ZWO Desiccant Tablets

[Aidi]

I’ve had my ZWO 071MC for a while now with some very good results. Last couple of nights I’ve started to get what looks like frost/fogging on the sensor. The subs have what looks like worms running across it.

Seems that this can be quite common and recharging the ZWO Desiccant Tablets is a possible solution.

Took mine out tonight and gave them the recommended 2 mins in he microwave. Time will tell if this solves the issue.

Anyone else had the same problem?

[KathyNS]

I don't have the ZWO cam, but I have had the same problem with my Atik. Changing the dessicant tablet didn't help. Neither did rejuvenating the tablet. The only thing that helps is to run the cooler for an hour before I start imaging. That gives the frost/condensation time to evaporate.

[Aidi]

I’ve read that too... I’m hoping I don’t need to resort to that, as my imaging time is pretty short as it is. Time will tell.

[sdbodin]

I had a problem with my original Starshoot camera and it did not have replaceable desiccant pills. What I did was appropriate a few spoons full of the wife's flower drying desiccant and put in a Tupperware container and place the camera in and seal the lid. Worked perfectly.

Clear skies,
Steve

[UlteriorModem]

One thing I found that helps a lot!

Store the camera in an airtight container, Tupperware or whatever, with lots of desiccant in it.

It makes a difference.

[SKEtrip]

One thing I found that helps a lot!

Store the camera in an airtight container, Tupperware or whatever, with lots of desiccant in it.

It makes a difference.

So... start saving all those packets that come with every electronic purchase.

[JayTee]

So... start saving all those packets that come with every electronic purchase.

What about the pill bottle ones?

JT

[sdbodin]

Don't need to save all those little pill bottle ones. Amazon has a pound and a half for $10. You can uses some, spill some and give some away and still have enough for 10 years. Microwaving this crystal form works well for recharging, wife does it all the time.

Clear skies,
Steve

[bladekeeper]

Your local pharmacy is also a great resource for desiccant packs. They just throw them away. Never hurts to ask them to save some for you...

[STEVE333]

Your local pharmacy is also a great resource for desiccant packs. They just throw them away. Never hurts to ask them to save some for you...

Thanks for the hint JT. I'm getting ready to purchase a cooled camera, so, all these hints are going to be a big help.

Steve

[Aidi]

Finally managed to get out over the weekend and re-try the ASI071. Prior to this, i zapped the tablets in the microwave and have since stored the camera in a container with a large moisture pack thing! Not sure if one/other or both did the trick, but images are now frost/moisture free. Cooled to -5 in 15 mins to help things along as well..

Just a test run as weather is still pretty rubbish.... but nice to see crisp clear images.

[yobbo89]

would filling these cameras with an inert gas work with reducing moisture on the inside ?

[Aidi]

It probably would, but for the home user to achieve that might be somewhat difficult... And the tablets are an end user task, so probably not even done before it leaves the factory or production line