Guider Control Port
All QSI 500 Series cameras have a Guider Control Port that can be used in conjunction with
MaxIm LE (or other CCD imaging software) to 'guide' your telescope mount for long-duration
astro-imaging. Ordinarily, the Port is only operational if the camera is being used as the
'Guider' camera, or if you’re using the QSI camera as your main imaging camera and have
configured MaxIm to send guider correction signals through the main camera. See MaxIm
online help for details.
The Guider Port employs an RJ-25, 6-conductor modular connector. The interface scheme is
compatible with most modern telescope mounts. Typically, a 6P6C (6 position, 6 conductor)
telephone-type cable is required for connecting the camera to the mount's guider input. This
type of cable is commonly available at retailers such as Radio Shack. A 10 ft. version of this
cable is supplied with 500 Series cameras.
The image below summarizes how the Guider Port and compatible cable are wired:
Note:
The Guider Port outputs employ optically isolated solid-state switches that
mimic the traditional behavior of older technology mechanical relays. The optical
isolation prevents potentially interfering or damaging ground loops between the
camera and mount.
This newer approach is compatible with most modern telescope mounts (Meade,
Losmandy, Software Bisque, etc.) that employ logic inputs pulled to VCC with a
suitable load resistor.
Adapter cables are available from third parties to connect to other guider port
configurations, such as the Mini-DIN connector on Takahashi mounts.
QSI also offers a Guider Break-Out Box with mechanical relays that can be
employed to adapt to virtually any older or non-standard mount configuration.
Caution:
Do not apply more than 50v or 50ma to the guider port pins. The
'Common' input must be at ground, or zero volt potential relative to the control
inputs of your mount. Contact QSI if you are uncertain about your mount's
electrical characteristics.
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