Quote:
Originally Posted by Tandum
Are there any alternatives to a gemini system for PC GOTO control of a losmandy mount?
I see an Argo Navis kit for losmandy mounts but it's not cheap either.
Is there another way?
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The Losmandy user group has had a few people adapt other systems...but they all appear add ons IMHO.
From my limited GEMINI experience (all of 4 days worth)...it's clunky (haven't run it outdoors yet) and it's not intuitive but it works well.
You can also run the GEMINI by
GCC or the new
ASCOM drive just released in lieu of using the handset. Although you can still use the handset for inputs when running either of these (well you can with the new ASCOM).
The new ASCOM allows direct control if you are not happy with the Handset. You can even add on a joystick controller with the new ASCOM driver. This driver also allows keypad inputs when in use as well. It appears a pretty good alternative.
GCC does all the ASCOM does...but IMHO it does appear very clunky to use as well. It was designed by the GEMINI developers so that probably explains that.
From what I can see the new ASCOM pretty much does all the GCC does (although the new ASCOM doesn't have user gear ratio settings) and maybe even some more in that you can add in joystick controller & assign buttons.
GEMINI as a system is OK...let down by a one line handset but the new ASCOM & or GCC make it a lot easier to use the system.
Anyway...that's my 2 cents worth.