OGMA AP24CCUV Camera Review

Manufacturer: OGMA

Price: $2399

OGMA is a relatively unknown astrophotography camera and accessory manufacturer that is based in North Carolina. The company name comes from a yellow subgiant star in the constellation Hercules thought to have an orbiting exoplanet. The company’s mission statement boils down to making high quality equipment at an affordable price.

OGMA’s known for making high-quality imaging equipment, and the AP24CCUV is one of their standout models. Whether you’re deep into astrophotography or exploring high-detail imaging, this camera offers some unique capabilities.

The AP24CCUV isn’t just another camera; it’s a serious tool designed for serious work. OGMA has engineered it to deliver precision and clarity. It’s crafted to give users the edge when detailed imaging is critical. The model comes in two versions: one with a UV/IR filter window (the main subject of this review) and the other with an anti-reflective window. I explain the difference later in this article.

One thing that sets the AP24CCUV apart is its design geared towards versatility. The two-stage thermoelectric cooling ensures minimal noise, even in low-light environments, making it ideal for capturing detailed and clear images of the night sky.

OGMA’s commitment doesn’t stop at delivering top-notch equipment. They also focus heavily on user experience, making sure that their cameras are easy to use, affordable, and durable. The AP24CCUV reflects this focus with a robust build and user-friendly interface.

Understanding the significance of the AP24CCUV in the market means recognizing its ability to perform where other cameras fall short. This camera isn’t just there to take pictures; it’s designed to capture the fine details necessary for high-level imaging work.

 

Detailed Specifications of OGMA AP24CCUV

 

When considering a camera like the OGMA AP24CCUV, diving into the specs is crucial. This model boasts an array of features that make it a powerful choice for professionals. Let’s break down what makes this camera tick.

The AP24CCUV comes equipped with the 24-megapixel full-frame Sony IMX410 color CMOS sensor with 6064 x 4040 pixels, ensuring high-resolution images with remarkable detail. Sporting generous pixel dimensions of 5.94µm x 5.94µm, it delivers sharp and clear photos, making it ideal for capturing intricate details in various settings. The large pixels are also better at gathering light in a shorter amount of time.

Power demands for the AP24CCUV are the typical 12V DC, which is a win for versatility. It ensures that you won’t need a proprietary power source. Dynamic range is a key feature that cannot be overstated. The AP24CCUV offers an impressive dynamic range of 87.3 dB, capturing both shadows and highlights with precision. This ensures your images look balanced and detailed, regardless of the lighting conditions.

Connectivity is another area where this model shines. It features multiple data connection ports, including both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0, which means faster data transfers and better workflow efficiency. You won’t have to worry about slow data transitions hampering your progress.

Weight is always a concern for portable gear. Thankfully, the AP24CCUV keeps it light at just 1.6 lbs (0.718 kg), making it easier to transport and handle during shoots. Coupled with the wide M54 telescope connection, it integrates seamlessly with most telescope setups, enhancing its versatility for astrophotographers.

The two-stage thermoelectric cooling system is another standout feature. This keeps noise to a minimum, down to 35 degrees Centigrade below ambient, even in long exposures or low-light conditions. Coupled with zero amp glow, the AP24CCUV ensures superior image quality in challenging conditions, making it a reliable partner for demanding projects.

The camera is supported by software that is compatible with Windows, Linux, and MacOS, ensuring maximum compatibility.

 

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Quality and Performance

 

Quality and performance are where the OGMA AP24CCUV truly shines. This camera is engineered to deliver high-grade images, showcasing its prowess in various conditions. One of its standout features is image quality and low read noise. Every shot you capture with the AP24CCUV is crisp and clear, highlighting the impressive precision and detail that is this camera’s hallmark.

Low-light performance is a crucial factor, especially for those into astrophotography or shooting in dimly lit environments. The AP24CCUV handles these situations exceptionally well, offering a high quantum efficiency of >80% that allows it to perform admirably even when lighting isn’t ideal. This feature ensures that you get as much light as possible, reducing noise and enhancing image clarity.

For video enthusiasts, the AP24CCUV doesn’t disappoint. It offers robust video recording capabilities, in either 14-bit or 8-bit, delivering smooth and detailed footage. The camera’s ability to maintain quality during video capture makes it a versatile tool for both deep sky images as well as planetary images, where video is now the preferred image capture tool.

The AP24CCUV’s thermoelectric cooling system also plays a vital role in its performance. By minimizing sensor noise, especially during long exposure times, this system ensures that your images come out as clean and clear as possible, enhancing the overall quality of your work.

Another point worth mentioning is its zero amp glow feature. This is particularly beneficial for astrophotographers who often deal with long exposures. Eliminating amp glow means you get consistent, high-quality images without the typical artifacts that can ruin a good shot.

 

User Experience

 

Having top-notch specifications and performance is great, but how a camera feels in the hands makes a huge difference. The OGMA AP24CCUV excels in user experience, ensuring that operators at any skill level feel right at home.

One of the first things you’ll notice is its ease of use. The layout and design of the controls are intuitive, reducing the learning curve significantly. Whether you’re adjusting settings or swapping out components, everything is straightforward and efficient. It’s clear OGMA put a lot of thought into making this camera user-friendly.

Handling is another strong suit of the AP24CCUV. It’s lightweight yet feels robust and sturdy. This balance ensures that you’re not bogged down during long shoots while still feeling confident that your gear can handle the rigors of extensive use. The overall build quality speaks to OGMA’s commitment to durability.

The user interface and controls are logically laid out, offering quick access to all essential features. This design helps you stay focused on capturing the shot, rather than fumbling through menus. The screen is clear and responsive, further simplifying the operation.

Durability is paramount when investing in high-quality equipment. The AP24CCUV is built to withstand various conditions, from dusty environments to chilly nights under the stars. It’s designed to be a reliable companion, no matter where your work takes you.

User feedback is relatively absent since this is a relatively unknown manufacturer.

Each package comes with everything you need to get started right away. Included are essential accessories like a high-speed USB 3.0 cable, 12V power adapters (not all cameras come with an adapter), and software, ensuring you have a seamless start-up experience. It also comes with an attractive protective hard case. This comprehensive approach removes any guesswork, letting you dive directly into your projects.

 

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UV/IR Window Coating vs. Antireflective Window Coating

 

The OGMA AP24CCUV offers two distinct options when it comes to window coatings on the sensor: UV/IR and anti-reflective. Understanding these options is key to making an informed choice based on your specific needs.

The UV/IR window coating is designed to block out ultraviolet and infrared light, allowing only visible light to pass through. This is particularly useful for astrophotography since it minimizes unwanted light wavelengths that can cause artifacts in your images. By filtering out UV and IR light, your captures will have more accurate colors and finer details. This model also excels with telescopes that have large image circles. Many telescopes will claim to have a large image circle but will reveal vignetting on a full-frame sensor, which is dimming at the periphery of the sensor. In this camera, the UV/IR filter window is designed to minimize this vignetting.

On the other hand, the anti-reflective window coating reduces reflections off the sensor. The other main advantage of this window is that it allows more flexibility with the use of filters since only the user-chosen filter will affect the permitted wavelengths.

Choosing between these two options depends on what you prioritize in your work. If your primary focus is deep-sky astrophotography, particularly with color cameras, the UV/IR window coating will likely serve you best. However, if you’re interest is choosing different color palettes or specialty filters, the antireflective window is a better option.

Conclusion:

I am impressed with the quality and features of this camera, especially the affordable price. OGMA has a bright future if it continues to produce cameras and gear of this quality.

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