The ZWO ASI2600MC Pro uses Sony’s latest back-illuminated IMX571 APS-C format CMOS sensor and a true 16-bit ADC. It is the colour version of the highly regarded ASI2600MM Pro and offers an impressive set of features that make it one of the most popular astrophotography cameras on the market.

Here are some of the reasons why:

• Ultra-low 0e- readout noise – improving detail and dynamic range in your images
• Zero amp glow – even during long exposures, thanks to ZWO’s breakthrough sensor design
• 16-bit ADC sensor – achieving a dynamic range of up to 14 stops
• 80% peak QE – excellent sensitivity without easily saturating stars

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – Lightweight Design, Premium Engineering

ZWO engineers have refined the ASI2600MC Pro to deliver exceptional mechanical quality while keeping the weight down to just 0.7 kg. This makes it easier to balance on a wide range of imaging setups without compromising rigidity.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – APS-C Format Sensor

The 26MP IMX571 sensor features a 3.76µm pixel size and a generous full well depth of 50ke-. With sensor dimensions of 23.5mm × 15.7mm and a diagonal of 28.3mm, it offers an excellent field of view for deep-sky imaging.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – Native 16-bit ADC

The ASI2600MC Pro is one of the few CMOS astronomy cameras that truly delivers a 16-bit ADC output. This provides smoother colour transitions, improved contrast, and exceptional tonal depth—ideal for capturing faint nebulae and detailed galaxies.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – Back-Illuminated IMX571 Sensor

The back-illuminated architecture of Sony’s IMX571 greatly enhances sensitivity by moving wiring and transistors behind the photodiodes. This increases photon collection efficiency and improves performance across the entire optical angle response.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – Camera Performance

The camera delivers a dynamic range of up to 14 stops. When gain is set to 100, HCG (High Conversion Gain) mode activates automatically, reducing read noise while maintaining dynamic range—ideal for deep-sky astrophotography.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – Zero Amp Glow

The ASI2600MC Pro uses advanced circuitry that eliminates traditional CMOS amp glow. Even at high gain and long exposure times, images remain clean and free from bright corner artifacts.

Anti-Dew Heater

The ASI2600MC Pro includes a polyimide anti-dew heater that warms the protective window to prevent condensation. The heater consumes around 5W and can be disabled through software to save power when needed.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – QE Performance

The ASI2600MC Pro offers excellent sensitivity, with a peak QE believed to exceed 80%. This helps capture faint objects with shorter exposure times and improved signal-to-noise ratio.

Two-Stage TEC Cooling – Ultra-Low Dark Current

The two-stage TEC system can cool the sensor to over 35°C below ambient temperature. At 0°C the dark current is only 0.0024e/s/pixel, and at −20°C it drops to an extremely low 0.00012e/s/pixel—effectively negligible for long exposures.

The camera must be powered using an external 11–15V supply (12V recommended) to enable cooling.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – DDR3 Memory Buffer

The built-in 256MB DDR3 buffer helps stabilise data transfer, preventing dropped frames and reducing potential image artefacts during long exposures.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – Mechanical Diagram

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – What’s in the Box?

55mm Back Focus Solutions

You may also attach a 2″ EFW to the 2600MC Pro if required.

ZWO ASI2600MC Pro – Connecting Diagram

• Nikon-T2 adapter
• EOS-T2 adapter
• 2″ filter (optional)
• Nikon lens
• Canon lens

Drivers and Software

The latest ZWO camera drivers and compatible capture software can be downloaded from the ZWO website. Ensure you are running the newest versions before imaging.

The camera requires a regulated 12V @ 3A–5A DC power supply (5.5 × 2.1mm, centre positive). Incorrect voltage or polarity may cause permanent damage.