Overview
The QHY533C (colour) is a new generation of back-illuminated CMOS cameras with 3.76um pixels. The QHY533C uses the similar series of sensors as the flagship models QHY600 and QHY268, featuring low noise.
The QHY533C has different interface designs to offer greater flexibility for various applications. the camera comes with an additional adapter for tripod mounting, making it easier to use a DSLR lens for photography.
Features
BSI
One benefit of the back-illuminated CMOS structure is improved full well capacity. This is especially beneficial for sensors with small pixels. In a typical front-illuminated sensor, photons from the target entering the photosensitive layer of the sensor must first pass through the metal wiring embedded just above the photosensitive layer. The wiring structure reflects some of the photons, reducing the efficiency of the sensor.
In a back-illuminated sensor, light enters the photosensitive surface from the reverse side. In this case, the sensor’s embedded wiring structure is located below the photosensitive layer. As a result, more incoming photons strike the photosensitive layer, generating and capturing more electrons in the pixel well. This ratio of photon to electron production is called quantum efficiency. The higher the quantum efficiency, the more efficient the sensor is at converting photons to electrons, and thus the more sensitive the sensor is to capturing images of dim objects.
TRUE RAW Data
In DSLR implementations, there is a RAW image output, but it is typically not completely RAW. Some evidence of noise reduction and hot pixel removal may still be visible upon close inspection. This can negatively affect the image for astronomy, such as causing the “star eater” effect. However, QHY cameras offer TRUE RAW IMAGE OUTPUT, producing an image comprised only of the original signal, thereby maintaining maximum flexibility for post-acquisition astronomical image processing and other scientific imaging applications.
Anti-Dew Technology
Based on nearly 20 years of experience in cooled camera design, the QHY cooled camera has implemented a complete dew control solution. The optical window features a built-in dew heater, and the chamber is protected from internal humidity condensation. An electric heating board for the chamber window helps prevent the formation of dew, while the sensor itself is kept dry with our silicone gel tube socket design, which controls humidity within the sensor chamber.
Cooling
In addition to dual-stage TE cooling, QHYCCD implements proprietary hardware technology to control dark current noise.
Design
QHYCFW3S Adjustment for QHY533M
To make it easier for astrophotographers to use the QHY533M's threaded interface to connect the filter wheel without removing any parts (such as the filter container), QHYCCD has updated the design. Since 2022, the QHYCFW3-SR no longer includes this adapter. This adapter was previously used for connecting the QHY163 or QHY183, but the QHY533M does not require it. Therefore, if you're purchasing a QHY533M, we recommend choosing the QHYCFW3S-SR for the best experience.
Note that this adapter is still included in the CFW3S-SR package, and you can still use the CFW3S-SR with the QHY183 or QHY163.
QHY533M Parallel Position Adjustment
The QHY533M is connected to the QHYCFW3S using threads, so the sensor may not be parallel to the filter wheel when the threads are fully tightened. In this case, you can adjust the front part of the QHY533M to align it at a right angle to the sensor.
Full technical information and sample images can be found at
https://www.qhyccd.com/astronomical-camera-qhy533/
