PC controlled focuser

[amoeba]

Hi all,

I have been thinking about a pc controlled focuser to help with my DSLR imaging. Currently I have a 10:1 low profile GSO crayford style, which I find to be adequate for my current needs, but trying to focus via pc screen and gently use the focuser is quite a challenge.

I was thinking about the Shoestring Astronomy FCUSB (http://www.store.shoestringastronomy.com/products_fc.htm) and making my own mounted dc motor on the focuser, which is what i was wondering if anyone else has done something similar and could give any advice?

Any form of homebrew mounted electronic focuser advice is also welcome.

[AlexN]

The projects and articles section is your friend!!

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/index.php?id=63,450,0,0,1,0 (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/../index.php?id=63,450,0,0,1,0)

That should set you on your way! Have fun!!

[peter_4059]

I retro-fitted an Orion Swelfocus to my GSO crayford and use the Shoestring FCUSB with it - works a treat. Happy to post some pics if you want to know how.

Peter.

[amoeba]

Hi Peter,

That sounds exactly like what I was thinking about, I have a Skywatcher motor focuser which I think is similar to the Orion one.

If you could post some pics that would be very appreciated.

Best Regards,

Mick

[peter_4059]

Will do tonight.

[peter_4059]

Here are the pics, and the dimensions of the adaptor I had made from a piece of brass. I never got round to painting the mounting bracket but it works fine!

Peter

[amoeba]

Many thanks for your pics Peter.

Do you use any auto focus software for your 400D? and if so how do you find its results (using the SWELFOCUS)?

[peter_4059]

Mick,

I don't use the 400D on the newt - not enough inward focus travel. I use the DSI and Neximage on this scope. I manually focus using a hartman mask and the FocusPal application to drive the swelfocus. This method works well.

Peter