Adding Goto handset to AutoDob

[Darkstomper]

Can anyone advise if the handset upgrade ( http://www.firstlightoptics.com/skywatcher-mounts/skywatcher-synscan-v3-handset.html ) would do the same job as taking one from a goto mount? Or does it have some bits missing? I have read some other threads where people have explained their success doing this after buying a full goto mount and taking off the handset.

Thanks, Mark

[WayBig]

That particular one is for an equatorial mount. You'll need to get the Alt/Az version - though I couldnt spot it on the flo website.

[johninderby]

Yes you need an Alt-Az handset. As far as I'm aware no one in the UK sells the Az handset, just the EQ one. You can get one from Telescope Service but you could buy the whole Synscan AZ mount for not much more.

http://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/product_info.php/language/en/info/p4352_Skywatcher-SynScan-GoTo-Upgrade-fuer-Autotracking-Dobsons.html

http://www.firstlightoptics.com/skywatcher-mounts/skywatcher-az-goto-mount.html

Best bet though is picking up a second hand Az mount for about £100.00 or less.

John

[Veracocha]

I thought a Synscan handset could be flashed either way?

[johninderby]

While the handsets can be flashed either way the Az mounts use a 6 pin socket and the EQ mounts use an 8 pin socket so an EQ handset won't plug into an Az mount and vice versa. Some people have rewired their handset cables with varying results. Some have worked and others have fried the circuit boards in the Az mount.

Safest just to use an Az handset.

John

[Darkstomper]

Very useful thankyou.. Answered my query perfectly. Will start on the look out for a 2nd hand goto handset (alt/az!).

Are there any known issues with adding the handset? Or is it generally succesful now?

[johninderby]

Some of the original Auto tracking dobs had drives with a lot of slop in them and GOTO's weren't always reliable. The current version has improved drives so there shouldn't be any problems. I've never heard of any of the Auto dobs being damaged in any way by plugging in an Az handset though.

John

[Veracocha]

After PSP a 14" goto dob is sitting at Flo's with my name on it.

[wiseman]

I bought an auto, and upgraded with a goto handset, works great now!

[Darkstomper]

Thank you again for info. 14" auto goto dob @ £1700?! Golly.....

Wiseman looks like you have the scope I am getting! Would you mind sharing your thoughts on it? Could I ask some questions please? Or anyone else feel free if you have thoughts..

1. Does it hold collimation well?

2. Do you find the goto accurate?

3. Have you tried any photos with it?

4. What goto handset did you add?

5. Do you use a shroud?

I have 323 more questions but will save those! Cheers