Can you reset the computerized mount for the Sky-Watcher Heritage-90 Virtuoso

[Lyall]

The function for me to move the computerized mount with the keypad has stopped working for the Sky-Watcher Heritage-90 Virtuoso. I just wondered if there was a sequence of buttons i needed to put into the keypad to reset it. Or if i could plug the mount into my computer to see if I could update the hardware, firmware or any software that it runs of which might allow me to start moving the telescope again through the keypad on the mount. I have looked extensively online for an answer but I have had know luck as of yet just thought I would ask on here to see if anyone has had this happen to them before. 

 

Cheers, Lyall  

[happy-kat]

Have you confirmed that it is not lack of power causing your issues or over tight clutches?

I have not read of your issue before.

Edited January 30, 2020 by happy-kat

[happy-kat]

If you have bought your virtuoso from a retailer then I think I would give them a call.

Once you try to make changes to your mount you may find any warranty is void.

https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/336944-firmware-for-the-virtuoso-skywatcher/?tab=comments#comment-3666937

[Lyall]

On 30/01/2020 at 20:28, happy-kat said:

Have you confirmed that it is not lack of power causing your issues or over tight clutches?

I have not read of your issue before.

Yep I have tried brand new batteries and also un-tightening the clutches slightly and still no luck 

[Lyall]

On 30/01/2020 at 20:54, happy-kat said:

If you have bought your virtuoso from a retailer then I think I would give them a call.

Once you try to make changes to your mount you may find any warranty is void.

https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/336944-firmware-for-the-virtuoso-skywatcher/?tab=comments#comment-3666937

I bought the telescope from EBay second hand not long ago so that probably won’t help me. The only thing I don’t understand is that it worked as soon as I set it up out of the box. Then the first time I want to use it outside it stops letting me control the telescope through the computerised mount completely... 

[happy-kat]

The lights being on and beeping suggest to me it's not terminal as the mount is offering a response of sorts.

Is the altitude dial set up so horizontal is level and on 0 and the tightening handle on that axis is in the top. Level the mount and point the mount North. Turn on.

[Lyall]

3 hours ago, happy-kat said:

The lights being on and beeping suggest to me it's not terminal as the mount is offering a response of sorts.

Is the altitude dial set up so horizontal is level and on 0 and the tightening handle on that axis is in the top. Level the mount and point the mount North. Turn on.

I have just done everything you said and turned it on but still no luck thanks for trying though.

[Geoff Lister]

Let's start with the basics.  I have 2 of the mounts (90 Mak. and 114 Newtonian) and both are very reliable.

On 30/01/2020 at 20:22, Lyall said:

The function for me to move the computerized mount with the keypad has stopped working for the Sky-Watcher Heritage-90 Virtuoso.

This implies that it initially worked for you when you first used it. Is this correct?

When you turn the power switch to "On", does the mount make a (very quiet) double "Beep" sound about every 2.5 seconds, with simultaneous flashing of the keyboard back-lighting (only visible in a subdued light)?

If not, (1) check that all the batteries are making contact in the holder, or (2) if the external 12V socket has a battery disconnect contact when a plug is inserted, it is possible that something is stopping it making a proper contact between the battery pack and board electronics.

Geoff

[Lyall]

3 hours ago, Geoff Lister said:

Let's start with the basics.  I have 2 of the mounts (90 Mak. and 114 Newtonian) and both are very reliable.

This implies that it initially worked for you when you first used it. Is this correct?

When you turn the power switch to "On", does the mount make a (very quiet) double "Beep" sound about every 2.5 seconds, with simultaneous flashing of the keyboard back-lighting (only visible in a subdued light)?

If not, (1) check that all the batteries are making contact in the holder, or (2) if the external 12V socket has a battery disconnect contact when a plug is inserted, it is possible that something is stopping it making a proper contact between the battery pack and board electronics.

Geoff

Thanks for the response,

It did initially work when I first got the scope and it also does double beep every 2.5 seconds with the flashing on the keyboard but I will try the other two power options you did say. 

[Geoff Lister]

15 hours ago, Lyall said:

It did initially work when I first got the scope and it also does double beep every 2.5 seconds with the flashing on the keyboard

Good. This implies that the basics are operational, and the software "thinks" it's tracking. If you set the mount looking at a distant earth-bound object, the tracking should make the eyepiece view change slowly (give it a few minutes).

The next thing to try is slewing at intermediate speeds. Try pushing the "2" or "3" buttons prior to using the up/down/left/right buttons. You will have to look closely to see the mount move, it is easier to set the 'scope pointing at a distant object and look for movement in the eyepiece. If that works, try "4" and then the max. slew rate, "5" - this will be the best test for good power connections.

Geoff

[Lyall]

9 hours ago, Geoff Lister said:

Good. This implies that the basics are operational, and the software "thinks" it's tracking. If you set the mount looking at a distant earth-bound object, the tracking should make the eyepiece view change slowly (give it a few minutes).

The next thing to try is slewing at intermediate speeds. Try pushing the "2" or "3" buttons prior to using the up/down/left/right buttons. You will have to look closely to see the mount move, it is easier to set the 'scope pointing at a distant object and look for movement in the eyepiece. If that works, try "4" and then the max. slew rate, "5" - this will be the best test for good power connections.

Geoff

Thank you for the help I will try this tomorrow and I will get back to you as as soon as possible with the results.