Hello: I purchased a SBIG camera used. The seller told me that he had originally purchased an ST7 camera and sent it back to SBIG to have it changed to a ST-2000M about 6 years ago. When they did the mod they changed the information plate on the camera to indicate that it is now a ST-200XM ( See attached Photo.) I am wondering if it is possible to check which CCD chip was installed when the camera was upgraded by the serial number on the camera. (Serial # 07074172). I don't know if they would change the serial number or only the model number on the camera identification plate after the mod. Wanting to know if the chip is a KAI-2000XM, a KAI-2001XM or a KAI-2020M.
Frank, The serial number would have stayed the same and only the Model # would have changed. At the time that this camera was manufactured, the 2020M was being used in the ST-2000XM so it would be very likely that that is what is in there. Send me an email at bill@sbig.com and I'll look it up in the database when I get back to my office tomorrow. -Bill
Thank you for your prompt response to my question. I have sent you an email as requested. Thanks again.
Bill, Frank called me as well. Since you probably did the upgrade you will have the best info. Cheers Tim
Bill: Thanks for looking up the serial number and confirming that the CCD installed in the modification is the KAI-2020M. I am very impressed with prompt response and the level of customer service provided for the owner of a previously enjoyed second hand product.
Hello Bill. It has been a long time since this post and I have since lost the email you sent me regarding the upgrade modification on this camera to the KAI-2020M sensor. I am reselling this camera and was wondering if you could email me again with confirmation of this upgrade for proof for my buyer. Thanks Frank Fallows
Hi Frank, Bill retired a few years ago. The original sensor in the ST-7 camera was a KAF-402 - it is a lot smaller than the KAI-2020M sensor that was installed in it by Bill. I don't have access to records from way back when this was done. The buyer should be satisfied with a test image or screen shot from CCDOps camera info, or a photo of the sensor. The old chip was 6.91 x 4.6 (8.3mm diagonal). 768 x 512 The new chip is 11.84 x 8.88 (14.8mm diagonal). 1600 x 1200
Thanks for the reply. I was not aware Bill had retired. I emailed him and he got back to me also. Thanks for the info. Although this camera is quite old it is still a wonderful instrument. A testament of the quality of your products.
