I acquired a STXL-6303E and during the check out I noticed that the Bias image was not that quite right. I included both a Bias and Dark image (along with a screen shot)from the camera. I would like to see if it is possible to have it repaired if needed. Thanks, Sam
Sam, your FITS files are not loadable. Please try again with CCDOps or MaxIm DL Pro. Please explain your test setup.
My setup was a simple bench test. The camera was connected directly to my PC via USB2 cable (that cable was replaced to ensure that was that the issue), I opened Maxim DL Pro connected to it and sensor temp was set to -20C. The same results were obtained with SB TheSkyX Pro. Sorry about the corrupted files, I ensure that both of these were opened with Maxim DL Pro and PixInSight.
Thanks for the files. "A simple bench test" doesn't tell me much. What's the serial number of the camera? Was the camera covered up (cap on) to prevent light from leaking in? In a dark place? Have you looked down the nose toward the sensor to see if the shutter is working? eg if you expose a light frame for 5s), it should close then open for 5s then close. The bias frame is hard to understand - it partly looks like a shutter problem. Is there a filter wheel attached? If you want to send it in, we'll need some of that information. Please fill in this form, and my colleague @Tim will contact you about sending it in to Ottawa. https://diffractionlimited.com/request-rma/
Looks like a massive light leak. Note that the shutter can't block out daylight by itself - the camera is so sensitive it will pick up the tiny amount of light that is bouncing around the shutter. Put a cap on the camera and try again.
Gentlemen, The camera has a FW attached to it and I have ensured that it is securely attached. The following is the information requested. Camera - Model: STXL-6303, Serial#: X13090268 CFW - Model: FW8-STXL, Serial#: 1306 Software utilized for the test: Maxim DL Version 7.22 Camera Temp during test -20C Shutter was operational (during the 5 sec light frame, fit included) 2 Bias Fits attached (with cap on and without cap on the FW)) 2 Dark Fits attached (300 seconds with cap on and without cap on the FW) Thanks in advance, Sam
Is it possible that your CCD chamber is saturated with moisture? That can cause all sorts of problems. I'd recommend recharging the desiccant, waiting 24 hours, and testing again. If it's as much moisture as I suspect, you might have to do this twice.
Doug, I found the instructions on how to recharge the desiccant and will keep you inform on its progress. Again, thanks in advance. Sam
Sam, it's probably time to purchase a replacement desiccant. They are available here on our website: https://diffractionlimited.com/product/replacement-desiccant-plugs/
Colin, Great idea, just purchased one on line....I do hope this fixes the issues with the camera. Will keep all posted on its progress. Cheers, Sam
I just replaced the desiccant and was wondering how long should I wait till I check the camera? Again, thanks in advance.
Gentlemen, Thank you for your assistance, but I had no luck. Recharged (baked) the desiccant four times with no luck at all. I believe my next step is to ship the camera of for servicing. Please advise if there is something else I might be able to do. Cheers, Sam
