View Single Post
  #5  
Old 20-04-2022, 09:10 AM
johngwheeler (John)
Registered User

johngwheeler is offline
 
Join Date: Jul 2015
Location: Sydney, Australia
Posts: 59
Something you might want to consider is a mini computer like the Intel NUC, and use another laptop, desktop or tablet to Remote Desktop into it.

I have an Intel i5 NUC (Skylake) with 256GB M2 SSD and it lives permanently on the tripod (covered with a tripod shroud). This has 4 x USB3 ports (mount control, imaging camera, guide camera, focuser), and doesn't require much power. It's only about 10x10x4cm and fits in the palm of your hand. It's small enough to mount on the scope OTA if you wanted, but I prefer to have it under cover to avoid the damp.

The advantage of the tiny computer is that you don't need to leave your laptop outside when imaging, and can control the imaging from a short distance away via an ad-hoc wifi network. e.g. in your car or tent if you are at a remote site, or from inside your house.
Reply With Quote