Ultrastar C handbook Issue 1, August 2015
Barrel size
-
31.75mm dia. x 85mm long (1.25 inch eyepiece push fit size)
Barrel thread
-
25.4mm x 0.75mm ‘CS’ mount lens thread
Input connection -
‘Mini B’ USB socket for USB2.0
Output connection -
Standard RJ12 autoguider socket
Output type
-
Opto-isolated 4 lines (N,S,E & W) pull down with common return line
Download rate
-
Approx. 2 frames per second in binned 1x1 mode
Installing the Ultrastar C:
In most cases, the supplied CD will install the drivers and software for you. Just run the appropriate
‘Setup’ file for your operating system. However, be careful if you are using Windows XP, as the XP
drivers are not compatible with Windows 7 onwards. For XP, copy the XP drivers from the CD onto
your hard drive and then remove the CD. Run the driver installation from the files on your hard drive.
If you encounter any problems, you can download the latest drivers from our web page at
http://www.sxccd.com/support .
The SX Ultrastar C control software is UltrastarC.exe and will be installed from the CD setup program.
An icon will appear on your desktop and may be clicked on to start the program. Please note that this
requests an ‘ini’ file when first started, but just click ‘OK’ until you reach the main program window
and then open ‘Set Program Defaults’. Now just click ‘Save’ and the ini file will be created.
Alternatively, PHD2, Lodestar Live, AstroArt and MaximDL all support the Ultrastar C and may be
preferred.
Imaging with the Ultrastar C:
The Ultrastar C makes an excellent colour imaging camera, especially when used as a ‘Live View’
imager. This method involves stacking many short exposures to achieve a high sensitivity with simple
equipment. It is ideal for public outreach events, where the images can be seen ‘developing’ in real
time, and for field use where the compact size of the Ultrastar C makes for easy transport and setup.
The free software ‘Starlight Live’ (previously ‘Lodestar Live’) from Paul Shears, makes Live Viewing
very easy and is highly recommended. Starlight Live recognises the Ultrastar C automatically and all
that you need to do is to open the software and select ‘Live stacking’ and a suitable exposure time.
