Zwo 183mc Pro [cooled] - lenses?

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brenski
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Joined: Mon Aug 10, 2020 4:01 pm

Zwo 183mc Pro [cooled] - lenses?

#1

Post by brenski »

I've recently bought a 183mc Pro [cooled], I have a couple of questions about using it as a standalone - ie not on scope:

I was hoping to be able to use it with my Canon EOs lenses, can this be done using this:https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Adapter-for- ... SwiQ9ZTNuW

Also, are there Zwo lenses that can be used with it? I have one of these:
https://astronomy-imaging-camera.com/pr ... egree-lens
but I don't have an adapter to fit to the 183mc. is there one in existence? and can focus even be achieved ?

thanks
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Re: Zwo 183mc Pro [cooled] - lenses?

#2

Post by admin »

Hi,

the option for the Canon lens attachment should work – providing the Canon fit part is made up correctly. I've heard tales of people having problems getting these adapters back off of their lenses after attaching them, so proceed with caution! Obviously you will have to control the focus manually.

To attach the smaller CS/C thread lenses you will need to get an adapter like this

https://www.modernastronomy.com/shop/ac ... t-adapter/

The adapter screws into the T thread at the front of the camera and has a smaller thread to screw the lens into. The rather more interesting part is getting the lens the right distance from the sensor to allow it to focus properly. You will need to check measurements like how far back the sensor is behind the front of the camera and how thick the adapter plate is. CS mount lenses need 12.5mm of back focus, C mount need 17.5. You can buy additional 5 mm spacers if you need more back focus distance then you have, but if you need less then you are stuck. Note that you can buy these C/CS mount lenses for a reasonable amount on eBay (and other places) in a range of focal lengths – I have a selection from about 2 mm up to 35mm focal lengths.

Cheers, Robin
Obelisk
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Joined: Sat Aug 29, 2020 12:21 pm

Re: Zwo 183mc Pro [cooled] - lenses?

#3

Post by Obelisk »

I had a go at doing this with the following Astro Essentials Canon to T2 adaptor. See: https://www.firstlightoptics.com/adapte ... meras.html
I brought it to mount a Sigma wide angle lens for meteorite capture. Unlike standard Canon lenses the focus ring on the Sigma is quite stiff so my review at the above link may not apply, so it might work for you? The link also gives a guide to calculate the spacers.

Colin
brenski
Posts: 82
Joined: Mon Aug 10, 2020 4:01 pm

Re: Zwo 183mc Pro [cooled] - lenses?

#4

Post by brenski »

Robin and Colin

thanks - very helpful. adapter ordered from FLO
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