Telescope Reviews: CMOS-based imager buyers need to know

My post is to inform buyers looking to purchase an imager, webcam, or videocam based on CMOS image sensors...

Modern CMOS image sensors (since 2002 or so) are taking the approach of using built-in integrated analog preamp and A/D converter(s). In another word, once the CMOS sensor is out of the fab, there is nothing that can be tweaked. The sensor is already sending out the digital data as is. If you want to change the sensor signal gain, you program it through control registers following datasheet information. There is nothing special from technical point of view, be it vendor A or vendor B, if they use teh same CMOS image sensor. Sure, if a vendor or you want to put an active cooling on it, it can be done.
I have nothing on any vendor but wish the forum users are informed consumers.

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