non-syncan pinouts (HEQ5/EQ6)

[graphworlok (James)]

I'm after a pinout for the RJ connector between the handset/pendant and the EQ mount.

Failing that, a basic description of what's where (Timing from the mount itself or in the handset?)

I popped the case and googled the PCB model# - Not one hit! (even an incorrect one!)

I'm sure somebody must have done it before, and i'd like to save myself the effort if possible (The screws holding the two PCB's together are reaaaally tight, and i'd rather not risk snapping/stripping something)

I'm looking at adding a PC interface for polar alignment automation ("V" style drift method) and autoguiding, for those curious. I just want to get an idea of whether i'll be only replacing the handset, or the internal board as well.

Cheers,

james

[bojan]

I think this is what you are after (attached)

Not sure what you have.. . if it is standard , non-goto EQ6, then consider replacement of the whole control board.
I changed the controller board couple of times, and currently the best (for me) setup is OnStep (with motor drivers inside the mount and controller (with buttons) in external box, if interested PM me).

My interface is generic (Step-Dir), so I can attached pretty much anything - from Bartels system, SoundStepper, OnStep, AstroEQ...

[graphworlok (James)]

Almost, but not quite!

My handset looks very similar, but has a single RJ connector that goes to the mount. Power (12 v) goes straight to the mount as well, rather than via the handset. All of the buttons and switches appear to be the same otherwise, but mine has the text "HEQ5/EQ6 Control Unit" or similar printed instead of "dual axis motor drive", and does not have the RA and DEC labels.

(I'll try and grab a picture of it tonight)

I'd assumed that there was essentially one flavour of non-synscan controller for the EQ5/6's with internal motor drives - I guess not!

[jwoody (Jeremy)]

Maybe this?

https://autocostruttite.files.wordpr...13/02/heq5.png

[bojan]

Originally Posted by graphworlok

Almost, but not quite!
not!

It is yes, because on the pic I posted the modified handpad was shown.
Jwoody's pin-out is OK as well.

[graphworlok (James)]

Thanks both of you!

I'd assumed that it was essentially a box of buttons with no smarts - I'm quite pleasantly suprised that it talks serial of some flavour between the mount and handset.

Is the protocol known/available?

I've found this:

https://code.google.com/archive/p/sk...rProtocol.wiki

But i'm not sure if it's relevant, as it mentions GOTO in the command set.

I've got an assortment of rs232/ttl and level convertors lying around, so if the protocol's known, i should have everything i need to DIY a PC interface.

[bojan]

This is not two way communication... box sends only up-down-left-right type of of commands.
For GoTo, I think you need new hardware (AstroEQ, OnStep....)

The motors you have in the mount.. they are like this?

https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/1...-goto-upgrade/