University Optics of Ann Arbor, Michigan, carries a kit that contains many of the harder to find parts as well as the machined aluminum pieces for the camera head and a peltier module for thermoelectric cooling of the chip. I scrounged other parts from several sources. The total construction time was approximately three and a half months of evening and weekend work. Cookbook Camera Quirks Having had no experience with CCD imaging, I found a steep learning curve existed with learning to use the camera and software. Cooling the chip is critical to reduce dark current and provide a clean image free of graininess.
Heat is the enemy.
Integration with Telescope Finding, focusing and placement of the object on the chip's image plane is essential. The trick is that the image area of the TC 245 is offset from optical axis unlike film. Focusing is especially crucial. If the object is out of focus even the slightest bit, the camera cannot obtain an image. Further, a time lag exists between the point when the camera obtains an image and the point when the computer displays the image.