SBIG Smart Autoguider Prototype

SG-4
Stand-Alone "Smart" Autoguider
SBIG is now accepting pre-orders for
Estimated release late May or early June 2009
Initial List Price $995
See details below

SBIG began with the ST-4 autoguider nearly 20 years ago. This venerable stand-alone unit is still used by many for digital astrophotography. We later made the STV video stand-alone autoguider, and now offer the SG-4. After two decades of experience making self-guiding cameras and autoguiders, we have developed the SG-4 for those who just don't want to use a computer to guide or image with their digital camera or non-self-guiding CCD camera. The SG-4 is made to piggy-back on your scope and perform its guiding functions without being connected to any external computing device. Simply attach the tracking cable between the SG-4 and your telescope drive's autoguider input and plug in the 12V power and its ready to go. An RS232 port will allow an initial setup for your particular scope and drive after which operation is completely independent. An optional Bluetooth transmitter may be connected to the RS232 port for wireless setup and download of the image if desired. Some highlights of the camera:

Stand-alone configuration, no computer or other external device required for operation

KAI-340 CCD 640 x 480 @ 7.4u with low read noise and low dark current

Single button operation

Mechanical shutter for automatic dark frames

RS232 port for image download and setup

Wireless image download with optional Bluetooth device

The KAI-340 CCD has exceptional read noise and dark current characteristics. The mechanical shutter makes taking dark frames automatic, no need to cover the camera or the scope by hand to capture a dark frame. Dark frames are desirable for autoguiding to remove any hot pixels that might otherwise be mistaken for stars by the guider. A (user supplied) Bluetooth transmitter can be plugged into the RS232 port for wireless setup and image download.

The SG-4 will also support SBIG's differential guiding (patent pending) by providing power to illuminate an artificial star.

Prototype Pictures

We have received a great deal of interest in this product. Initial production will be rather limited, so in order to fairly prioritize a waiting list we will accept pre-orders from individuals or dealers with a 50% deposit. Individuals or dealers who have placed orders with a deposit will be given the first units according to the date the deposit is received.