Re: Gemini II to computer
Brian
Well I got it configured.? With the Gemini 2 into it, I can
connected using DHCP over it.? I can get the loggin with either
192.168.0.123 or httpp//gemini
Even my Android still works on the wireless network and is able to
access the Gemini.?
This really cuts down on allot of the wiring I have to do.
One work of caution about Bridges.? The first bridges I purchased
was not compatible with my D-Link routers.? It seems that bridges
can be
brand and model specific on which wireless routes they will work
with.
I takes a little work, but I do have my DIR-655 and Dir825 working
with the DAP1522 (all D-link)
Tom
On 3/19/2011 1:00 PM, tom@... wrote:
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
?
Hi Brian
What you would need is what is called a Access/Bridge.? I
use a D-link DAP-1522, because it can be configured in
either mode.
I does not an external ant, but does have 4 points to
connect devices into.? I has a switch that lets you select
access point/Auto and
Bridge.? You want to use it as a bridge.? I don't really
recommend it, as sometimes it is a bear to configure.
Tom
Tom Hilton
On 3/19/2011 10:29 AM, Brian V wrote:
?
Thanks Paul - do you (or anyone else) have a
recommendation on a wireless adapter?
Cheers
Brian
--- In Gemini-II@...,
Paul Kanevsky
wrote:
>
> Wired Ethernet and wireless wi-fi can all be used
with G2 (with optional wireless adapters).
>
> TheSky will work over serial or USB, and will
also work over Ethernet/wi-fi if you use the TeleAPI
plugin to connect using Gemini.net ASCOM driver.
>
> Regards,
>
> -Paul
>
>
>
>
> On Mar 19, 2011, at 11:35 AM, "Brian V"
wrote:
>
> > Aside from the interesting look web
interface, I'm curious how Gemini II is conceived to
be controlled by a planetarium program like theSky? Is
the idea we connect via USB? I really like the idea of
ethernet and a web server, but I'm not sure how useful
that is going to be, particularly if it has to be a
wired connection with a router. Well, maybe that's
great for installations, but for portable mounts the
application/value is less clear to me.
> >
> > Cheers
> >
> > Brian
> >
> >
>
|
Re: Gemini II to computer
Hi Tom,
I never left, just been too busy to post. ?I'll try to do better ;)
Regards,
?? -Paul
On Mar 19, 2011, at 1:19 PM, " tom@..." < tom@...> wrote:
?
Hi Paul
Glad that you can join us again, it has been since Feb 6 that we
have heard from you.?
I know that the Gemini ASCOM group is really keeping you busy. (I
monitor that one also)
For the New Comer to this group, Paul has modified the ASCOM
driver to provide Ethernet web interface, just like you
would be using a USB port, or serial port, but now you can use
Ethernet.
With this interface, you can use any ASCOM compliant device that can
communicate with the driver.? That way you can have the
ASCOM driver talking to the Gemini, and also all the Gemini 2 native
screens up also.? His driver in in the files section?
We look forward to when he pops in from time to time, as he is a
wealth of knowledge.
Tom Hilton
On 3/19/2011 9:31 AM, Paul Kanevsky wrote:
?
Wired Ethernet and wireless wi-fi can all be used with
G2 (with optional wireless adapters).?
TheSky will work over serial or USB, and will also work
over Ethernet/wi-fi if you use the TeleAPI plugin to
connect using ASCOM driver.
Regards,
?? ? -Paul
On Mar 19, 2011, at 11:35 AM, "Brian V" < bvalente@...>
wrote:
?
Aside from the interesting look web interface, I'm
curious how Gemini II is conceived to be controlled
by a planetarium program like theSky? Is the idea we
connect via USB? I really like the idea of ethernet
and a web server, but I'm not sure how useful that
is going to be, particularly if it has to be a wired
connection with a router. Well, maybe that's great
for installations, but for portable mounts the
application/value is less clear to me.
Cheers
Brian
|
Re: Gemini II to computer
Hi Brian
What you would need is what is called a Access/Bridge.? I use a
D-link DAP-1522, because it can be configured in either mode.
I does not an external ant, but does have 4 points to connect
devices into.? I has a switch that lets you select access point/Auto
and
Bridge.? You want to use it as a bridge.? I don't really recommend
it, as sometimes it is a bear to configure.
Tom
Tom Hilton
On 3/19/2011 10:29 AM, Brian V wrote:
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
?
Thanks Paul - do you (or anyone else) have a
recommendation on a wireless adapter?
Cheers
Brian
--- In Gemini-II@...,
Paul Kanevsky wrote:
>
> Wired Ethernet and wireless wi-fi can all be used
with G2 (with optional wireless adapters).
>
> TheSky will work over serial or USB, and will also
work over Ethernet/wi-fi if you use the TeleAPI plugin to
connect using Gemini.net ASCOM driver.
>
> Regards,
>
> -Paul
>
>
>
>
> On Mar 19, 2011, at 11:35 AM, "Brian V"
wrote:
>
> > Aside from the interesting look web interface,
I'm curious how Gemini II is conceived to be controlled by
a planetarium program like theSky? Is the idea we connect
via USB? I really like the idea of ethernet and a web
server, but I'm not sure how useful that is going to be,
particularly if it has to be a wired connection with a
router. Well, maybe that's great for installations, but
for portable mounts the application/value is less clear to
me.
> >
> > Cheers
> >
> > Brian
> >
> >
>
|
Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
Hi Terry,
Thanks for that. Fourtunately, I have not purchased the dimmer yet. I sent the gentleman who owns the website an email requesting a paypal address, but he has not responded. I think I will email him again and tell him I am passing for now.
Thanks again!
Kirk
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., "dawziecat" <dawziecat@...> wrote:
Hi Kirk:
I had a look at that dimmer. It seems totally incompatible with the illuminator I received with my polar scope. Mine is totally self-contained and powered by two LR-41 watch batteries. There is no external battery pack and no wire whatsoever, so it will not plug into the dimmer. It seems a more elegant solution in that there is no battery pack to find a place for and no additional wires to flop about. But as for dimming it . . .well, I think that not practical with the kind of unit I received. It does have an on/off switch . . . if I can just remember the "off" part. :) I could do a picture and supply a link if that would help.
Terry Danks
Nova Scotia, CA
presently in FL
--- In Gemini-II@..., "gray_k99" <nemo129@> wrote:
If you want to see more about the dimmer for the polar scope, look here:
<> . I think it is a
good idea, as I have other illuminated optical devices and always have
issues with them being too bright. It's only $30...and compared to what
I am already spending, a drop in the bucket. [;)]
Kirk
|
Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
I can understand why the Gemini II went with the more standard coaxial DC power connector - to save front panel real estate needed for all the new connection possibilities. But I also liked the fact the old DIN connector was obviously only for the Gemini I, nothing else could possibly use it. I wonder why since they were going to the new DC coaxial connector why they didn't choose the captive, threaded version of the connector. There is a lot greater chance of accidentally pulling out a coaxial connector because of its smaller size and lesser contact insertion resistance. The threaded collar DC coaxial connectors are much less common but are available and you would know the connector by the feel of it in your hands, very different from the standard connector. My SBIG ST-402 camera uses this type of connector and I never worry about accidentally snagging the power cable and pulling power from the camera.
Keith
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., "MartinCavell" <martincavell@...> wrote:
Hey guys,
I was setting up to plug in my Gemini 2 for the first time this morning and noticed something that is likely everyone here already knows... The Gemini 1 and Gemini 2 power connectors are different apparently.
I wanted to run my system off of 18 volts. I'd read that it was better but the exact reason escapes me. Anyhow, I purchased a very nice Kendrick battery and a cable for the Gemini 1. I though to myself "why would they change that..."... well it is totally different. Indeed so much that I'm concerned. The Kendrick power cable has 4 pins and is pretty beefy. Additionally there is no way I could accidentally plug that into one of my MANY other 12 volt accessories I have as the plug is not in any way a standard power plug. The new Gemini 2 seems to use a normal power plug like any other powered device, only it is labeled 12-18 volts (and apparently likes 18!) I don't really want an 18 volt plug laying around that could plug into my CCD, computer, fans, or video setup.
So, I'll be running 12 volts for awhile I guess until I come up with a reasonable solution that will remove the chance of me smelling smoke in the dark.
Do any of you have an opinion on the 12 vs 18 volts Gemini 2 operation? Is it actually better at 18? Should I just wire up an 18v cable with the normal plug and put a huge label on it... near the business end?
Thx,
-Ted
--- In Gemini-II@..., "gray_k99" <nemo129@> wrote:
Dave and Terry,
Thanks for all of the advice on the accessories and keep it coming if
you think of anything else! It is very helpful to someone like myself
who has not even received his mount yet! I hope it is helping other
group members as well! [:D]
If you want to see more about the dimmer for the polar scope, look here:
<> . I think it is a
good idea, as I have other illuminated optical devices and always have
issues with them being too bright. It's only $30...and compared to what
I am already spending, a drop in the bucket. [;)]
Dave your idea that the TKS knobs are too large is not the first time I
have heard that. I may just go with the Bob's Knobs versions as the
knobs do look smaller and would be less likely to cramp the area.
I have considered the Casady saddles, however I do have a couple of
scopes with Vixen dovetails which I use with an ADM D to V adapter. I
suppose I could just put D type dovetails on them, but then I could not
use them on my 3rd mount a CG-5 ASGT that I use some nights while not
doing AP and I really do not want to carry the big guns out. This will
change when I get the financial approval from the CFO to build the
observatory. From what I hear, that is the best accessory!
As I said, I will probably buy some additional stuff after I sell the
CGEM. I really do like those Casady CWs! I know...it's dark and no one
sees them! I was just amazed at how plain the Losmandy CWs look when
compared to the beautiful way they make their mounts.
More importantly and keeping with the theme of this group is my concern
for the finalizing of the Gemini II firmware. I do have confidence that
it will someday be an incredible product, I like everyone else here just
wish that were sooner than later at this point in time.
Clear Skies!
Kirk
|
Just a quick update. I have my G11 and Gemini 2 assembled. Once power is applied the hand controller fires up and the various menus become active. Using slewing speeds both motors move in both directions and things seem to function. Now I can't wait for the week of rain we are expecting to clear!
If anyone has any questions about the unit or needs any photos or information let me know. I'll be happy to document this thing from top to bottom if needed during the upcoming week.
-Ted
|
Changing small battery in Gemini Electronics Box
Hi all!
I just joined the group and look forward to learning more about my Losmandy G8 Gemini II.
Does anyone know how to change the small battery in the Gemini Electronics box? I just received a level 7 chip which I installed succesfully but a friend told me that I should replace the original battery in the box since it was over 6 years old.
It seems locked in place and I suspect there's a way to release it but the battery compartment looks fragile enough so that I don't want to attempt that without a bit of guidance.
Thanks!
Geoff
|
Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
Terry,
I was just looking at the same thing. My illuminator seems much more "modern". All self contained with internal batteries and not much of a dimmer... more on/off.
-Ted
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., "dawziecat" <dawziecat@...> wrote:
Hi Kirk:
I had a look at that dimmer. It seems totally incompatible with the illuminator I received with my polar scope. Mine is totally self-contained and powered by two LR-41 watch batteries. There is no external battery pack and no wire whatsoever, so it will not plug into the dimmer. It seems a more elegant solution in that there is no battery pack to find a place for and no additional wires to flop about. But as for dimming it . . .well, I think that not practical with the kind of unit I received. It does have an on/off switch . . . if I can just remember the "off" part. :) I could do a picture and supply a link if that would help.
Terry Danks
Nova Scotia, CA
presently in FL
--- In Gemini-II@..., "gray_k99" <nemo129@> wrote:
If you want to see more about the dimmer for the polar scope, look here:
<> . I think it is a
good idea, as I have other illuminated optical devices and always have
issues with them being too bright. It's only $30...and compared to what
I am already spending, a drop in the bucket. [;)]
Kirk
|
Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
Hey guys,
I was setting up to plug in my Gemini 2 for the first time this morning and noticed something that is likely everyone here already knows... The Gemini 1 and Gemini 2 power connectors are different apparently.
I wanted to run my system off of 18 volts. I'd read that it was better but the exact reason escapes me. Anyhow, I purchased a very nice Kendrick battery and a cable for the Gemini 1. I though to myself "why would they change that..."... well it is totally different. Indeed so much that I'm concerned. The Kendrick power cable has 4 pins and is pretty beefy. Additionally there is no way I could accidentally plug that into one of my MANY other 12 volt accessories I have as the plug is not in any way a standard power plug. The new Gemini 2 seems to use a normal power plug like any other powered device, only it is labeled 12-18 volts (and apparently likes 18!) I don't really want an 18 volt plug laying around that could plug into my CCD, computer, fans, or video setup.
So, I'll be running 12 volts for awhile I guess until I come up with a reasonable solution that will remove the chance of me smelling smoke in the dark.
Do any of you have an opinion on the 12 vs 18 volts Gemini 2 operation? Is it actually better at 18? Should I just wire up an 18v cable with the normal plug and put a huge label on it... near the business end?
Thx,
-Ted
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., "gray_k99" <nemo129@...> wrote:
Dave and Terry,
Thanks for all of the advice on the accessories and keep it coming if
you think of anything else! It is very helpful to someone like myself
who has not even received his mount yet! I hope it is helping other
group members as well! [:D]
If you want to see more about the dimmer for the polar scope, look here:
<> . I think it is a
good idea, as I have other illuminated optical devices and always have
issues with them being too bright. It's only $30...and compared to what
I am already spending, a drop in the bucket. [;)]
Dave your idea that the TKS knobs are too large is not the first time I
have heard that. I may just go with the Bob's Knobs versions as the
knobs do look smaller and would be less likely to cramp the area.
I have considered the Casady saddles, however I do have a couple of
scopes with Vixen dovetails which I use with an ADM D to V adapter. I
suppose I could just put D type dovetails on them, but then I could not
use them on my 3rd mount a CG-5 ASGT that I use some nights while not
doing AP and I really do not want to carry the big guns out. This will
change when I get the financial approval from the CFO to build the
observatory. From what I hear, that is the best accessory!
As I said, I will probably buy some additional stuff after I sell the
CGEM. I really do like those Casady CWs! I know...it's dark and no one
sees them! I was just amazed at how plain the Losmandy CWs look when
compared to the beautiful way they make their mounts.
More importantly and keeping with the theme of this group is my concern
for the finalizing of the Gemini II firmware. I do have confidence that
it will someday be an incredible product, I like everyone else here just
wish that were sooner than later at this point in time.
Clear Skies!
Kirk
|
Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
Hi Kirk:
I had a look at that dimmer. It seems totally incompatible with the illuminator I received with my polar scope. Mine is totally self-contained and powered by two LR-41 watch batteries. There is no external battery pack and no wire whatsoever, so it will not plug into the dimmer. It seems a more elegant solution in that there is no battery pack to find a place for and no additional wires to flop about. But as for dimming it . . .well, I think that not practical with the kind of unit I received. It does have an on/off switch . . . if I can just remember the "off" part. :) I could do a picture and supply a link if that would help.
Terry Danks
Nova Scotia, CA
presently in FL
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., "gray_k99" <nemo129@...> wrote:
If you want to see more about the dimmer for the polar scope, look here:
<> . I think it is a
good idea, as I have other illuminated optical devices and always have
issues with them being too bright. It's only $30...and compared to what
I am already spending, a drop in the bucket. [;)]
Kirk
|
Re: Gemini II to computer
Thanks Paul - do you (or anyone else) have a recommendation on a wireless adapter?
Cheers
Brian
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., Paul Kanevsky <yh@...> wrote:
Wired Ethernet and wireless wi-fi can all be used with G2 (with optional wireless adapters).
TheSky will work over serial or USB, and will also work over Ethernet/wi-fi if you use the TeleAPI plugin to connect using Gemini.net ASCOM driver.
Regards,
-Paul
On Mar 19, 2011, at 11:35 AM, "Brian V" <bvalente@...> wrote:
Aside from the interesting look web interface, I'm curious how Gemini II is conceived to be controlled by a planetarium program like theSky? Is the idea we connect via USB? I really like the idea of ethernet and a web server, but I'm not sure how useful that is going to be, particularly if it has to be a wired connection with a router. Well, maybe that's great for installations, but for portable mounts the application/value is less clear to me.
Cheers
Brian
|
Re: Gemini II to computer
Hi Paul
Glad that you can join us again, it has been since Feb 6 that we
have heard from you.?
I know that the Gemini ASCOM group is really keeping you busy. (I
monitor that one also)
For the New Comer to this group, Paul has modified the ASCOM
Gemini.net driver to provide Ethernet web interface, just like you
would be using a USB port, or serial port, but now you can use
Ethernet.
With this interface, you can use any ASCOM compliant device that can
communicate with the Gemini.net driver.? That way you can have the
ASCOM driver talking to the Gemini, and also all the Gemini 2 native
screens up also.? His driver in in the files section?
We look forward to when he pops in from time to time, as he is a
wealth of knowledge.
Tom Hilton
On 3/19/2011 9:31 AM, Paul Kanevsky wrote:
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
?
Wired Ethernet and wireless wi-fi can all be used with
G2 (with optional wireless adapters).?
TheSky will work over serial or USB, and will also work
over Ethernet/wi-fi if you use the TeleAPI plugin to
connect using ASCOM driver.
Regards,
?? ? -Paul
On Mar 19, 2011, at 11:35 AM, "Brian V" < bvalente@...>
wrote:
?
Aside from the interesting look web interface, I'm
curious how Gemini II is conceived to be controlled
by a planetarium program like theSky? Is the idea we
connect via USB? I really like the idea of ethernet
and a web server, but I'm not sure how useful that
is going to be, particularly if it has to be a wired
connection with a router. Well, maybe that's great
for installations, but for portable mounts the
application/value is less clear to me.
Cheers
Brian
|
Re: Enhancement idea for PEC
Anyone care to say why it is a lousy idea?
Thanks,
Gale
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., "Gale" <galedy2@...> wrote:
I would like to post an enhancement idea for PEC after the original Gemini-1 PEC has been re-implemented. Every PEC system I know if is based on a correction curve for a single worm period its harmonics - 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, etc of the 4 minute worm period. The OPW solves the 76 second error, but not the lesser 32 second error from the gearbox. This too could be handled by PEC if it could be trained for 8 minute system periodic error. Or if it could be trained for the 2 periods separately - a 4 minute curve and a 32 second curve. You might be able to get multi-period PEC down to sub arcsec peak-to-peak remaining error.
Is this feasible?
Is it worth the effort given just about everyone uses autoguiding and possibly AO?
Thanks,
Gale
|
Re: Gemini II to computer
Wired Ethernet and wireless wi-fi can all be used with G2 (with optional wireless adapters).?
TheSky will work over serial or USB, and will also work over Ethernet/wi-fi if you use the TeleAPI plugin to connect using ASCOM driver.
Regards,
?? ? -Paul
On Mar 19, 2011, at 11:35 AM, "Brian V" < bvalente@...> wrote:
?
Aside from the interesting look web interface, I'm curious how Gemini II is conceived to be controlled by a planetarium program like theSky? Is the idea we connect via USB? I really like the idea of ethernet and a web server, but I'm not sure how useful that is going to be, particularly if it has to be a wired connection with a router. Well, maybe that's great for installations, but for portable mounts the application/value is less clear to me.
Cheers
Brian
|
Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
Hi Terry, ? I share your thinking on the clutch tightening. They are clutches, not locks. With the CKS it seems easier to tell when it is sufficiently tight but it is also just easier to loosen and tighten in general. I do however give them an extra bit of grip when doing Astrophotography. I don’t want an inadvertent bump degrading my go to. ? Dave ?
I have the CKS on back order. IMO, it is needed. That said, I find there is an instinct to tighten the clutches too much. That sort of defeats their purpose. You should still be able to move the scope in RA and dec manually without much effort when the clutches are tightened. If you feel the need to choke down on 'em . . . back off. You're just making it hard on yourself. If your balance is good, not much tightening is necessary. Seems to me that you should not be relying on excessive force on the clutches to remedy a balance problem.
|
Aside from the interesting look web interface, I'm curious how Gemini II is conceived to be controlled by a planetarium program like theSky? Is the idea we connect via USB? I really like the idea of ethernet and a web server, but I'm not sure how useful that is going to be, particularly if it has to be a wired connection with a router. Well, maybe that's great for installations, but for portable mounts the application/value is less clear to me.
Cheers
Brian
|
Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
Dave and Terry,
Thanks for all of the advice on the accessories and keep it coming if you think of anything else! It is very helpful to someone like myself who has not even received his mount yet! I hope it is helping other group members as well!
If you want to see more about the dimmer for the polar scope, look here: . I think it is a good idea, as I have other illuminated optical devices and always have issues with them being too bright. It's only $30...and compared to what I am already spending, a drop in the bucket.
Dave your idea that the TKS knobs are too large is not the first time I have heard that. I may just go with the Bob's Knobs versions as the knobs do look smaller and would be less likely to cramp the area.
I have considered the Casady saddles, however I do have a couple of scopes with Vixen dovetails which I use with an ADM D to V adapter. I suppose I could just put D type dovetails on them, but then I could not use them on my 3rd mount a CG-5 ASGT that I use some nights while not doing AP and I really do not want to carry the big guns out. This will change when I get the financial approval from the CFO to build the observatory. From what I hear, that is the best accessory!
As I said, I will probably buy some additional stuff after I sell the CGEM. I really do like those Casady CWs! I know...it's dark and no one sees them! I was just amazed at how plain the Losmandy CWs look when compared to the beautiful way they make their mounts.
More importantly and keeping with the theme of this group is my concern for the finalizing of the Gemini II firmware. I do have confidence that it will someday be an incredible product, I like everyone else here just wish that were sooner than later at this point in time.
Clear Skies!
Kirk
?
|
Re: RS-232 Wiring for Gemini 1 and Gemini 2
Guys,
Don't worry, G2 can make all of you happy. There are plenty of old
RS232 connections (USB for sure imposes a huge overkill if you only
want serial communication): 2 with very ruggedized line drivers and
another two using TTL level. Since I was sure that someone will ask for
a direct USB connection, it is there. Maybe one needs a driver
information file for the PC operation system that is used, but it works
with Windows XP and with some minor adaptions also with Windows 7.
Works well with ASCOM, TheSkyX Pro, GCC, Hyperterm, ...
Since this may not be enough, the serial commands can also be sent over
HTTP/TCP/IP/Ethernet. I invented a "serial port emulator" since I
wanted to make every serial command available over the web interface,
too. Works well for ASCOM and for web pages.
After all, presently there are 6 separate channels to control a G2,
using 4 different types of hardware. All are supported by software.
Should be enough for the start. Once I find the time I may add a telnet
serial emulator and so on, this is already prepared...
And yes, I'm programming and wiring for RS232 since 1978, and it still
can be mean and tricky every now and then. And, also yes, I saw USB
connections hanging up, especially if the wires got longer. I also saw
my preferred FDTI USB2serial converter garble characters through
several resets until I powered it off for at least 30 seconds... every
technology has its limits and it is important to stay on the safe side.
搁别苍é
david schrieb:
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
?
Seriously? I had computer stores in 1979 and wired this frakking
things. I hate RS232 with a passion that will never end I suppose.
The funny thing is you have to have a USB adapter to attach to the
RS232 cable. And having been in technology all my life I've never even
heard of a USB cable hanging up somehow. Never happened to me at all.
What actually happens?
--- In Gemini-II@...,
"Keith" wrote:
>
> Here Here! I agree completely with Rainer. There is nothing as
stable and trouble-free as good 'ole RS-232 or RS-422. The amount of
bandwidth needed for communicating with positional or slow devices is
very adequately met by serial communication. USB is complete overkill
and causes way too many headaches. USB is a kludge. Anyone remember
Bill Gates CES demo of the first appearance of USB? What a laughing
stock he was made to look.
>
>
> May RS-232 live forever!
>
> Keith
>
> --- In Gemini-II@...,
"Rainer" wrote:
> >
> > Hi Dave,
> >
> > " ... but when will this antiquated practice of 9 pin serial
finally come to an end ... "
> >
> > I hope never ! as a RS232 serial connection never hangs up
and the Sh...y USB, be it whatever version, if it hangs up you need to
unplug the cable and reset it in that way ... If you have a solution
for unplugging a USB cable remotely I would be very thankful :-)
> >
> > I wish you many USB hang ups :-) and you will pray for having
an Antique RS232 serial connector somewhere ...
> >
> > Happy unpluggings :-)
> >
> > regards Rainer
>
|
Re: RS-232 Wiring for Gemini 1 and Gemini 2
Seriously? I had computer stores in 1979 and wired this frakking things. I hate RS232 with a passion that will never end I suppose.
The funny thing is you have to have a USB adapter to attach to the RS232 cable. And having been in technology all my life I've never even heard of a USB cable hanging up somehow. Never happened to me at all. What actually happens?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
--- In Gemini-II@..., "Keith" <keith.myers@...> wrote:
Here Here! I agree completely with Rainer. There is nothing as stable and trouble-free as good 'ole RS-232 or RS-422. The amount of bandwidth needed for communicating with positional or slow devices is very adequately met by serial communication. USB is complete overkill and causes way too many headaches. USB is a kludge. Anyone remember Bill Gates CES demo of the first appearance of USB? What a laughing stock he was made to look.
May RS-232 live forever!
Keith
--- In Gemini-II@..., "Rainer" <rsbfoto@> wrote:
Hi Dave,
" ... but when will this antiquated practice of 9 pin serial finally come to an end ... "
I hope never ! as a RS232 serial connection never hangs up and the Sh...y USB, be it whatever version, if it hangs up you need to unplug the cable and reset it in that way ... If you have a solution for unplugging a USB cable remotely I would be very thankful :-)
I wish you many USB hang ups :-) and you will pray for having an Antique RS232 serial connector somewhere ...
Happy unpluggings :-)
regards Rainer
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Re: Just received my G11 and Gemini 2
I have used my G-11 G2 about a dozen times now. Based on that, this is how I feel about the need for add-ons.
I have the CKS on back order. IMO, it is needed. That said, I find there is an instinct to tighten the clutches too much. That sort of defeats their purpose. You should still be able to move the scope in RA and dec manually without much effort when the clutches are tightened. If you feel the need to choke down on 'em . . . back off. You're just making it hard on yourself. If your balance is good, not much tightening is necessary. Seems to me that you should not be relying on excessive force on the clutches to remedy a balance problem.
I already have the TKS and feel it is a more appealing solution than the plastic T handled set from Bob's.
The polar scope illuminator: I have already burned through a set of batts by forgetting to turn 'em off. I KNEW this would happen! Ideally, the thing would have a timer, eh? But the batts are dirt cheap . . . $2.13 for a card of 10 on Amazon. Mine are in the mail now. :) Dimmer? Nice but not necessary IMO.
An alt adjustment knob would be nice but AZ already has a T handle bolt on either side of the head so no after market addition seems necessary to me for that.
I have ordered the tilt-in head from Casady and succumbed to impulse and ordered their 23 lb bejeweled CW and CW shaft stop as well. Placed order with him March 7 but it has not shipped yet. I will say I would NOT have ordered the tilt-in plate had I experimented a bit with sliding the C-11 OTA into the stock plate a bit first.
My first attempts were by placing the dec axis horizontal. Seemed logical but it is incorrect. You can't see what you are doing as the OTA blocks line of sight to the bar. Place the mount in park with saddle oriented towards the NCP and CW shaft down. It is then pretty easy to slide the C-11 OTA into the dovetail clamp. You see the contact point between bar and clamp easily. The tilt-in will likely be easier still but I no longer feel the additional convenience will offset the steep price for the additional plate.
The telescoping legs: Bother me a bit. I plan to drill a hole for a small stainless steel bolt in each leg when I get to my semi-permanent site and decide on a height. This seems true with or without any supplementary leg lock lever set IMO. Friction fit stops allow for a slight possibility of catastrophic collapse and a single small bolt will preclude that completely and allow me to sleep more easily. Who knows what that friction fit will do over long periods of set up with daytime heating and nightime cooling and rain and frost, etc., etc.
Terry Danks
Nova Scotia
presently in FL
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--- In Gemini-II@..., "Dave Wagner" <djwhouse@...> wrote:
CKS - absolutely needed.I just can't get the standard ones tight enough. Much easier to manage.
Polar Scope - yep. Need something
TKS - work well, though the spacing gets cramped between the knobs and the azimuth adjustment knobs on the mount. I wonder if the Bob's knobs versions would provide a bit more finger room. TKS are good though.
Not familiar with the dimmer controller. The polar scope I had came with an LED (non dimmable), and it works ok. I find it a bit challenging to do a very accurate polar scope alignment anyway due to the angle and my eyeglasses, so I tend to just rough in the polar scope, then do a good PAC later.
Leg clamp levers. I got the same. I like that I can be sure that they are very very tight and there is no risk of a tripod colapse. I turn one of the levers up and hang a kitchen gadget on it to provide a place to collect eyepiece covers and to set the hand controller in. I have a friend that has the same levers and didn't realize you could pull them out and set them at any angle... so you can turn them so that you don't catch them by accident.
Safety Stop Casady - Great great safety piece that looks great and I have compete faith I will never loose a weight. One of my favorite options.
Bob's knobs - great addition. I did Alt and Az.
Counterweights - I'm not familiar with the Casady model, but I've been very pleased with how well the stock CW work and I haven't seen any issues with maring the shaft (6 months of limited use). You can judge better when you get yours. I did get a second 22# weight or an 11" sct.
One addition I went with (not on your list) was a Casady saddle (side loading) to ease mounting of the 11" SCT. I mount it offset from center to bettter accomodate the back heavy SCT.
Hope you get your mount soon!
Dave W
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Paul Kanevsky
Keith Myers