Appendix B RS-232 Connection | Orion #10134 XT8g, 10135 XT10g

Appendix B: RS-232

Connection

The SkyQuest XTg Mount is 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 arcsec- onds/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 = 224.

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.

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.

Orion #10134 XT8g, 10135 XT10g Appendix B RS-232 Connection, Sending a Slow-GoTo Command

Models: 10135 XT10g 10134 XTBg 10135XT12g #10134 XT8g