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ZWO Electronic Filter Wheel EFW Gen2 - 7 x 36mm

by ZWO
SKU ZWO-EFW-7x36-25
Original price CA$419.00 - Original price CA$419.00
Original price
CA$419.00
CA$419.00 - CA$419.00
Current price CA$419.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Houses seven 36mm unmounted filters
  • Adds a minimal 20mm of back focus to the imaging train
  • 7-position carousel for LRGB, narrowband, or custom sets
  • Powered and controlled via a single USB-C cable
Backordered
Availability Info
Qualifies for FREE Shipping in Canada on orders over $500.
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty
  • ZWO EFW 7-Position Filter Wheel for 36mm Filters (2025)

    The ZWO EFW Gen2 automates your imaging sequence with a 7-position carousel designed specifically for 36mm unmounted filters. This wheel consumes only 20mm of back focus, making it a slim and efficient core component for APS-C sensor imaging trains. All power and control are handled through a single USB connection, simplifying cable management in the field.

    7-Position Capacity for 36mm Filters

    The internal carousel holds up to seven 36mm unmounted filters, providing enough capacity to house a full LRGB set and a 3-filter narrowband SHO set simultaneously. This eliminates the need to swap filters between targets, allowing for fully automated, multi-palette imaging sessions. The 36mm filter size is the optimal choice for cameras with APS-C format sensors, providing full sensor illumination without the cost or vignetting risk of undersized filters, or the unnecessary expense of 2" filters.

    Redesigned Housing for 0 Light Leaks

    This second-generation EFW features a redesigned body focused on eliminating internal reflections and stray light. A new slot-style closure and a fully sealed motor compartment prevent light from entering the housing, while included light-blocking pads replace older filter masks for a more secure, light-tight seal around the filters. These improvements ensure that long exposures, especially with narrowband filters, are protected from gradients and artifacts caused by stray light.

    USB-Powered Simplicity with 2 Included Cables

    The filter wheel is powered and controlled entirely through its USB-C port, drawing minimal power and requiring no separate 12V supply. This simplifies cable routing and reduces potential failure points at the telescope. ZWO includes both a 0.5 M and a 2 M USB-C cable, giving you flexible options for connecting to an ASIAIR, a camera's USB hub, or a computer.

    • Native ASIAIR Control: Integrates seamlessly with the ZWO ASIAIR ecosystem for control via your smartphone or tablet.
    • ASCOM Compliant: A standard ASCOM driver ensures compatibility with N.I.N.A., SGP, and other popular acquisition software on Windows.
    • Direct Connection: Bolt-through holes allow for a rigid, direct attachment to ZWO cameras, creating a solid imaging train with minimal flexure.

    ZWO EFW Gen2 vs. First-Generation EFW

    This 2025 model introduces several key upgrades over the original ZWO EFW design. While both provide reliable filter changes, the Gen2 model is engineered for more demanding imaging applications.

    • Stray Light Control: The Gen2's primary advantage is its superior light-leak protection, thanks to the redesigned housing and sealed motor. This is a critical improvement for imagers working under light-polluted skies or capturing faint signals.
    • Connectivity: The move from a legacy USB port to a modern USB-C port provides a more reliable and easier-to-use connection, especially in the dark.
    • Mechanical Precision: An upgraded stepper motor and internal mechanism deliver precise, repeatable filter placement, ensuring flats calibrate correctly every time.
  • What is the main advantage of the ZWO EFW Gen2 7x36mm over the previous version?

    The primary advantage of the Gen2 model is its significantly improved stray light protection. The redesigned body with a slot-style closure, sealed motor compartment, and new light-blocking pads makes it far more resistant to light leaks, which is critical for long-exposure narrowband imaging.

    Can I use 1.25" filters with the ZWO EFW 7x36mm filter wheel?

    No, this filter wheel is specifically designed for 36mm unmounted filters. Using 1.25" filters would require custom adapters and would likely cause significant vignetting on most sensors the wheel is designed for.

    How does the 20mm back focus of the ZWO EFW 7x36mm affect my imaging train with a ZWO ASI2600MM Pro?

    The 20mm back focus is a key measurement for achieving the standard 55mm distance from your flattener/reducer. With an ASI2600MM Pro (which has 17.5mm of back focus), you would typically attach the EFW directly to the camera (20mm + 17.5mm = 37.5mm). You would then add 17.5mm of spacers between the filter wheel and your flattener to reach the 55mm target.

    I want to image the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) in LRGB. Is the ZWO EFW 7x36mm a good choice?

    Yes, it's an excellent choice. The 7-position capacity allows you to load Luminance, Red, Green, and Blue filters with three extra slots to spare. You can automate the entire capture sequence for M31 without having to manually change filters, and the 36mm size is ideal for the large sensors found in cameras well-suited for capturing our galactic neighbor.

    Does the ZWO EFW 7x36mm require an external 12V power supply?

    No, it does not. The ZWO EFW is powered entirely by the USB connection to your ASIAIR, camera USB hub, or computer. This simplifies your setup and reduces cable clutter.

    How do I connect the ZWO EFW 7x36mm to my telescope's 1.25" focuser?

    The filter wheel includes a 1.25" nosepiece. You can thread this directly onto the T2 (M42) threads of the filter wheel's front plate, allowing you to insert the entire assembly into any standard 1.25" focuser or visual back.

  • SKU ZWO-EFW-7X36-25
    Product Type Electronic Filter Wheel
    Supported Filter Size 36mm
    Filter Capacity 7 Positions
    Filter Mounting Drop-In (Unmounted)
    Back Focus Consumption 20 mm
    Power Source USB
    • EFW 7x36mm Filter Wheel Body

      × 1

    • M42M-M42M (T2-T2) Adapter

      × 1

    • 1.25" Nosepiece

      × 1

    • 1.25" Cover & Cap

      × 1

    • 0.5 Meter USB-C Cable

      × 1

    • 2 Meter USB-C Cable

      × 1

    • Filter Masks

      × 10

    • M2.5x6 Screws

      × 6

    • M2x4 Screws

      × 26

    • M4x12 Screws

      × 2

    • Philips Head Screwdriver

      × 1

  • ZWO 2-Year Limited Warranty