2 Pegasus Astro – Copyright 2016
Introduction
The evolution of technology in astronomy requires a system which will assist the
focusing of the telescope with great accuracy. Fast optics and modern camera devices
require automatic focusing in every small period of time as temperature can affect
focal length and modify the optimal focus position.
Pegasus
D
ual
M
otor
F
ocus
C
ontroller (
DMFC
) has been developed to meet these
requirements. Designed in high quality with modern electronics it can provide digital
precise control of compatible motor focusers from a PC or from manual operation.
DMFC is suitable for visual astronomers and astro-photographers. Its unique design
can support two modes. It can drive DC motors, by its Pulse Width Modulation duty
cycle control or unipolar stepper motors for absolute position focusing. Using the click
of your mouse the mode can be instantly changed from ‘stepper’ to ‘dc’ motor.
Controller can be operated by PC by its USB 2.0 connectivity. Moreover, a manual
operation by utilizing the digital encoder on the side of the controller emulates the knob
of your focuser. Turn the knob as it was your telescope focuser. If you press it, the
steps of the motor will be reduced to 1:10.
There is a standard 2.1mm centre positive DC power connection which powers on the
controller.
A dual colour light emitted diode (Green / Yellow) is fitted on the top of the unit. Each
colour indicates a mode and the led can be turned on or off by its software during an
observing session.
Motor output is fully compatible with “Robofocus
©
”
or Moonlite pin out. A cable
converter (serial to mono jack) can be used for simple DC pulse motors.
An external digital temperature sensor input is located near the motor connector. The
digital probe of length 1.0m is supplied. The probe can be placed near the focuser so
the exact temperature of the focuser / environment can be seen through the supplied
software or ASCOM driver.
Controller supports absolute focusing and it stores the exact focuser position so it can
be retrieved in the next observing session. Moreover, it can store max speed of the
stepper motor to comply with motor specification.
The controller can be operated by the standalone DMFC software. (Available for
Windows OS). It is also fully compatible with ASCOM 6.
Controller firmware supports reprogramming via the USB 2.0 connection with the help
of a firmware upgrade software, for future features which may become available.
The controller has its own software drivers, applications, allowing full functionality to
