PrimaLuceLab GIOTTO 255 Smart Flat Field Generator
- Smart Flat Field Generator
- Adjustable Brightness Control
- Sun-like Color Temperature LEDs
- Connectivity: USB-C and WiFi
- Power: 12V DC Input
The PrimaLuceLab GIOTTO 255 is a smart flat field generator engineered to simplify the critical process of image calibration in astrophotography. It has integrated electronics with finely adjustable brightness, controllable via a direct USB-C connection or wirelessly through its own WiFi network. Powered by a standard 12V DC source, it mounts securely to a wide range of telescopes and can be upgraded with the optional ALTO motor to function as a fully automated, remote-controlled dust cap.
Capturing a perfect flat frame requires an evenly illuminated light source. The GIOTTO 255 uses an array of LEDs with a color temperature similar to the Sun, coupled with a specially designed diffuser panel. This combination produces a consistently flat field of light, essential for correcting vignetting and removing the shadows cast by dust on your sensor or filters.
The GIOTTO 255 attaches directly to the front of your telescope using adjustable, plastic thumbscrews. This design allows for quick, secure attachment to a wide range of optical tube diameters without the risk of scratching your telescope's finish. This eliminates the need to hold a panel by hand or move the telescope off-target to capture your calibration frames.
As a "smart" generator, the GIOTTO 255 offers multiple methods of remote control. Connect it via USB-C to an EAGLE or any Windows computer to control it with PrimaLuceLab's PLAY software or third-party applications via the ASCOM driver. For untethered operation, connect to its built-in WiFi network with a smartphone or tablet and use the Virtual HandPad to set brightness and save custom profiles for different filters.
For the ultimate remote imaging setup, the GIOTTO 255 can be transformed into a motorized telescope cover. By adding the optional ALTO cover motor, you gain the ability to remotely open and close your telescope's primary optics. This enables a fully automated workflow where you can capture flat frames and protect your telescope at the end of a session without ever needing to be physically present.
Simply place the GIOTTO 255 over the front of your SCT and tighten the plastic thumbscrews until it is secure. Connect to it via WiFi or USB-C, turn on the light, and adjust the brightness until your camera's histogram is correctly exposed for a flat frame (typically around one-third to one-half full). You can then capture your flats without moving the telescope.
Yes. The GIOTTO 255 includes an ASCOM driver, making it compatible with most popular automation software like N.I.N.A. or Sequence Generator Pro. Your software can control the GIOTTO's power and brightness as part of an automated imaging sequence, allowing you to capture flats at the beginning or end of your session automatically.
The GIOTTO 255 is powered by a standard 12V DC power source with a center-positive plug. It does not require a separate power unit and can be integrated easily with the same 12V power distribution system used for your mount and cameras.
No, a computer is not required for basic operation. You can connect your smartphone or tablet to the GIOTTO 255's built-in WiFi network and use the Virtual HandPad interface in your web browser to turn the light on/off and adjust its brightness. This is ideal for quick visual use or for setups where a dedicated computer isn't running.
Adding the optional ALTO motor transforms the GIOTTO 255 from a manually placed flat panel into a fully remote-controlled motorized cap. This allows you to open and close your telescope remotely, which is essential for observatory automation and for capturing calibration frames without physical access to the telescope.
The GIOTTO 255 uses an array of LED lights that produce a color temperature similar to that of the Sun. This provides a broadband, white light source that is suitable for creating high-quality flat frames with both monochrome and one-shot color cameras, ensuring proper calibration across all color channels.