ZWO ASI174MM Mini Monochrome CMOS Camera and Guide Camera

ZWO ASI174MM Mini Camera – High-Performance Guiding and Planetary Imaging

If you’re searching for a guiding or planetary camera that delivers premium sensitivity, high dynamic range, and ultra-low read noise, the ZWO ASI174MM Mini is a top-tier choice for serious astrophotographers. Designed with precision guiding in mind, this monochrome CMOS camera incorporates Sony’s IMX174 sensor, a 1/1.2” format chip that stands out for its excellent quantum efficiency and global shutter capabilities.

Precision Guiding with Large Sensor Coverage

One of the biggest advantages of the ASI174MM Mini is its large 11.3mm x 7.1mm sensor, giving you a significantly wider field of view than most traditional guide cameras. This makes it much easier to locate guide stars, especially when using an off-axis guider (OAG) on longer focal length telescopes. The larger sensor also helps reduce the need for frequent repositioning when tracking faint targets, making this camera ideal for deep-sky imaging setups.

Sony IMX174 Sensor – A Game Changer for Guiding and Imaging

At the heart of this camera is the Sony IMX174 monochrome sensor, which boasts:

• 5.86µm pixel size – Larger pixels improve light collection, ensuring excellent sensitivity even with faint stars.
• 78% peak quantum efficiency (QE) – Maximizing photon capture for increased signal strength.
• Global shutter technology – Eliminates the distortions often seen in fast-moving planetary imaging.
• 12-bit ADC and high dynamic range – Captures subtle details in both bright and dim regions.

With these specs, the ASI174MM Mini is a premium choice for planetary imaging as well, offering the ability to record fine details on the Moon and planets with excellent contrast.

Optimized for Off-Axis Guiding (OAG)

Many astrophotographers prefer an off-axis guider setup to eliminate flexure issues common in guide scopes. The ASI174MM Mini is designed specifically to work with OAG setups, thanks to its compact, lightweight design and the ability to detect fainter guide stars with ease. The camera’s larger sensor and high sensitivity provide reliable tracking, even in areas of the sky where guide stars are sparse.

Ultra-Low Read Noise and High Frame Rates

The ASI174MM Mini has a low read noise of just 3.5e at the lowest gain settings, making it perfect for capturing fine detail while maintaining a clean signal. Coupled with high frame rates—5.4 fps at full resolution (1936 x 1216) and even faster at smaller ROI (Region of Interest) settings—this camera excels at planetary imaging, allowing you to freeze moments of good seeing and extract the best possible details from the turbulence of Earth's atmosphere.

USB 2.0 and ST4 Autoguider Port – Seamless Connectivity

The camera features a USB 2.0 port for image data transfer, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of astrophotography software. Additionally, the ST4 guide port allows direct connection to a mount’s autoguiding system, making it easy to integrate with PHD2 Guiding and other popular guiding software.

Compact, Lightweight, and Power Efficient

Weighing in at just 140g (4.9oz), the ASI174MM Mini is an ultra-compact solution that won’t put unnecessary strain on your setup. Whether you’re using it as a primary planetary camera or a dedicated guide camera, it’s designed to fit seamlessly into any imaging rig without requiring excessive back focus or additional counterweights.

Ideal Applications for the ASI174MM Mini

• Deep-Sky Astrophotography Autoguiding – Pairs exceptionally well with off-axis guiders for long-exposure imaging.
• Lunar and Planetary Imaging – Captures fine surface details and high-contrast features.
• Solar Imaging – Ideal for high-resolution shots of sunspots and solar prominences (with appropriate filters).
• All-Sky Imaging – The wide field of view makes it a solid choice for meteor detection and all-sky imaging.

Why Choose the ASI174MM Mini?

If you’re looking for a high-performance monochrome guide camera with excellent sensitivity, a large sensor, and global shutter technology, the ASI174MM Mini stands out as one of the best options available. Its larger pixel size, low read noise, and fast frame rates make it a compelling choice for guiding as well as planetary, lunar, and solar imaging. Whether you're using it in an off-axis guiding setup or capturing high-resolution planetary detail, this camera delivers the performance and reliability that astrophotographers demand.