Changes
SHOC
,/* Choosing an Observing Method */
====What you need to know about SHOC====
====Choosing an Observing Method====
* BINNING: The plate scale is 0.076 and 0.163 "/pixel for the 1.9m without and with the focal reducer. It is 0.167"/pixel for the 1.0m without the focal reducer. The optimal binning is ~ 3 pixels per full width half maximum. The seeing conditions in Sutherland are typically > 1"; therefore, SHOC should usually be binned at least 2x2.
: For example, if the seeing is 2" and SHOC is mounted on the 1.9m telescope without the focal reducer, sources would be well sampled at a binning of 6x6.
* SUBFRAMING: The SHOC field of view is not large (1.3' and 2.8' on each side on the 1.9m without and with a focal reducer; 2.9' on each side on the 1.0m with a focal reducer). Subframing is typically only used if the cadence needs to be increased.
* MODE: For most observations, the mode should be selected that allows the desired cadence with the lowest read noise. Start by setting 1 MHz Conventional mode in the optimal binning, and type 0 in the exposure time -- the time will default to the minimum allowable (and the cadence will be displayed). If the cadence is too slow, either subframe or select 3 MHz Conventional mode. '''The EM mode should only be used in cases of experienced observers who understand both the risks and the noise vs. signal payoffs.'''
* GAIN: The three gain settings correspond to different electron/ADU conversion values and effect dynamic range. They are slightly different from camera to camera. The standard options for conventional modes are as follows:
: Mode...................... Approx. Gain setting................... Approx. Electrons/ADU
: 1 MHz Conv....................1, 2.5, 5....................................... 4, 1.5, 0.7
: 3 MHz Conv...................1, 2.5, 5....................................... 10, 4, 1.8
====Technical Information ====
