Re: [APML] 30-foot extension for ST-4 and other equipment possible?

[Joe Mize <jmize@globe-net.net>]

Ulrich;

     Put the St-4 control box next to the mount.  Most ST-4 users, myself
included, prefer working with the Control Unit next to the mount.

     Otherwise there's a RS-232 port which you connect your PC to.  I ran a
110' RS-232 cable to my backyard observatory without trouble.  I don't
remember exactly when but when I built my cable 4-5-6 years ago I asked about
a larger diameter cable at Radio Shack.  They told me I really didn't need to,
the normal diameter RS-232 cable would work fine at that distance.  And it
has.  Although I only use my ST-4 for guiding I've tried imaging too, the
download times, if any longer, were not noticeable.

     If you're worried about moisture and dew on the ST-4's control box, a
cheap cardboard box top placed over the ST-4's Control unit will work nicely.
Then place your other things you want to keep warm on top of the box top.
Also get some sort of white tape to wrap around the RS-232 cable so you'll not
trip over it in the dark..joe  :)



Ulrich Beinert wrote:

> > If this is a parallel port interface...they are
> > correct...extending that cable could also burn out
> > your I/O drivers.
>
> Is it a parallel port interface? I don't know. Sounds like I'd better not
> try this. Well, maybe I can have the control case next to the mount, but I
> prefer having it in the car....
>
> Ulrich
>
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                              Joe Mize
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