Skywatcher Synscan Alt Az upgrade to GoTo

[One]

Hi folks, just a quick question.. Can I upgrade my SW Synscan handset for my 200p Dob to a GOTO system with this handset:

SkyWatcher SynScan V.3 Updateable Handset Hand Control ALT AZ [skyWatcher-20109] - 149.00 : 365Astronomy: Discovery for every day! ??

Thanks

[brantuk]

If your dob is the "Auto" tracking model then yes the Synscan AZ handset is the one you need - just swop the handsets as I did on mine and you have a goto dob. It uses the same connector so both handsets just plug straight in. It must be version 3.0 and above though and don't get an EQ handset by mistake.

[One]

Thanks brantuk.

One more question - If I used a Sky-Watcher Mercury 707 Synscan AZ GOTO Telescope handset on my dob would that be compatible?

[brantuk]

I looked at that one too when I did my upgrade - I think it's the little table top scope (or small mount at least). I decided not to use that one for some reason but can't for the life of me remember - it must've been incompatible for some reason - maybe the software version (might have been v 2.0). Here's the one I used:

SkyWatcher SynScan Goto AZ Mount & Tripod

I switched handsets and sold the remaining AZ Tracking mount/handset for £85. It was £189 at the time so I did the conversion for just over £100 taking postage into account. It has the required v 3.0 software which is flash upgradable (v 2.0 isn't)

[One]

I think it's best to get the synscan goto AZ Mount & Tripod combo then on your recommendation.

Cheers!