Guiding an HEQ5 with PHD

[Leebert]

Iv'e been looking into the possibility of using a SPC900 webcam (via the standard finderscope if possible) for for guiding a 200p on an HEQ5.

I've downloaded PHD and had a play but have yet to connect it to the mount.

There seems to be a few different ways of doing this and I'm not sure what to do next. The mount is a Synscan. I guess I need a USB to RS 232 convertor and then knock up a D type to RJ11 lead to the Synscan handset.

Is my thinking correct?

Is there a website or does anyone know the pinount and connection details for the rs232 lead / RJ11 connector please?

Many thanks.

[Stephen]

You need either an EQDir cable (removes the handset from the setup,) or a USB guider that connects to the guide port on the mount. (If you want to keep the handset in the chain.)

[1981suede]

Instructions to make your own cable are here - EQDIRECT

You can buy them from opticstar too.

[Leebert]

Thanks for the quick replies. The EQdir box from FLO looks ideal.

Is using an SPC900 through the standard finder scope a viable option for guiding?

Thanks.

Lee

[1981suede]

Thanks for the quick replies. The EQdir box from FLO looks ideal.

Is using an SPC900 through the standard finder scope a viable option for guiding?

Thanks.

Lee

Lots of people use it to guide. I plan to try myself when this blumming cloud passes!

[malc-c]

If your finder is the standard SW 8 x 50 then you can get an adapter from Modern Astronomy for £29 plus postage that allows the webcam to connect directly to it.

http://modernastronomy.com/accessories.html

A lot of people have used this combination with good results.

[1981suede]

If your finder is the standard SW 8 x 50 then you can get an adapter from Modern Astronomy for £29 plus postage that allows the webcam to connect directly to it.

Accessories @ Modern Astronomy

A lot of people have used this combination with good results.

Or you can hack something together using foam and a loo roll

[malc-c]

Or you can hack something together using foam and a loo roll

Don't forget the sticky backed plastic.... true Blue Peter Style

Woof - get down shep !

[1981suede]

Don't forget the sticky backed plastic.... true Blue Peter Style

Woof - get down shep !

Of course! No DIY job is complete without it

[Leebert]

Lol! Thanks guys

I was thinking of using some foam pipe lagging in a tube to start with.