[peter_4059 (Peter)]

Dave,

My Meade is one of the old ones and it only has 1:1 focus mechanism. This is probably the main issue. The camera is a QSI 683ws-8 and it weighs about 1.6 kg. I never had any issues with the QHY8 however the QSI camera is quite a bit heavier so I think the focuser is going to be an issue regardless of the stepper. The resistance is adjustable however it needs to be done up pretty tight to stop the draw tube sliding out under the weight of the QSI. I've got a Moonlite with a DC motor on my 10" Newt and I'm thinking about upgrading this to a stepper version in the near future. This focuser/DC motor handles the QSI without any issues.

I downloaded the new version of the client today and I'm planning to have a play with it tonight.

Peter

Originally Posted by dtrewren

Hi Peter,

Thanks for the feedback. I have a few questions regarding your focuser setup. Not had a problem with payload limit so far so would be nice to know the limiting factor.

- Roughly what is your payload weight ?
- It there significant focuser resistance even without the payload ?
- Is the motor coupled via the 10:1 fine focus ?

I do have another possible solution. I have another motor, same type as the supplied motor but it's big brother. The alternative motor on paper has about three times the pull in torque. I don't supply the bigger motor as standard just because it's usually over kill and is more expensive but still beer money (~£10) compared to the MoonLite.

I can send you the bigger motor to try out before going for the MoonLite ?

Cool, be interested to hear what you think regarding the software updates. I have had the updated client running all night with temperature compensation running and it's all very happy.

Clear skies,

Dave