EQdirect cable for HEQ5?

[2stroke]

Heya guys whats the best way to go about using eqmod with a HEQ5, i've seen 2 options, 1 is the eqdir module then a serail and a usb to serial, the other which is the best is a usb2 to eqdirect
http://www.xagyl.com/store_ca/product.php?productid=16347

Problem is i can't find anyone else selling this cable, it seems sweet without all the extra bs. What are you guys using with a HEQ5?

[jwoody]

I use this one

http://www.firstlightoptics.com/astronomy-cables-leads-accessories/hitecastro-eqdir-adapter.html

I bought the Syntrek version of the HEQ5 as I was alays going to use EQMOD, so the synscan contoller was not needed and an extra cost.

I have seen these for sale in Oz somewhere but can't remember where? (not much help!)

[jwoody]

Ah...here it is

http://www.sirius-optics.com.au/hitecastro.htm

[RobF]

Hi Jay

Few ways of doing it:
- USB/Serial convertor plugged into handset which is put into PC Direct mode
- Make a USB/serial cable with TTL conversion (splice to network cable with RJ45 connector or attach RJ45 connector)
- Buy EQDIR module and USB/Serial connector
- Buy Hitech astro HEQ5 module

I've had to do all 4 at some point. All work ok. Believe there are wireless/bluetooth solutions with a bit of fussing too.

[2stroke]

Hmm thats a bit vague as the eq6 uses a db9 and the heq5 uses an rj45 to interface with the mount, cheers will give them a call. If all else fails ill grab the one from the states :) Theres no way i'am paying for a rj45 to direct interface and a eq direct interface to com :)

[2stroke]

http://www.bintel.com.au/Mounts---Tripods/Mount-Accessories/Shoestring-USB2--br-EQ5-Interface/774/productview.aspx can i use this with the heq5 or is it only for the eq5?

[RobF]

Not familiar with that one - perhaps ring Bintel.

The Sirius link earlier for Hitech - there are 2 versions - EQ6 with DB9 and HEQ5Pro with RJ45. Both have a female USB socket on the module - connect to PC with standard male/female usb cable. I like the HiTech option because the RJF45 plug is fully "armoured" with tough blue plastic surround, similar to commercial network plugs.

The image of the latest Shoestring setup for "EQ5" from Bintel shows a standard RJ45 plug crimped on to the cable with no special protection from tugging or jams (e.g. during a slew if something gets caught). This was the downfall of my original home-made USB/TTL/RJ45 cable using a Dontronics USB/TTL cable. (mind you, I'm sure my home-made crimping was inferior to a professional job)

See also:
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=86599&highlight=dontronics
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=61838&highlight=dontronics
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=62246&highlight=dontronics
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=61998&highlight=dontronics
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=59292&highlight=dontronics
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=56711&highlight=dontronics

[2stroke]

Thanks for the info Rob and Jeremy, I'll contact Sirius about the hitech. It looks like a real winner and for the price it seems to be the best option apart for DIY, lol if i smoked this mount my wife would kill me ahaha.

[2stroke]

Rob 1 question does the Pc Direct work with ascom and phd for guiding ok? Just looking at a free option to start with haha, have the pc direct cable to syncscan and a usb to serial :)

[RobF]

Yes - you get full EQMOD functionality including pulse-guiding (no need for another ST4 cable to your autoguider/mount). The only inconvenience is having to start the mount, set date/time, then flick through menus to get it into PC Direct mode. Used to be flakey in previous firmware versions, but believe is quite solid now. I've only ever used it about a dozen times, but no issues. My USB/Serial hardware was <$20 from MSY from memory - nothing "flash".

Hope you get it going - most people find there's no turning back once you become addicted to EQMOD (especially if you're an imager and always have a laptop around anyway). :)