Trouble getting EQMOD to run

[pmrid (Peter)]

Here's an odd thing. Goodness knows how many times over the years I have configured a new astro computer with "all the usual suspects " including ASCOM and EQMOD. But this time, I can't get EQMOD to load.

I'm configuring a fit-PC2i (one of those small fanless computers that operate on 12 VDC and are barely 4 inches square. I've just installed a 120 GB SSD so it is almost entirely silent, draws barely 10 watts of power and ... So much for the commercial.

I've loaded it with Win 7 Professional 32 bit. All the other programs seem to open and operate fine - but EQMOD is the stand-out because it will not load. It's usual first screen (that rectangular window) flashes up two or three times and disappears again. Blowed if I know. I've re-installed both EQASCOM and ASCOM (and yes they are both the latest versions) to no avail. I know the answer with be embarassingly simple, but would someone out there tell me anyway please?

Peter

[Merlin66 (Ken)]

Peter,
The flashing EQMod screen is usually caused by an incorrect Comms port setting.
On your machine, I'm not sure how to check....usually is Device Manager and look for the USB/Serial connection you have to the mount.

[Amaranthus (Barry)]

Yes, it's definitely a COM port issue. It is running - it's just trying to find a COM. I would check what the COM port assigned to your EQDirect cable is in Device Manager, and then hardcode that (rather than using detect) in the EQMOD settings. Then you should have no problems. I know, because I needed to do exactly this.

[pmrid (Peter)]

Just to round off the thread, I think I have found the problem. I had to use EQMOD Toolbox (a program hiding in the EQMOD directory) and tell it which COM port I was using. That seems now to have at least allowed me to open the usual EQMOD interface. Should be OK from here.

Peter

[Merlin66 (Ken)]

Peter,
All's well that ends well.