Cleaning a ZWO ASI2600 MC Pro camera

We received a ZWO ASI2600 MC Pro that had traces of fluid on the sensor. It needed to be cleaned.

We are currently investigating why this effect occurred. Once we have the findings, they will be published here on the site.

We use a cleanroom chamber to ensure dust-free cleaning.

What else is needed:

LensAid Fluid or Optical Wonder from Baader Planetarium as a cleaning fluid [link follows]
Lens-Aid Microfiber Swipes [link follows]
2.0 mm Allen key [link follows]
Blows such as Giotto [link follows]
ZWO DESICC drying tablets for cooled ASI cameras [link follows]

View from above into the chamber with the required materials. I like to use a magnetic tray to prevent the screws from becoming loose.

Removing the front panel

The front panel is held in place with three Allen screws (2.0 mm).



Now you can see the spots very clearly.

 

Removing the plate with the protective window

Before removing the plate, let's first check if there's a marking. If not, now would be a good time to do so.

The plate has contacts on one side of the back, which should, of course, be in the correct position after reassembly.

Cleaning the Sensor

The sensor is now exposed.

Moisten a swipe with a little cleaning fluid (it doesn't have to be dripping wet, a little is enough; it goes a long way) and slowly (really slowly) wipe it across the sensor in one direction. Do not wipe back and forth, as this could potentially damage the delicate optical coating.

With the Baader Optical Wonder, it's best to use a blower to evaporate any remaining cleaning fluid.

Before assembly, new ZWO DESICC drying tablets can be inserted.