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Great HOW TOs here. While software can reside on a microcontroller, it is my style to execute it on a laptop, allowing the hardware to be simple and flexible. In addition, a laptop has sufficient computing power and a full bodied user interface, so that adequate attention may be given to precise tracking (sub arcsecond over many minutes), precise goto (35 arcsecond rms from horizon to horizon), and all encompasing error correcting routines. My software also tends towards straightforward text interfaces, as complex graphical environments are hard to operate in the dark and injurious to night vision. Finally, the ease of developing software and getting bug fixes and enhancements out to users the next evening should not be underestimated for laptop and PC platforms. Link.
DIY Computer Operated Telescopes
Great HOW TOs here. While software can reside on a microcontroller, it is my style to execute it on a laptop, allowing the hardware to be simple and flexible. In addition, a laptop has sufficient computing power and a full bodied user interface, so that adequate attention may be given to precise tracking (sub arcsecond over many minutes), precise goto (35 arcsecond rms from horizon to horizon), and all encompasing error correcting routines. My software also tends towards straightforward text interfaces, as complex graphical environments are hard to operate in the dark and injurious to night vision. Finally, the ease of developing software and getting bug fixes and enhancements out to users the next evening should not be underestimated for laptop and PC platforms. Link.
Posted by Phillip Torrone |
Jul 23, 2005 12:54 AM
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Mel's site is simply the best computer-controlled telescope resource out there. I used it and David Ek's site to build an encoder system for a hundred-year old refractor. As appropriate for such a system I put the circuit board in an Altoids tin.
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