Celestron 80GTL manual Appendix C RS-232 Connection, Communication Protocol

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Appendix C - RS-232 Connection

You can control your NexStar telescope with a computer via the PC port on the hand control and using an optional RS- 232 cable (see Optional Accessories section of manual). Once connected, the NexStar can be controlled using popular astronomy software programs.

Communication Protocol:

The NexStar telescopes communicate at 9600 bits/sec, No parity and a stop bit. All angles are communicated with 16 bit angle and communicated using ASCII hexadecimal.

PC Command

ASCII

Hand

Control

Response

Notes

Echo

Kx

X#

Useful to check communication

Goto Azm/Alt

B12AB, 4000

#

10 characters sent. B=Command,

 

 

 

12AB=Azm, comma, 4000=Alt.

 

 

 

If command conflicts with slew

 

 

 

limits, there will be no action.

Goto Ra/Dec

R34AB,

#

Scope must be aligned. If

 

12CE

 

command conflicts with slew

 

 

 

limits, there will be no action.

Get Azm/Alt

Z

12AB,

10 characters returned,

 

 

4000#

12AB=Azm, comma, 4000=Alt, #

Get RA/Dec

E

34AB,

Scope must be aligned

 

 

12CE#

 

Set Azm-Alt

S12AB, 4000

#

10 characters sent. S=Command,

 

 

 

12AB=Azm, comma, 4000=Alt

Cancel Goto

M

#

 

Is Goto in Progress

L

0# or 1#

0=No, 1=Yes; "0" is ASCII

 

 

 

character zero

Is Alignment Complete

J

0# or 1#

0=No, 1=Yes

The cable required to interface to the telescope has an RS-232 male plug at one end and a 4-4 telephone jack at the other end. The wiring is as follows:

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Contents NexStar 80GTL Table of Contents Telescope Maintenance Page NexStar 80GTL Refractor Telescope Assembling the NexStar NexStar 80 GTLBalancing the Telescope tube Attaching the Telescope to the TripodErect Image Diagonal Eyepiece FocusingStar Pointer Finderscope Protective plastic cover over the battery see figure Star Pointer InstallationStar Pointer Operation Cleaning and Storage Using your Solar FilterInstallation and Use About the FilterAttaching the Hand Control Outlet Battery PackPowering the NexStar HandNexStar GT Hand Control Hand Control Operation Alignment ProcedureAuto-Align Hints HelpfulTwo Star Alignment Quick-Align NexStar Re-AlignmentSelecting an Object Tour ModeObject Catalog Slewing to an ObjectDirection Buttons Set Up ProceduresRate Button EQ South Alt-AzEQ North OffUtility Features HintPage NexStar Ready Focusing Correct image as viewed when Using erect image diagonalDetermining Field of View General Observing HintsObserving the Planets Observing the MoonLunar Observing Hints Planetary Observing HintsTerrestrial Land Viewing Solar Observing HintsObserving Deep Sky Objects Terrestrial Land Viewing HintsSky Illumination SeeingCare and Cleaning of the Optics Page LPR Filter #94126A Appendix a Technical Specifications Opttiicall SpeciiffiicattiionGlossary of Terms Page Page Appendix C RS-232 Connection Communication ProtocolAppendix D Maps of Time Zones Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Celestron TWO Year Warranty

80GTL specifications

The Celestron 80GTL is a powerful and compact telescope designed for both amateur astronomers and experienced stargazers. It combines modern technology with user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the night sky. With its 80mm aperture, the 80GTL captures enough light to reveal a variety of celestial objects, from the moon’s craters to distant galaxies.

One of the standout characteristics of the Celestron 80GTL is its innovative Altazimuth mount. This mount provides smooth and precise movements in both horizontal and vertical directions, allowing users to easily track celestial objects as they move across the sky. The setup is quick and straightforward, making it ideal for beginners who may be intimidated by more complex mounts.

The telescope is equipped with Celestron’s StarScope system, which includes a computer-controlled GoTo mount. This feature allows users to automatically locate and track over 40,000 celestial objects with the push of a button. The included hand controller is intuitive and easy to navigate, giving users instant access to stars, planets, and deep-sky objects. This technology not only enhances the viewing experience but also helps novice astronomers learn about the universe with guided tours through the night sky.

Another notable feature of the Celestron 80GTL is its sturdy construction and lightweight design. Made from high-quality materials, it boasts durability while remaining portable for easy transport. Weighing just under 10 pounds, this telescope can be taken on camping trips or excursions, allowing users to enjoy astronomy in various locations.

Additionally, users will appreciate the 80GTL’s fully coated glass optics which provide excellent image quality and contrast. The included 25mm and 10mm eyepieces offer different magnifications, catering to diverse viewing preferences. Whether observing the rings of Saturn or the detail of lunar landscapes, the 80GTL promises clear and sharp images.

In summary, the Celestron 80GTL is a highly capable telescope, combining an accessible design with advanced technologies. Its user-friendly GoTo mount, quality optics, and lightweight build make it an exceptional option for anyone wishing to delve into the wonders of the cosmos, ensuring both enjoyment and education in the field of astronomy.