9 replies to this topic

[audioguy]

Good afternoon, all.

 

I have a (new) Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ6 on order and my assumption is that it will come with the "real" Type B USB 2.0 port.

Assuming I'm correct, can I use that port with an ASIAIR or other tinyputer, or do I need to go with the handset port and an EQMOD cable?

 

Sorry if this has been answered over and over, I can't seem to find a clear answer.

 

Secondarily, if the USB port is "real", does anyone know if they're using HID, block mode etc etc for the interface?

 

Thanks,

--jim

 

 

[afd33]

I don't know about the interface, but assuming it's like my EQ6R with the USB Type B port you shouldn't need the handset at all.

[audioguy]

Thanks!
Out of curiosity, what software are you using to run the mount?

—jim

Edited by audioguy, 18 April 2025 - 06:20 PM.

[CharLakeAstro]

Either EQ-Mod or GSS (Green Swamp Server) will work with your mount via USB with or without the hand controller. I use EQ-Mod with my AZ-EQ5 that way. The mount can then link via EQ-Ascom to observatory software such as Stellarium, or for imaging, NINA or Sharpcap, platesolving etc 

[audioguy]

Either EQ-Mod or GSS (Green Swamp Server) will work with your mount via USB with or without the hand controller. I use EQ-Mod with my AZ-EQ5 that way. The mount can then link via EQ-Ascom to observatory software such as Stellarium, or for imaging, NINA or Sharpcap, platesolving etc 

Ok, so to be clear you're using the USB port and cable, not an EQMOD cable between the mount handset connector and the PC.

I'm surprised the server software would still be required. With a conventional USB hardware connection, it seems like someone could have written a "native" ASCOM driver by now to eliminate one layer on the software cake.

 

Just to be covered on "race day" I ordered an EQMOD cable a few minutes ago. I have any number of USB 2.0 Type "B" cables, so either way I'll be covered. 

 

Thanks,

--jim

[OzAndrewJ]

Gday Jim

The "True USB" port on the mount itself is really just a dedicated/inbuilt  prolific chipset

USB2TTL converter set to run at 115k, ie it is the equivalent of an EQdir cable

with the converter in the mount, not the cable.

ie If you plug a std USB cable into it from a computer, it will just appear as a COM port

and a std ASCOM driver can then connect

Both EQMod and GreenSwamp are drivers, but they are also integrated as handset replacements

sooooo, if you use the USB port for access with EQMod or GSS, do not have the handset connected

or they will fight.

 

Andrew Johansen Melbourne Australia

[luxo II]

If you use ASIAir with a standard USB printer cable plugged into the mount, in ASI Air set the mount type to "EQMod", not Synscan.

It isn't a real USB port. What Synta did is shove 155200 baud serial into a USB plug.

 

Dont connect to the handset USB port. it sort-of works and sort-of-doesn't.

Edited by luxo II, 19 April 2025 - 04:01 AM.

[ayadai]

if you use the USB port for access with EQMod or GSS, do not have the handset connected

or they will fight.

USB "B" connector here. I've never used an EQmod cable. On occasion, I've had the hand set plugged in while using EQMod/GSS via USB and it was never an issue. Also, I'd recommend GSS over EQMod. Better interface, more stable.
 

[audioguy]

Thanks all, Crystal clear now.

I’m surprised they used that USB connector in that manner.
Not that it matters I have all the information I need.

Thanks again and clear skies!
—jim

Edited by audioguy, 19 April 2025 - 08:02 PM.

[CharLakeAstro]

Correct. Just a USB cable, not EQMod cable

 

Ok, so to be clear you're using the USB port and cable, not an EQMOD cable between the mount handset connector and the PC.

I'm surprised the server software would still be required. With a conventional USB hardware connection, it seems like someone could have written a "native" ASCOM driver by now to eliminate one layer on the software cake.

 

Just to be covered on "race day" I ordered an EQMOD cable a few minutes ago. I have any number of USB 2.0 Type "B" cables, so either way I'll be covered. 

 

Thanks,

--jim