ZWO ASI385MC USB3.0 Colour CMOS Camera – High Sensitivity & Versatile Imaging
The ZWO ASI385MC USB3.0 Colour CMOS Camera offers exceptional performance for astrophotography, microscopy, and even industrial machine vision applications. Featuring the Sony IMX385 sensor with Exmor and DOL-HDR (Digital Overlap HDR) technology, this camera delivers stunningly low read noise (0.7e), very high sensitivity, and a 12-bit analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) for excellent image quality. With its comparatively large 1/2" sensor (8.35mm diagonal) and USB3.0 interface, the ASI385MC is a versatile tool for capturing sharp, detailed images across various environments.
Advanced Imaging with Sony Exmor and DOL-HDR Technology
The Sony IMX385LQR sensor at the heart of the ASI385MC has been specially designed for industrial applications, boasting twice the sensitivity of the IMX185 sensor. This camera is a fantastic choice for astrophotography thanks to its high dynamic range and superior low-light performance. With sensitivity rated at 0.13 Lx and the ability to capture rich detail even in near-infrared wavelengths, the ASI385MC ensures that every celestial detail is brought to life.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 1/2″ CMOS IMX385 (2.13 MP)
- Resolution: 1936 x 1096 pixels
- Readout Noise: 0.7e
- Sensitivity: 0.13 Lx, ultra-high sensitivity in low-light conditions
- Pixel Size: 3.75µm for fine detail capture
- USB Interface: USB3.0 for high-speed data transfer
- Autoguider Port: ST4 port for seamless guiding
- Exposure Time: Up to 2000s for deep-sky imaging
- Dynamic Range: 12-bit ADC for smooth gradations
Ideal for Planetary, Lunar, and Solar Imaging
The ZWO ASI385MC is a highly versatile camera, excelling in planetary and lunar imaging. Thanks to its high sensitivity and low noise, this camera can capture high-magnification details of planets like Jupiter, Mars, and Saturn, as well as detailed views of the Moon and the Sun (with proper solar filters). Its ability to capture extended exposure times makes it a great choice for deep-sky imaging as well, offering flexibility for astrophotographers looking to explore more distant celestial objects.
Performance Beyond Astronomy
Not only is the ASI385MC a stellar performer for astronomy, but it’s also suitable for microscopy and machine vision applications. Its industrial-grade CMOS sensor makes it a valuable tool for scientific research and other imaging environments requiring high sensitivity and low noise. Sony's advanced HDR technology ensures excellent picture quality even in challenging lighting conditions, making it the perfect camera for a wide range of applications.
What’s in the Box?
- 1x ZWO ASI385MC USB3.0 Colour Camera
- 1x USB 3.0 Cable
- 1x ST4 Cable for autoguiding
- 1x Protective Cover
Technical Specifications:
- Sensor: 1/2” CMOS IMX385LQR
- Resolution: 1936 x 1096 pixels
- Pixel Size: 3.75µm
- Readout Noise: 0.7e
- Sensitivity: 0.13 Lx
- Exposure Range: 32µs–2000s
- Dynamic Range: 12-bit ADC
- USB Interface: USB3.0 (backward compatible with USB2.0)
- Autoguider Port: ST4
Why Choose the ZWO ASI385MC Camera?
For astrophotographers seeking an affordable, versatile camera with high sensitivity and low noise, the ASI385MC offers excellent value. Whether you're focused on capturing planetary details, lunar surface features, or deep-sky objects, this camera delivers the performance and flexibility needed for exceptional imaging results. With its USB3.0 interface, you’ll enjoy fast data transfer, and the included autoguider port makes it a dual-purpose camera for both guiding and imaging.
Order Now with Free UK Shipping
Order your ZWO ASI385MC USB3.0 Colour Camera today and enjoy free UK mainland shipping with your purchase. Perfect for astrophotography, microscopy, and industrial imaging, this camera offers unmatched sensitivity and versatility. Don’t miss out on this must-have tool for capturing the universe in stunning detail.
Limited stock available – order your ZWO ASI385MC today!
Features of the ZWO ASI385MC Camera
Recommended for high-magnification planetary, Lunar and Solar imaging, microscopic imaging, machine vision and to image some deep sky objects
Resolution: 1936X1096
Long time exposure up to 2000s!
Autoguider Port
Very low read noise (0.7e)
Very High Sensitivity (0.13 Lx)
Full aluminum housing with standard 2" interface (although that is rather short as you can see from the picture, so we'd remommend using the T-thread connection)
M42X0.75 internal thread (T-thread)
T-thread to C-mount adapter included
DOWNLOADS
On the included CD you'll find drivers and two software applications: Firecapture and SharpCap. These are both freeware and the latest versions can be downloaded from the developers' websites.
If you have any problem with installing any of the software from the CD, please download them from here:
Firecapture Downloads
SharpCap Downloads
oaCapture (for Mac)
We'd recommend to use the latest version of Firecapture with the USB3.0 ZWO ASI cameras...
Specification of ZWO ASI385MC USB3.0
Sensor: 1/2″ CMOS IMX385
Diagonal: 8.35mm
Resolution: 2.12Mega Pixels 1936×1096
Pixel Size: 3.75µm
Exposure Range: 32µs-2000s
ROI: Supported
ST4 Guider Port: Yes
Focus Distance to Sensor: 12.5mm
Shutter Type: Rolling Shutter
Protect window: AR coated window
Operating System Compatibility: Mac, Windows, Linux
Interface: USB3.0/USB2.0
Bit rate: 12bit output(12bit ADC)
Adaptor: 2″ / 1.25″ / M42X0.75
Dimension: φ62mm X 36mm
Weight: 120g or 4.2 ounces (without lens)
Working Temperature: -5°C—45°C
Storage Temperature: -20°C—60°C
Working Relative Humidity: 20%—80%
Storage Relative Humidity: 20%—95%
Max FPS at full resolution:
10Bit ADC
1936×1096 120fps
12bit ADC
1936×1096 67fps
More resolutions can be user defined
SOFTWARE and DRIVERS
Up-to-date drivers can be found on the manufacturer's website. Click here!
For full specification, driver installation tutorial (youtube video), basic usage information and recommended third party software please visit the manufacturer's website: ZWOptical
There is a Yahoo Group where you can find lots of information about how other members use the ZWO cameras: Yahoo Group ZWO ASI Cameras
USB 3.0 Port
USB 3.0 Port: can provide 5Gb bandwidth to let ASI385 run at 67 fps (12bit, normal mode) or 120 fps (10bit, high speed mode) at full resolution(2.13 Mega Pixels).
Mechanical Drawing
What is in the box?
ASI385MC box includes all necessary cables, drivers, adapters, and manuals.
Below is an example of a planetary imaging setup with a Imaging Flip Mirror, ZWO Filter Wheel and ZWO ASI120MM monochrome camera (obviously, you won't need a filter wheel for a colour camera...) With the help of a Variable Locking T2 Extension we could achieve parfocality. The eyepiece holder (that is part of the Imaging Flip Mirror) is also adjustable, so with these two adjastable items we can achieve various positions of the eyepiece thus parfocality can be achieved with eyepieces of various focal lengths. To see approximately the same field, you'd have to use an eyepiece with approximately 6mm focal length. Please note that this setup might not work for a Newtonian telescope due to the long back focus requirement.
Click on the above image to see it in full resolution.