iOptron Camera iCam 178M (74120)

The iCAM178M camera is equipped with a Sony IMX178 mono sensor, offering exceptional performance for planetary imaging. Its imaging area is 1/1.8” with a pixel size of 2.4µm, a resolution of 6.4MP (3096 x 2078), and a diagonal measurement of 9mm. This camera is highly sensitive and features very low readout noise, making it ideal for capturing detailed astronomical images. Testing has shown readout noise as low as 1.34e at a gain of 350, ensuring clean and high-quality data.

The iCAM178M includes advanced technologies such as DPS (Dead Pixel Suppression), which eliminates abnormal or dead pixels by analyzing dark frames, and HCG mode, which automatically activates when the gain exceeds 30. HCG mode significantly reduces readout noise while maintaining high dynamic range at low gain settings. When connected via USB3.0, the camera achieves up to 60 FPS in RAW8 mode (10-bit ADC) during full-resolution preview. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use a high-quality solid-state drive for image recording to maximize USB3.0 data speeds. Additionally, the ST-4 guiding port allows easy connection to a mount GUIDE port for autoguiding.

Technical Specifications:

Image Sensor:

• Sony IMX178 CMOS (mono)

Sensor Size:

• 1/1.8” (7.4 x 5.0mm)

Maximum Resolution:

• 3096 x 2078 (6.4MP)

Pixel Size:

• 2.4µm

Frame Rate:

• Up to 60 FPS (10-bit ADC, maximum resolution)

Shutter Type:

• Rolling shutter

Exposure Range:

• From 32µs to 2000s

Readout Noise:

• Between 2.2e and 1.3e

Quantum Efficiency (QE):

• Approximately 80%

Full Well Capacity:

• 15 Ke

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC):

• 14-bit

HCG Mode:

• Supported

Optical Window:

• AR-coated glass

Data Port:

• USB3.0

Guide Port:

• ST-4 compatible

Telescope Adapter:

• Fits standard 1.25” adapters

Warranty:

• One-year limited warranty