JonDotCon

Definitely! Well I'm pleased to update on this issue noobie error though it maybe.... I was using EBL rechargeable batteries from Amazon and I was getting the error indication above - btw I have since weighed the total payload and it was 1.9kg. Tonight I have put in new batteries (Aldi own brand - I've used these before for my celestron lcm114 and were great) and the good news is that it's perfectly fine - and the voltage is showing over 6. I can only assume that it was exactly what was advised. Unbalanced payload with a power supply issue from the rechargeable batteries. Again, thanks for the help people. It is a frustrating hobby, but I kind of think that that frustration is part of the fun when it gets resolved. Only one thing left; anyone know how to get rid of these clouds...?

Thanks for all the help. I've been using the forum a lot while researching, but I appreciate the replys for my first post. I'll update the thread with the results of my test later

Thanks for your reply @BCN_Sean. Just for my knowledge, I assume the voltage displayed in the bottom right is the voltage available to the tracker? These are the same batteries I was trying to use last night

Thanks for the replies. The weight of the camera lens and ball head is under 3 kilos. It makes sense now you mention it that it is a combination of power and balance. I ran a test inside last night and it tracked great with the full dovetail and counter weight - shame I couldn't make use of the clear night! I was using rechargeable AA's that weren't new so maybe that didn't help - although when I was connected to the ap it showed as over 5v. I'll try with some brand new batteries with the same payload (Just the green attachment and a ball head) and see if that helps. Again, thanks for your answers. It's a frustrating hobby when in the learning phase, but can't wait to see those tracked images on my computer

Hi, thanks for your reply - much appreciated I maybe have this backwards then - I thought a DSLR and lens would be ok to add directly to the tracker...

Hi all I'm new to tracking and just purchased my first star tracker - I'm sure given the subject line that you've guessed it's the Star Adventurer. I am using a DSLR with a 135mm prime lens - way within the payload limit. I've researched quite a bit before buying and thought I knew what to expect but this problem is strange and need some advice of anyone is willing to help. Again, from the subject bar, the problem is that I polar align, put the ball head straight onto the tracker (as I mentioned above way within the payload limit) and turn it on to standard sidereal rate band the following happens. 1. There is motor whirring and the tracker rotates for approx 5 seconds 2. The motor stops 3. The mode dial starts to flash at a quick rate indicating a motor speed error An additional point is that when I add the full bracket with the fine tuning mount assembly it seems to be fine. It is rotating with no error warnings... This is really frustrating. Is my purchase faulty or am I getting something wrong? Thanks in advance for any help!