Orion EQ-G Appendix C RS-232 Connection, Additional RS-232 Commands Sending a Tracking Rate

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Appendix C: RS-232

Connection

The Atlas EQ-G mounts equipped with the GoTo hand control- ler are designed to receive commands sent from a computer’s RS-232 COM port (via the computer interface cable). The hand controller will communicate with the computer at 9600 bits/sec, no parity, no stop bit. All angles are communicated with 16 bits and communicated using ASCII hexadecimal. The chart below shows the ASCII commands from the PC, and what the hand controller’s response will be.

Additional RS-232 Commands

Sending a Tracking Rate

1.Multiply the desired tracking rate (arcseconds /second) by

4.For example: if the desired track rate is 120 arcseconds/ second (approximately 8 times sidereal rate), then the TRACKRATE = 480.

2.Separate TRACKRATE into two bytes, such that (TRACKRATE = TrackRateHighByte*256 + TrackRateLowByte). For example, if TRACKRATE = 480, then TrackRateHighByte = 1 and TrackRateLowByte =

3.To send a tracking rate, send the following 8 bytes:

a. Positive Azm tracking: 80, 3, 16, 6, TrackRateHighByte, TrackRateLowByte, 0, 0

b. Negative Azm tracking: 80, 3, 16, 7, TrackRateHighByte, TrackRateLowByte, 0, 0

c. Positive Alt tracking: 80, 3, 17, 6, TrackRateHighByte, TrackRateLowByte, 0, 0

d. Negative Alt tracking: 80, 3, 17, 7, TrackRateHighByte, TrackRateLowByte, 0, 0

4.The number 35 is returned from the hand controller.

Sending a Slow-GoTo Command

1.Convert the angle position to a 24 bit number. Example: if the desired position is 220, then POSITION_24BIT = (220/360)*224 = 10,252,743

2.Separate POSITION_24BIT into three bytes such that (POSITION_24BIT = PosHighByte * 65536 + PosMedByte

*256 + PosLowByte). Example: PosHighByte = 156, PosMedByte = 113, PosLowByte = 199

3.Send the following 8 bytes:

a. Azm Slow Goto: 80, 4, 16, 23, PosHighByte, PosMedByte, PosLowByte, 0

b. Alt Slow Goto: 80, 4, 17, 23, PosHighByte, PosMedByte, PosLowByte, 0

4.The number 35 is returned from the hand controller.

Resetting the Position of Azimuth or Altitude

1.Convert the angle position to a 24bit number, same as Slow- Goto example.

2.Send the following 8 bytes:

a. Azm Set Position: 80, 4, 16, 4, PosHighByte, PosMedByte, PosLowByte, 0

b. Alt Set Position: 80, 4, 17, 4, PosHighByte, PosMedByte, PosLowByte, 0

3. The number 35 is returned from the hand controller.

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Contents #9996 Orion Atlas EQ-GPage Assembly Table of ContentsParts List UnpackingBalancing a Telescope Attaching a TelescopeTurns, until you can slide the telescope tube forward Setting Up and Using the Equatorial MountPolar Axis Finder Scope Polar AlignmentAlignment of the Polar Axis Finder Scope Confused About Pointing the Telescope? Using the Polar Axis Finder ScopeAtlas EQ-G Dual-Axis Controller Atlas EQ-G Dual-Axis hand controller Setting the Slewing SpeedAtlas EQ-G GoTo Hand Controller Attaching the GoTo Hand Controller Installing the hand controller bracketGoTo Hand Controller Operation Telescope and mount in their home position AlignmentTwo-Star Alignment Three-Star AlignmentOne-Star Alignment Tips for Choosing Alignment StarsPointing Accuracy Enhancement PAE Object CatalogSelecting an Object Shortcut ButtonsOther Functions Identifying an Unknown Object Recalling a User Defined ObjectLinking with a Computer Auto GuidingUpdating the GoTo Hand Controller Preparing the Computer for the Update#7795 Dual-Axis hand controller Technical Specifications#7796 GoTo hand controller Atlas EQ-G GoTo Hand Controller Menu Tree Testing for Cone Error Cone Error CalibrationCalibration Procedure Appendix a Enhancing the Pointing AccuracyB.Rotate the telescope 180 about the R.A.axis PEC Training Appendix B Periodic Error Correction PECPlay Back the PEC Record Sending a Slow-GoTo Command Additional RS-232 Commands Sending a Tracking RateResetting the Position of Azimuth or Altitude Appendix C RS-232 ConnectionAppendix D Standard Time Zones of the World One-Year Limited Warranty

EQ-G specifications

The Orion EQ-G Equatorial Mount is a popular choice among amateur astronomers and astrophotographers seeking a reliable and versatile platform for their telescopes. Known for its robust build and advanced technology, the EQ-G mount can support a wide range of telescope sizes, making it ideal for both visual observations and astrophotography.

One of the standout features of the Orion EQ-G is its precision go-to capability. Equipped with a computer-controlled system, users can easily locate and track celestial objects with remarkable accuracy. The mount comes with a database that includes thousands of celestial objects, allowing users to automatically point their telescope to stars, planets, galaxies, and more with the push of a button.

The EQ-G mount features a sturdy aluminum construction, ensuring stability even under heavy loads. It can support telescopes weighing up to 30 lbs, making it suitable for medium to large telescopes. The mount's adjustable altitude and azimuth motions allow for smooth tracking of celestial objects as they move across the sky, a vital characteristic for long-exposure astrophotography.

To enhance user experience, the EQ-G is equipped with a built-in dual-axis servo motor drive system. This drive system delivers precise movement control, ensuring that the telescope can be accurately guided to desired targets. Furthermore, the mount is compatible with various control options, including hand controllers and computer software, allowing for a customizable and convenient observing experience.

Another notable technology within the EQ-G is the polar alignment scope. This feature aids in achieving accurate polar alignment, which is crucial for minimizing tracking errors during long exposures. By correctly aligning the mount, users can take stunning astrophotographs with minimal star trails.

For portability, the EQ-G mount comes with a quick-release design that allows for easy setup and takedown. Its adjustable tripod legs provide a stable base on various terrains, making it possible to observe from different locations, whether in the backyard or at a remote dark-sky site.

In summary, the Orion EQ-G Equatorial Mount combines an intuitive design with high-quality features, making it a fantastic choice for astronomy enthusiasts. With its go-to capability, sturdy construction, precise tracking, and user-friendly setup, the EQ-G stands out as a reliable and effective tool for exploring the wonders of the night sky. Whether you are capturing stunning images of celestial objects or simply enjoying visual astronomy, the Orion EQ-G meets the diverse needs of astronomers at all levels.
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