Orion Miniguider

[ZeroID (Brent)]

Any good ?

Getting my setup to the point where it might become useful but trying to keep it simple and this looks like a good self contained package with minimal wiring etc required.

I have a Shoestring GPUSB but have not gotten it going yet, seems overly complex and I still need another widefeild scope to get it going. The miniguider is small and light with every thing to go but does it work ? If it's a nice clean solution I may just move the GPUSB on and get this instead.

Anyone out there using it like to comment ? Or make other suggestions ?

[graham.hobart (Graham stevens)]

I really like it Brett, nice and easy to use and set up and I am using it with an f7 scope. Never had a problem finding guide stars either.
Cheers
Graham

[graham.hobart (Graham stevens)]

I really like it, I use it with my f7 scope. Never had a problem finding stars or guiding. Both with Maxim Dl and PHD.
Cheers
Graham

[naskies (Dave)]

I've been using it with a QHY5 to guide my GSO RC8 (1600 mm focal length) - works great for subs up to 10 mins. I have a stock DSLR so the noise gets a bit too much for longer exposures.

[ZeroID (Brent)]

Thanks for the feedback, sounds like it might be my Xmas pressie to me

[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

I made my own for a fraction of the cost of store bought.
Works a treat.

[Poita (Peter)]

I'd also think about an OAG instead.

[LewisM]

OAG is the bee's knees! PITA with a short focus tube astrograph though, and really a PITA with Vixen's attachment system

I like the Orion miniguider setup, EXCEPT I get focus issues between focus then locking it down with the ring. So, I "chase" the objective with the lock ring, and it works better. A guidescope with a focuser is MUCH better, and I am adapting an old Meade refractor (60mm, long FL) to the task, or buying a Stellarvue guidescope.

I like it, BUT.... there are better options. I find Orion's software x64 drivers a little finnicky with Window's 7 too, and I don't think they have upgraded them in a LONG while.

VERY simple to use, accurate enough it seems. I'd buy the guider itself and explore a slightly better guidescope option, or better still, if it'll work for you, an OAG (more accurate too)