New Skywatcher AZ GTi goto wifi mount
#3751
Posted 27 July 2023 - 01:48 PM
- A Y and DeWynter like this
#3752
Posted 19 August 2023 - 03:07 PM
I have a AZ-GTi on A Skywatcher wedge, upgraded to the proper firmware for eq mode, connected with a Synscan USB cable to a ASiair mini. I am having some problems getting the mount to align and sync. I level and point the mount north, then turn on the Asiair mini. I was hoping that that would be close enough to allow plate solving to handle any further alignment because I am only doing EAA with 10-20 second exposures with my 50 mm scope.
My questions:
What is the preferred mount driver? see that there is EQmod and AZ-Gti Synscan wifi. (I am not connecting via wifi)
Is is necessary or any advantage in using the Synscan app to do an alignment prior to turning on the Asiair mini? I am trying to not have to do a polar alignment, because I don’t have a view of Polaris, but could do a regular star alignment if needed.
What is the purpose of the “sync to mount” selection in the Asiair?
Thanks for any help.
#3753
Posted 05 September 2023 - 02:48 PM
How is with a SW ED80 F/7.5?
Paul
#3754
Posted 05 September 2023 - 09:49 PM
I have a AZ-GTi on A Skywatcher wedge, upgraded to the proper firmware for eq mode, connected with a Synscan USB cable to a ASiair mini. I am having some problems getting the mount to align and sync. I level and point the mount north, then turn on the Asiair mini. I was hoping that that would be close enough to allow plate solving to handle any further alignment because I am only doing EAA with 10-20 second exposures with my 50 mm scope.
My questions:
What is the preferred mount driver? see that there is EQmod and AZ-Gti Synscan wifi. (I am not connecting via wifi)
Is is necessary or any advantage in using the Synscan app to do an alignment prior to turning on the Asiair mini? I am trying to not have to do a polar alignment, because I don’t have a view of Polaris, but could do a regular star alignment if needed.
What is the purpose of the “sync to mount” selection in the Asiair?
Thanks for any help.
I could never get the mount to connect to the Air if I turned the mount on before the Air. Always turn your air on first, then turn on the mount, especially if you are using wifi. Do a rough physical polar alignment with everything off, turn the Air on, wait until the Air beeps and then turn on the mount. Then try connecting with the EQMod option under mounts if you are doing the cable connection or the Sky Watcher AZ-GTi if you are connecting via wifi. Wifi is very easy, I don't know why anyone would do it the cable way, you can cut that cable and make your life easier.
- licho52 likes this
#3755
Posted 06 September 2023 - 12:32 AM
I cleaned and adjusted my mount. I adjusted both motors and there is no backlash at all. But I still have a lag when I operate the mount at minimum speed (ie 1). Can somebody explain me why?
#3756
Posted 06 September 2023 - 02:43 AM
I didn't click on all the YouTube links people have provided, but I'd agree that people like Robservatory, Andrea Minoia, Cuiv, Trevor Jones, and others who've made videos on the AZ-GTi and/or the ASIAirPlus, have been very informative.
Regarding controlling the AZ-GTi with ASIAir Plus, my astro-imaging train--ASI533MCPro, ASIAirPlus, guide scope and camera, and AZ-GTi on Skywatcher wedge (EQ firmware 3.4)--is working with no problems. I use an EQmod cable because that's what ZWO recommends for connecting an AZ-GTi to an ASIAirPlus. This is cable I use (the key is that it's an EQmod cable and has the RJ12 connector that fits the AZ-GTi):
https://www.amazon.c...ct_details&th=1
It's pretty amazing how well all these components work together with the ASIAir app on my iPhone. I'm especially impressed with the plate solving and the SkyAtlas (planetarium) component, which makes GoTo and framing very simple.
#3757
Posted 06 September 2023 - 06:53 AM
I cleaned and adjusted my mount. I adjusted both motors and there is no backlash at all. But I still have a lag when I operate the mount at minimum speed (ie 1). Can somebody explain me why?
It's backlash, just not enough to feel by hand. Or possibly, it's early enough in the gear train that moving the scope end doesn't activate the backlash.
#3759
Posted 01 October 2023 - 01:19 PM
Hi, I want to ask if my mount is working "normally"?
I am talking about the freedom find function. In the app, I turn on external encoders so that it works. The mount runs in tracking mode, I release the clutches and I want to turn the mount manually, but at the same time the motors also start and try to turn the mount in the opposite direction that I am moving with it. I have to loosen the clutches enough and hold it where I want until motors stop. However after that, it determines the positions correctly through the encoders and can return to the original target precisely. It just tries to correct itself with the motors during every small/larger manual movement .
To prevent this from happening, I have to turn off tracking before each manual shift and then turn it on again. Which is inconvenient. External encoders are always switched off by default and must be switched on every time the mount is switched on.
Is it the same for you? If not, what firmware version do you have? I have the last 3.40 from the web. I tried both the normal and the right side version which enables eq mod.
#3760
Posted 01 October 2023 - 01:56 PM
Hi, I want to ask if my mount is working "normally"?
I am talking about the freedom find function. In the app, I turn on external encoders so that it works. The mount runs in tracking mode, I release the clutches and I want to turn the mount manually, but at the same time the motors also start and try to turn the mount in the opposite direction that I am moving with it. I have to loosen the clutches enough and hold it where I want until motors stop. However after that, it determines the positions correctly through the encoders and can return to the original target precisely. It just tries to correct itself with the motors during every small/larger manual movement .To prevent this from happening, I have to turn off tracking before each manual shift and then turn it on again. Which is inconvenient. External encoders are always switched off by default and must be switched on every time the mount is switched on.
Is it the same for you? If not, what firmware version do you have? I have the last 3.40 from the web. I tried both the normal and the right side version which enables eq mod.
When the scope is on, it's on and ready to track. The motors will not inhibit movement nor fight against manual use. If they are, your clutches are still too tight. You might "hear them" as they would normally keep tracking in sidereal whether clutches are engaged or not. If you don't loosen the clutches completely to prevent the motors from engaging you risk damaging them.
#3761
Posted 01 October 2023 - 03:19 PM
https://youtube.com/...Sv_e8AB_O_a22kS
Edited by marek_K, 01 October 2023 - 03:23 PM.
#3762
Posted 01 October 2023 - 03:30 PM
Tracking is ON, external encoders are ON. When I move it, motors go against my movement at full speed. It can be easily seen on AZ axis as bearingn is tight even when the clutch is loose.
Yeah, some of the AZGTi's have an overly tight AZ in manual movement, even with the clutch completely loose. But the motor should not be doing anything with the clutch loose. My guess is it's just binding in Az having nothing to do with the motor.
Mine has only one tight (slight binding) spot in Az manual rotation, and it's not the motor or gears still being engaged though.
This YouTube Video on it shows what's going on.
#3763
Posted 01 October 2023 - 04:28 PM
It's slop in the motor reduction gear assembly. I've torn down one of the stepier motors and there is a reduction gear assembly on top of the motor axle. The exle you see protruding from the motor is actually part of the reduction gear assembly and it has slop in it. Some had a measure of success pressing the two gears together, the one coming from the motor and the worm gear, before locking the gears down. It helped a bit in my case, but not enough. The biggest effect shows up in Dec. I just recommend making your drc balance heavy in one direction hopefully keeping the gears engaged enough but not too unbalanced to strain the motor. Same with Ra really.It's backlash, just not enough to feel by hand. Or possibly, it's early enough in the gear train that moving the scope end doesn't activate the backlash.
#3764
Posted 02 October 2023 - 05:36 AM
Yeah, some of the AZGTi's have an overly tight AZ in manual movement, even with the clutch completely loose. But the motor should not be doing anything with the clutch loose. My guess is it's just binding in Az having nothing to do with the motor.
Mine has only one tight (slight binding) spot in Az manual rotation, and it's not the motor or gears still being engaged though.
This YouTube Video on it shows what's going on.
Clutch is not my problem at all here, Thank you for the link I have seen it before. My problem is only that with external encoders ON and tracking ON , when I move scope manually, motor is turning it opposite direction. And I am not sure if it is normal behavior of mount. I have to turn tracking off to stop that from happening. I am just curious if other mounts do it the same, because I do not get why it is doing that. It is really inconvenient to turn tracking off every time I want to move scope manually.
Edited by marek_K, 02 October 2023 - 05:38 AM.
#3765
Posted 02 October 2023 - 08:49 AM
Do you mean the mount motors are turning it in the opposite direction after you lock the clutches again?
What side of the mount are you putting your scope on? If you've flashed the firmware (for EQ or Alt-Az modes), you must mount the scope on the right side not the left. If you don't, the mount will think your scope is pointing in the opposite direction.
- archer1960 likes this
#3766
Posted 02 October 2023 - 10:32 AM
Do you mean the mount motors are turning it in the opposite direction after you lock the clutches again?
What side of the mount are you putting your scope on? If you've flashed the firmware (for EQ or Alt-Az modes), you must mount the scope on the right side not the left. If you don't, the mount will think your scope is pointing in the opposite direction.
No they start to move the moment I move the mount manually. Mount does not know if clutches are tightened or not. I have tried normal and right arm (az/eq) firmware v3.40, it is the same. External mount encoders must be ON for freedom find to work.
What I am asking is if someone is using external encoders and freedom find, and if it behaves the same. Because I have to turn off tracking for the time I move scope manually to stop motors moving opposite direction. I posted video above https://youtube.com/...Sv_e8AB_O_a22kS
edit: I have info from fellow astronomer on local board that it is how it behaves now with current synscan pro, it did not do that with some older synscan app versions. I suppose not that much people is using freedom find and external encoders(the are lot less accurate than the ones on motors). I prefer to target planets by red-dot manually , rather then slew all the sky with motors. And without external encoders activated , mount loose orientation.
Edited by marek_K, 02 October 2023 - 10:34 AM.
- MarkMittlesteadt likes this
#3767
Posted 02 October 2023 - 10:39 AM
No they start to move the moment I move the mount manually. Mount does not know if clutches are tightened or not. I have tried normal and right arm (az/eq) firmware v3.40, it is the same. External mount encoders must be ON for freedom find to work.
What I am asking is if someone is using external encoders and freedom find, and if it behaves the same. Because I have to turn off tracking for the time I move scope manually to stop motors moving opposite direction. I posted video above https://youtube.com/...Sv_e8AB_O_a22kS
edit: I have info from fellow astronomer on local board that it is how it behaves now with current synscan pro, it did not do that with some older synscan app versions. I suppose not that much people is using freedom find and external encoders(the are lot less accurate than the ones on motors). I prefer to target planets by red-dot manually , rather then slew all the sky with motors. And without external encoders activated , mount loose orientation.
That's also how I use mine. I have never had to turn my secondary encoders "on". They've always been on by default.
I'm not experiencing your issue. Something isn't right with yours. Faulty app, circuit board, etc. Sorry I can't be more help.
#3768
Posted 03 October 2023 - 07:00 PM
does anyone tried pec training on az-gti mount using eqmode or gss? Worth doing it or let phd2 handle periodic error? I installed gss and looks like it only have ppec, which i belive not supported by az-gti.
- MarkMittlesteadt likes this
#3769
Posted 04 October 2023 - 08:57 AM
does anyone tried pec training on az-gti mount using eqmode or gss? Worth doing it or let phd2 handle periodic error? I installed gss and looks like it only have ppec, which i belive not supported by az-gti.
I'm still trying to figure out how to make mine brew a pot of coffee.
#3770
Posted 11 October 2023 - 12:53 PM
I've been away from the hobby for a while. Thinking about changing up most of my big clunky equipment and going newer/smaller/simpler.
Just trying to spec out my new build from the ground up. I think I would just need the mount and a good scope. Any thoughts or alternatives?
Mount: GTI
Scope: I've got widefield covered with my Rokinon 135mm. What scope are people running for deeper DSO images...Redcat? Anything else out there that people are happy with?
Guiding: have SV165 and 120mm camera (using an L-bracket on my Canon 60D with 135mm lens. Hoping the new setup will have a better guide mount)
Tripod: have a solid video production tripod that works well with my Star Adventurer
Camera: have 533MC, Canon 60D
Control: have miniPC with remote wifi to laptop, also have Astroberry which I don't like, might consider other options
Polar: can I use my iPolar on this? otherwise Sharpcap just as good?
Power: lithium ion battery pack under $100?
Container: for the miniPC, usb hub, battery pack, etc.?
Accessories: what else am I missing? any other new stuff out there that I should think about?
Edited by michaelwriting, 11 October 2023 - 01:06 PM.
#3771
Posted 15 October 2023 - 09:09 AM
When you say "deeper", what focal length are you looking at? My AT72EDII gives really nice results at ~420mm for a pretty reasonable cost (~$460, IIRC).
#3772
Posted 16 October 2023 - 06:38 PM
I've been away from the hobby for a while. Thinking about changing up most of my big clunky equipment and going newer/smaller/simpler.
Just trying to spec out my new build from the ground up. I think I would just need the mount and a good scope. Any thoughts or alternatives?
Mount: GTI
Scope: I've got widefield covered with my Rokinon 135mm. What scope are people running for deeper DSO images...Redcat? Anything else out there that people are happy with?
Guiding: have SV165 and 120mm camera (using an L-bracket on my Canon 60D with 135mm lens. Hoping the new setup will have a better guide mount)
Tripod: have a solid video production tripod that works well with my Star Adventurer
Camera: have 533MC, Canon 60D
Control: have miniPC with remote wifi to laptop, also have Astroberry which I don't like, might consider other options
Polar: can I use my iPolar on this? otherwise Sharpcap just as good?
Power: lithium ion battery pack under $100?
Container: for the miniPC, usb hub, battery pack, etc.?
Accessories: what else am I missing? any other new stuff out there that I should think about?
I use an Astro-Tech 72mm EDII for wide field and a Skywatcher 130PDS for more reach for fainter DSO's. I have both an ASI294MC Pro ( wider field) and an ASI535MC for fainter DSO's and narrower FOV. The AZ GTI handles the 130PDs pretty well, tho it is more sensitive to wind.
Edited by Markovich, 16 October 2023 - 06:39 PM.
#3773
Posted 26 October 2023 - 01:31 PM
Hi all,
I am coming to ask few questions regarding this mount, so i hope you can answer me before i pull the trigger to order it, so here we go:
1. I have two different models Gitzo tripods since long time ago in photography, one is rated for 25KG i believe and the other is 18KG, oh wait, i have even three Gitzo as i have one smaller too for travel maybe rated for 12KG i don't know, but i can use any of them if i want, will that make the payload better then?
2. Does it track nicely say the sun or moon or planets because they are done by video captures say like 1-3 minutes?
3. What scopes weight i can use with it? For example can i use my 180mm [7" Mak? Or my Askar FRA400 or any of my 60mm ED doublet or even my 90mm APO triplet? I am planning to buy something like 106mm triplet and maybe 96mm doublet, are those fine with this mount?
4. Does it require to use CW? How much weight i should use?
5. Do i need to get the extension also?
6. Can i go to targets and track without polar alignment? I mean i know where is the north exactly and so approximately i can point to that so i don't need to polar alignment and just go to solar system objects, will it do the job fine for like 1-3 minutes video capturing even with slight drifting? And what about DSO, if i can manage PA and i do guiding, with a setup up to 5KG how long exposure it can handle?
Those are my questions for now as i need to buy a small cheap EQ mount so urgent to start over, the heavy weight of my AZ-EQ6 prevented me to do any imaging since last year, and from my bedroom i think i want a small mount, and i got a nice budget where i can order this SW AZ-GTi, but i want to get answers first, and i will focus more on solar system targets rather than DSO, and later i might do DSO even short exposure from my bedroom to be back into imaging, so i am waiting the answers.
#3774
Posted 26 October 2023 - 01:43 PM
1. The better the tripod, the better the mount will perform. You can make the mount perform worse if you put it onto a too light tripod. But a 25kg rated Gitzo won't make this a 10kg class mount.
2. Yes, absolutely. In AZ mode you need a good star alignment. In EQ mode a good polar alignment.
3. You absolutely can put a 7" Mak on it, but you won't enjoy it. It will be unbearably wobbly and instable. I did put my C8 on an AZ-GTI a few times. It worked, slewed and tracked acurately, but it wobbled horribly.
4. In EQ mode it needs counterweights. In AZ mode they help to stabilize the whole setup and prevent it from falling over.
5. In EQ mode, absolutely. In AZ mode, yes because it makes life easier.
6. In EQ mode do a polar alignment with compass and inclinometer. It will work good enough. In AZ mode you need a star alignment.
#3775
Posted 26 October 2023 - 01:52 PM
1. The better the tripod, the better the mount will perform. You can make the mount perform worse if you put it onto a too light tripod. But a 25kg rated Gitzo won't make this a 10kg class mount.
2. Yes, absolutely. In AZ mode you need a good star alignment. In EQ mode a good polar alignment.
3. You absolutely can put a 7" Mak on it, but you won't enjoy it. It will be unbearably wobbly and instable. I did put my C8 on an AZ-GTI a few times. It worked, slewed and tracked acurately, but it wobbled horribly.
4. In EQ mode it needs counterweights. In AZ mode they help to stabilize the whole setup and prevent it from falling over.
5. In EQ mode, absolutely. In AZ mode, yes because it makes life easier.
6. In EQ mode do a polar alignment with compass and inclinometer. It will work good enough. In AZ mode you need a star alignment.
1. So which tripod then? I don't believe that the standard tripod which coming with it is better than Gitzo 18-25KG one, but i might also buy a cheaper affordable 3rd party tripods that can handle even more than 25KG if necessary [can use it also for photography].
What is a star alignment? So the sun is a star, is it sufficient? I mean if i will use it by daylight how could i do polar alignment anyway, while at night which star or any star like Polaris itself?
Ok, i will buy the extension and i might start with 2KG CW for now.
Thank you.