ZWO ASI224MC Color Imaging Camera

The ZWO ASI224MC is a highly capable and versatile astrophotography camera that offers a range of features and benefits for both beginner and experienced astrophotographers.

One of the most significant benefits of the ZWO ASI224MC is its high sensitivity and low noise performance, making it an ideal choice for capturing clear and detailed images of celestial objects. It uses a 1/3 inch 1.2M pixel CMOS sensor and has a maximum resolution of 1304x976 pixels, allowing for sharp and detailed images of the night sky.

The ZWO ASI224MC also features a fast USB 3.0 interface, allowing for high-speed data transfer and quick capture of multiple images. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport and use in a wide range of astrophotography setups.

Another benefit of the ZWO ASI224MC is its compatibility with a range of telescopes and other accessories, including the ZWO filter drawer and OAG. This allows for a customizable and versatile astrophotography setup to meet your specific needs and preferences.

The ZWO ASI224MC also features advanced image processing capabilities, including dark frame subtraction and flat field correction, which can help to reduce image noise and other artifacts. This results in high-quality, clear images of celestial objects with minimal interference from external factors.

Finally, the ZWO ASI224MC is incredibly user-friendly, thanks to its intuitive software and user interface. It is easy to set up and use, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice astrophotographers.

Overall, the ZWO ASI224MC is an excellent camera for astrophotographers looking to capture clear and detailed images of the night sky. Its high sensitivity, low noise performance, compatibility with a range of telescopes and accessories, and advanced image processing capabilities make it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced astrophotographers. If you're looking for a versatile and capable astrophotography camera, then the ZWO ASI224MC is definitely worth considering.

ZWO ASI224MC Specs

Here's a detailed specification table for the ZWO ASI224MC camera:

Characteristic	Value
Sensor Type	CMOS
Sensor Model	Sony IMX224
Resolution	1304 x 976 pixels
Pixel Size	3.75 µm x 3.75 µm
Sensor Diagonal	6.09 mm
Sensor Size	4.8 mm x 3.6 mm
Bit Depth	8-bit & 12-bit
Read Noise	~1.5 e- (at highest gain)
Full Well Capacity	~19,000 e-
Frames per Second (FPS)	Up to 150 FPS
Shutter Type	Rolling Shutter
Exposure Range	32 µs to 2000 s
Connection Type	USB 3.0
Weight	~100 g (3.5 oz)
Cooling System	None
Supports Autoguiding	Yes
Software Compatibility	ASCOM, SharpCap, FireCapture, and more

The most captivating aspect of the ZWO ASI224MC lies in its ability to capture the wonders of the night sky with remarkable detail and versatility. With its high frame rate capabilities, sensitivity, and compact design, this camera opens a gateway to exploring celestial objects in new dimensions. Whether you're a seasoned astrophotographer or a beginner eager to embark on your astronomical journey, the ZWO ASI224MC invites you to capture the universe's beauty with precision, revealing intricate features of galaxies, planets, and nebulae that may otherwise remain hidden to the naked eye.

Key Features:

High-Performance Color Imaging: The ZWO ASI224MC is designed for capturing vibrant and detailed color images of the cosmos. Its high-performance sensor ensures stunning visuals, making it an ideal choice for both planetary and deep-sky imaging.
Advanced Sony IMX224 Sensor: Powered by the advanced Sony IMX224 sensor, the ASI224MC delivers exceptional sensitivity and low-light performance. This translates to sharp and clear images even in challenging astronomical conditions.
Fast Frame Rates: The camera boasts impressive frame rates, allowing astrophotographers to capture dynamic scenes with precision. With high-speed frame rates, the ASI224MC is well-suited for planetary imaging, ensuring every detail is preserved.
Autoguider Capability: The versatility of the ASI224MC extends to its capability as an autoguider. With its high sensitivity, it serves as an excellent guide camera for long-exposure astrophotography, enhancing the accuracy of your telescope's tracking.
USB 3.0 Connectivity: Featuring USB 3.0 connectivity, the ASI224MC enables faster data transfer, reducing lag time and ensuring a smoother imaging experience. This is particularly advantageous for capturing fleeting astronomical events and details.

Performance:

The ZWO ASI224MC excels in capturing vibrant and detailed color images, making it a standout performer in both planetary and deep-sky imaging. Its impressive sensitivity and fast frame rates make it a go-to choice for astrophotographers seeking to capture the nuances of the night sky with unparalleled clarity.

Pros:

High-performance color imaging for stunning visuals.
Advanced Sony IMX224 sensor for exceptional sensitivity.
Fast frame rates ideal for planetary imaging.
Autoguider capability enhances tracking accuracy.
USB 3.0 connectivity for faster data transfer.

Cons:

Limited field of view for wide-angle shots.

Technical Details:

Sensor:

1/3” CMOS IMX224/IMX225
Resolution: 1.2 Mega Pixels 1304X976
Pixel Size: 3.75µm
Sensor Size: 4.8mm*3.6mm
Diagonal: 6.09mm

Exposure:

Range: 32µs-1000s
ROI: Supported
Non-volatile memory: Built-in 192K byte user-accessible space

Interface:

USB3.0/USB2.0
Binning: 2×2 binning supported

Focus:

Distance to Sensor: 12.5mm
Shutter Type: Rolling Shutter
Protect window: AR coated window

Compatibility:

Operating System: Mac, Windows, Linux
Bit rate: 12bit output(12bit ADC)

Adaptor:

2″ / 1.25″ / M42X0.75
Dimensions: 62 mm Diameter
Weight: 100g
Working Temperature: -5°C—45°C
Storage Temperature: -20°C—60°C
Working Relative Humidity: 20%—80%
Storage Relative Humidity: 20%—95%

Supported Resolutions:

10bit ADC / 12bit ADC
1304×976 150fps / 64fps
1280×960 152.4fps / 65fps
800×600 241.2fps / 102.9fps
640×480 299.4fps / 127.6fps
320×240 577.9fps / 256.4fps
User-defined resolutions

Product Description:

Astrophotography Performance: The ASI224MC features a 1/3" and 1.2M pixels sensor IMX224 with SONY Exmor and NIR Technology. With extremely low read noise and high sensitivity, especially in the IR range, this camera is ideal for planetary and small DSO imaging. The Read Noise of ASI224 is less than 1e, comparable to sCMOS or EMCCD sensors.

High QE: The relative QE Curve estimates a peak value between 75%-80%, ensuring optimal light sensitivity for vivid and detailed astronomical images.

PCB Version 1.3 (Anti-amp Glow Function): Addressing amp-glow concerns during long exposures, ZWO implements "amp glow reduction technology" in the ASI224MC. The hardware modification, introduced in PCB Version 1.3, significantly reduces amp-glow, making it a valuable enhancement for prolonged astrophotography sessions.

USB 3.0 Port & ST4 Port:

USB 3.0 Port provides 5Gb bandwidth, allowing the ASI224MC to run at 64fps (12bit, normal mode) or 150 fps (10bit, high-speed mode) at full resolution (1.2Mega).
ST4 Port connects to the auto guide port of the mount for guiding, enhancing tracking accuracy.

Conclusion:

The ZWO ASI224MC Color Imaging Camera stands as a testament to innovation and precision in astrophotography. With its advanced sensor technology, anti-amp glow function, and user-friendly features, the ASI224MC is a reliable companion for capturing the cosmic wonders in vivid detail. Elevate your astronomical endeavors by investing in the ZWO ASI224MC and unveil the beauty of the universe with every frame. Order yours today and embark on a visual journey through the stars.