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Bob
>





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I owned and an Sbig 8300C sold it,  then a QSI 583 WSG mono. I would take
the QSI any day over the SBIG. My cooling was far more stable and reached
8-10 C lower than the SBIG. The QSI built in filter wheel and optional off
axis guider make it a more attractive option. Support from QSI is great and
they are owned and manufactured by a U.S. Company in the U.S. If they
offered a large format chip camera I would have bought another. I ended up
going with an Apogee Alta with a Kodak 16000 chip at 7.4u.  I'm not saying
that SBIG doesn't produce some quality cameras, they do, and some are still
made in the U.S., but the acquisition by Aplegen Inc means many of their
lower priced camera production is now in China. I personally have
experienced many quality control issues with Astronomy related products
manufactured in China. Others experience zero problems.  Just my two cents.



From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Michiel Ford
Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2012 11:32 AM
To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy





Bob,

I own the SBIG 8300C and the STL 1301E and both give great results. I have
heard that the QSI is not made well, but I have never seen one. I have seen
some great results. The 8400 is also at a great price right now. I like
SBIG since they have been around for quite a long time.

Mike

Banner Creek Science Center and Observatory

Holton, Kansas

From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
[mailto:ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
] On
Behalf Of Michael
Sent: Friday, April 13, 2012 7:40 PM
To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
Subject: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy

I've been down your road over the past few years. Unless you go used, $2000
is a limited budget, espcially if you go mono. If you go OSC, I would
suggest sticking with Sony chips. Mono, if you want a larger frame chip
similar to your DSLR, Kodak is your only choice. Deals can be had on
Astromart. I sold a 6 month old Atik 314 L OSC for $900. OSC does not get a
very good resale. I just sold a QSI 583 WSG mono with Astrdon filters
installed including Ha for $2900. I would avoid the Kodak 8300 chip in OSC.
OPT explained something about microlenses being bad on that OSC chip,
although I'm not sure what microlenses do to a CCD chip. My FOV with a 314
and a 4 in refractor was small, so the advice of testing FOV's is great. If
you want clean images bias frames to scale are a must. Darks and dithering
help elimiante hot pixels and noise no matter what chip. The greatest
advantage I found over DSLR was the cooled chip and ease of use. Mono has a
steeper learning curve but can produce better overall images IMO, as you can
focus on Lumiance to get the desired results. If I had to do it all over
again, I would have bit the bullet and skipped OSC and went straight to
mono. My time spent processing is much greater but I much happier with the
results. Paitence is key, there's always fools like me who sell stuff
cheaply to fund our next purchase.

--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
<mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
, "Bob" <bobbach74@...> wrote:
>
> I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
>
> I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make
and model to choose.
>
> With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward...there is
only one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of
task appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when
looking at the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common
imager being used.
>
> Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that
compares cameras? As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with
specific recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
>
> I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono
camera is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that
budget).
>
> A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Bob
>

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thanks very much you guys�..this is exactly the type of information I am looking
for. The comments with respect to your experiences with specific models is very
helpful.

Bob


--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, "Michael Miller" <circpro@...> wrote:
>
> I owned and an Sbig 8300C sold it,  then a QSI 583 WSG mono. I would take
> the QSI any day over the SBIG. My cooling was far more stable and reached
> 8-10 C lower than the SBIG. The QSI built in filter wheel and optional off
> axis guider make it a more attractive option. Support from QSI is great and
> they are owned and manufactured by a U.S. Company in the U.S. If they
> offered a large format chip camera I would have bought another. I ended up
> going with an Apogee Alta with a Kodak 16000 chip at 7.4u.  I'm not saying
> that SBIG doesn't produce some quality cameras, they do, and some are still
> made in the U.S., but the acquisition by Aplegen Inc means many of their
> lower priced camera production is now in China. I personally have
> experienced many quality control issues with Astronomy related products
> manufactured in China. Others experience zero problems.  Just my two cents.
>
>
>
> From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com] On
> Behalf Of Michiel Ford
> Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2012 11:32 AM
> To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: RE: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy
>
>
>
>
>
> Bob,
>
> I own the SBIG 8300C and the STL 1301E and both give great results. I have
> heard that the QSI is not made well, but I have never seen one. I have seen
> some great results. The 8400 is also at a great price right now. I like
> SBIG since they have been around for quite a long time.
>
> Mike
>
> Banner Creek Science Center and Observatory
>
> Holton, Kansas
>
> From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
> [mailto:ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
> ] On
> Behalf Of Michael
> Sent: Friday, April 13, 2012 7:40 PM
> To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
> Subject: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy
>
> I've been down your road over the past few years. Unless you go used, $2000
> is a limited budget, espcially if you go mono. If you go OSC, I would
> suggest sticking with Sony chips. Mono, if you want a larger frame chip
> similar to your DSLR, Kodak is your only choice. Deals can be had on
> Astromart. I sold a 6 month old Atik 314 L OSC for $900. OSC does not get a
> very good resale. I just sold a QSI 583 WSG mono with Astrdon filters
> installed including Ha for $2900. I would avoid the Kodak 8300 chip in OSC.
> OPT explained something about microlenses being bad on that OSC chip,
> although I'm not sure what microlenses do to a CCD chip. My FOV with a 314
> and a 4 in refractor was small, so the advice of testing FOV's is great. If
> you want clean images bias frames to scale are a must. Darks and dithering
> help elimiante hot pixels and noise no matter what chip. The greatest
> advantage I found over DSLR was the cooled chip and ease of use. Mono has a
> steeper learning curve but can produce better overall images IMO, as you can
> focus on Lumiance to get the desired results. If I had to do it all over
> again, I would have bit the bullet and skipped OSC and went straight to
> mono. My time spent processing is much greater but I much happier with the
> results. Paitence is key, there's always fools like me who sell stuff
> cheaply to fund our next purchase.
>
> --- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
> <mailto:ccd-newastro%40yahoogroups.com>
> , "Bob" <bobbach74@> wrote:
> >
> > I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
> >
> > I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
> replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make
> and model to choose.
> >
> > With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward...there is
> only one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of
> task appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
> manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
> trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
> reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when
> looking at the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common
> imager being used.
> >
> > Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that
> compares cameras? As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with
> specific recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
> >
> > I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono
> camera is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that
> budget).
> >
> > A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Bob
> >
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Michael,

It is not wise to spread falsehoods. None of our cameras are made in
China.

There are some of our cameras made in Singapore - but this is a far
cry from China. Many are still made completely in the US (not just
"assembled" in the US).

-Matt Thomas
SBIG

Saturday, April 14, 2012, 12:06:23 PM, Michael wrote:

> the acquisition by Aplegen Inc means many of their lower priced
> camera production is now in China. I personally have experienced
> many quality control issues with Astronomy related products
> manufactured in China. Others experience zero problems. Just my two
> cents.

--- "Michael" <circpro@...> wrote:
> If I had to do it all over again, I would have bit the bullet
> and skipped OSC and went straight to mono.

Good advice. OSC is a straight-jacket that imposes severe limits on the
performance and potential of an astro-cam.  This is particularly important for
imaging in light polution - narrow-band filters (esp H-a) nearly eliminate sky
noise but such filters are crippled by OSC.

Stan

--- "Michael Miller" <circpro@...> wrote:
> I owned and an Sbig 8300C sold it,  then a QSI 583 WSG mono.
> I would take the QSI any day over the SBIG.

How much of that preference is due to OSC vs mono?

> My cooling was far more stable and reached
> 8-10 C lower than the SBIG.

The actual impact of dark noise on an image is negligible once the temp is -20c
(approx).  If you do deep narrow-band imaging in a hot-night climate then this
might be a minor issue but it is probably irrelevant.

> The QSI built in filter wheel and optional off
> axis guider make it a more attractive option.

Both are available with ST-8300. The internal filters are not necessarily more
attrasctive - an external filter wheel allows greater customization and future
expansion.

> Support from QSI is great

The SBIG user base is very large, expert and active.  The company has a long
history of high responsiveness though it is currently going thru a transition.

> and they are owned and manufactured
> by a U.S. Company in the U.S...

I see that mistaken aspersion has been corrected...

Stan

On 4/14/2012 12:06 PM, Michael Miller wrote:
> the acquisition by Aplegen Inc means many of their
> lower priced camera production is now in China

Michael,
Bold comment to make on a group, you have any proof of this?

Tom

Thanks Stan, I only share my opinions in order to help those folks prevent
making the same mistakes I did. I wish I had some of the advice I see on
here now 3 years ago. I had no clue what I was doing and fumbled through
many things incorrectly. I am still learning and am not always correct in
what I say, but I try to help. Not everyone is as lucky as I have been and
can afford to switch cameras 4 times in 3 years. My lack of prior knowledge
cost me 1000's. I followed the path many do at first, buy a package deal
with an SCT, low end mount and a DSLR, and then wonder why I wasn't
producing fantastic images. The next move was to a larger SCT (bigger is
always better right?) Had I know about Ron's book and followed his
guidelines, my approach and understanding would have been far different. The
more I image the greater respect I have for what the top imagers produce.
It's obvious to me that they spend days, weeks, or months in some cases
perfecting a single image. I start imaging at NM Skies next week, am
attending Adam Block's 3 day session on CCD Stack next month, and have worn
the cover off the zone system. If I can't show dramatic improvements by the
end of summer, they're be some great deals on Astromart, as I've run out of
excuses!



From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Stan
Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 8:26 AM
To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy





--- "Michael" <circpro@...> wrote:
> If I had to do it all over again, I would have bit the bullet
> and skipped OSC and went straight to mono.

Good advice. OSC is a straight-jacket that imposes severe limits on the
performance and potential of an astro-cam. This is particularly important
for imaging in light polution - narrow-band filters (esp H-a) nearly
eliminate sky noise but such filters are crippled by OSC.

Stan





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I am trying to use PHD for guiding, but my win7 64 bit will not use the ascom
driver for Autostar #497 on my lx-90.  both cams are recognized DSI 1 & 2, but
not the mount, 'driver error ascom driver'.  it works fine on XP laptop.  
anyone know where to download a driver for 64 bit?

VR

Michael, are you moving your scope to New Mexico skies?



thanks, 



----- Original Message -----


From: "Michael Miller" <circpro@...>
To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 9:56:24 AM
Subject: RE: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy

 




Thanks Stan, I only share my opinions in order to help those folks prevent
making the same mistakes I did. I wish I had some of the advice I see on
here now 3 years ago. I had no clue what I was doing and fumbled through
many things incorrectly. I am still learning and am not always correct in
what I say, but I try to help. Not everyone is as lucky as I have been and
can afford to switch cameras 4 times in 3 years. My lack of prior knowledge
cost me 1000's. I followed the path many do at first, buy a package deal
with an SCT, low end mount and a DSLR, and then wonder why I wasn't
producing fantastic images. The next move was to a larger SCT (bigger is
always better right?) Had I know about Ron's book and followed his
guidelines, my approach and understanding would have been far different. The
more I image the greater respect I have for what the top imagers produce.
It's obvious to me that they spend days, weeks, or months in some cases
perfecting a single image. I start imaging at NM Skies next week, am
attending Adam Block's 3 day session on CCD Stack next month, and have worn
the cover off the zone system. If I can't show dramatic improvements by the
end of summer, they're be some great deals on Astromart, as I've run out of
excuses!

From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com [mailto: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com ] On
Behalf Of Stan
Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 8:26 AM
To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy

--- "Michael" <circpro@...> wrote:
> If I had to do it all over again, I would have bit the bullet
> and skipped OSC and went straight to mono.

Good advice. OSC is a straight-jacket that imposes severe limits on the
performance and potential of an astro-cam. This is particularly important
for imaging in light polution - narrow-band filters (esp H-a) nearly
eliminate sky noise but such filters are crippled by OSC.

Stan

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

It's already there. Everyone says they are pros, so it will be set up far better
than what I would do. I've been waiting a month getting all the pieces together
(me not them) but I'm very anxious to see what good dark sky data looks like and
how easy it will be to work with since I'm far from proficient at correcting
data in photoshop and CCD Stack. My experience working with them so far confirms
they are top notch, now it's all on me.

Michael D Miller
CEO VP Services


On Apr 15, 2012, at 9:54 AM, jfmiller7@... wrote:

>
>
> Michael, are you moving your scope to New Mexico skies?
>
> thanks,
>
> ----- Original Message -----
>
> From: "Michael Miller" <circpro@...>
> To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 9:56:24 AM
> Subject: RE: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy
>
>
>
> Thanks Stan, I only share my opinions in order to help those folks prevent
> making the same mistakes I did. I wish I had some of the advice I see on
> here now 3 years ago. I had no clue what I was doing and fumbled through
> many things incorrectly. I am still learning and am not always correct in
> what I say, but I try to help. Not everyone is as lucky as I have been and
> can afford to switch cameras 4 times in 3 years. My lack of prior knowledge
> cost me 1000's. I followed the path many do at first, buy a package deal
> with an SCT, low end mount and a DSLR, and then wonder why I wasn't
> producing fantastic images. The next move was to a larger SCT (bigger is
> always better right?) Had I know about Ron's book and followed his
> guidelines, my approach and understanding would have been far different. The
> more I image the greater respect I have for what the top imagers produce.
> It's obvious to me that they spend days, weeks, or months in some cases
> perfecting a single image. I start imaging at NM Skies next week, am
> attending Adam Block's 3 day session on CCD Stack next month, and have worn
> the cover off the zone system. If I can't show dramatic improvements by the
> end of summer, they're be some great deals on Astromart, as I've run out of
> excuses!
>
> From: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com [mailto: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com ] On
> Behalf Of Stan
> Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 8:26 AM
> To: ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy
>
> --- "Michael" <circpro@...> wrote:
> > If I had to do it all over again, I would have bit the bullet
> > and skipped OSC and went straight to mono.
>
> Good advice. OSC is a straight-jacket that imposes severe limits on the
> performance and potential of an astro-cam. This is particularly important
> for imaging in light polution - narrow-band filters (esp H-a) nearly
> eliminate sky noise but such filters are crippled by OSC.
>
> Stan
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

It is an extraordinary place, both the skies and the people. I have had the
opportunity to lease equipment on site in the past, but I believe that is no
longer offered. I am considering moving a mount and scope down there.

 

The beauty of having good data is that you will always be able to go back and
re-process something after you learn more.

 

thanks for replying, and have fun,

 

Jim

 

 



----- Original Message -----




From: "Michael Miller" < circpro @ gmail .com>
To: ccd-newastro@ yahoogroups .com
Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 11:06:24 AM
Subject: Re: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy

 




It's already there. Everyone says they are pros, so it will be set up far better
than what I would do. I've been waiting a month getting all the pieces together
(me not them) but I'm very anxious to see what good dark sky data looks like and
how easy it will be to work with since I'm far from proficient at correcting
data in photoshop and CCD Stack. My experience working with them so far confirms
they are top notch, now it's all on me.

Michael D Miller
CEO VP Services

On Apr 15, 2012, at 9:54 AM, jfmiller7@... wrote:

>
>
> Michael, are you moving your scope to New Mexico skies?
>
> thanks,
>
> ----- Original Message -----
>
> From: "Michael Miller" < circpro @ gmail .com >
> To: ccd-newastro@ yahoogroups .com
> Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 9:56:24 AM
> Subject: RE: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy
>
>
>
> Thanks Stan, I only share my opinions in order to help those folks prevent
> making the same mistakes I did. I wish I had some of the advice I see on
> here now 3 years ago. I had no clue what I was doing and fumbled through
> many things incorrectly. I am still learning and am not always correct in
> what I say, but I try to help. Not everyone is as lucky as I have been and
> can afford to switch cameras 4 times in 3 years. My lack of prior knowledge
> cost me 1000's. I followed the path many do at first, buy a package deal
> with an SCT , low end mount and a DSLR , and then wonder why I wasn't
> producing fantastic images. The next move was to a larger SCT (bigger is
> always better right?) Had I know about Ron's book and followed his
> guidelines, my approach and understanding would have been far different. The
> more I image the greater respect I have for what the top imagers produce.
> It's obvious to me that they spend days, weeks, or months in some cases
> perfecting a single image. I start imaging at NM Skies next week, am
> attending Adam Block's 3 day session on CCD Stack next month, and have worn
> the cover off the zone system. If I can't show dramatic improvements by the
> end of summer, they're be some great deals on Astromart , as I've run out of
> excuses!
>
> From: ccd-newastro@ yahoogroups .com [ mailto : ccd-newastro@ yahoogroups .com
] On
> Behalf Of Stan
> Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2012 8:26 AM
> To: ccd-newastro@ yahoogroups .com
> Subject: [ccd-newastro] Re: Which camera to buy
>
> --- "Michael" < circpro @...> wrote:
> > If I had to do it all over again, I would have bit the bullet
> > and skipped OSC and went straight to mono.
>
> Good advice. OSC is a straight-jacket that imposes severe limits on the
> performance and potential of an astro-cam. This is particularly important
> for imaging in light polution - narrow-band filters (esp H-a) nearly
> eliminate sky noise but such filters are crippled by OSC .
>
> Stan
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Bob,
You have not mentioned what kind of a guider camera you are using? (unless I
missed it somewhere in the postings).
You will need to guide to make good images, so add in the cost of a guider setup
also.
Keeping this in mind, I recommend you consider an SBIG ST2000XM mono camera and
CFW9 filter wheel. This is a self contained system that includes a guider chip
in the camera as well as the imaging chip, just attach to the scope and image,
can't be simpler. Also the chip in that camera is fairly large for the cost and
includes anti-blooming protection (which makes it easier for a new photographer
to take good pictures). If you can not afford the camera and filter wheel then
start with the camera only and do black & white until you can afford to add the
filter wheel and filters.
Rex

--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, "Bob" <bobbach74@...> wrote:
>
> I'm hoping to get a bit of information on which CCD Camera to buy.
>
> I have been imaging for several years with a modified DSLR and now want to
replace / supplement it with a CCD camera but I am at a loss with which make and
model to choose.
>
> With DSLR the choice of a camera is pretty straight forward�..there is only
one dominant manufacturer (Canon) and they offer a limited number of task
appropriate models. With CCD it seems that there are several comparable
manufacturers and dozens of individual models to choose from. I am having
trouble sorting through all of the choices and have not been able to find a
reliable reference source that compares all of the options. Even when looking at
the published CCD images (on line, S&T etc.) there is no common imager being
used.
>
> Is anyone aware of a current online, unbiased, reference source that compares
cameras?  As well, I'm hoping that individuals can provide me with specific
recommendations for a make and model I should consider buying.
>
> I would like to keep the total purchase at less than $2,000 (if a mono camera
is purchased the filter wheel would need to be included within that budget).
>
> A bit of direction from the Group would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Bob
>

Hello guys.
I am planning to change a bit my set up and instead of using internal Autoguider
chip of my St10xe I would like to add an off axis guider and a new small
autoguiding camera.
I am thinking of the new Sbig's St-i Autoguider because is really light.
Have anyone tried this one?
Or have you something other to suggest?

Regards
Nikos Paschalis
www.nunki.gr

The Starlight Lodestar guide camera works very well. Good sensitivity.
Which scope and OAG are you using?



On 16 April 2012 07:00, NIKOS <np252003@...> wrote:

> **
>
>
> Hello guys.
> I am planning to change a bit my set up and instead of using internal
> Autoguider chip of my St10xe I would like to add an off axis guider and a
> new small autoguiding camera.
> I am thinking of the new Sbig's St-i Autoguider because is really light.
> Have anyone tried this one?
> Or have you something other to suggest?
>
> Regards
> Nikos Paschalis
> www.nunki.gr
>
>
>



--
"Astronomical Spectroscopy - The Final Frontier" - to boldly go where few
amateurs have gone before....
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/astronomical_spectroscopy/?yguid=322612425
"Astronomical Spectroscopy for Amateurs" - Springer
"Grating Spectroscopes - How to use them" - Springer


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I will use Officina stellare RC 400 (16'')and for OAG probably the monster MOAG
or similar....

--- In ccd-newastro@yahoogroups.com, Ken Harrison <kenm.harrison@...> wrote:
>
> The Starlight Lodestar guide camera works very well. Good sensitivity.
> Which scope and OAG are you using?
>
>
>
> On 16 April 2012 07:00, NIKOS <np252003@...> wrote:
>
> > **
> >
> >
> > Hello guys.
> > I am planning to change a bit my set up and instead of using internal
> > Autoguider chip of my St10xe I would like to add an off axis guider and a
> > new small autoguiding camera.
> > I am thinking of the new Sbig's St-i Autoguider because is really light.
> > Have anyone tried this one?
> > Or have you something other to suggest?
> >
> > Regards
> > Nikos Paschalis
> > www.nunki.gr
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
> --
> "Astronomical Spectroscopy - The Final Frontier" - to boldly go where few
> amateurs have gone before....
> http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/astronomical_spectroscopy/?yguid=322612425
> "Astronomical Spectroscopy for Amateurs" - Springer
> "Grating Spectroscopes - How to use them" - Springer
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>