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Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Stuart Heggie <stuart.j.heggie@...>
 

That might be it. Any time I get that warning about one of my computers being behind I just update. It is a small program and reloads really fast. 

Stuart

On Sat, Mar 17, 2018 at 8:00 PM, 'Greg Salyer' astronutcase@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:
 

Perhaps I can explain what's going on. I installed version 13 without also installing version 13 on the remote computer. This has never been a problem before but maybe I was missing the functions because of the version difference. When I have a chance I'll try using version 13 on both ends. I do like the high dpi behavior of the new version better.

 

Greg

 

From: ap-gto@... [mailto:ap-gto@...]
Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 7:52 PM
To: ap-gto@...
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

 

 

I've been using v 13 since it came out. It totally does file transfers. 

 

Stuart

 

On Sat, Mar 17, 2018 at 7:48 PM, buckeyestargazer@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

I've been using Teamviewer also for years, including now on version 13.  There was a short time when 13 came out that is was giving annoying warnings and promotions, but those have ceased for a while now.  

 

I never get disconnected as long as there is a stable network.  Quite often I forget to exit TV before I go to bed and wake up the next morning and TV is still connected to the remote PC.  

 

I've never quite understood why people like Windows RD when much better options like TV are available for free.

joel



 

--




--

Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Greg Salyer
 

Perhaps I can explain what's going on. I installed version 13 without also installing version 13 on the remote computer. This has never been a problem before but maybe I was missing the functions because of the version difference. When I have a chance I'll try using version 13 on both ends. I do like the high dpi behavior of the new version better.

 

Greg

 

From: ap-gto@... [mailto:ap-gto@...]
Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 7:52 PM
To: ap-gto@...
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

 

 

I've been using v 13 since it came out. It totally does file transfers. 

 

Stuart

 

On Sat, Mar 17, 2018 at 7:48 PM, buckeyestargazer@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

I've been using Teamviewer also for years, including now on version 13.  There was a short time when 13 came out that is was giving annoying warnings and promotions, but those have ceased for a while now.  

 

I never get disconnected as long as there is a stable network.  Quite often I forget to exit TV before I go to bed and wake up the next morning and TV is still connected to the remote PC.  

 

I've never quite understood why people like Windows RD when much better options like TV are available for free.

joel



 

--

Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Stuart Heggie <stuart.j.heggie@...>
 

I've been using v 13 since it came out. It totally does file transfers. 

Stuart

On Sat, Mar 17, 2018 at 7:48 PM, buckeyestargazer@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:
 

I've been using Teamviewer also for years, including now on version 13.  There was a short time when 13 came out that is was giving annoying warnings and promotions, but those have ceased for a while now.  


I never get disconnected as long as there is a stable network.  Quite often I forget to exit TV before I go to bed and wake up the next morning and TV is still connected to the remote PC.  

I've never quite understood why people like Windows RD when much better options like TV are available for free.
joel




--

Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Greg Salyer
 

No, as far as I know disconnect is not one of the problems with version 13. Of course as soon as I found fie transfers weren't supported yet I dropped it and went back to version 12 so I don't have a lot of experience with it. I then went on the web and found a lot of people went back to 12 because of missing functions such as file transfer, remote print and clipboard transfer. If your using such functions then I can't understand what's going on. The look and feel is totally different than version 12. The basic stuff seemed to work just fine but if the missing functions are hidden somewhere I didn't see where. Are you sure your on version 13?

 

Greg  

 

From: ap-gto@... [mailto:ap-gto@...]
Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 7:19 PM
To: ap-gto@...
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

 

 

Hi Wayne,

 

    Is this disconnect something new in version 13?

 

    Like you, I used TV for probably 10 years, hassle free. Used version 13 today, for most of the afternoon, never got disconnected, no warnings, just a “polite Thank You” for using TeamViewer .... AFTER I logged out.

 

    It didn’t disconnect me in the 4 hours I was using it, so I don’t know why you are having a problem. That’s weird. Did you somehow download a trial “commercial user” version”. I think TV Corp is pretty wary and checks if you are suspected of using it for business. Don’t know what they may “snoop” for, in the transactions – if they actually do that. Perhaps there are “terms of service” that you acknowledge their right to do that – probably.

 

    I have heard of cases where so-called “home users” got caught and cancelled.

 

    Anyway, so far, the latest TV version is behaving no different from years of the older ones.

I would curious what you or anyone else discovers about your TV situation. I don’t think TV changed the rules for eligibility.

 

Joe

 

From: Wayne wayneh9026@... [ap-gto]

Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 5:44 PM

Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

 



Joe, I used the freeware version of TeamViewer for quite a while but I got tired of it frequently reminding me that I was used my a free version and making me reconnect. Does it still do that? 

 

Waynr

 


On Mar 17, 2018, at 2:37 PM, 'Joseph Zeglinski' J.Zeglinski@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

Hi Micah,

 

    While Microsoft’s “Remote Desktop” is OK when starting out ... consider using a free (for non-commercial users) copy of TEAMVIEWER.

 

    The big advantage of the latter, besides not needing a PRO version of Windows on each computer – is that BOTH PC screens & mice  remain LIVE – you can operate the mount or control your imaging program,  from indoors or outdoors. The outdoor PC does NOT logout and its screen  doesn’t go black, when you go indoors, and you don’t have to login again, on either side, as you do in “MS Remote Desktop”. You can also have friends login, or login from other computers in the house,  into your outdoor remote scope computer, to share the experience, even using their own mouse, if you let them participate fully.

 

    It is far more convenient, with added benefits like File Transfer – in both directions.

There are of course other (subscription based) remote control programs.

– Microsoft has always been a rather chincy,  “bare bones” Remote,  and forces you to install a more expensive Windows OS. Also, you can’t operate your scope computer for a “show-n-tell”,  with that  MS version,  from anywhere else, like a friend’s place, unless they also have the PRO version installed.

 

Joe Z.
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Joel Short
 

I've been using Teamviewer also for years, including now on version 13.  There was a short time when 13 came out that is was giving annoying warnings and promotions, but those have ceased for a while now.  

I never get disconnected as long as there is a stable network.  Quite often I forget to exit TV before I go to bed and wake up the next morning and TV is still connected to the remote PC.  

I've never quite understood why people like Windows RD when much better options like TV are available for free.
joel
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Joe Zeglinski
 

Greg,
 
    Are you saying that TV does NOT have “File Transfer”, in the free personal use version ?
I used it an hour ago, on TV version 13, and on past versions for years. Unfortunately, it isn’t File “Drag-n-Drop”, but does quite well, once you set up the from/to (left/right) pointers on its File Transfer screen.
 
    I mostly use it for my backyard remote scope, so yes, you have to “Accept Incoming LAN connections” – obviously, which isn’t a problem for an internal - home LAN.  In past years, I did get random disconnects, and was going to eventually give TV a hard time on that issue. Of course, turning on the microwave oven for rewarming my coffee, will always disconnect after about 30 seconds – that’s just the nature of 2G (2.4 GHZ)communications, and I should switch to 5G frequencies on my next Router. But, to my utter surprise, the problem FINALLY disappeared on its own, about half a year ago, and I never got a disconnect since. Hopefully, the recent version 13,  doesn’t, as you suggest screw that up again.
 
    If TV ever gets nasty, which I doubt, then I will have to find some other “Remote app” – but definitely NOT Microsoft’s lame Remote Desktop version, as it has been from day one. I think the reason why Microsoft didn’t make a “decent” Remote, is because they were forced to comply with their third party software companies – not to compete with their better commercial versions. Microsoft treats commercial customers and probably developers well, and Home Users customers as cannon fodder.
 
    I think the folks at TeamViewer are doing a great job on their commercial product support product – with my hardiest gratitude and  thanks, as  a “personal use only” customer – and hope their quality service  and performance continues as it has been.
 
Joe Z.
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Joe Zeglinski
 

Hi Wayne,
 
    Is this disconnect something new in version 13?
 
    Like you, I used TV for probably 10 years, hassle free. Used version 13 today, for most of the afternoon, never got disconnected, no warnings, just a “polite Thank You” for using TeamViewer ... AFTER I logged out.
 
    It didn’t disconnect me in the 4 hours I was using it, so I don’t know why you are having a problem. That’s weird. Did you somehow download a trial “commercial user” version”. I think TV Corp is pretty wary and checks if you are suspected of using it for business. Don’t know what they may “snoop” for, in the transactions – if they actually do that. Perhaps there are “terms of service” that you acknowledge their right to do that – probably.
 
    I have heard of cases where so-called “home users” got caught and cancelled.
 
    Anyway, so far, the latest TV version is behaving no different from years of the older ones.
I would curious what you or anyone else discovers about your TV situation. I don’t think TV changed the rules for eligibility.
 
Joe
 

From: Wayne wayneh9026@... [ap-gto]
Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 5:44 PM
To: ap-gto@...
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network
 


Joe, I used the freeware version of TeamViewer for quite a while but I got tired of it frequently reminding me that I was used my a free version and making me reconnect. Does it still do that? 
 
Waynr
 

On Mar 17, 2018, at 2:37 PM, 'Joseph Zeglinski' J.Zeglinski@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 
Hi Micah,
 
    While Microsoft’s “Remote Desktop” is OK when starting out ... consider using a free (for non-commercial users) copy of TEAMVIEWER.
 
    The big advantage of the latter, besides not needing a PRO version of Windows on each computer – is that BOTH PC screens & mice  remain LIVE – you can operate the mount or control your imaging program,  from indoors or outdoors. The outdoor PC does NOT logout and its screen  doesn’t go black, when you go indoors, and you don’t have to login again, on either side, as you do in “MS Remote Desktop”. You can also have friends login, or login from other computers in the house,  into your outdoor remote scope computer, to share the experience, even using their own mouse, if you let them participate fully.
 
    It is far more convenient, with added benefits like File Transfer – in both directions.
There are of course other (subscription based) remote control programs.
– Microsoft has always been a rather chincy,  “bare bones” Remote,  and forces you to install a more expensive Windows OS. Also, you can’t operate your scope computer for a “show-n-tell”,  with that  MS version,  from anywhere else, like a friend’s place, unless they also have the PRO version installed.
 
Joe Z.
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Greg Salyer
 

I totally agree, but don't use version 13. It has better high dpi support but currently lacks many features (like file transfer). It should have been released only as a Beta. They do provide back versions. Get version 12. Also, to avoid disconnects you must "accept" "Incoming LAN connections" under Extras/Options/General. Teamviewer also allows control from an iPhone or iPad (and I suspect Android as well).

 

Greg

PS: I also like and use Radmin

 

From: ap-gto@... [mailto:ap-gto@...]
Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 5:38 PM
To: ap-gto@...
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

 

 

Hi Micah,

 

    While Microsoft’s “Remote Desktop” is OK when starting out ... consider using a free (for non-commercial users) copy of TEAMVIEWER.

 

    The big advantage of the latter, besides not needing a PRO version of Windows on each computer – is that BOTH PC screens & mice  remain LIVE – you can operate the mount or control your imaging program,  from indoors or outdoors. The outdoor PC does NOT logout and its screen  doesn’t go black, when you go indoors, and you don’t have to login again, on either side, as you do in “MS Remote Desktop”. You can also have friends login, or login from other computers in the house,  into your outdoor remote scope computer, to share the experience, even using their own mouse, if you let them participate fully.

 

    It is far more convenient, with added benefits like File Transfer – in both directions.

There are of course other (subscription based) remote control programs.

– Microsoft has always been a rather chincy,  “bare bones” Remote,  and forces you to install a more expensive Windows OS. Also, you can’t operate your scope computer for a “show-n-tell”,  with that  MS version,  from anywhere else, like a friend’s place, unless they also have the PRO version installed.

 

Joe Z.
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Wayne Hixson
 

Joe, I used the freeware version of TeamViewer for quite a while but I got tired of it frequently reminding me that I was used my a free version and making me reconnect. Does it still do that? 

Waynr


On Mar 17, 2018, at 2:37 PM, 'Joseph Zeglinski' J.Zeglinski@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

Hi Micah,
 
    While Microsoft’s “Remote Desktop” is OK when starting out ... consider using a free (for non-commercial users) copy of TEAMVIEWER.
 
    The big advantage of the latter, besides not needing a PRO version of Windows on each computer – is that BOTH PC screens & mice  remain LIVE – you can operate the mount or control your imaging program,  from indoors or outdoors. The outdoor PC does NOT logout and its screen  doesn’t go black, when you go indoors, and you don’t have to login again, on either side, as you do in “MS Remote Desktop”. You can also have friends login, or login from other computers in the house,  into your outdoor remote scope computer, to share the experience, even using their own mouse, if you let them participate fully.
 
    It is far more convenient, with added benefits like File Transfer – in both directions.
There are of course other (subscription based) remote control programs.
– Microsoft has always been a rather chincy,  “bare bones” Remote,  and forces you to install a more expensive Windows OS. Also, you can’t operate your scope computer for a “show-n-tell”,  with that  MS version,  from anywhere else, like a friend’s place, unless they also have the PRO version installed.
 
Joe Z.
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Joe Zeglinski
 

Hi Micah,
 
    While Microsoft’s “Remote Desktop” is OK when starting out ... consider using a free (for non-commercial users) copy of TEAMVIEWER.
 
    The big advantage of the latter, besides not needing a PRO version of Windows on each computer – is that BOTH PC screens & mice  remain LIVE – you can operate the mount or control your imaging program,  from indoors or outdoors. The outdoor PC does NOT logout and its screen  doesn’t go black, when you go indoors, and you don’t have to login again, on either side, as you do in “MS Remote Desktop”. You can also have friends login, or login from other computers in the house,  into your outdoor remote scope computer, to share the experience, even using their own mouse, if you let them participate fully.
 
    It is far more convenient, with added benefits like File Transfer – in both directions.
There are of course other (subscription based) remote control programs.
– Microsoft has always been a rather chincy,  “bare bones” Remote,  and forces you to install a more expensive Windows OS. Also, you can’t operate your scope computer for a “show-n-tell”,  with that  MS version,  from anywhere else, like a friend’s place, unless they also have the PRO version installed.
 
Joe Z.
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Wayne Hixson
 

Lol! So you’ll have 3 separate sessions?




On Saturday, March 17, 2018, 2:15 PM, Micah Smith micahlsmith@... [ap-gto] wrote:

 

I use remote desktop in Windows 10. I leave laptops out in the driveway then come back inside and remote in to them over WiFi. I use 2 gb routers to go from one side of the house to outside in the driveway on the other.

I use my msn account to log in to everything so remote connection from one machine to the next is easy. While my images are shooting I transfer them in to my desktop where I can get everything prepped.

I just started shooting from 3 scopes at once so this season is about to get interesting

On Wed, Mar 14, 2018, 1:55 PM wayneh9026@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:
 

Hi Micah, thanks! I had read that Primaluce recommended against changing login settings, but good to know it works. Might I ask what Remote Desktop app you’re using, and if you’re remoting in from a PC or a Mac?

Thanks, Wayne
Re: Remote Desktop PC access on Ad Hoc Network

Micah Smith <micahlsmith@...>
 

I use remote desktop in Windows 10. I leave laptops out in the driveway then come back inside and remote in to them over WiFi. I use 2 gb routers to go from one side of the house to outside in the driveway on the other.

I use my msn account to log in to everything so remote connection from one machine to the next is easy. While my images are shooting I transfer them in to my desktop where I can get everything prepped.

I just started shooting from 3 scopes at once so this season is about to get interesting

On Wed, Mar 14, 2018, 1:55 PM wayneh9026@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:
 

Hi Micah, thanks! I had read that Primaluce recommended against changing login settings, but good to know it works. Might I ask what Remote Desktop app you’re using, and if you’re remoting in from a PC or a Mac?

Thanks, Wayne
Re: Newbie Questions

Joseph Beyer <jcbeyer@...>
 

Hank, 

I moved from the same mount to a Mach1.  Was using the 2 eleven pound weights as well and am now using 3 x 9 pound + 2 x 6 pound weights with the same setup.  My FSQ-106 plus mountings weighs in at about 21 pounds plus I use a full frame Nikon D800E. You’ll want to have the weights pushed up the counter balance shaft as far as possible to minimize the moment of inertia.  Maybe someone will have a closer setup to help you in weight selection. 

You’ll love the new mount. 

Cheers, Joe

On Mar 17, 2018, at 8:36 AM, clupus@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

Hi Folks,


I just sold my SkyWatcher Alt/Az EQ6 mount and I'm in the process of purchasing a Astro-Physics Mach1. We're going to the NEAF show in Sufferin NY in April and will pick it up on the way back to Canada. 


I'd like to start planning the setup etc. so that I don't have delays when I finally get it home, so I have some questions. 


What do I need to purchase in addition to the Mach1. I think I have a handle on the counterweights as I assume I'll need the same amount as I was using with the EQ6. 


My first problem is what mounting plate to buy. The permanent mount in my Observatory has a 11" plate on top which is adjustable for levelling and can be drilled out to accommodate bolt holes. Help with this would be appreciated.


Second problem: My Celestron SCT 11" was attached to the EQ6 with an 11" Dovetail bar (CGE). Will this work with the Mach1 or do I need a replacement, and if so what one?


My third question concerns software. I'm set up to control the scope from my house using a powered USB cable and computer (ASCOM). From what I've read on the Astro-Physics website, this mount offers choices in control including proprietary software for sale on the site. Some insights from you folks who are using AP mounts would be helpful in making my choices.


Equipment: Celestron SCT 11"/SBIG STF8300C camera/Prism software.


I'm excited about this new mount as, from what I've read, it appears it will go a long way to solving several frustrating problems that I'm having in astrophotography.


Thanks in advance,

Hank
Newbie Questions

HANK HALLIDAY
 

Hi Folks,


I just sold my SkyWatcher Alt/Az EQ6 mount and I'm in the process of purchasing a Astro-Physics Mach1. We're going to the NEAF show in Sufferin NY in April and will pick it up on the way back to Canada. 


I'd like to start planning the setup etc. so that I don't have delays when I finally get it home, so I have some questions. 


What do I need to purchase in addition to the Mach1. I think I have a handle on the counterweights as I assume I'll need the same amount as I was using with the EQ6. 


My first problem is what mounting plate to buy. The permanent mount in my Observatory has a 11" plate on top which is adjustable for levelling and can be drilled out to accommodate bolt holes. Help with this would be appreciated.


Second problem: My Celestron SCT 11" was attached to the EQ6 with an 11" Dovetail bar (CGE). Will this work with the Mach1 or do I need a replacement, and if so what one?


My third question concerns software. I'm set up to control the scope from my house using a powered USB cable and computer (ASCOM). From what I've read on the Astro-Physics website, this mount offers choices in control including proprietary software for sale on the site. Some insights from you folks who are using AP mounts would be helpful in making my choices.


Equipment: Celestron SCT 11"/SBIG STF8300C camera/Prism software.


I'm excited about this new mount as, from what I've read, it appears it will go a long way to solving several frustrating problems that I'm having in astrophotography.


Thanks in advance,

Hank
Re: How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

Geoffrey Cook <geoffrey.cook@...>
 

Question:  Once the encoders have been installed and calibrated, or the utility has been loaded and run, will the encoders function to eliminate PE and backlash when the mount is controlled with the keypad only (no computer attached)?


On Mar 16, 2018, at 10:56 PM, pnagy@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

I did another test to prove the Absolute Encoder is working. I remember watching Rolando's interview with Sky & Telescope reporter and he demonstrated his AE mount by pushing the telescope Declination axis and it showed the Dec spur gears fighting back to bring the mount back to where it's supposed to be. Well I did the same thing and the Dec axis spur fought back and brought back the mount to it's original position. That's good enough to tell me the encoders were working.

Peter


---In ap-gto@..., wrote :

Hello,

I received and installed Absolute Encoder Kits and CP4 yesterday. The installation was so easy that it was a joke. I cannot test AE under the dark sky because of the new scope equipment curse: It's snowy outside!!!!!!

I ran the AE utility software to enable AE encoder but the status already displayed "ON" meaning the encoders were already enabled by default. So I turned it OFF and then ON.

I am able to do minimal testing indoors by using Keypad and Stellarium/ASCOM driver by slewing to different objects and I can tell that it was pointing correctly.

The LEDs in both optical readers are always blue meaning good and strong signal. But how can I tell that the absolute encoders are running and working? Even if I turn off the encoders with AE utility, the LEDs are always blue. It would be nice if the LEDs were turned off if AE is disabled by AE utility software so I would know quickly whether the encoders are enabled/disabled by just looking at the LEDs of the optical reader without checking with AE utility software.

Do I need to set Home and Limits with AE utility? Is it required to get encoders working or is it an extra and optional feature? My setup is always portable so I unlock/lock clutches frequently so do I have to set Home/Limits every time I manually move the mount via unlocking the clutches?

Is setting and testing Home a good way to test if AE is working?


Thanks,

Peter
Re: How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

topboxman
 

I found the youtube video of Sky & Telescope interview with Roland at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymDk4Fyc5ZE

Look at timestamp 4:50 when he talks about how to test if encoders are working.

Peter


---In ap-gto@..., <pnagy@...> wrote :

I did another test to prove the Absolute Encoder is working. I remember watching Rolando's interview with Sky & Telescope reporter and he demonstrated his AE mount by pushing the telescope Declination axis and it showed the Dec spur gears fighting back to bring the mount back to where it's supposed to be. Well I did the same thing and the Dec axis spur fought back and brought back the mount to it's original position. That's good enough to tell me the encoders were working.

Peter


---In ap-gto@..., <pnagy@...> wrote :

Hello,

I received and installed Absolute Encoder Kits and CP4 yesterday. The installation was so easy that it was a joke. I cannot test AE under the dark sky because of the new scope equipment curse: It's snowy outside!!!!!!

I ran the AE utility software to enable AE encoder but the status already displayed "ON" meaning the encoders were already enabled by default. So I turned it OFF and then ON.

I am able to do minimal testing indoors by using Keypad and Stellarium/ASCOM driver by slewing to different objects and I can tell that it was pointing correctly.

The LEDs in both optical readers are always blue meaning good and strong signal. But how can I tell that the absolute encoders are running and working? Even if I turn off the encoders with AE utility, the LEDs are always blue. It would be nice if the LEDs were turned off if AE is disabled by AE utility software so I would know quickly whether the encoders are enabled/disabled by just looking at the LEDs of the optical reader without checking with AE utility software.

Do I need to set Home and Limits with AE utility? Is it required to get encoders working or is it an extra and optional feature? My setup is always portable so I unlock/lock clutches frequently so do I have to set Home/Limits every time I manually move the mount via unlocking the clutches?

Is setting and testing Home a good way to test if AE is working?


Thanks,

Peter
Re: How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

topboxman
 

I did another test to prove the Absolute Encoder is working. I remember watching Rolando's interview with Sky & Telescope reporter and he demonstrated his AE mount by pushing the telescope Declination axis and it showed the Dec spur gears fighting back to bring the mount back to where it's supposed to be. Well I did the same thing and the Dec axis spur fought back and brought back the mount to it's original position. That's good enough to tell me the encoders were working.

Peter


---In ap-gto@..., <pnagy@...> wrote :

Hello,

I received and installed Absolute Encoder Kits and CP4 yesterday. The installation was so easy that it was a joke. I cannot test AE under the dark sky because of the new scope equipment curse: It's snowy outside!!!!!!

I ran the AE utility software to enable AE encoder but the status already displayed "ON" meaning the encoders were already enabled by default. So I turned it OFF and then ON.

I am able to do minimal testing indoors by using Keypad and Stellarium/ASCOM driver by slewing to different objects and I can tell that it was pointing correctly.

The LEDs in both optical readers are always blue meaning good and strong signal. But how can I tell that the absolute encoders are running and working? Even if I turn off the encoders with AE utility, the LEDs are always blue. It would be nice if the LEDs were turned off if AE is disabled by AE utility software so I would know quickly whether the encoders are enabled/disabled by just looking at the LEDs of the optical reader without checking with AE utility software.

Do I need to set Home and Limits with AE utility? Is it required to get encoders working or is it an extra and optional feature? My setup is always portable so I unlock/lock clutches frequently so do I have to set Home/Limits every time I manually move the mount via unlocking the clutches?

Is setting and testing Home a good way to test if AE is working?


Thanks,

Peter
Re: How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

topboxman
 

The thread pitch are much finer for these placeholder screws. If you need to replace these screws, you will never find them at Home Depot. I found them at McMaster-Carr at:

https://www.mcmaster.com/#92949a598/=1c03lp4

They are 5/16"-24. This is for A-P1100GTO mount. I am not sure about Mach1 but could be same thread pitch as mine at 24 threads per inch.

Peter


---In ap-gto@..., <dsidote@...> wrote :

Peter,

Do you remember what size those screws are? I took one from the dec gearbox on my Mach I to Home Depot, but I couldn't find the same size and thread pitch.

Dave

On Fri, Mar 16, 2018 at 5:05 PM, pnagy@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:
 

Hi Matt,

During the initial release of A-P1100/1600, the two placeholders screws were already there as described by Wade. After A-P upgraded the gearboxes in the current release of their mounts, A-P removed the placeholders screws because they were no longer necessary. But these placeholder screws turned out to be very useful for mounting PoleMaster which is why I suggested that A-P put back the placeholder screws not just for mounting PoleMaster but could be useful for mounting other things as well.

Peter



---In ap-gto@..., <matthughes77@...> wrote :

Ok thanks

Regards,

Matt

On 17 Mar 2018, at 08:51, 'Wade Hilmo' y.groups@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

No drilling is required for the solution in the photo below.

The cap screws at that location are just there to cover the holes that provide access to the spring loaded screws for the gearbox.

From: ap-gto@... [mailto:ap-gto@... ]
Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 2:41 PM
To: ap-gto@...
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

How did you go drilling into the housing. That would make me nervous...

I put my poll master on the DOVELM162 via this

http://www.admaccessories.com/ product/mds-pole-mds-series- dovetail-adapter-with- polemaster/

And a quick release bracket. I just have todo the adjustment while parked.

I’d like to mount it as you have done but a bit nervy drilling....

Regards,

Matt

On 17 Mar 2018, at 08:15, pnagy@... <mailto:pnagy@...> [ap-gto] <ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > > wrote:

It's going to be a while to image due to bad weather and I will be very busy the next few weeks.

The AE connector on Dec gearbox will likely interfere with PoleMaster if you use polar scope hole on Dec axis. Best place to mount PoleMaster is on the Dec gearbox housing above polar scope hole.

My suggestion to A-P for future mounts is to put back two placeholder screws on Dec gearbox like it was done during initial release of A-P1100/1600 mounts. I used these two screw to mount my PoleMaster on Dec gearbox. Here is an example:

https://peternagy.smugmug.com/ Telescopes/PoleMaster-on-A- P1100GTO/i-wW3rS86/A

Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > , <bill@...> wrote :

Great to hear! Cant wait to get your report on imaging with the AE.

_____

From: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > <ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > > on behalf of pnagy@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > >
Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 10:37 AM
To: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... >
Subject: RE: [ap-gto] How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

One other thing not related to AE, the WiFi using CP4 as an access point worked perfectly with my Android tablet using Sky Safari version 5. I disconnected keypad and ASCOM driver from the mount, parked the mount to Park 4 position and viola it works!!!!! The mount got initialized by Sky Safari without needing Keypad or ASCOM driver initializing the mount first. Sky Safari was able to correctly slew to different objects.

Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > , <pnagy@...> wrote :

I ran the AE utility software to test "I GOT LOST!, Find Home!" and seems to work. What's really cool about this whole thing is the CP4 has so many available physical ports. I use the CP4's USB port for slewing to objects with A-P V2 ASCOM driver and the upper serial port via USB-to-Serial FTDI adapter to use AE utility software at the SAME time. Very nice and could not be any simpler!!!!!!

Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > , <pnagy@...> wrote :

Thanks Wade. I don't have APCC but the latest A-P V2 ASCOM driver also says "encoder" for PEM status as well. I hope this good enough.

Thanks,
Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > , <y.groups@...> wrote :

If you use APCC, you can tell that the encoders are on by looking at the PEM status, which will say “encoder” instead of “on” or “off”.

From: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > [mailto:ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... > ]
Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 9:48 AM
To: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@... >
Subject: [ap-gto] How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

Hello,

I received and installed Absolute Encoder Kits and CP4 yesterday. The installation was so easy that it was a joke. I cannot test AE under the dark sky because of the new scope equipment curse: It's snowy outside!!!!!!

I ran the AE utility software to enable AE encoder but the status already displayed "ON" meaning the encoders were already enabled by default. So I turned it OFF and then ON.

I am able to do minimal testing indoors by using Keypad and Stellarium/ASCOM driver by slewing to different objects and I can tell that it was pointing correctly.

The LEDs in both optical readers are always blue meaning good and strong signal. But how can I tell that the absolute encoders are running and working? Even if I turn off the encoders with AE utility, the LEDs are always blue.. It would be nice if the LEDs were turned off if AE is disabled by AE utility software so I would know quickly whether the encoders are enabled/disabled by just looking at the LEDs of the optical reader without checking with AE utility software.

Do I need to set Home and Limits with AE utility? Is it required to get encoders working or is it an extra and optional feature? My setup is always portable so I unlock/lock clutches frequently so do I have to set Home/Limits every time I manually move the mount via unlocking the clutches?

Is setting and testing Home a good way to test if AE is working?

Thanks,

Peter

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
keypad north south est west buttons do not respond when pushed.

rorschach1
 

I am new to goto mounts hand controllers and such.  I am practicing the various goto functions without a scope.  the mount will slew to where it thinks the target i picked is.  I think the mount gets close.  However,  so far the directional buttons do not respond when pushed.  I have an email to ASTRO-PHYSICS which I just sent this pm.  I anybody can help me on this or knows what if anything I am doing wrong I could use the help.


Clear Skies,

Jim
Re: How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

D Sidote <dsidote@...>
 

Peter,

Do you remember what size those screws are? I took one from the dec gearbox on my Mach I to Home Depot, but I couldn't find the same size and thread pitch.

Dave

On Fri, Mar 16, 2018 at 5:05 PM, pnagy@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:
 

Hi Matt,

During the initial release of A-P1100/1600, the two placeholders screws were already there as described by Wade. After A-P upgraded the gearboxes in the current release of their mounts, A-P removed the placeholders screws because they were no longer necessary. But these placeholder screws turned out to be very useful for mounting PoleMaster which is why I suggested that A-P put back the placeholder screws not just for mounting PoleMaster but could be useful for mounting other things as well.

Peter



---In ap-gto@..., wrote :

Ok thanks

Regards,

Matt

On 17 Mar 2018, at 08:51, 'Wade Hilmo' y.groups@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@...> wrote:

 

No drilling is required for the solution in the photo below.

The cap screws at that location are just there to cover the holes that provide access to the spring loaded screws for the gearbox.

From: ap-gto@... [mailto:ap-gto@...]
Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 2:41 PM
To: ap-gto@...
Subject: Re: [ap-gto] How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

How did you go drilling into the housing. That would make me nervous...

I put my poll master on the DOVELM162 via this

http://www.admaccessories.com/product/mds-pole-mds-series-dovetail-adapter-with-polemaster/

And a quick release bracket. I just have todo the adjustment while parked.

I’d like to mount it as you have done but a bit nervy drilling....

Regards,

Matt

On 17 Mar 2018, at 08:15, pnagy@... <mailto:pnagy@...> [ap-gto] <ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> > wrote:

It's going to be a while to image due to bad weather and I will be very busy the next few weeks.

The AE connector on Dec gearbox will likely interfere with PoleMaster if you use polar scope hole on Dec axis. Best place to mount PoleMaster is on the Dec gearbox housing above polar scope hole.

My suggestion to A-P for future mounts is to put back two placeholder screws on Dec gearbox like it was done during initial release of A-P1100/1600 mounts. I used these two screw to mount my PoleMaster on Dec gearbox. Here is an example:

https://peternagy.smugmug.com/Telescopes/PoleMaster-on-A-P1100GTO/i-wW3rS86/A

Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> , <bill@...> wrote :

Great to hear! Cant wait to get your report on imaging with the AE.

_____

From: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> <ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> > on behalf of pnagy@... [ap-gto] <ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> >
Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 10:37 AM
To: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...>
Subject: RE: [ap-gto] How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

One other thing not related to AE, the WiFi using CP4 as an access point worked perfectly with my Android tablet using Sky Safari version 5. I disconnected keypad and ASCOM driver from the mount, parked the mount to Park 4 position and viola it works!!!!! The mount got initialized by Sky Safari without needing Keypad or ASCOM driver initializing the mount first. Sky Safari was able to correctly slew to different objects.

Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> , wrote :

I ran the AE utility software to test "I GOT LOST!, Find Home!" and seems to work. What's really cool about this whole thing is the CP4 has so many available physical ports. I use the CP4's USB port for slewing to objects with A-P V2 ASCOM driver and the upper serial port via USB-to-Serial FTDI adapter to use AE utility software at the SAME time. Very nice and could not be any simpler!!!!!!

Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> , <pnagy@...> wrote :

Thanks Wade. I don't have APCC but the latest A-P V2 ASCOM driver also says "encoder" for PEM status as well. I hope this good enough.

Thanks,
Peter

---In ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> , wrote :

If you use APCC, you can tell that the encoders are on by looking at the PEM status, which will say “encoder” instead of “on” or “off”.

From: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> [mailto:ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...> ]
Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 9:48 AM
To: ap-gto@... <mailto:ap-gto@...>
Subject: [ap-gto] How to test Absolute Encoder Kit for A-P1100GTO?

Hello,

I received and installed Absolute Encoder Kits and CP4 yesterday. The installation was so easy that it was a joke. I cannot test AE under the dark sky because of the new scope equipment curse: It's snowy outside!!!!!!

I ran the AE utility software to enable AE encoder but the status already displayed "ON" meaning the encoders were already enabled by default. So I turned it OFF and then ON.

I am able to do minimal testing indoors by using Keypad and Stellarium/ASCOM driver by slewing to different objects and I can tell that it was pointing correctly.

The LEDs in both optical readers are always blue meaning good and strong signal. But how can I tell that the absolute encoders are running and working? Even if I turn off the encoders with AE utility, the LEDs are always blue.. It would be nice if the LEDs were turned off if AE is disabled by AE utility software so I would know quickly whether the encoders are enabled/disabled by just looking at the LEDs of the optical reader without checking with AE utility software.

Do I need to set Home and Limits with AE utility? Is it required to get encoders working or is it an extra and optional feature? My setup is always portable so I unlock/lock clutches frequently so do I have to set Home/Limits every time I manually move the mount via unlocking the clutches?

Is setting and testing Home a good way to test if AE is working?

Thanks,

Peter
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