Altair Hypercam 26C- My first CMOS Camera
Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2021 7:53 pm
I have been imaging for about two years using the Canon T6I. I decided to transition to a dedicated astro-camera and purchased the Altair Hypercam 26C.
Although I have reviewed all the documents on the Altair site regarding the use of a CMOS camera and have been watching many Youtube video's (mainly by Dr. Robin Glover) I find that I have many questions.
I received the camera about three weeks ago and haven't had much of a chance to use it because I live in Oregon where the haze, heat and smoke has wreaked havoc on imaging opportunities.
Questions-
1) What is ultra low mode and what purpose does it serve?
2) Should I shoot in Ultra low mode all the time?
3) The hypercam 26c offers 8 and 16 bit depth, is there a selection for 12 bit depth?
4) Are there any scenarios or reasons to shoot in a lower bit depth than 16?
5) How does Gain and Exposure Length intersect?
6) Many people attest there is no longer a need to take dark frames, flats and bias with this camera. Is this true?
7) Are there periodic firmware or other updates that I need to do? If so, where are these located?
8) Any other information or resources that are helpful with learning how to use this camera?
Thanks
Brian
Although I have reviewed all the documents on the Altair site regarding the use of a CMOS camera and have been watching many Youtube video's (mainly by Dr. Robin Glover) I find that I have many questions.
I received the camera about three weeks ago and haven't had much of a chance to use it because I live in Oregon where the haze, heat and smoke has wreaked havoc on imaging opportunities.
Questions-
1) What is ultra low mode and what purpose does it serve?
2) Should I shoot in Ultra low mode all the time?
3) The hypercam 26c offers 8 and 16 bit depth, is there a selection for 12 bit depth?
4) Are there any scenarios or reasons to shoot in a lower bit depth than 16?
5) How does Gain and Exposure Length intersect?
6) Many people attest there is no longer a need to take dark frames, flats and bias with this camera. Is this true?
7) Are there periodic firmware or other updates that I need to do? If so, where are these located?
8) Any other information or resources that are helpful with learning how to use this camera?
Thanks
Brian