Re: Gemini BOOTLOADER update available
Everything, including the Amazon link, is in the instructions. Here’s the link:
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ULINK2 Emulator Original Firmware Support for MDK5.0 Cortex M4 Gold Plating 11 x 5.5cm
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On Mon, Apr 7, 2025 at 11:16 PM, Michael A. Covington wrote:
Can someone share a link to the exact programming device needed?? I went to Amazon just now, and it was far from obvious.
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On 2025-04-07 17:31, Paul Kanevsky wrote:
Hi Folks,
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搁别苍é, as usual, has been busy with Gemini improvements. The new Bootloader is an update to the original one that was created when 2GB SD cards were all that was available :)
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The new bootloader isn't required if your Gemini is working fine. You can skip it if you don't care about the benefits listed below, or if you feel uncomfortable performing the update.
?
The update process itself is about as complicated as the L6 upgrade to the new servo firmware, and requires:
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- A 20 pin ULINK2 emulator/programmer -- about $30 from Amazon
- Keil ULink-2 software (runs on Windows)
- MB_BL_2024.uvproj bootloader project file
?
Detailed Instructions can be found here:
?
The new bootloader is based on a modern version of Keil middleware and helps with the following:
- Faster boot-up time for Gemini
- Better compatibility with different types and larger size SD cards
- Resolves the issue with the dreaded M:Curr_Gem.bin file for those who have experienced it
?
Be careful if you decide to update your Gemini. Follow instructions!
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Regards,
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? ? -Paul
?
--
Michael A. Covington, Ph.D.
Consultant, Covington Innovations, Athens, Georgia, USA
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Re: Gemini BOOTLOADER update available
Can someone share a link to the exact programming device needed??
I went to Amazon just now, and it was far from obvious.
On 2025-04-07 17:31, Paul Kanevsky
wrote:
Hi Folks,
?
搁别苍é, as usual, has been busy with Gemini improvements. The
new Bootloader is an update to the original one that was created
when 2GB SD cards were all that was available :)
?
The new bootloader isn't required if your Gemini is working
fine. You can skip it if you don't care about the benefits
listed below, or if you feel uncomfortable performing the
update.
?
The update process itself is about as complicated as the L6
upgrade to the new servo firmware, and requires:
?
- A 20 pin ULINK2 emulator/programmer -- about $30 from Amazon
- Keil ULink-2 software (runs on Windows)
- MB_BL_2024.uvproj bootloader project file
?
Detailed Instructions can be found here:
?
The new bootloader is based on a modern version of Keil
middleware and helps with the following:
- Faster boot-up time for Gemini
- Better compatibility with different types and larger size SD
cards
- Resolves the issue with the dreaded M:Curr_Gem.bin
file for those who have experienced it
?
Be careful if you decide to update your Gemini. Follow
instructions!
?
Regards,
?
? ? -Paul
?
--
Michael A. Covington, Ph.D.
Consultant, Covington Innovations, Athens, Georgia, USA
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Re: Gemini BOOTLOADER update available
On Mon, Apr 7, 2025 at 07:36 PM, Daniel wrote:
Big thanks to 搁别苍é, Paul, David and all the Gemini team for providing such support to the system. I have not encountered the M: file issue, and do not know what this issue is, may be because my Gemini II is still on L6.02, thus in principle I should stay away from this. The computer engineer inside me however is curious about the update process. Can this update be fatal and the Gemini II be bricked if not performed exactly or if power fails during the process ?? When you use a JTAG connector is because easier software based firmware updates have failed so, I think that even if the Gemini II gets bricked it could be recovered using a JTAG programmer (much as it happens when programming a FPGA), but I am not sure if this is the case.
I doubt you could brick a Gemini by bad or interrupted programming. I assume it's possible if you don't align the connector pins the right way. If you do connect it correctly, you should be able to reprogram the bootloader even after a failed attempt. I updated three Gemini units this way, and one had a corrupted bootloader when it was sent to me and would not start. The reprogramming fixed it right up.?
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Re: Level 6.1 , HC 1.63/ Changelog
On Mon, Apr 7, 2025 at 09:56 PM, Rainer wrote:
Thanks Paul but I do not own any Losmandy with Gemini anymore
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I realize that, Rainer, but even without a Gemini, it's still nice to see you! :)
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Regards,
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? ?-Paul
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Re: Level 6.1 , HC 1.63/ Changelog
Thanks Paul but I do not own any Losmandy with Gemini anymore
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regards Rainer
?
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Re: Gemini BOOTLOADER update available
Big thanks to 搁别苍é, Paul, David and all the Gemini team for providing such support to the system. I have not encountered the M: file issue, and do not know what this issue is, may be because my Gemini II is still on L6.02, thus in principle I should stay away from this. The computer engineer inside me however is curious about the update process. Can this update be fatal and the Gemini II be bricked if not performed exactly or if power fails during the process ?? When you use a JTAG connector is because easier software based firmware updates have failed so, I think that even if the Gemini II gets bricked it could be recovered using a JTAG programmer (much as it happens when programming a FPGA), but I am not sure if this is the case.
?
Regards,
Daniel??
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Re: Gemini 2 with stellarmate PRO
I understand and have experienced the clicks when the motors are not connected. This is normal behavior.
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Dave
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Re: Gemini BOOTLOADER update available
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Gemini 2 with stellarmate PRO
I am away on work in Carlsbad NM and intend to bring back my setup next time I go home. I also bought a stellarmate pro controller. I actually like the interface/app. So what I have done was brought just the Gemini 2 v6 with me by itself. I go to power it up. When do, I hear an occasional clicking sound coming from it. It's a 15v center positive supply. Should I be concerned or is that normal?
?
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Thanks!
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Gemini BOOTLOADER update available
Hi Folks,
?
搁别苍é, as usual, has been busy with Gemini improvements. The new Bootloader is an update to the original one that was created when 2GB SD cards were all that was available :)
?
The new bootloader isn't required if your Gemini is working fine. You can skip it if you don't care about the benefits listed below, or if you feel uncomfortable performing the update.
?
The update process itself is about as complicated as the L6 upgrade to the new servo firmware, and requires:
?
- A 20 pin ULINK2 emulator/programmer -- about $30 from Amazon
- Keil ULink-2 software (runs on Windows)
- MB_BL_2024.uvproj bootloader project file
?
Detailed Instructions can be found here:
?
The new bootloader is based on a modern version of Keil middleware and helps with the following:
- Faster boot-up time for Gemini
- Better compatibility with different types and larger size SD cards
- Resolves the issue with the dreaded M:Curr_Gem.bin file for those who have experienced it
?
Be careful if you decide to update your Gemini. Follow instructions!
?
Regards,
?
? ? -Paul
?
|
Re: Autoguider Recommendations
With my G11, for medium size stuff I use a 60mm Orion guidescope (love it) with a Zwo 120mm (full body not mini) for my 2000mm 10” RC I use my William Optics G71 as a guide scope w/ a full body Zwo 290mm. I have sold the 120mm and use my 290 on everything.
What you guide with depends on what you are imaging with.
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On Apr 7, 2025, at 12:58?PM, Jonathan via groups.io <jkaiser3000@...> wrote:
? Hi Jeremy, I’m not sure exactly what you are looking for but, a simple guidescope and guide camera would be a start. I am currently using a cheap 50mm guidescope from astromania with an ASI178MM camera but, depending on your setup you can get by with an even cheaper, 30mm guidescope. Any camera would work really, but the newer generations are better (as they always tend to be lol).
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On the other hand, if you have a long focal length scope or one that suffers from mirror flop, then an off axis guider may be the better option.
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Also, on the controlling software side, if you are using a PC PHD2 guiding is your goto option for connecting and guiding the mount, otherwise an ASI Air or similar should get you going.
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If you give us a better description of your setup and your needs we may offer better, more tailored options.
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good luck
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jonathan
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Re: Autoguider Recommendations
It is highly dependant on what your imaging system looks like.? You want the guide scope and camera combination ideally to have a 1:3? or worst case 1:5 ratio relative to your main imaging scope and camera image scale.??
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You can play with various scenarios using the astronomy.tools calculator here: remember, the closer you get to 1:3 the better but as low as 1:5 will also give acceptable results.?
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--
Chip Louie Chief Daydreamer Imagination Hardware?
Astrospheric - South Pasadena, CA?
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Re: Autoguider Recommendations
Hi Jeremy, I’m not sure exactly what you are looking for but, a simple guidescope and guide camera would be a start. I am currently using a cheap 50mm guidescope from astromania with an ASI178MM camera but, depending on your setup you can get by with an even cheaper, 30mm guidescope. Any camera would work really, but the newer generations are better (as they always tend to be lol).
?
On the other hand, if you have a long focal length scope or one that suffers from mirror flop, then an off axis guider may be the better option.
?
Also, on the controlling software side, if you are using a PC PHD2 guiding is your goto option for connecting and guiding the mount, otherwise an ASI Air or similar should get you going.
?
If you give us a better description of your setup and your needs we may offer better, more tailored options.
?
good luck
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jonathan
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Autoguider Recommendations
Greetings everyone!
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Apologies if this has been discussed already (I did a quick but not exhaustive search through past posts), but I am looking for suggestions for a good entry level autoguiding system to go along with our G11
mount and Gemini II system.? Autoguiding is something I’m completely new to, so I’m looking for something simple to set up and learn to use, and any advice or guidance would be appreciated.
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The ioptron iguider is one I’ve been looking at.? We have an ioptron polar scope and I love it, so theirs was one of the first I’ve checked out.
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Thanks in advance!
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Jeremy Benson
Keeper of Keys and Labs
NIU Department of Physics
NASA Solar System Ambassador
La Tourette 202A
815.753.1953
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From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
On Behalf Of Paul Kanevsky via groups.io
Sent: Sunday, March 23, 2025 1:09 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [Gemini-II_io] Starlight Xpress AO Connections
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On Sun, Mar 23, 2025 at 11:31 AM, Rick Scott wrote:
I have the original large Losmandy Gemini 2 controller and have been using the Ethernat port for pulse guiding with PHD2. I’m adding Starlight Xpress AO unit to my system and need to know which Gemini port to use for the bump command from
the AO and how to set it up.
Hi Rick, I think that will depend on the software you use to control the autoguider. I see that SX AO unit has an autoguider output, so I assume the native SX software can use that port to bump the mount. You'll then want to connect the
RJ11 port on the AO to the Autoguider input on Gemini-2 and calibrate it using SX software. Alternatively, if you use some other software that can control SX AO and that supports ASCOM telescope interface for guiding, then you can use the Ethernet port to
bump using? theASCOM pulse guiding commands, just like you do today with PHD2.
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Well, bust my buttons....
After a computer reset, regaining everything is a PITA.
So, one of the last things has been getting my GM811G to slew to park at the end of a NINA session.
I know Paul has helped me with this before. But this time I figured it out in the virtual hand control by going to the Park>Configure Park Position>Slew to CWD before parking.
A rather DUH moment, but for once I figured it out without asking.
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(It defaults to No slew before parking. Why do I care?) I have a little WiFi camera on the back fence I use with my cell phone to monitor the mount during the night. If it's parked, I know it completed.
If it isn't parked, I don't know if it completed. I need to get 7 hours on my CPAP every night. So remote operation is a benefit to me.
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Thanks again Paul for the past help!
--
Sonny Edmonds
GM811G HD
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Re: I don't understand why Losmandy disabled the port for the axis encoders
I use the G8 Gemini II with the Nexus DSC controller and the
Losmandy encoders with 311,000 tics.
The mount is permanently installed.
It works well.
My original intention was to work with the Gemini II and the
encoders:
1. Because I wouldn't lose alignment if I bumped into something
unluckily or the same thing happened when changing equipment.
2. I was hoping that the encoders would compensate the worm gear
play and I wouldn't have to use PEC or PEMpro 3 or the possible
future GEMpro.
I bought the encoders from Astrodevices (before i bought the DSC),
only to find out after ordering that they didn't work with the
Gemini II.
Considering the cost of mounts with and without encoders, the
upgrade would be extremely cost-effective for Gemini II owners:
The Eq8 R Pro :4500 Euro, with Encoder in Ra : 7800 Euro
Rainbow Astro prices and Fornax diffence in prices on the same
level
Losmandy Encoder 311000 tic? 545 Euro in Germany and 260 Dollar in
Australia? , 20 minutes to put the encoders working on the mount.
By the way: The manufacturer of the DSC informed me upon inquiry
that they are working on a parking function so that you don't have
to re-align every time.
Best Regards Edwin
Am 15.03.25 um 17:53 schrieb Tomsen:
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I don't understand why Losmandy disabled the port for the axis encoders on the Gemini II. It was present on the Gemini I, so Losmandy wouldn't have to reinvent the wheel.
The reason: There would be so few users who would use encoders, a really great reason.
If I understand correctly, you can connect the Nexus devices in parallel and use the encoders.
I control the mount via Cartes de Ciel, i.e., via Ascom?
The Nexus devices are also capable of being controlled via Ascom, so will the parallel installation work?
Regards, Edwin
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Re: Level 6.1 , HC 1.63/ Changelog
Hi Rainer, it's good to see you!?
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Regards,
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? ?-Paul
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On Sun, Apr 6, 2025 at 06:44 PM, Rainer wrote:
Hi Brendan,
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No it is not me, it is another Rainer, as I am still alive and live in Mexico and thanks for that about being a Legend?? :-0
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Since April 2018 I have no Losmandy G11 and so also no Gemini anymore.
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搁别苍é contacted me today :-)
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best regards to all and thanks for remembering me. It is nice to hear that people still speak about me, be it bad or good because when nobody speaks about you anymore then something is wrong :-) :-) :-)
?
Mexico NHSA Observatory
North 22° 8'35.63"?? West 101° 1'57.16"
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Re: Level 6.1 , HC 1.63/ Changelog
Hi Brendan,
?
No it is not me, it is another Rainer, as I am still alive and live in Mexico and thanks for that about being a Legend?? :-0
?
Since April 2018 I have no Losmandy G11 and so also no Gemini anymore.
?
搁别苍é contacted me today :-)
?
best regards to all and thanks for remembering me. It is nice to hear that people still speak about me, be it bad or good because when nobody speaks about you anymore then something is wrong :-) :-) :-)
?
Mexico NHSA Observatory
North 22° 8'35.63"?? West 101° 1'57.16"
|
Re: G-11 and slewing thru a target's "neighborhood" (visual)
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I suspect it is at the upper limit for my trusty old but fully updated G11G2.? In this configuration it really needs 4 x 21 + 1 x 7 to make it easier to fine tune the balance.? But I was already using the last 21 lb on the GM8G so I had to use 4 x 21 + 1 x 11 + 1 x 7 and drop the counterweights down the shaft a bit.? That said getting the DEC balanced is more time consuming.but it is a lot faster and easier to find the balance point on the bench, mark the spot with painter's tape and then muscle it into place.??
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Gotta love Losmandy mounts.? IME there is nothing else like the Losmandy company in the EQ mount marketplace.? And whatever they are they will not have Porter slip clutches to push the scope around for those who are more engaged with the night sky.??
?
--
Chip Louie Chief Daydreamer Imagination Hardware?
Astrospheric - South Pasadena, CA?
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Re: G-11 and slewing thru a target's "neighborhood" (visual)
That's an impressive setup, Chip! There's not much
space left on the counterweight bar! ;)
搁别苍é
Am 06.04.25 um 20:17 schrieb Chip Louie
via groups.io:
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On Sun, Apr 6, 2025 at 08:21 AM, Rene Goerlich wrote:
Chip is right, and
in L6 the motor encoder positions are monitored in the servo
firmware and in the ARM firmware. Pushing the RA axis may
result in Safety Limit violations. A Sync does not help
here, it corrects the apparent position but not the motor
encoder position.
BUT: If someone longs to push the telescope around as we did
in the good ol' star hopping era, I wouldn't do this near to
the Safety Limits, in general. I would push it a bit here to
objects not too far, enjoy it but I would never change the
model, including not SYNCing. Having pushed here and there
and finally being happy, I would just do a GoTo to a nearby,
easily visible object, push the telescope to get it centered
and only if this doesn't work perfectly, I would use the HC
for final centering and do a Sync. Of course this comes w/o
any guarantee, it is NOT a recommendation, ..., disclaimer,
... It is just cheating ;)
Instead of doing this, I would prefer to use the Identify
function. I've sunk quite some work in it. I'm not sure if
it is used often, but it is pretty powerful. Point to an
area, run Identify and you can watch 10 objects one after
the other or do a new identification. Nice f.i. for the
galaxy cluster now in spring. It could be considered a
modern kind of star hopping ;)
搁别苍é
?
I? have been using this little trick for many years.? I do a
normal Gemini 2 setup and model then GOTO as needed, then if I
am seeing something interesting I'll fully unlock the well
balanced scope and PUSH-TO the area I want to peruse.? I
sometimes do this while doing EAA Side-By-Side, larger scope
with ASIAIR and camera with a smaller scope coaligned on the
sensor setup for visual on an ADM MAX ALT/AZ aiming device.? But
I use it with a Nexus DSC.? If I feel the need to sync the
Gemini 2 backup I can tell Gemini to GOTO and then I just use
the DSC to get on the same object and then snug the clutches
back down.? Works fine for visual work but for a small sensor I
would follow up with a plate solve and sync the Gemini 2 back
up.? Looks like this:??
?
__
Chip Louie
Chief Daydreamer Imagination Hardware?
Astrospheric - South Pasadena, CA?
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Paul Kanevsky
Rainer
Ryan Noonan
Chip Louie
Sonny Edmonds