9 replies to this topic

[DavidD]

I now have a mount that I just realized the SkyScout could interface to. Then, in researching it, I realized that I needed another part, the SkyScout connect, to make it work.

Is the SkyScout connect really just a serial to USB converter? I can't see that it is anything else. If so, would it also allow me to hook my mount, which is a SynScan, to my computer, which doesn't have a serial port (and thus I'd need to get a serial to USB connector)?

Anyone having one of these they are no longer using, please PM me!

David

[Jawaid I. Abbasi]

I would be intrested too if it is a way to connect. Right now, I am using as DSC without connecting through wires.

[DavidD]

I hadn't even considered this capability when I bought the mount, but now that I know that I can connect the two, I figured I might as well figure out the best way to do it.

I have figured out, I think, that a serial to USB converter can be used to interface the mount to a computer. I don't know if the same will work with the SkyScout. Also, not all cables will work - some will, some won't.

David

[jimb1001]

I have the connect kit. I'm sure if you can get the pinouts you can make your own cables. The kit also includes mounting hardware for the HC/connect.
I works just fine. I have it hooked to a 6SE and tested it on my CG5 GT where it also worked fine.
I don't think an experienced observer needs it and it probably takes a bit more time but someone newer to astronomy could make good use of it.

[DavidD]

I consider it just another option at this point. In light polluted skies, it can come in handy. And, I've yet to search for any really deep sky objects, so it might help overcome some of the searching frustrations. Also, I've only been at this for about a year and a half, so I'm still a novice.

I'm actually more interested in trying it with computer control.

I think at this point I'll try a serial to USB adapter. I can make the cable needed to interface it, that's not an issue. I have the equipment for that.

David

[Jawaid I. Abbasi]

I agree with Dave and some of the objects are hard to find by just star hopping if the stars are not visible.

[DavidD]

Well, I couldn't get the two to talk. I tried a direct cable and a cross connect. I also tried going through a powered USB hub, in case power was the issue. So, looks like the SkyScout Connect is required.

As a side note, my shop computer (laptop) died, so I can't hook the mount to my computer until I replace the computer (which could be a while). So, for now, I'm back to using the mount stand-alone, once I get my scopes unpacked. It's been too cold (by Phoenix standards) anyway.

David

[dvshp]

I use a SkyScout with a SkyScout Connect hand controller on my Nexstar 6SE to obtain GPS sync. I have found this to be much more accurate than my manual input translating to a more accurate go-to result. Once I have the GPS link with the scope I can disconnect the SkyScout from the telescope. I mounted the Connect hand controller interface onto the telescope and I leave it connected. I reshaped the foam in the case to allow a bit more room since the controller adds almost an inch to the thickness of the paddle. Between GPS location and time, careful leveling of the tripod and accurate centering of the selected alignment stars using a 12mm illuminated reticule, I get a go-to that lands the selected object within a 27mm Panoptic (1.2 degrees) or better every time!

dave~shep

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Nexstar 6 SE
SkyScout & SkyScout Connect
Garrett 15x70 binoculars
Mini-Titan bino mount
Seibert bino-viewer
Baader film solar filter
Astronomy chair
more accessories all the time!

[DavidD]

I have not yet found a SkyScout Connect. I was trying to buy one used, but got no responses in the S&S section. One of these days I'll probably break down and buy one.

David

[core]

fwiw I picked one up right when it came out and had it paired to a 6SE for a while - but have since taken it out (still keeping it till I decide what to do with it). The main negative for me was the increased bulk of the hand controller unit with the Connect; plus once in a while if I forget the proper start-up sequence (iirc get SS booted up and GPS locked, then plug into SE mount, then turn on mount), it would refuse to connect to the mount. Still, it was quite nice to be able to send the goto to the mount from the SS.

my 2cent's opinion:

*better yet if they could loose the wired connection. I'd like to roam around the vicinity of my telescope with a SS, and be able to send goto commands wirelessly. Bluetooth would be nice - save Wifi for other connection.

* have it (wireless) built into the HC unit, not only for SS but ios/android/pc/mac/etc.

* forum here's a little quite, but imo the SS is still something quite special imo - even when using an android device or an ipad, I still like to use the SS every now and then - no glaring LCD blacklight or sidelight spill, no screen to get in the way. I'd wish Celestron would update the SS to a slightly slimmer model, improved screen (not necessarily full-color LCD, just better contrast and select able font size), wireless, and above all - how about releasing more audio guided tours? The built in ones and only 2 expansion cards are really quite good.