
ZWO ASI183MM Pro Cooled Monochrome Astronomy Camera
The ASI183MM camera stands as one of the most sensitive ever produced by ZWO, featuring an impressive peak quantum efficiency of 84% in the monochrome model.
At its core is the high-resolution Sony IMX183CLK-J mono sensor, equipped with ultra-fine 2.4μm pixels and a built-in 256MB DDR3 memory buffer for stable data transmission.
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The ASI183MM Pro camera is ZWO’s most sensitive cameras in history to date. It has a peak QE of 84% made possible by a back illuminated sensor. The small pixels with large well depth, low read noise, and high QE make this camera most suitable for imaging at short focal lengths without sacrificing dynamic range or sensitivity.
The Pro version also features deep cooling for low thermal noise when taking long exposures and a data buffer for consistent data transfer
DDR Memory Buffer:
The ZWO ASI183MM Pro Camera features a 256MB DDR3 memory buffer to help improve data transfer reliability and produces minimal amp-glow caused by the slow transfer speeds.
Astrophotography performance:
The ASI183 cameras has a very large full well capacity (15000e) for such small pixel size, 1.6e read noise @ 30DB, and 12stops dynamic range @ Gain=0. The ASI183 cameras also utilize firmware features to minimize amp-glow for maximum performance in astrophotography.
USB 3.0 Port & USB2.0 Hub
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USB 3.0 Port: Provides 5Gb bandwidth to make it possible for ASI183 Pro to run at 19 fps (12bit, normal mode) or 19 fps (10bit, high speed mode) at full resolution(20.18Mega).
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USB 2.0 Hub: Easily compatible with various accessories (filter wheel, guide camera, electronic focuser) The USB hub can also be powered by an external power source. Includes 2 short 0.5m USB 2.0 cables.
Cooling system
The camera has a 2-stage TEC cooling system that enables deep cooling (40°C to 45°C below surroundings). This cooler will require an external power supply ot 9-15V batteries which are not included with the camera.
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About ZWO Optical
Astrophotography has never been easier.
Established in 2011, ZWO Optical is a fast-growing global astroimaging camera powerhouse based in Suzhou China. They focus on building and innovating ground-breaking CMOS cameras such as the iconic ZWO ASI120MM Monochrome CMOS camera (the first-ever planetary CMOS camera to beat a CCD in the early 2010s). ZWO continues to pioneer new astrophotography technology with revolutionary features to capture exceptional quality of images of space that will last you a lifetime. Today, ZWO cameras are recognised by every passionate astrophotographer and are available in over 25 countries internationally.
Product Code: ZWO-ASI183MM-P
Colour / Monochrome | Monochrome |
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Sensor Type | IMX183 |
Sensor Size | 1" |
Resolution | 20MP (5496*3672) |
Pixel Size | 2.4μm |
ADC | 12bit |
Read Noise | 1.5-3.0e |
USB | USB3.0/USB2.0 |
FPS | 19FPS |
Shutter | Rolling Shutter |
QE Peak | 84% |
Full Well | 15000e |
Exposure Range | 32µs-2000s |
Back Focus | 6.5mm |
Power | 12V 5A DC |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, Mac OSX, Linux |
Cooling Temperature | -30C |
Cooled? | Yes |
Working Temperature | -5°C—45°C |
Storage Temperature | -20°C—60°C |
Humidity | 20%—80% |
Usage | Planetary Imaging, Deep Sky Imaging |
Camera Weight | 410g |
Warranty Information | 2 Years |
Additional Specifications of Product | 10Bit ADC 5496×3672 19fps 3840×2160 41.04fps 1920×1080 80.10fps 1280×720 117.30fps 640×480 169.92fps 320×240 308.17fps 12bit ADC 5496×3672 19fps 3840×2160 36.12fps 1920×1080 70.48fps 1280×720 103.23fps 640×480 149.53fps 320×240 271.19fps |
Image | Item | Qty |
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ZWO ASI183MM Pro Astronomy Camera - Body | 1 |
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Cover | 1 |
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M42-M48 Adapter | 1 |
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T2-1.25" Adapter | 1 |
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1.25" Nosepiece | 1 |
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T2-M48 Extender (16.5mm) | 1 |
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T2 Extender (21mm) | 1 |
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Spacer | 4 |
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USB 2.0 Cable (0.5m) | 2 |
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USB 3.0 Cable (2m) | 1 |
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Quick Guide | 1 |
Q1. What is the standard backfocus distance for ZWO cameras?
All ZWO cameras have a standard backfocus of 55mm. This matches the optical design of most flatteners and reducers. Always check your reducer/flattener manual to confirm the required distance.
Q2. How do I achieve 55mm backfocus with a ZWO cooled camera?
Start with the camera sensor to flange distance, typically 17.5mm, then add spacers and accessories to reach 55mm total. For example: 17.5mm (camera), 21mm (M42 extension ring) or filter drawer, 16.5mm (M42-M48 adapter or OAG). This gives a total of 55mm.
Q3. How do I calculate backfocus when using a ZWO filter wheel?
ZWO’s 5 Position 1.25"/31mm/36mm filter wheels and filter drawers add 20mm-21mm of backfocus.
For a typical setup: 17.5mm (camera), 20mm (filter wheel), 16.5mm (M42 extension or adapter) for a Total = 54–55mm.
Q4. How do I set backfocus when using a ZWO OAG (Off-Axis Guider)?
The ZWO OAG adds about 16.5mm of backfocus. A sample setup might look like: 17.5mm (camera) + 16.5mm (OAG) +21mm (extension ring) Total = 55mm.
Note: The OAG prism needs to be aligned with the sensor for proper guiding.
Q5. How do filters affect backfocus with ZWO cameras?
Filters, especially in a filter drawer or wheel, shift focus slightly—typically 1/3 the thickness of the filter. For a 2mm thick filter, this means reducing the backfocus by about 0.66mm. ZWO already accounts for this in their 55mm recommendation, assuming standard filters are used.
Q6. What if my stars look distorted at the edges—could it be a backfocus issue?
Yes, coma, elongated stars, or blurry edges are common signs of incorrect backfocus. Double-check each spacer’s thickness, make sure components are properly threaded, and measure the total optical path to ensure it equals the required backfocus.
Q7. Do ZWO planetary and guide cameras require a backfocus setup?
No, uncooled ZWO planetary or guide cameras (e.g. ASI178MM, ASI662MC, ASI174MM Mini) are usually connected directly via 1.25" nosepiece and don’t require backfocus spacing unless used with optics (e.g. OAG or Barlow). They are focused by adjusting position in the focuser or OAG helical focuser.
Q8. What software can I use with my ASI camera?
The ASI Caemra range is compatible with a wide range of astrophotography software. You can use:
ZWO ASIAIR for a mobile-friendly, all-in-one imaging solution (requires ASIAIR Plus sold separtely), ZWO’s native Windows/Mac drivers with ASIStudio, third-party software such as NINA, SharpCap, APT, Sequence Generator Pro, and FireCapture, using ZWO’s ASCOM and native SDK drivers.
Make sure your software is updated to the latest version to ensure full support for this full-frame camera.
Q9. Does the ZWO ASI Cameras work with ASIAIR?
Yes, ASI cameras is fully supported by ASIAIR. You can control cooling (for cooled cameras), gain, offset, exposures, filters (if connected via EFW), and guiding through the ASIAIR mobile app. Be sure to keep ASIAIR firmware and the app itself updated for best compatibility.
Q10. What is the recommended gain and offset setting for the ASI cooled cameras?
This varies by target and sky conditions, but ZWO recommends:
Gain 100 for optimal dynamic range and low read noise
Gain 0 for maximum dynamic range in bright targets or longer exposures
Offset typically ranges from 30–50 but should be adjusted depending on your software and histogram.
Q11. Can I use my ASI Camera with a DSLR lens?
Yes, you may be able to use your ASI Camera with DSLR lenses using appropriate ZWO lens adapters (e.g. M54 to Canon EF/Nikon F). You will need to ensure proper backfocus and may need a manual or electronic lens controller for aperture/focus adjustments.
Q12. My software doesn't recognise my camera – what should I do?
Try the following:
- Install the latest ZWO native and ASCOM drivers.
- Check your USB 3.0 cable and port; use a powered hub if needed.
- Test connectivity with an alternative app like ASIStudio.
- Update your software or firmware (e.g. ASIAIR, NINA).