DSLR question

[Jamie]

Ok folks try and help me out here.

Whats the best way/method of focusing a DSLR?

Everyone's opinions welcome.

[GordonCopestake]

A knife edge focuser is the BEST way, but it's certainlly not the cheapest. You can use a hartmann mask which is much cheaper. Theres also software that will tell you when you are perfectly focuser by taking an exposure and analysing it, then repeating

[robindurant]

Gordon

I have searched the net for this "Knife Edge Focuser" I have found that the part No. for a Canon is EOS202. I can find a price for it but no details as to what it is or what it looks like etc I havn't a clue as to whether it is an accessory or software. Canon do not list it even though it has a Canon Part No.

Robin

[Ambermile]

http://www.stellar-international.com/

hth

Arthur

[GordonCopestake]

A knife edge focuser is just a moving ronchi screen. The lines move and change, when the lines are perfectly straight you have focus. Do a google on Ronchi focuser and you might get more hits

[GordonCopestake]

Thanks Arthur, knew there was a brand but couldn't remember it. The 'Stiletto' focuser is the best one AFIAIK

[robwin]

I bought a DSLR focus program which when used it transfers your picture you have taken straight to a computer.

Got it from:www.scsastro.co.uk

price:£22.12+vat.

Cheers

Rob

[robindurant]

Rob

I looked up SCASTRO and the software. It looks as though it does just about everything including making tea ! It seems complicated, is it? I am not very good at software.

Robin

[Gordon G]

Hi Jamie

Method i use is a hartman mask and output the DSLR to a 7" TFT screen i got off ebay, and zoom in using the buttons on the back of the dslr. Also i have a better view when finishing an exposure if the snap was any good ( plus the bonus when your at a star party an it's raining you have a little TV to watch as well for the weather ) works for me.

Alan ( gaelicstorm7 ) has a Stiletto and swears by it.

Cheers

Gordon

[russ]

Someone at my local club uses the Stiletto and he too swears by it.

I personally find a bright star, focus best i can through the viewfinder. Then shoot a series of shots, refining the focus with each shot. Normally takes 6-9 shots to get it close.

The idea of 7" screen appeals though. May have to look out for one.

Russ

[Jamie]

Alan ( gaelicstorm7 ) has a Stiletto and swears by it.

Not any more cos he has sold it to me

[Gordon G]

He kept that quiet