SBIG ST-7XME-STD-C2 Standard CCD Camera

High QE Imaging Cameras

The Model ST-7XME is a self-guided imaging camera and contains two CCD detectors; one for guiding and the other for collecting the image. They are mounted in close proximity, both focused at the same plane, allowing the imaging CCD to integrate while the PC uses the guiding CCD to correct the telescope. In addition, a Remote Guiding Head port is now included for attachment of an external guiding head for those occasions when an external guider is desired. Using a separate CCD for guiding allows 100% of the primary CCD to be used to collect the image. The telescope correction rate and limiting guide star magnitude can be independently selected. The Full Frame Resolution is 765 x 510 pixels at 9 microns square. Carefully guided exposures up to one hour are possible, enabling a standard 8" SCT to capture images showing 19th magnitude stars from typical background observing sites. The imaging camera includes an electro-mechanical shutter, 16 bit analog to digital (A/D) converter, regulated temperature control, and has all of the electronics integrated into the CCD head. Communication to the PC is through the USB port. Click here for more information on recent improvements the new High Speed USB Interface.

High Quantum Efficiency

Kodak's latest version of the CCD we use in the ST-7XME model camera is designated the KAF-0402ME. This CCD has the same array architecture as the KAF-0401E NABG with some improvements. Of greatest significance is the increased quantum efficiency due to the addition of a microlens array over the pixels and the use of MAR coated cover glass. The same kind of improvement has already met with great success in the ST-10XME camera. The peak quantum efficiency for the KAF-0402ME used in all three models of ST-7XME cameras is almost 85%. They are the most sensitive CCD camera in their class. The QE for the blue wavelength of 400 nm is 50% higher than that of the previous KAF-0401E CCD (increased from 30% to 45% absolute QE) and 15% higher in the red spectrum near H-alpha (increased from 72% to nearly 85% absolute peak QE).

The resulting high QE from UV to IR makes the ST-7XME perfect for imaging deep space objects such as dim galaxies and emission nebula. By fortunate circumstance, the peak QE occurs very near the H-alpha emission line at 656 nm, making this camera extraordinarily sensitive at this important wavelength. It could be said that this camera was "made for" capturing H-alpha! Previously, this level of QE was achievable only through the process of thinning the wafer and illuminating the image sensor from the backside. However, thinned, back-illuminated CCDs are very expensive, but with the KAF-0402ME, similar performance to a back-illuminated CCD is achieved with lower dark current and superior cosmetic specifications in a full frame front illuminated detector.

With our latest high speed electronics and USB interface, these ST-7XME cameras will download a full frame image in 1 second! Partial frames and focus mode will update faster than once per second. Imagine focusing in full frame mode. Kodak CCDs are well known for their low dark current and low noise characteristics. Additionally, the Standard and Deluxe models have superior cooling with a water assist ready heat exchanger built-in.

The KAF-0402E CCD, without microlens, is also available as an alternative to the microlens part for applications where a microlens may not be desired. The QE for the KAF-0402E CCD is essentially the same as for the previous KAF-0401E. The difference is the addition of greater static protection. The ABG version of this part, the KAF-0401LE remains unchanged. While we recommend that our customers select the ST-7XME for astronomy, we will continue to offer the ST-7XE NABG and ST-7XE ABG so long as Kodak continues to manufacture these varieties of the CCD.

Owners of ST-7XE cameras (USB interface and E detector) may upgrade to the new ME CCD. Owners of ST-7E cameras (parallel interface and E detector) may upgrade to the ME CCD only (keeping the parallel interface) for or upgrade to both USB interface and ME CCD at the same time. However, since we no longer make parallel electronics that support the E detectors, owners of the original ST-7 model camera (non-E detector) must also upgrade to USB electronics in order to support the ME CCD.

Improved Features and Options

Larger Built-In Tracking CCD: The TC-211 tracking CCD has been replaced with a larger TC-237H in the ST-7XME Standard and Deluxe models, as we have done in the ST-8/9/10/2000 cameras. The TC-237H array is 657 x 495 pixels at 7.4 microns. This is the same CCD used in our former $1300 ST-237A imaging camera and current $2300 STV autoguider. The TC-237H is 2.7X larger than the TC-211 CCD which means there is a more than double the chance you will find suitable guide stars anywhere you happen to be looking without having to hunt.

In the tracking configuration, the TC-237H CCD will normally be binned 2x2 for increased sensitivity. When binned 2x2 the field of view remains 2.7X that of the TC-211 however as the pixel size is increased to 14.8 microns. The user may also use the TC-237H CCD in high resolution (unbinned) mode if desired. ThsSky software from Software Bisque automatically generates finder charts showing the correct placement of the guiding CCD field of view relative to the imaging CCD's field of view. Using this tool to plan your nights imaging is a great compliment to the self-guiding cameras.

Of course, guiding with the TC-237H tracking CCD means that the imaging CCD spends 100% of its time and quantum efficiency gathering the image. You are not required to compromise by giving up half of the quantum efficiency or by making twice the exposure time as you might with other self-guiding designs.

Upgradeability: Each of the the ST-7XME models is upgradeable. This is particularly important to new buyers or anyone who wants to pay as they go. For example, the low cost ST-7XMEI can be upgraded with a built-in tracking CCD or a Class 1 imaging CCD. It can even be upgraded to an ST-8XE or ST-9XE at a later time. This allows the new user to get his feet wet without paying for a deluxe system all at once.

Improved Carrying and Storage Case: The Deluxe model ST-7XME camera includes the same high quality carrying and storage case as the rest of our ST line of cameras. This case is made for SBIG by Pelican. The custom cut foam securely holds the ST-7 camera and power supply with additional spots for accessories, cables, etc. The case is dust proof, water proof, crush proof and carries a lifetime guarantee from the manufacturer. This case is optional for the ST-7XME Standard and ST-7XMEI Models.

Optional Test Lens: To make testing of the camera easier we have designed an optional test lens that screws into the t-thread front end of the camera. This is a handy accessory for learning the various camera functions in the day time if you do not have a camera lens adapter. See our Test Lens Product Announcement for more details.

Other Optional Accessories: The ST-7XME cameras support a variety of professional accessories. Each model contains a ROM programmed to support the CFW8A Color Filter Wheel for automatic RGB or LRGB imaging when attached to the camera. The CFW8A is a 5-posisiotn filter wheel designed to match the ST-7XME camera body in size, design and finish so that when it is attached, the camera and filter wheel become a single unit. In addition, the new CFW10, ten-position filter wheel is fully suooirted by the all new ST-7 cameras. The CFW10 uses the I2C port in the camera to receive power and control commands. The CFW10 is larger in diameter than the ST-7 camera body, but it is designed to introduce the least amount of back focus distance. When used as a replacement to the ST-7 camera's front plate, the CFW10 adds less than 0.6 inches of backfocus. This lets the user add camera lenses to the CFW10. Each model also has electronic relays built-in so that the cameras can be used as autoguiders for film astrophotography or for guiding other CCD cameras. The built-in TC-237H guiding CCD in the Standard and Deluxe models enables the use of both the AO-7 Adaptive Optics Device and the SGS Self-Guiding Spectrograph. The Self-Guiding Spectrograph was designed to give maximum resolution with the ST-7 camera. Several camera lens adapters are available from SBIG for attaching a variety of 35mm camera lenses directly to the ST-7 without the filter wheel for wide field imaging. Third party manufacturers support the ST-7XME and CFW8A color filter wheel combination with camera lens adapters as well.

The ST-7XME Standard Model is our new, lower priced, dual sensor, self-guiding version. It also uses a Class 2 ME CCD with high QE and no column defects. It includes all the essentials needed to get started: Larger built-in TC-237H tracking CCD, custom carrying case, water cooling heat exchanger, relay adapter plug and relay cables for self-guiding.

The ST-7XME Deluxe Model costs less than our previous similar ST-7XME but it includes even more features and accessories: A Class 1 ME CCD, custom Pelican carrying and storage case, larger TC-237H built-in tracking CCD, and more. Now the best is available for less.

Each ST-7XME Deluxe camera system includes the following: