2 Pegasus Astro
– Copyright 2021
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 bipolar & 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 / Orange) is fitted on the side of the unit. Each colour indicates
a mode and the led can be turned on or off by its software during an observing session.
o
Motor
output is fully compatible with “Robofocus
©
” or Moonlite pin out
(DMFC version =< v3.1)
o
An optional RJ45 to DB9 cable is needed to turn motor pinout fully compatible with
“Robofocus
©
” pin out
(DMFC version >= v3.2)
A cable converter (serial to mono jack) is required for simple DC pulse motors.
An external digital temperature sensor input is located near the motor connector. The digital probe of
length 0.6m is in the package. 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 position 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.
