GraemeC

I bought an LVI2 autoguider and it seemed to work OK with my SSk2, although only having a limited display on the LVI handset I couldn't really judge how good it was. I could see some backlash in Dec and the device appeared to be making corrections. After some fiddling around I decided to concentrate on good polar alignment and unguided wide field imaging! Three to five minute shots, unguided, were fine. One thing I have done is to permanently secure the SS2K cable to the handset, I never make or break the connection and always carry the handset + cable as a unit. To avoid any flex and potential breaks the cable is secured with a cable tie to the side of the handset (see pic). There is already a small hole in the side that is big enough for a cable tie. I've also stuck on a piece of Velcro further down the cable.

The DSLR is the camera I prefer to use if I don't want to spend time setting up a laptop. I also like the idea that you get instant results (eg focusing) and flexibility in use. The CCD choice might clearly be the better one if you have a permanent secure observatory in a dark sky area. Graeme

Nice work! What keeps the rollers in line? Graeme

I have just returned from a 2 week holiday in Morocco, part of which was spent in the Atlas Mountains with my wide field setup. I have my cameras and the controller in hand luggage and the GPDX goes into the 20kg luggage for the hold. The suitcase weighs about 20kg including mount head, tripod legs, tools and portable counterweight. I do use some clothing as padding (protected, in a white rubble sack). I was interrogated a bit by one of the security guys at Marrakech on the flight back (they have an xray machine at the terminal entrance, for everything) but I showed him a picture of the whole setup and he was fine. I've never had any queries after checking in the bag & seeing it disappear towards the plane on the conveyor.