A wider view for finding guide stars
The ToupTek GPM174M combines a large monochrome sensor with 5.86µm pixels for autoguiding through a guide scope or compatible off-axis guider. Its Sony IMX249 sensor records a 1920 × 1200 image, giving you room to locate and select a suitable guide star.
Why choose the GPM174M?
- Large 1/1.2-inch sensor: an 11.3 × 7.03mm imaging area.
- Global shutter: exposes the whole frame simultaneously.
- Monochrome capture: useful for guiding and lunar or planetary imaging.
- Simple connections: USB-C supplies power and data; ST4 connects to a compatible mount.
- Built-in frame buffer: supports stable image transfer.
Connecting your guiding setup
Fit the camera to your guide scope or compatible OAG, connect USB and select the camera in your guiding software. Add the ST4 cable when using the mount’s guide port. Guiding corrections are calculated by software; the camera does not guide independently. Check OAG prism coverage and available focus travel before choosing adapters.
Full-resolution capture reaches 16.2fps at 8-bit or 8.5fps at 12-bit. A smaller region of interest can increase frame rate. The USB-C connector operates at USB 2.0 speed, and cooling is passive.
Technical specifications
| Sensor | Sony IMX249 monochrome CMOS |
|---|---|
| Resolution / pixels | 1920 × 1200 (2.3MP) / 5.86µm |
| Format / area | 1/1.2-inch / 11.3 × 7.03mm |
| Shutter / ADC | Global / 12-bit |
| Exposure | 0.42ms–1000s |
| Read noise | 3.96–6.48e⁻, gain dependent |
| Full well / peak QE | 33.4ke⁻ / approximately 89% |
| Interfaces | USB 2.0 Type-C; ST4 |
| Back focus | 8.5mm; 12.5mm with CS-mount; 17.5mm with C-mount |
| Dimensions / camera weight | 37mm diameter × 72.4mm / approximately 70g |
Performance figures depend on gain and capture settings.
Software and accessories
ToupTek lists PHD2, SharpCap and FireCapture compatibility through appropriate drivers. Check software and operating-system support before purchase. The product page specifies an AR-coated window.
What’s included?
- GPM174M monochrome camera
- 2m USB Type-A to Type-C cable
- 2m ST4 guide cable
- 1.25-inch nosepiece
- CS-mount ring
Guide scopes, off-axis guiders and additional optics are sold separately. Contact Dark Clear Skies for help matching your setup.
