We've been using the Starlight Express MX7C for about 10 years now, to take images of particle beams interacting with gas targets at the TRIUMF nuclear & particle physics lab in Vancouver, BC. Recently we upgraded to maximDL Pro, and had to install the obsolete driver pack to get camera to work. However, last week the camera failed and cannot be revived. We are looking for a modern replacement that does the same (or better) job than the MX7C. In particular, we use continuous focus mode as we use the updating images to tune the position of the particle beam on target. I attach a screenshot of the light produced by beam interaction with gas from a typical run. We tend to use exposure times between 1 and 30 seconds. We have the camera attached to a telescope with M42 thread looking into a port directly into the beam line. The object distance is around 5m. Ideally we'd like a camera that: (a) fits the current M42 thread with no need to change adapters or length (b) connects to a modern Windows PC via USB 2.0 (c) runs perfectly well with MaximDL Pro (d) has the same image capabilities as the MX7C The ST-i colour camera was touted. Is this a possible option fulfilling these requirements? Any help from the forum would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Dr. Chris Ruiz Research Scientist - TRIUMF
Dear Dr, Ruiz, The ST-I has the same approximate backfous as the MX7C, 17.55mm. The array is of similar size, your older camera. To give you the same ability for M42 threads you simply add C-mount to M42 Pentax adapter. See off the shelf adapter below. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/116967-REG/General_Brand_C_Mount_Adapter_for_Pentax.html I need to confirm the exact lens you are using with the camera. I did not see an attachment. Below is the datasheet on the sensor used in the ST-i http://www.onsemi.com/pub_link/Collateral/KAI-0340-D.PDF The camera has an internal shutter so dark frame subtraction would be easier with the ST-i. The ST-I works well with Maxim. Below is the manual for the camera. https://www.sbig.com/site/assets/files/2358/st-i_manual_1_0.pdf You can reach me by phone, email or Skype as well. Best regards Tim
