Orion 10134 XTBg Linking with a Computer, Disconnecting from the Computer, System Requirements

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Out of collimation

Collimated

Figure 31. A star test will determine if a telescope’s optics are properly collimated. An unfocused view of a bright star through the eyepiece should appear as illustrated on the right if the optics are perfectly collimated. If the circle is unsymmetrical, as in the illustration on the left, the scope needs collimation.

2.The hand controller will display a list containing the clos- est known object in different catalogs and its distance to the exact location where the telescope is pointed. Use the scroll buttons to view these objects.

3.Press ESC to exit this function.

Linking with a Computer

The SkyQuest XTg can be connected to a computer via the supplied computer interface (serial) cable. Many commer- cially available planetarium software programs can be used to control the SkyQuest XTg. Look for software that is com- patible with the Orion SkyQuest XTg Dobsonians, Celestron NexStar5i/8i, or NexStar GPS series. Starry Night Pro is one such astronomy software package. The description below will lead you through the procedure on how to connect and dis- connect the SkyQuest XTg to a computer.

1.Align the base as described previously (see “Alignment for GoTo Operation”).

2.Connect the supplied serial cable to the smaller of the two modular jacks (RJ-12) on the bottom end of the hand controller (Figure 22b). Connect the other end of the cable to the serial port of your computer. (If your comput- er uses USB ports instead of serial ports, you will need a USB-to-serial converter, available at most computer or electronics stores.)

3.In the planetarium software of your choice, choose “Orion SkyQuest GoTo or Celestron NexStar5i/8i or Celestron 8/9/11 GPS (any of these will work) in the driver setup and follow the instructions provided by the program to connect the mount and computer. The SkyQuest XTg will be under the full control of your computer once the con- nection is successfully established.

Disconnecting from the Computer

Follow the instructions provided by the planetarium software to close the connection to the hand controller.

On the hand controller, press ESC to resume normal hand controller operations.

Note: Do NOT disengage the SkyQuest XTg unit before you close the connection in the planetarium program. Doing so may cause some programs to freeze.

Updating the GoTo Hand Controller’s Firmware

From version 3.0 and up, the GoTo hand controller’s firmware can be updated over the internet. The firmware loader and firmware updates are available for download on the Orion website, OrionTelescopes.com

System Requirements

•SynScan AZ GoTo hand controller version 3.0 or greater

•Windows95 or later

•An available RS-232 COM port on the PC

•Computer interface cable (supplied)

•DC power supply (7.5V to 15V @ 100mA or greater out- put with 2.1mm tip positive plug)

Preparing the Computer for the Update

1.Create a folder where you will store the files necessary for the update.

2.On the OrionTelescopes.com website, go to the product page for your telescope. Look in the text description and you’ll see the Download Firmware Loader link. Click on it and save the Firmware Loader program to the folder you have created on your computer.You will need to download this program only once; after it is saved on your computer, only the firmware data file is needed for future updates.

3.On the same web page, find the Download Firmware Files link and click on it. Download and save the firmware update data file to the folder you created. The file will be named OrionVxxxxAZ.ssf, where xxxx indicates the ver- sion number of the firmware.

Updating the GoTo Hand Controller

1.Plug the modular plug end of the computer interface cable into the middle jack in the hand controller. Plug the serial connector end of the cable to the COM port on your PC.

2.Press and hold down the 0 and 8 numerical buttons simul- taneously, then plug the power supply into the hand con- troller’s DC power jack. The hand controller will beep and display “SynScan Update Ver. x.x” on the LCD screen.

3.Run the Firmware Loader program on your computer.

4.Click on the “Browse” box and select the OrionVxxxx.ssf file location where it was saved previously on your com- puter.

5.Click on the “Update” button, and the new firmware will begin loading into the hand controller. The Firmware Loader will show the progress of the update on your com- puter screen. It will usually take approximately 30 sec- onds for the new firmware to load into the hand controller. It may take significantly longer if a serial-to-USB adapter is employed on your computer.

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Contents Orion SkyQuest XTg GoTo Dobsonians Overview of SkyQuest XTg Dobsonian 12 shown Parts List Table of ContentsUnpacking Base hardware for SkyQuest XTg Box #2 Dobsonian Base Refer to Figures 3Assembly of the Dobsonian Base AssemblyAssembly of the Optical Tube XT12g Only Shaft Spring Operating the EZ Finder Connecting the Optical Tube to Dobsonian BaseAccessory Installation EZ FinderUsing Eyepieces Replacing the BatteryAligning the EZ Finder GoTo Hand Controller Dual Purpose buttons Setup for AutoTracking or GoTo ModeSetup for AutoTracking or GoTo Mode Scroll ButtonsAlignment for GoTo Operation Using the Telescope AutoTracking ModeBrightest Star Alignment Two-Star Alignment SW 235SEPointing Accuracy Enhancement PAE Using the Telescope in GoTo ModeObject Database in the Hand Controller Selecting an ObjectUtility Functions Other FunctionsTracking Setup FunctionsPage Identifying an Unknown Object Using the User Defined DatabaseSaving an object to the database Recalling a user-defined objectUpdating the GoTo Hand Controller’s Firmware Disconnecting from the ComputerPreparing the Computer for the Update Linking with a ComputerAligning the Secondary Mirror Collimating the Optical SystemCollimation Cap and Mirror Center Mark Preparing the Telescope for CollimatingAligning the Primary Mirror Using Your TelescopeStar-Testing the Telescope Focusing the Telescope1200mm = 42x 28mm Viewing with EyeglassesAiming/Pointing the Telescope MagnificationAstronomical Observing Moon Astronomical ObjectsCleaning Eyepiece Lenses Care and MaintenanceCleaning Mirrors SkyQuest XT8g SpecificationsSkyQuest XT10g SkyQuest XT12g Menu Tree Appendix a Time Zones of the World Appendix B RS-232 Connection Additional RS-232 Commands Sending a Tracking RateSending a Slow-GoTo Command Resetting the Position of Azimuth or AltitudeStar Charts Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page One-Year Limited Warranty

10135 XT10g, 10134 XTBg, 10135XT12g, #10134 XT8g specifications

The Orion #10134 XT8g, #10135 XT12g, #10134 XTBg, and #10135 XT10g are exceptional choices in the realm of computerized telescopes, catering to both novice stargazers and seasoned astronomers. These models are designed for easy use while delivering stellar performance and high-quality optics.

At the heart of these telescopes is the high-quality optics that Orion is renowned for. Each model features a primary mirror made from durable glass, enhanced with a parabolic shape to minimize optical distortions and improve light gathering capabilities. The XT8g and XT10g utilize an 8-inch and 10-inch mirror, respectively, while the XT12g boasts a large 12-inch aperture, providing users with deeper views of celestial phenomena. The larger the aperture, the more light the telescope can collect, revealing fainter objects in the night sky.

In terms of technology, the "g" designation signifies that these telescopes are equipped with Orion’s innovative GoTo system. This advanced motorized mount enables users to easily locate and track celestial objects with the push of a button, making the stargazing experience more enjoyable and accessible. The system includes a database of thousands of celestial objects, allowing users to explore the universe with ease.

The XTg models also come with an intuitive hand controller that features a user-friendly interface for navigating the night sky. Additionally, the telescopes can be controlled via a smartphone or tablet, providing flexibility for tech-savvy users who prefer modern conveniences.

Durability and stability are crucial in any telescope, and the XT series does not disappoint. Each model is constructed on a robust and stable base, designed to minimize vibrations and provide a steady view, even at higher magnifications. This stability ensures that amateur astronomers can enjoy detailed views, from the craters of the moon to the rings of Saturn and beyond.

Each telescope comes with a cradle-style altazimuth mount for easier adjustments and tracking capabilities. The included eyepieces allow for various magnifications, enhancing the viewing experience and enabling observers to appreciate the beauty of the cosmos.

In summary, the Orion XT series, including the #10134 XT8g, #10135 XT12g, #10134 XTBg, and #10135 XT10g, stands out for their exceptional optics, innovative GoTo technology, robust build quality, and user-friendly operation. These telescopes are ideal for anyone wishing to explore the wonders of the night sky, making them a worthy investment for years of astronomical discovery.
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