CCD Controller for Astronomic Telescopes

The Controllers of the CTR-Ax00 series represent the result of 20 years of experience in the field of CCD/CMOS image acquisition for astronomy and spectroscopy. Main features include:

• Correlated double sampling boards for signal conditioning, filtering and A/D conversion of (up to) 4 independent video outputs;
• A-to-D conversion with dynamic, pixel-by-pixel correction of bias and gain, based on custom look-up tables;
• Sequencer boards for the generation of phases and pixel processing signals necessary for the control of a wide range of scientific and industrial CCDs/CMOS;
• low-latency output for realtime control of adaptive optics (to cater for air turbulence);
• interface for driving CCD thermo-electric coolers (Peltier elements) and mechanisms (filter wheels, shutters, etc.
• Ethernet Interface for Remote setup, and control and image acquisition, ideal for high-altitude installation sites;

Image from the CTR-A2000 Controller,
at the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT), Arizona, Texas