SBIG STF-4070

Product Description

Features

STF-4070M, STF-4070C and STF-4070SC

The STF-4070 camera comes in monochrome (STF-4070M) and two color models. The color models are available with either the standard Bayer Color FIlter Pattern (STF-4070C) or the higher sensitivity TRUESENSE Sparse Color Filter Pattern (STF-4070SC). The KAI-04070 Image Sensor is a 4-megapixel CCD in a 4/3″ (21.4 mm diagonal) optical format. Based on the TRUESENSE 7.4 micron Interline Transfer CCD Platform, the sensor features broad dynamic range, excellent imaging performance, and a flexible readout architecture. The TRUESENSE Sparse Color Filter Pattern provides a 2x improvement in light sensitivity compared to a standard color Bayer part.

KAI-04070 CCD Key Features:

• Available in Monochrome, Bayer Color Pattern or TRUESENSE Sparse Color Filter Pattern
• Progressive scan readout
• Flexible readout architecture
• High frame rate
• High sensitivity
• Low noise architecture
• Excellent smear performance
• Package pin reserved for device identification

Description of the TRUESENSE Sparse Color Filter Pattern.

The TRUESENSE Color Filter Pattern represents a new paradigm for obtaining full-color images from a single image sensor. By adding panchromatic (or “clear”) pixels to the standard red, green, and blue pixels traditionally used for color capture, image sensors can realize a significant increase in light sensitivity – between two and four times compared to standard designs – while retaining overall image quality and color fidelity. Image sensors using this design allow end users to capture better pictures and video under low-light conditions.

In addition to the new color technology, the STF-4070 has been optimized for fast full frame download and maximum cooling in an STF sized package. A high resolution 4 megapixel 16-bit frame will download in about 1/4 second using the dual channel readout mode. Even at this rapid download rate, the read noise remains exceptionally low, about 9e-.

The STF-4070 was developed primarily for the OEM market, particularly for microscopy applications where short exposures and high frame rates made possible by an electronic shutter are more desirable than having a mechanical shutter for automatic dark frames. Because of this, the STF-4070 cooling design is very robust and the camera is capable of a cooling delta greater than -50 degrees C.

Advanced Software Included

All SBIG cameras come with our MaxIm LT software – a $200 value!  MaxIm LT is a special version of our venerable MaxIm DL software that provides complete control of your camera, filter wheel, and autoguider, plus advanced image processing capabilities.  If you wish you can upgrade to MaxIm DL Pro to get complete observatory integration and even more processing and analysis capabilities.

Optional StarChaser SC-2 and Adaptive Optics

The SBIG StarChaser SC-2 brings Adaptive Optics capability to the STF series for the first time!  The SC-2 attaches to the front of the STF camera via an FW8-8300 or Filter Wheel Spacer, providing self-guiding capability.  An AO-8A can also be attached to the front of the SC-2, and connected directly to it via the I2C interface cable. The StarChaser SC-2 will then control the Adaptive Optics unit directly, providing tighter star images than possible through conventional autoguiding.

Additional Information

Documentation

User Manual

Installation, and operation instructions for all STF series cameras.

Backfocus Calculator Spreadsheet

This Excel spreadsheet helps you calculate backfocus distance for your system. If you do not have Excel it can be uploaded into Google Sheets.
Download

Software

SBIGUDrv

The SBIG Universal Driver is distributed via SBIG Driver Checker 64 on Windows, and via an installer on Mac OSX. Keeping your drivers up to date is the best way to ensure your camera runs smoothly, so remember to update your drivers regularly.

Software Development Kit

Software development kit for the Windows platform.