EQMOD functionality without hc? Yes. Do as Brendan suggests and check out the mount for a DB9/RS232 port and if there, have a look at
http://www.store.shoestringastronomy...roducts_eq.htm
I bought the EQDIR Interface Module and the 6 foot male-female DB-9 extension cable. Landed AU$68. Much cheaper than the cost of the hc.
Cheers