Autoguiding and AP rig building questions

[Kugelblitz (Marcus)]

Hello all.

Currently I've been using a Meade DSI II colour to practice CCD imaging, however I would like to set it up as an autoguider, though I have no idea what cables are required to do so (telescope I use is an LX200-ACF, also tend to use a MacBook with Nebulosity 3 when imaging) and would the DSI work with the Orion thin OAG; http://www.bintel.com.au/Astrophotog...oductview.aspx

Also, I'm at a loss as to whether to get either a wedge for the mount first and a micro-focuser later, or vice versa.
Alternatively, would I be better off to just wait until I have enough money for both?

Any help is much appreciated.

[lazjen (Chris)]

I'm no expert, but in my experience so far, the mount setup is quite important. The better you can get this sorted out, the easier it is to deal with and fix other problems. Although focusing can be a major pain, it's still something that can be dealt with using "stock" focusers.

I can't help you with the DSI part of your questions - I'm not familiar with it.

[Kugelblitz (Marcus)]

Thanks for the advice Chris.

Still need help in regards to what cables are required to set up a DSI II as an autoguider.

[acropolite (Phil)]

Also, I'm at a loss as to whether to get either a wedge for the mount first

You need the wedge first, no point in auto-guiding unless you're tracking in equatorial mode.

Imaging at long focal lengths with the LX can be frustrating. Not sure about the Orion thin OAG, but I've seen spotty reports on that one. You would probably be better with separate guide-scope on top of the LX.

Regarding cables you need a GPUSB http://www.store.shoestringastronomy.com/gpusb.htm and an RJ12-RJ12 guide port cable, Bintel stocks both. and some guiding software. (PHD will do nicley)

Bintel link to the GPUSB http://www.bintel.com.au/Astrophotog...oductview.aspx

[Poita (Peter)]

You will have to have the wedge for doing deep sky, I had success with that exact scope and the SX Off Axis Guider and a lodestar camera.

[Kugelblitz (Marcus)]

Thank you for the replies (and the links Phil), looks like I'm definitely getting the wedge first then!

Got a couple more questions relating to auto-guiding:
-If I were to use an OAG, how would I be able to get both the imager and guide-camera in focus? (extension tube maybe? I currently use a DSLR as my imaging camera)
-Would I need to use a counterweight to balance out the main scope if piggybacking guidescope?