ST4 autoguiding with a Autostar controller

[Merlin66]

guys,
Any comment/ advise/ knowledge on the use of a ST-4 as an autoguider connected ( thru a computer I suppose?) to a Autostar controlled telescope?
Can't find much on the SBIG web site only an old DOS version of CCDtrack which looks really dated.
The ST-4 and relay box obviously work well on conventional guiding ( using the TV GM8 motors/ control but I'd like to know if I can still use it for an upgraded drive. Somehow would prefer the ST-4 to using a webcam and guidedog etc.
Any comments????

[allan gould]

JohnG is currently guiding with an ST4 with good success. You should PM him if he does not see this thread

[JohnG]

Hi Merlin66

I don't know anything about an Autostar controlled telescope but if it has an autoguider port that is ST-4 compatable it will work either as a stand alone setup or computer controlled. My ST-4 runs through my Gemini Controller and once in Photo Mode will happily run all night on a guide star.

You are correct about CCDTrack, it came out in the early 90's and is DOS based, it won't work with XP (SBig Knowledge base statement), I either use mine as a stand alone unit or through CCDSoft.

Have you been using the ST-4? If you need any info or are having any problems with the settings PM me and I will try and guide you through it.

JohnG

[Merlin66]

Thanks. Yes I've used the ST-4 on my TV Systems mount/ Losmandy GM8 panel+motors with no issues. My next challenge was to use it with a Autostar controlled system which has no direct ST-4 port.

[JohnG]

Does it have an autoguider port at all?

JohnG

[Merlin66]

No. Its a Meade #497 Autostar controller working on a couple of DS motors. This gives me GOTO functions on the TV mount. I'll try connecting the ST-4 thru the computer with CCDsoft ( and any other programs I can find!) at the weekend; see if any of them can "talk" to it. I'll like the convenience of the GOTO and the capability of the guide via the reliable ST-4.

[allan gould]

I thought that the latest software and "fix" for the autostar controller had autoguiding and PEC capabilities. Have a look at Ed Weasner's site for confirmation

[JohnG]

It will talk to the camera OK but how are you going to input the guiding corrections if you dont have an autoguider port. I am having trouble trying to visualise what this mount is and how it is set up.

JohnG

[Merlin66]

JohnG, Its a typical GEM mounting where I've removed the Losmandy motors and control unit and replaced them with a couple of Meade DS series motors. These motors are directly controlled from a Meade hand controller which allows GOTO capability as well as the usual push button control. It can be used independently of any other computer but it does have an DB8 connector which allows it to interface with planetarium programs ie The Sky.
I need to experiment ( I think!) with the standard guiding options through the software ( I assume using LX200 commands) as Allan suggests before I get any further.

[JohnG]

OK, now I am with you, you may have to experiment with the settings, the trick is going to be getting the serial cable to talk to the Autostar Controller through CCDSoft while it is Autoguider Mode, I have never tried that in the years I have used an ST-4. If you do get it to connect you may have to muck around with the type of guiding commands as well, either simultaneous or sequential. I have never heard of anyone doing it this way but there is always a first. I am going out to my scope tonight, I will have a look at the options in CCDSoft to try that. I will be interested in knowing if it works or not. I will stay open minded on this.

Have fun

JohnG

[Merlin66]

That's what it's all about.... stretching the boundaries!!
I'll post my "results" over the weekend!!

[JohnG]

Hi Merlin

I did some checking in CCDSoft and found the following that "might" help you get the ST-4 talking to your AutoStar.

I haven't been able to test this as I had to shut down everything rather quickly when an electrical storm came out of nowhere.

In CCDSoft under Camera, go to Autoguide then settings, highlight the Advanced button, about halfway down is a heading, Autoguide Using, in the drop down box are 3 selections, Camera Relays, Relay API (Serial) and Direct Guide. This is only a guess but the Relay API (Serial) may be the setting you are after, don't know for sure but I seem to remember that API had something to do with ASCOM and The Sky software. Further down is a check box with Simultaneous x-axis and y-axis relay activation, you will probably have to trial and error that.

Sorry I can't help anymore, I really don't want to muck around with my setting when they are working fine. :shrug:

Cheers

JohnG

[Merlin66]

Thanks for all the help so far Guys.
I've "solved" the problem I think, but not been able to confirm it.

I need a serial connection COM1 for the Autostar #505 cable to talk to the mounting
Then another serial cable COM2 to talk to the ST-4 as a guide camera
and also a USB connection of the the Starlight MX7 to finally take the images!!!
As I've only got 1 serial and 2 USB I can't get them all talking to each other but can demonstrate that ASTROARTV3 ( which I use instead of CCDSoft.. to control the MX7 ....CCDSoft won't talk to Starlight gear!) can see each set up is successful and issue guide corrections back thru the #505 cable to the mounting.
I'm getting a USB-SERIAL connector on Monday which should allow me to complete the circle.
Last comment, if only Astroart would talk to The Sky6 my life would be complete!! ( It does recognise the DSS though)
Clear skies.