Power IS available, but due to the location the supply is subject to some issues. This is a rural site in the hills near the source of the Brisbane River, and while there is power there, the Queensland Astrofest is like putting a small town (without the supporting infrastructure) where there was none before.
When the Astrofest was conceived and started, almost everybody had dobs, I recall only one computer in the first few years, and only one or two SCTs. Things have changed as in the imaging field it is not uncommon to have two computers, dew zappers of course, multiple cameras, etc. I know on their own they have modest usage but multiply that by 50 to 100... you see where this is going. The power company came out one year as there must have been complaints from other users of the single 3-phase supply to the area. I DON'T expect that the grid will be upgraded just for us. Brown-outs are an increasing issue.
Please make sure that:
- All your equipment is electrically safe (no shorts, leakages, etc)
- Use UPS for critical equipment
- Surge protect critical equipment
- Keep plug joins sealed
- Avoid tripping hazards with leads and plugs (stake them down, cover with mat, etc)
- Avoid using overlong power leads, coiled leads can create induction fields
- 240v hair-dryers are to be avoided
- electric blankets and heaters put a huge load on the system - rethink your warming neads
The Committee tries to provide the best experience for all who attend, but we need fellow 'Festers to assist. Power is the greatest challenge faced by the Committee, and it is growing - just look at your own list of equipment and how it has changed in the last 10 years.
Just food for thought.