The ALccd-QHY 8L colour camera is an ideal entry-level model for aspiring astrophotographers with big ambitions!
The chip size is comparable to that of a digital SLR camera. However, the ALccd-QHY 8L has a different filter and is sensitive across the entire spectral range from approx. 350 to 700 nanometres.
Almost all standard DSLRs work with a data depth of 12 bits, i.e. 4,096 grey scales. This is not ideal for astrophotography. The ALccd-QHY cameras have the full data range of 16 bits. The advantages are obvious. Under the same conditions, you achieve better differentiation between light and dark, a higher limiting magnitude and significantly better colour differentiation.
All ALccd-QHY 8L cameras do not require an optional T-ring for attachment to the telescope, spotting scope or microscope, as a suitable T-thread is already integrated into the housing.
Further advantages:
- The ALccd-QHY 8L is designed to prevent the chip or cover window from icing up (moisture trap).
- Due to the readout method (two-field readout), no mechanical shutter is necessary.
- The camera impresses with its small and lightweight housing. This puts little strain on the focuser.
The camera can lower the temperature of the sensor to around minus 40° ambient temperature using advanced cooling and a new housing. The temperature is controlled via the supplied DC201 control box and the camera's control software.
The difference between the ALccd/QHY 8L and 8Pro: The main difference between the two cameras is the CCD sensor. This is one of the reasons for the price difference. The ALccd-QHY 8L uses a two-stage readout process (two field readout). After exposure, the red and the first half of the green pixels are read out first, followed by the blue and the second half of the green pixels. This results in a slight colour gradient and a slight brightening in one corner of the image. Both can be eliminated to a large extent by proper image calibration (dark frames).
