Ken
What is the SS2K SW version?
Check the software version of the SS2K. I purchased one of the first models in Australia in July 1997 and the SW Version was 1.7. This did not have PC control although it did have the 6 pin Mini-DIN connector on the controller hand unit. I later upgraded the EEPROMs in 2001 to V2.5 which did have PC control. The upgrade cost me around Au $200 from memory.
Is the SS2K from America?
The other issue with the SS2K is that in the USA, a Vixen competitor complained to the FCC who then prohibited the SS2K PC version because it had not been tested against the US radio frequency interference standards or whatever. This resulted in Vixen disabling the PC control function on US imports and I think that the SW Version was V 2.10 at that stage.
How is the SS2K Upgraded?
The way you upgrade is to open up the unit, remove 2 chips (these are the EEPROMs), return these to Vixen and they will send you the new chips. I have heard that these chips are old so there is a shortage of them, hence the need to return them to Vixen for recycling as they re-program them.
So, in summary:- What is the SS2K SW version?
- Does the hand controller have the 6 pin Mini-DIN connector for the cable that connects the SS2K to your computer?
- If it does, is it connected to the PCB inside the controller, or has it not been connected if it is an American unit?
- Has the current owner used the SS2K connected to a computer?
- Is connecting the SS2K to a computer important to you – I think the answer would be yes.
- What are the motors on the mount? Are they Vixen motors?
- If they are Vixen motors, are they MT2, MT3 or MT4 models?
The SS2K is a fantastic controller and if the current owner has been using the GoTo on the EQ5 successfully and has been operating the mount and the SS2K/EQ5 successfully via a PC, then I think that would provide positive answers to my questions above.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Cheers
Dennis