15 / 20
16 Optimizing the camera settings for long
exposures
Image 2
Image 1
Image 3
Image 4
Illustration 9: Menu windows relevant for optimization in the supplied software
To ensure that the camera delivers the best possible image results for long exposures over 1 minute,
you can optimally adjust the setting values for gain and black level depending on the desired exposure
time. Refer to Table 1 for help. Proceed as follows for the setting:
1. Select the desired exposure time (e.g. 6 minutes). (Image 1)
2. Open the "Acquisition & Resolution" settings menu. Click on the field with the current value for the
"Gain" and enter 158. Confirm the entry with [ENTER]. The value 1.58 is set. (Image 2)
3. Select the image format and bit depth according to Table 1. (Image 2+3)
4. Open the "Black Level" setting menu. Move the slider until you reach the appropriate value (e.g.
440). (Image 4)
5. Start the capturing images.
NOTICE! These are recommended guide values determined under real test conditions. Individual
adjustments may be necessary and depend on external factors such as ambient temperature.
Exposure
time
Gain
Black level Format
Bit depth
e/ADU
Read noise Full Well
6 minutes
1.58
440
RAW (fit)
12
2.03
1.81
8318.91
5 minutes
1.58
380
RAW (fit)
12
2.03
1.81
8318.91
4 minutes
1.58
303
RAW (fit)
12
2.03
1.81
8318.91
3 minutes
1.58
233
RAW (fit)
12
2.03
1.81
8318.91
2 minutes
1.58
172
RAW (fit)
12
2.03
1.81
8318.91
1 minute
1.58
112
RAW (fit)
12
2.03
1.81
8318.91
Table 1:
Table 1
17 Cleaning and maintenance
• Before cleaning the device, disconnect it from the power supply (remove plug or remove batteries)!
• Only clean the device externally using a dry cloth. Do not use cleaning solution to prevent damage
to the electronic parts.
NOTICE! The following steps must be performed in a clean environment to prevent dust or
other dirt from entering the camera.
1. If ice crystals form on the viewing window of the camera sensor when cooling is on, the moisture
that has penetrated can be removed as follows:
2. Allow the camera to dry for at least 12 hours in a dry environment with a minimum of 20°C room
temperature.
3. Remove the housing lock of the camera with a suitable screwdriver.
4.
NOTICE! Do not open the oven door during the following procedure!
5. Place the camera in a household oven at 80°C (circulating air) for 5 hours. Then reduce the tem-
perature to 50°C for another hour