Convert DSLR for Astrophotography - part 1 - Removing infrared blocking filter 

Hi Nitro! Yeah, in hindsight replacing the filter with a clear one would have been the best option indeed! It would have made the auto focus functional. The instruction provider does supply a replacement filter to install at a cost. Since I only use mine for astrophotography I just ignored that part with the intention to use a clip in filter if I was so inclined later. I did not consider the AF issue at the time.

Hi! The DSLR usually has 3 optical paths that all needs to be the same. The sensor, the view finder and the AF sensor. When removing the filter, the path to the sensor is changed. It can be adjusted with a clear filter, or by changing the position of the pcb, like you did. The change of the light path is not the same as the thickness of the filter, usually 1/3 of the thickness of the filter. The lcd screen can still be manually focused, but the view finder will be blurry. To me, the AF function should not work either then. Does it? If the pcb is adjusted correctly and the AF function works, the view finder should also be in focus. The flat cables felt quirky to get seated correctly since some of them where different. As in the video my camera didn’t power up as it should either at first. Good job getting it back together!

Hi Jon, Sorry to hear your having issues. The only thing I can suggest is to do what I did: Revert the process and check all connections. It's easy to think the delicate flat cables are secured, but might not be. If the split second of live view is updating to the current scene, it sounds like it's alive, but might have issues keeping a live stream going. That could be cable issue.

@@astroboden Thanks for your reply. Going in again to check cables and connections I accidentally touched the capacitor. Got a burnt finger and the camera is now resting in peace in the camera graveyard.

It was a bit nerve-wracking, but all ok in the end ;)

@@astroboden 😂🤣😄😅

Hi Tomasz! Yes, it does, and yes, the CCD is fixed in the optical path (most of the time I suppose). This is the main reason why a clear replacement filter is used. Simply put, the focal point is extended through the filter by some part of the filter width. The focal length does not change, only the focal point. As I have admitted here earlier, I did not consider this, but also I did not intend of every using the AF anymore. So, just as commented below: a clear replacement filter of the same dimensions should fix it for you :) Good luck!

Sorry, no i don't.

Hi, sorry I missed your comment. I'm sure your'e right. It might be possible to do without desolder the dust cover. I was just too stubborn to follow the instructions then to tackle the problem from another angle. Cheers!

I'm about to the same thing with my camera. Sorry for maybe being slow, but are you supposed to solder the thing back on again? Why solder it off in the first place then if its going back on again..? My instruction for my D7100 tells me to desolder but not solder it back on (dust reduction filter)

Hi, Yes, that’s very true. Honestly, I didn’t think much of it. You may put in spacers to adjust for it. I’m only focusing manually anyway. The autofocus is not used for astrophotography (at least not from the DSLR). But very good point. Missed to mention that.

@@astroboden Hy, I also use just the manual focus, because I am working just with old lenses, but after filter removal the sensor is within o.5 mm further away from lens , and in wiefinder you will see that the image is focused, but in. reality is not... I will try to build back a clear Filter, and then give it a try. tnx for replying. cheers

@@orckaso6513 Live view on the screen while manually focusing is accuate.

@@astroboden ok so with spacers will work, I mean will fix the back Fokus Problem. Strange, because in viewfinder the Fokus looks very sharp, but the picture is actual blured, and out of Fokus. I have to back focus 1-2 mum so the picture will come clear. Normally with teleobjective should be properly, and no problem to focus without any spacers .. . I use only Manuals Fokus, because I work only with vintage objectives. I will Give it a try and find some spacers. Thnx a Lot for reply. Cheers 🥂

@@afryhover Hy there, thanks for reply, I work with an canon eos 30d and does not have a live view. Cheers

Hi Douglas! Canon support site states that it’s a mechanical error: support.usa.canon.com/kb/index?page=content&id=ART177663 I have no experience with Canon, but it seems to be a very nice camera. It’s a mirrorless camera which is nice since that potential mechanical issue is limited, but they have a shutter for protecting the sensor. I suppose this is the only mechanical thing left? As you might have noted in my video I also had issues. Two of actually. Both where cables not connecting properly (video part 2). If you have taken your camera apart, that’s what I would look at. Since it’s a mirrorless camera I suppose you’re not affected by the AF issue with removing the IR filter as DSLR owners are. The shutter blades are very fragile. Don’t try to open it manually. Good luck!

Turn sensor cleaning on startup/shutdown off. Then you won’t see the message

Hey! Yes, what is the result? Haven’t been able to make any good comparison images like I hoped I was. Hoping for this weekend. Get my small refractor out to shoot M31 or M42 before they disappear for the season. Anyway, nebulosity comes out a lot better, and I wish I did the mod a long time ago.

Did u ever fix the issue what was it

A flat-cable connector was not properly clamped down. Works great now!

Haha! Very good point and well spotted mate! The ESD pad isn't going to help out either is it...