5 replies to this topic

[Ironh59]

I am looking to buy my first tracking mount and have finally decided to go with HEQ5. There are two options available. If I am able to find some old stock or used mounts, I am getting hand controller with it. However all the new or pre-order stock only comes with a WiFi adapter. I was told by one of the retailers that it’s because of semiconductor shortage. Is not having a hand controller going to make a big difference? What functionality/feature I will miss out on if I don’t have hand controller?

[Phil Sherman]

If you don't have the hand controller, you'll need to always have another device (ie phone, tablet, computer) with you to run the mount. Your observing sessions will be limited to how long the controlling device will run. An HEQ5 with a hand controller can be run from a computer using EQASCOM (aka EQMOD) which has, as a prerequisite, installation of the ASCOM platform.

 

I believe that the one function you loose without the hand controller is the ability to monitor the voltage being fed to the mount.

[Ironh59]

If you don't have the hand controller, you'll need to always have another device (ie phone, tablet, computer) with you to run the mount. Your observing sessions will be limited to how long the controlling device will run. An HEQ5 with a hand controller can be run from a computer using EQASCOM (aka EQMOD) which has, as a prerequisite, installation of the ASCOM platform.

 

I believe that the one function you loose without the hand controller is the ability to monitor the voltage being fed to the mount.Th

Thanks Phil.

I checked with the retailer. They confirmed that it will still be compatible with EQMOD. I guess ASCOM platform will need to be installed on my computer, that would give me full control of the mount?

[sunrag]

You can find a used HC fairly easily in CN classifieds. HC is always a handy thing to have, for example to move the scope while looking through the eyepiece at the same time for centering an object.

[Ironh59]

You can find a used HC fairly easily in CN classifieds. HC is always a handy thing to have, for example to move the scope while looking through the eyepiece at the same time for centering an object.

Thanks, a used one looks like a better option. Currently the stores here are not able to get new stock from suppliers.

[DeepSky Di]

I started out using the hand controller but it has lived in a box since I started using my ASIAIR Pro. The same would be true if I was using a computer instead of the AAP.