DIY Focusers

[Mav359]

Hi Guys

I really want an auto focuser but in order to that i need to upgrade my focuser to a feather touch and then buy the AF... £700 later im sure i would be happy with the results but when you can buy one of these continuous rotation servo's for £15 i'm curious to know how much more is involved in going from a £15 motor to a working focuser?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hitec-HSR-1425CR-Continous-Rotation-Dual-Ball-Bearings-/300876786939?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item460da76cfb

I found this which looks interesting

http://emediadesigns.com/focuser/

What would it take to make that usb controlled via the PC, is it possible? i could do the £700 after christmas but i'm wondering if i really have to

Cheers guys

[Bizibilder]

I made this:  http://stargazerslounge.com/topic/91973-fiddling-with-an-autofocusser/?hl=+focusser%20+bizibilder  a couple of years ago now (post 17 onwards) and it works very well.  It's not connected to the PC but is on the end of about 5m of wire into my warm room.  It is variable all the way from "fast" (whatever that is!) to a "nudge" of about 2-3° of rotation ie very "fine" indeed - especially as this is geared down by the belt by about 2:1.  Total cost was under £20.

[themos]

http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/sgl_observatory_automation/info lots of info about homemade focusers, PC-controlled and otherwise.

[JAS]

You could also look at the SGL automation group on yahoo groups.

They have a diy PC controlled stepper motor focuser, the software  is also Ascom compliant. I did this earlier in the year and it works very well.

Jason.

[JAS]

SNAP

[Mav359]

Cheers Guys

I found the ASCOM compliant one, was looking at replicating Chris's (YesYes).

Ive already ordered the Motor, Arduino nano & Easy Driver Board.

See what heppens from here

[Gina]

I have both Arduino controlled ones with stepper motors and DC motor with plastic gearbox driven from a variable DC source and reversing switch.  I haven't yet got anything running from PC - just a control box in the warm room.

Good luck with yours

[Mav359]

Luck may be needed in order for me to get this right