Instrument Controller and Accessory Hub
Advanced imaging systems typically include the primary telescope with CCD camera, an auxiliary telescope with autoguider camera, a wide field telescope with CCD camera, and dew heaters. All of these devices require power and most require a computer connection. The resulting mass of USB, serial and power supply cables can be a frustrating mess prone to tangles or, worse yet, a real hazard for a remotely operated instrument. In sub-zero temperatures (often encountered in ideal observing conditions), the cables tend to stiffen, compounding the frustrations and risks.
Ceravolo Optical Systems is developing an advanced instrument controller/accessory hub that will minimize the number of cables required to run an advanced instrument cluster. It is also being designed to meet the needs of our future robotic telescope solution (currently under development). The controller/hub will be available as an integrated part of the astrograph optical tube assembly, or as a standalone unit.
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Features include*:
- Focuser control, manual or PC (ASCOM)
- Ethernet port for Ceravolo's future robotic telescope solution
- Two extra stepper motor controllers for Ceravolo's future robotic telescope solution
- An integral GPS receiver for accurate time signal
- Thermistors for primary and secondary mirrors, guidescope optics and ambient air temperature
- Ports for primary, secondary, and guidescope optic heaters
- Humidity/dew point sensor
- Four port high speed USB 2.0 hub (480Mbps) for CCD cameras and accessories
- Two serial ports for accessories
- Four 12V plugs to power cameras and accessories
- 12V power supply and USB computer cable included
- Automation software functionality includes:
- Temperature, heater and fan status window display
- Heater control to keep optics above dew point to eliminate condensation and minimize tube currents
- ASCOM compliant focuser control
- OTA fan activation when optics are above ambient temperature
Available Summer 2008
*under development - specifications may change