Help needed re: connecting Gemini 2 to PC
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Hello group,
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Recently my trusty old Gemini I shot craps after 19 yrs of faithful service. I had to upgrade to the new Gemini 2 and Hand Controller.
As you know, the old Gemini I connected to a PC via a Serial/R12 connector cable which plugged in to one of the RJ 12 sockets on the control box. This does not work on the new Gemini 2.
I decided I want to connect via an ethernet cable (Cat 5) directly from the Gemini 2 to the ethernet port on my PC.? I have now installed this.
My question is: Now that I have the connection, what are my next steps to make it operational so that I can use programs like The Sky 6 and N.I.N.A. to run my mount?? I am a Newbie to Gemini 2, so any assistance you experienced Gemini 2 users can give me will be greatly appreciated! Thanks.
Ron Abbott |
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It might work as you connected them, if one or both ports are auto switching,
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More than likely, you will need a hub or switch connected between the two.
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Another possibility is to use a "cross-over" patch cable, assuming you are not already using one.
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Your post is coincidental to what I will need to do for my recent upgrade of an MI-250 mount from Gemini I to Gemini II.
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Hi Ron,
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First, Serial/RS232 is fully supported by Gemini-2, not sure why you say it isn't. Ethernet is definitely a better way to go, if you want to get the best out of the PC->Gemini link. Is your PC connected to a WiFi or other (home?) network, in addition to being connected to Gemini? If so, there's a little PC networking configuration that may be required, in addition to using a cross-over Ethernet cable (or a switch/router) that's already been mentioned. Here are some instructions that may help:
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Regards,
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? -Paul
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On Fri, Sep 27, 2024 at 10:16 PM, stargazer66207 wrote:
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The easiest way to connect to a Gemini 2 using Ethernet directly to a PC Ethernet port is to use Ethernet crossover cable or IME a crossover adapter with a standard CAT5/6 cable of appropriate length. I say this is easiest because even though the vast majority of computers these days have Ethernet ports that should automatically . detect what kind of connection they are talking to many people cannot successfully make a direct connection without using a crossover cable / crossover adapter or use a router to manage the connection.?
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Also you can order and receive a crossover adapter from Amazon very quickly as well as a CAT5/6 patch cable as they are cheaper and involve a bit less setup to be successful than using a small router. Using router has its advantages but you may or may not have a use for what a router can bring to the table.? ?
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Chip Louie Chief Daydreamer Imagination Hardware? ? ?Astrospheric - South Pasadena? |
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David,
Good to hear from you.? I am also a dedicated MI-250 user. I got mine from the original owner back in 2005, and it has performed perfectly ever since. My Gemini I that just got fried was the one that came with the mount back in 2005, so I guess I can't complain about it finally shooting craps. Can't think of another electronic device I bought in 2005 that is still working!
Thanks for yur advise.
Ron |
stargazer66207
David Thomas
Paul Kanevsky
Chip Louie