Webcam adaptor

[sharkbite]

Folks -

I have a couple of webcams lying around -
was thinking about using something like this to mount them up -
just to see how they go...

A.) because they are cheap, B.) because they have an IR filter.

My questions are:

- are they any good? (not expecting hubble-quality ;-) )
- is there anywhere in Aus that sells something like them?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

cheers,

[OzStarGazer]

I don't have one, but I think you usually have to modify them in order for them to work with a telescope.
There are a lot of links on the net.
I don't really like the idea with a completely new webcam because it voids the warranty of course.
Apparently webcams are particularly good because of the high number of frames per sec when you take a video, so the final stacked image will be more accurate.

Andrews also has a Solar System Imaging CCD camera at a good price. Unfortunately though they don't have many specs on their website, like megapixels. I would be curious if anybody here has tried it.

I use a normal compact digital, although I have a DSLR too, but the DSLR is too heavy to attach to my scope. I am waiting for a bracket-type camera adapter for my compact digital right now.

[sharkbite]

Thanks man...

What I was after was info on one of those webcam adaptors with an in built it filter...

Could have sworn I posted the link....MST be getting old...

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Webcam-Adaptor-to-Fit-1-25-Eyepiece-Tube-Holder-with-Built-in-Filter-BNC-50P-/371008033267

Cheers,

[kosh]

Shark bite,

I bought the exact same webcam nosepiece adaptor a few months back for my Logitech C270. I haven't used it for planetary work yet, but used it temporarily as an Autoguider and it actually worked a treat. The only issue was that I was limited to brighter stars than a propose built Autoguider, but that is a limitation of the webcam, not the adaptor itself.
So if your webcam has no issue having the nosepiece screwed on, they are pretty good.

Goran.

[OzStarGazer]

Now I feel like you, sb! I also have an old webcam lying around and would be curious to know if the adapter works with it (I mean if the webcam's nosepiece can be screwed into the adapter). It is really VERY old, but I have never used it. Somebody gave it to me a long time ago.
http://www.skycomp.com.au/item/LASER-CO-Web-Cam-1-3MP-Driver-Free-Built-In-Microphone-LED-LIGHT.aspx

[ZeroID]

If you want to play with old webcams on the cheap do what I did. Get a couple of old film cans, they fit the focusser 1.25". Black is best obviously. Pull the cam to bits keeping the electrical connections all intact. Cut a central hole in the base of the film can and mount the PCB from the webcam onto it. Normally you can use the screws and mounts that original held it in the body otherwise get a bit DIY with tape, silicon or whatever you have. Unplug any microphone connections and black out or remove the led that lights up to show its on.
Go and play ....
For moon, planetary video it can be surprisingly capable and you can experiment to your hearts content without breaking the budget. I tested mine in daylight first and although I only ever used it in the old 114\f8 on an EQ2 powered mount it at least let me understand the idea and come to grips with some of the issues before I lashed out hepas of $$$

[OzStarGazer]

Unfortunately I personally don't have an old film can... I once asked around here (in camera shops), but nobody had one. Back then I had found some on eBay, but they were not cheap (because of postage). :( But maybe the OP has got one.
I checked the nosepiece of my camera and it should fit the adapter. :) Anyway, those adapters are not so expensive, so I am giving them a thought...