Opticstar PL-131 series. © Opticstar Ltd, 2021.
3
Updated: 07/09/2021
Introduction
The PL-131 series of video cameras include the PL-131C COOLAIR (colour model) and the PL-
131M COOLAIR (monochrome model). The PL-131 is the successor to the popular PL-130 but
includes a number of significant enhancements such as:
•
Twice the speed and the frame rate.
•
Higher light sensitivity.
•
Improved dynamic range and image quality.
•
Region of Interest (ROI) in hardware. User definable.
The PL-131 achieves frame rates of up to 22 frames per second (FPS) at full resolution: 1280x1024
pixels, or up to 80 FPS at 640x480 pixels or up to 220 FPS at 320x240 pixels.
The PL-131 is suitable for imaging the planets, the Moon and the Sun. The camera is also suitable
for microscopy when fitted with an appropriate attachment.
Software Support
The maximum frame rates are possible in conjunction with the
etAMACAP
and
Opticstar View
software applications that are included on the bundled CD. Alternatively, if the emphasis is to
process individual frames rather than a video stream, then the PL-131 can be used with the
following software applications:
•
Nebulosity
for image processing (Nebulosity Lite included on the CD).
•
PHD Guiding
for auto-guiding (included on the CD).
•
AstroArt
for advanced image capture, image processing and auto-guiding.
•
MaxIm DL
for advanced image capture, image processing and auto-guiding.
Package Contents
This Setup Guide includes instructions for the Opticstar PL-131 and Opticstar AG-131. The AG-
131 includes the PL-131 camera plus the Shoestring GPUSB interface for telescope control. Prior
to the installation, please ensure that the following items are included in the box.
Opticstar PL-131 contents
:
•
Opticstar PL-131 video camera.
•
CS to 1.25” telescope adapter.
•
USB cable.
•
Software CD.
•
Setup Guide (this document).
Additionally, the AG-131 includes the following items:
•
Shoestring GPUSB interface box for telescope control via the Guide Port (ST4).
•
Coiled cable to connect the GPUSB to the Guide port on the telescope mount.
Please note that for solar photography, the camera should be
used only with an appropriate solar telescope and/or solar
filters.
