ZWO ASI183MC Pro (Color) CMOS Camera

Introducing the ASI183 camera series, the most sensitivie cameras in ZWO history. Peak Q.E. of the mono sensor reaches 84%!

Diagonal 15.86 mm Approx. 20.48M-Effective Pixel Monochrome/Color CMOS Image Sensor

High-Speed and High-Picture-Quality Rolling Shutter-Type Back-Illuminated CMOS Image Sensors

In the astronomic application field, Sony IMX183CLK-J (monochrome) and IMX183CQJ-J (color) sensors uses a very high sensitivity back-illuminated structure with high resolution 2.4 μm square unit pixel. The optical size is 1 inch.

DDR Memory Buffer

The ZWO ASI183MC Pro Cooled Color CMOS camera includes a 256MB DDR3 memory buffer to help improve data transfer reliability. Additionally, the use of a memory buffer minimizes amp-glow, which is caused by the slow transfer speeds when the camera is used with a USB 2.0 port. DDR memory buffer is the main difference between ASI “Cool” and “Pro” cameras.

Astrophotography Performance

The ZWO ASI183MC Pro color CMOS camera has a very large full well capacity (15000e）for such small pixel size, 1.6e read noise @ 30DB, and 12stops dynamic range @ Gain=0. The ASI183 cameras also utilize firmware features to minimize amplifier glow for maximum performance in astrophotography.

Reliable Mechanics

ZWO ASI183MC Pro color CMOS camera has same mechanics as ASI1600 Pro. There are four screws that seal the sensor chamber. Our camera design has been extensively tested and is very stable.

Even when used in higher humidity environments, ZWO ASI183MC Pro color CMOS camera will still work fine without dew problems.

High Speed

Fast FPS can be used in solar and lunar imaging, as well as for live viewing/EAA.The high speed readout may also be used for real-time focusing, true lucky imaging of double stars and other small objects, planetary imaging of the major planets in the solar system, and much more.

10Bit ADC
5496×3672 19fps
3840×2160 41.04fps
1920×1080 80.10fps
1280×720 117.30fps
12bit ADC
5496×3672 19fps
3840×2160 36.12fps
1920×1080 70.48fps
1280×720 103.23fps

High QE

Sony’s back-illuminated Exmor R technology, giving it excellent Deep Sky performance. ASI183 QE peak reaches a remarkable 84%. In Ha channel, QE is still over 60%.

Having high QE means more of the light that enters your telescope and reaches the sensor is actually used. With 84% peak Q.E. and no less than ~50% within the visible spectrum, the ASI183 will utilize a high percentage of the light that reaches it, improving your signal quality.

Dark Current

The dark current of the ZWO ASI183MC Pro Cooled Color CMOS camera is extremely low, based on our test results.

Dark frame sample @ Highest dynamic range settings(gain=0), 300s, -10°C, bin1. Please check the dark frame to make sure you are fully know the performance.

USB 3.0 Port & USB2.0 HUB

USB 3.0 Port: Provide 5Gb bandwidth to make it possible for ASI183 Pro to run at 19 fps (12bit, normal mode) or 19 fps (10bit, high speed mode) at full resolution(20.18Mega).

USB 2.0 HUB: can connect with various accessories, such as filter wheel, guide camera and electronic focuser, so you can better manage your cables. The ASI183 Pro includes two short 0.5m USB 2.0 cables. The integrated USB 2.0 hub is powered by the external power source if you connect one.

Cooling System

The ASI183 Pro has a 2-stage TEC cooling system that enables deep cooling (40°C-45°C below ambient). The cooler requires an external power supply, which is not included with the camera. You may order a suitable power supply from here.

Recommended cooler power supply: 12V @ 3-5A (or more) DC adapter (2.1×5.5mm, center pole positive). Also suitable: DC battery with 9-15V.

Using a battery with 9-15V is also suitable for the cooler power supply.