DIY simple tracking handsets

[Fulhair]

Hello all,

I'm in the process of motorising my eq5 mount and decided to go down the DIY route as outlined on the AstroEQ site with DIY NEMA 14 stepper motors.

This will be fine when I'm at home and have access to mains power and a laptop however I would like to have a simple handset for in the field.

Something along the lines of one of these handsets:

http://www.firstlightoptics.com/skywatcher-mounts/enhanced-dual-axis-dc-motor-drives-for-eq-5.html

Ideally a basic tracking rate, with directional control to get on target, working from a 12V car battery. I am on a budget so cheaper is better but the option on an autoguider via ST4 would be great. Thing is that that the DIY motors I'm adding will likely need to be run at a different rate and power than the standard  handset so don't think that would work.

So my question is how should I best approach making a basic handset for these DIY motors?

Is it better/easier to modify and existing one and how should I alter it?

Or is there some kind of kit I can make one from?

I can do some soldering but not great when it come to designing electrics but willing to learn!

Any advice is welcome

Cheers

Fulhair

[Keltoi]

Hi Fulhair,  did you ever get any further with this?

[roblegion]

Keltoi, are looking at doing the same sort of thing?

I modified my EQ5 last Octoberish, I wouldn't be without my laptop in the field, and so use  a bluetooth PS3 hand controller with EQMOD.

Rob.

[Keltoi]

yes have the motors brackets and aduino etc all ready,  atm just trying to sort out a guide cam and will hopefully integrate that also