The SX-46 and SX-56 Cameras by Starlight Xpress are full-frame CCD cameras with 16.7 megapixel sensors. They utilises the popular KAF-16200 ( APS-H format array of 27 x 21.6 mm, 6µm pixels) and KAF-16803 sensors (square format array of 36.8 x 36.8 mm, 9µm square pixels) respectively. The Sensor habe a peak quantum efficiency of approximately 58% at 530nm. The use of a full frame chips requires a mechanical shutter and so SX have developed a custom roller blind assembly that uses mini stepper motors to provide an extremely uniform shutter action.
These two cameras incorporate many special features that improve on some other KAF-16200 and KAF-16803 based products:
A multi-coated synthetic sapphire input window. The extremely high thermal conductivity of sapphire (about 25x better than glass) eliminates the need for a window heater, by conducting waste heat from the camera body to the entire window surface. Dewing of the window is extremely unlikely to occur, even with maximum CCD cooling.
A stepper driven roller blind shutter with extremely uniform illumination of the sensor, even at 0.1 second exposure time. The shutter is designed for robust long-term use, but is also very easy to service or replace, if necessary.
A compact, dry argon filled CCD chamber, with O ring sealing. No desiccant to regularly replace. The window is easy to clean with an air duster or soft cloth.
Built-in LED flood illuminator for RBI elimination (trapped electrons from previous images).
Fast image download time - approximately 6.5 seconds for a full 16.7 megapixel image.
A three stage Peltier cooler to give better than -45°C below ambient, with an efficient temperature controller to keep power consumption to less than 2 amps at 12v DC.
Standard 'Trius' 3 port USB 2 hub built-in.
A compact overall size of 136 mm square and 70 mm deep (+ handles). Only 1.7 Kg total weight.
With a Trius camera from Starlight Xpress you take a step into the high-end applications of astrophotography!
