Powering Dual-axis Motors

[ROY_H]

I 've purchased a set of Skywatcher dual-axis motors for my CG-5 mount and want a more reliable power supply than the little 4 x D-cell pack that comes with it. Obviously the system is six volt rather than the twelve of a goto system. My question is, has anyone succesfully used a twelve-volt supply (e.g.a car boost starter system) with a plug-in 12 - 6 volt converter.

On paper it looks ok but is there any particular risk to the hand-set?

Thanks

[Merlin66]

I use gel cell batteries...but when I had the EQ5 (6V) I made up two options: use the 12V to 6V transformer from Maplins - worked as advertised (I now use it to power a USB hub) and I also added a voltage regulator IC (can't remember the # off hand) but it neatly fitted inside the cigar plug body -giving a 6V output. This was MUCH cheaper!!!

I had to paint that particular plug bright red to remind me it was 6V and only for use on the EQ5.

HTH

[russ]

My older Maplins Powertank had 6v and 9v outputs, as well as the 12v socket. Which was dead handy but the new Powertank has just one 12v output.

That said, i bought some expensive D Cell batteries for the battery pack last spring and they lasted 7 months. The EQ5 probably didn't get that much use over that 7 month period though.

[ROY_H]

I use gel cell batteries...but when I had the EQ5 (6V) I made up two options: use the 12V to 6V transformer from Maplins - worked as advertised (I now use it to power a USB hub) and I also added a voltage regulator IC (can't remember the # off hand) but it neatly fitted inside the cigar plug body -giving a 6V output. This was MUCH cheaper!!!

I had to paint that particular plug bright red to remind me it was 6V and only for use on the EQ5.

HTH

Thanks for the help, guys. I suspect the regulated plug-in power supply I've bought should work fine.

I'll let you know.