DMK Astronomy Cameras – new webpage

Dennis · #1 03-01-2007, 07:05 AM

Hello,

Just thought I’d mention this as a new post, to let DMK users and potential users know that The Imaging Source have launched an “astronomy version” of their DMK Firewire cameras.

It appears that the “astronomy version” is a firmware upgrade and that

“…it requires a valid serial number in order for it to be installed. Unless an astronomy FireWire camera advertised on this web site is installed on your system, this software can neither be installed, nor used.”

There is a nice FAQ and even a Forum available from the webpage.

Cheers

Dennis

2020BC (Bill Christie) · #2 03-01-2007, 08:09 PM

The top planetary imagers seem to be switching to this camera. Why? What are its properties that make it superior to say a Mintron or similar?

gbeal · #3 03-01-2007, 08:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 2020BC

The top planetary imagers seem to be switching to this camera. Why? What are its properties that make it superior to say a Mintron or similar?

COST??

Dennis · #4 03-01-2007, 08:46 PM

Value for money, published results and performance are what made me order my DMK.

Here is my journey through the realms of Lunar and Planetary imaging:

Meade LPI - $199 (including comprehensive software suite).
Philips ToUcam - $159

Current purchase:

Imaging Source DMK - $610

Next steps?

Lazzaroti camera - ? $750 (guess)
SkyNix camera - $1200

Each camera is a step up in either technology (CCD vs. CMOS), less noisy design/circuitry, faster uncompressed frame rates, etc. The DMK sits in a sweet spot of affordability and good performance.

Cheers

Dennis

rat156 · #5 03-01-2007, 11:02 PM

So whats the difference between the 21AF04 and the 21AF04.AS, apart from about $300 AUD? and the .AS

Can someone with one of the non .AS versions verify that the plain one does all the stuff that the .AS one does?

If it does, I'd be a little peeved, I was seriously considering getting one of these for planetary work, nut if they're trying to rip us off like everyone else...

Cheers
Stuart

davidpretorius · #6 03-01-2007, 11:11 PM

me thinks Skynx like damian peach???

[1ponders] (Paul) · #7 03-01-2007, 11:15 PM

To start with if you check the .AS specification here you'll see it has a max exposure of 60 min

If you check the non- AS specification here you'll see it has a max exposure of only 30 sec

rat156 · #8 03-01-2007, 11:28 PM

But, correct me if I'm wrong, these are planetary cams.

I suspect the results for DSO's would be pretty average, as this isn't a cooled CCD, though over 30s may be useful for some of the bright DSO's.

So for planetary only work would you recommend the non-AS version as it's almost half the price?

Cheers
Stuart

matt · #9 04-01-2007, 01:13 AM

What's the difference between the BF04 and AF04?

mikey7 (Michael) · #10 04-01-2007, 02:22 AM

The colour DFK 21AF04.AS has the same ccd as the ToUcam 748/840/900. Faster frames per second will get you more images in moments of steady seeing comparred to the Toucam, especially the faster rotating planets so can stack more without the planets rotation causing too many problems.

Cheers
Mike

ronnierigel · #11 04-01-2007, 07:48 AM

OK there's good theory behind these more expensive camera but this hobby is not immune from commercial pressures just like everything else we do.

Has anyone done/seen a head to head comparison between a toucam and one of these "higher end" imagers taken using the same type of scopes from the same location using similar porcessing??? The incremental gain in quality may not be justifiable for the cost!!

I have surfed thru the internet and seen some fantastic shots using the toucam and some ordinary ones using the DMK......is seeing the manufacturer's x factor for selling!!

ron

iceman (Mike) · #12 04-01-2007, 07:49 AM

Ron i'll post a comparison later - I upgraded from the ToUcam to the DMK and did a side-by-side when I first got the DMK. Will post in a few hours, just in the middle of something.

Dennis · #13 04-01-2007, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rat156

So whats the difference between the 21AF04 and the 21AF04.AS, apart from about $300 AUD? and the .AS
Cheers
Stuart

Where are you getting the AU$300 price difference from?

The website quotes the DMK 21AF04 at US$390 and,
The DMK 21AF04.AS at Euro 330.

A quick currency calculation reveals a price difference of only AU$56.00

US$390=AU$493
E330=AU$549

Cheers

Dennis

rat156 · #14 04-01-2007, 11:56 AM

Hi Dennis,

Thanks for that, I should have examined the website more closely, I thought it was quoted in GBP, not Euro. Now for an extra $56 I might just stump for the new one!

I'd like to see a comparison between the single shot colour and RGB on the monochrome, anyone?

Cheers
Stuart

[1ponders] (Paul) · #15 04-01-2007, 12:00 PM

I ordered a DMK21AF04 and it turned up this morning. Only it wasn't the camera I ordered. I was sent the DMK21AF04.AS.

Pleasantly happy I must say.

Has yours turned up yet Dennis???

matt · #16 04-01-2007, 12:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by [1ponders]

I ordered a DMK21AF04 and it turned up this morning. Only it wasn't the camera I ordered. I was sent the DMK21AF04.AS.

Pleasantly happy I must say.

Has yours turned up yet Dennis???

Bonus!!!

Happy shootin', Paul.

How do the DMKs perform on DSO?

Dennis · #17 04-01-2007, 12:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by [1ponders]

I ordered a DMK21AF04 and it turned up this morning. Only it wasn't the camera I ordered. I was sent the DMK21AF04.AS.

Pleasantly happy I must say.

Has yours turned up yet Dennis???

Hi Paul

I just took a 'phone call from the supplier saying that he accidentally sent my DMK to you and would you please deliver it immediately to me in Brisbane and your box brownie will arrive tomorrow.

When I spoke with Matt yesterday, we anticipated a delivery on Friday at the earliest, but more likely Monday. Put yours to good use in the meantime and iron out any bugs before I get to use mine.

Cheers

Dennis

[1ponders] (Paul) · #18 04-01-2007, 12:23 PM

Bug 1.

My powered PCMCIA card won't power the camera (power is definately getting to the card) so it looks like I'll have to go and get a hub

[1ponders] (Paul) · #19 04-01-2007, 12:24 PM

I'll let you know Matt.....just as soon as all this cloud clears

Dennis · #20 04-01-2007, 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by [1ponders]

Bug 1.

My powered PCMCIA card won't power the camera (power is definately getting to the card) so it looks like I'll have to go and get a hub

Hi Paul

What make/model is your PCMCIA Card?
Does it have 6 pin connectors or 4 pin?
Is it powered internally or is there a power socket on the card for an external power supply?

Cheers

Dennis