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The HEQ-5/6 MCU Update kit for all Syntha (Skywatcher) Atlas/HEQ-5/EQ-6/Atlas Mounts opens new possibilities. It is applicable with the new and old (without Rev. switches in the Hand controller) Mount. The HEQ-5/6 MCU Update kit repairs the main problems (microstepping, Autoguiding interface, smallest correction speed of 2x, PC connection, Transmission play, PEC) of the original control without replacement the original controller, like it is necessary with the EQ6 Booster. Only a small module will be placed in the original control and then there are some features, which are missing with the original control. The HEQ-5/6 MCU update closes the gap between the ext. Autoguiding Interface and the EQ6 Booster. By the use of the LX200 Protocol innumerable free programs are available, which make the binding to the PC possible and easy. These LX200 commands are supported (#:MS# only with GOTO option). Some features:
For the update kit are no modifications to the controller or the hand controller box necessary. Only a small cutout for the connector socket must be filed into the cover. The installation can be done by everyone! The old processor (it is in a socket) must be pulled out and the HEQ-5/6 MCU Update kit will placed in the now free socket. The basic configuration in the interface is so adjusted that the function remains like it is known. Only the microstepping operation and the reduced correction speed in the Autoguiding mode let suspect that another control serves the work. Those using the Conrad gear must configure this with the Updateprogramm, since otherwise the adjusting speed is too fast with 132:1. To adjust the parameters I wrote a small Tool that can be downloaded in the Software section. The gear transmission configuration becomes only active after turning the Mount off and on! Recommended accessories:
Here the guidance for the installation, that also has the connection diagram for the connector ;-) For Kits and ready made MCU Updates check out the Astromarket!
Software and Info for the HEQ-5/6 MCU Update kit: V4 Control from Doug Dieter (Win32) MCU Configure from Rick Saunders (Linux) Aspect from Wolfgang Hoffmann (Win32, Linux) HEQ-5/6 MCU Update V3.40 (Win32) HEQ-5/6 MCU Update V3.40 (PocketPC) HEQ-5/6 MCU Update from Stefan (Linux) HEQ-5/6 PEC Explorer V1.30 (Win32) LX200 Tester V1.00 (Win32) LX200 Tester from Stefan (Linux) HEQ-5/6 MCU Update Kit (PDF) HEQ-5/6 MCU Upgrade Yahoo Group
Building guidance for the self construction: The self construction kit consists of the circuit PCB board, the programed processor and all other parts required for the update. Also a printed drilling template is attached to each kit.
The constrution is not a large thing, but one should be able to deal with a soldering iron. There is no programming knowledge required and also a special programmer is not needed, since the processor is already programmed and all parameters can be configurated over the serial interface! Schematic diagram At the beginning the Parts at the bottom of the PCB should be soldered. These are the Parts R1, D1 and D2. Here watch the length of the legs on the top side. The remaining legs has to be cut very short, because if they are to long, the MCU will not sit correct at the surface!
As second step I suggest, to solder the adapter for the original processor socket. Since the place between the socket and the plate is very small, the update kit must be placed as flat as possible, I used a small trick here. The two 20pol. strips are put from the top into the pcb. Here on the fact it respects that the longer ends must be put into the plate. Now the pins are soldered from down side. Here be very economically with tin solder ; -)
If the pins are firmly soldered, remove the black spacers with a small screwdriver from the pins. Now the supernatant pins can be cut off and we have a flat adapter for the processor socket.
The remaining construction units can be equipped simply after bill of material. In the HEQ-5 Update kit the connector is not mounted directly on the PCB. Here it is connected throw a flat cable. Keep a eye on that the Goldcap for the EQ-6 is soldered to the pads GC1 while GC2 is used for the HEQ-5. The polarity is written on the PCB.
Guidance for the installation:
Handbox Update: In order to be able to configure and control parts of the new functionality with the original hand controller, i also reprogrammed the processor in the handbox . The voltage monitor of the old Handbox remains natural ; -) I tried to avoid the green LED and like that this LED is only active in the PEC training. The new LED color conditions: Red on = PEC active Red off = PEC deactivated Orange on = Key pressed Orange blinking = depending upon frequency, menu or voltage monitor Green blinking 10s = PEC Training begins Green on = PEC Training running The software in the handpaddle has now 3 menus. These can be activated over the switch (2x = menu 1, 8x = menu 2, 16x = menu 3) and the simultaneous press of all four direction keys. The LED flashes then 1x, 2x or 3x briefly. In the menu the direction keys have the following meaning: Menu 1: Left = Focus (-) Right = Focus (+) Up = Toggle 2x <=> 1.3x Down = Find Object (see Update Kit Protocoll) Menu 2: Left = speed Lunar Up = speed Siderial Right = speed Solar Down = no tracking (terrestial) Menu 3: Left = PEC off Up = Start/Stop PEC Training Right = PEC on Down = Invert GOTO DEC direction The HEQ-5/6 key exchange was also implemented again. If both RA or DEC keys are pressed at the same time, the direction keys are exchanged. The small tiny switches on the right side of the new handbox have thus for the time being retired :-)
Connection allocation of the connetor plug:
Too good lastly still the sayings, without which it unfortunately sometimes comes in our constitutional state to misunderstandings: The structural drawings veroeffenlichten by me, plates etc. are freely reproductionable for private users. A commercial marketing of devices to these structural drawings to attribute are, is permitted only with expressly written permission. Reproduction and application to own danger. For function and/or for possible damage, which due to reproductions, which from me publish structural drawings, plates etc. result in, I do not take over myself any responsibility! That sounds itself badly, is however half so wild (with me everything functions perfectly). I have only no desire me for a damage to answer for, only because someone has from such things no notion, a Akku short circuit and the hut or other absengelt. Copyright © 2004 by Anand Rajiva , E-Mail: MCU.Update@rajiva.de PLEASE CLICK TO VISIT THE SITE |
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