Advanced Observatory Control Software & Hardware 3.0

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This new software and hardware package boasts many features not found in other observatory automation packages. Our controller hosts stored configuration settings and a microprocessor that can automatically open or close the observatory at a specific time or signal (e.g.: cloud sensor and/or SBIG seeing monitor) – enabling unattended-automated control of your roll off roof observatory without the need of a pc. The cloud sensor can execute an automated routine consisting of park telescope, close roof or open roof, all with feedback from the roof position limit switches and mount parked switch. If used with our height adjustable piers, you will be able to raise or lower the pier as part of your observing session automation routine. In this scenario, the cloud sensor and/or seeing monitor can execute an automated routine consisting of pier down, park telescope, close roof or open roof, pier up, all with feedback from the position limit switches on the roof, pier and mount. These routines can also be activated from popular observatory control packages such as CCDAutoPilot and ACP, since it is ASCOM compatible. Optional plug in modules that are available with our controller are Wi-Fi and cell tower control modules.

Features of the advanced observatory control Software and Hardware

Microprocessor-based control board.
Stored configuration and logic control for unattended operation of the observatory.
Positional feedback switches for confirmation of pier and roof locations.
Telescope/Mount parked position input included
ActiveX control for easy integration into other software packages.
Manual push-button controls. Pier Up / Down, Roof Open / Close
USB connectivity.
Real-time indicators of feedback devices. Pier lowered, roof open.
Observatory scheduler, program a time when to open and when to close the observatory roof.
Redeveloped using Microsoft .NET Frameworkฎ.
Provides the latest and greatest in software technology.
Boltwood Cloud sensor configuration. Parameters available for reaction to the cloud sensor input.
Ethernet connectivity.
ASCOM compatibility.
Optional Wi-Fi controller connectivity.
Optional cellular tower connectivity
Can be incorporated into any roll off roof observatory




Product Gallery  click for a larger Picture

Tri-Pier 2 in fully raised position with Paramount ME at its "home" position. The raising of the pier allows me to clear the roofline	The Pier-Tech AOCS which remotely opens/closes the Rollamatic skylight, raises/lowers the pier and responds to the Boltwood Cloud Sensor. The additional circuitry in the top left and top right is to interface the AOCS to the Rollamatic system	Limit switches from AOCS. The one in the middle of the opening indicates when the roof is closed and the one at the end, when it is open.
Tri-Pier 2 in fully raised position with Paramount ME in its parked position.	Tri-Pier 2 mounted on a wooden pedestal atop a reinforced wood floor. The legs have been re-used in my setup to add stability and distribute the weight -- this seems to be helpful when the pier is fully raised. The pier is supporting a Paramount ME plus two imaging trains. The first train is C11 + Optec TCF-S focuser + OAG with SBIG Remote Guide Head + SBIG ST-2000XM with CFW-10 filter wheel. The second train is a Takahashi FSQ-106EDX + FLI PDF focuser + STL-CFW8 + STL-11000M. The total weight including the mount is around 280 lbs.

	SPRINT - Cellular Package • Digi Connect WAN CDMA with Antenna • Sprint DIN Rail Bracket for Mtg Product on Industrial 12VDC Wall Mount Power Supply • Requires: Sprint Cellular Network Contract / Service Activation	$1000.00
	VERIZON - Cellular Package • Digi Connect WAN CDMA with Antenna • Sprint DIN Rail Bracket for Mtg Product on Industrial 12VDC Wall Mount Power Supply • Requires: Verizon Cellular Network Contract / Service Activation	$1000.00
	802.11 - WiFi Package • Digi Connect Wi-SP (single-unit pack w/power supply and dipole antenna)	$1500.00
	Ethernet - 10/100T Package • DIN rail and wall mount kit included • 12VDC Wall Mount Power Supply	Contact Us
	USB Package • Digi Edgeport/1 USB to 1 DB9 Serial Connector • No Power Supply Needed	Contact Us
	Telescope/Mount parked position switch with adhesive back	$75.00

OCS

Observatory Control Software & Hardware

$2000