SX mx516 parallel CCD 4sale

[richardo]

Hi,
have my StarlightXpress MX516 mono chip parallel port CCD camera
with MKII fast Parallel Port module for sale.
All cables, power supply & 1 1/4" adaptor included with downloaded software put to disk so you will be up and running straight away.
Great first CCD camera for those wanting to get
started into digital imaging of the night sky.
This has been my guiding camera for the past year and
have no use for it now due to another camera.
$550.00AUD plus postage and insurance within Australia only, probably
around $15-20AUD postage depending on buyers location.
PM me off list if your interested.

Cheers for now.
Rich

[JohnH]

Rich,

How is camera set up for guiding ? I cannot figure out from the photo, is there a need for software, if yes is it included? I have a std autoguide input on my (Sphinx) mount...

[richardo]

Hi John,
no there is no auto guiding software included, only the SX software to run and operate the camera and do processing.
I've been using the camera connected to a PC (via the parallel port) a com port conection(DB9) going out to my motor/s controller. (a stand alone controller not native to my mount) The software that I use for guiding is Astro Art.
I believe that Guide Dog, PHDGuide and other guide programs can work providing you have a relay box that understands ST4, LX200 and other proticol commands used by autoguiding programs. Shoestring Astronomy products have a cheap solution in their relay box..... here's a link if your interested.
http://www.store.shoestringastronomy.com/products_gp.htm

My mount is a CI700, I don't use its motor controller, but I believe it is the same as the Losmandy G8 & 11 control box's, these can take a serial port connection out to a telephone style connection into the hand controller. I would say the Sphinx mount would have a similar connection socket.
You'll have to do some reading on whether the sphinx mount's controller can interpret these commands via the auto guider software or if you will need a relay box.
Hope this helps

Cheers
Rich