Precautions

As most users know, CCD detectors are very fragile and expensive items. In fact, our TI chip cannot be replaced at any price. Fortunately, once the CCD is installed in a cryogenic dewar [A] it is relatively sturdy. The observer must follow the following precautions, or face both self-destruction and chip destruction:

1. NEVER let air into the dewar! Never play with the valve on the rear of the dewar! Explosive destruction (of chip and astronomer) will result!
2. NEVER disassemble the dewar or the electronics box that is attached to it (the camera head box). NEVER separate the camera head box from the dewar.
3. NEVER disconnect or jiggle any cables unless the CCD power supply and CCD controller are off. (Total of two toggle switches.)