Focus Motor Options

[rogerg (Roger)]

Hi all,

With the apparent death of my Orion Accufocus / Skywatcher motor focuser (see related thread just moments ago), I’m considering a replacement if I am unable to fix the current motor.

My 12” has had a RoboFocus unit running beautifully for 10 years.
Pro: It “just works”, is reliable and accurate.
Con: approx. $500 price tag and not so suitable to portable operation

What other options would people recommend? I want to canvas all the options available, not having looked for 10 odd years.

Requirements:
- Suitable to mount on a refractor (usual spindle scenario with one focus knob removed). It will be for my Megrez 90 refractor.
- Computer connectivity (Ideally FocusMax compatible)
- Hand controller
- Suited to permanent and portable operation (ideally a minimum number of boxes and cables, and not too fragile construction).

Thanks,
Roger.

[Bart]

Just get the Robofocus again. You answered your own question-"it just works". And besides, it will fit anything.

[rogerg (Roger)]

Originally Posted by Bart

Just get the Robofocus again. You answered your own question-"it just works". And besides, it will fit anything.

I guess you are quite likely right.

I was thinking maybe in the 10 years since technology may have moved on and there may be a better option for the $$$ ?

[Gruffalo]

The Sharpsky is BRILLIANT, and around the same price, but comes with more.

[rogerg (Roger)]

Originally Posted by Gruffalo

The Sharpsky is BRILLIANT, and around the same price, but comes with more.

will look in to it.

[acropolite (Phil)]

+1 for the sharpsky. My observations on the sharpsky here.

[Bart]

Cannot see a huge difference between the two really, both deliver the same end result with a high degree of accuracy, depending on the actual focuser, they just look different.

As for the addition of the heater controller, meh, I already have a heater controller and the mount hub pro has heater controls as well as being able to communicate with a Robofocus unit and be fully automated still.

Horses for courses, I'm enjoying mine and you are enjoying yours, that is all that matters.

[rogerg (Roger)]

Originally Posted by Bart

Cannot see a huge difference between the two really, both deliver the same end result with a high degree of accuracy, depending on the actual focuser, they just look different.

As for the addition of the heater controller, meh, I already have a heater controller and the mount hub pro has heater controls as well as being able to communicate with a Robofocus unit and be fully automated still.

Horses for courses, I'm enjoying mine and you are enjoying yours, that is all that matters.

Yes I agree, however the SharpSky does look nicely finished, more so than my RoboFocus, and so looks more portable friendly.

[rogerg (Roger)]

Btw, an update...

After suggestions below and PM'd to me the decision was between

FocusStarPro by Cercis Astro
SharpSky
RoboFocus

Before Christmas I ordered a SharpSky and am expecting delivery any day thanks to friendly, prompt and helpful service by Dave @ SharpSky. I'm looking forward to trying out a new focuser, see how it compares to the RoboFocus