FocusLynx Control Hub

Optec's FocusLynx Control Hub has years of field experience with multiple connection methods. Capable of operating two focusers simultaneously and full ASCOM compliance, FocusLynx is the most advanced focus controller available.

Multiple Ways to Connect

The FocusLynx Control Hub acts as the central controller to link one or two focusers to any control PC. The hub includes communication ports for Serial and USB (using Optec's USB/Serial cable) and wired Ethernet Network protocols as standard. An optional WiFi board and antenna can be added and installed at any time. Focuser 1 and Focuser 2 ports are available at the top of the FocusLynx hub with 12VDC Power, Network, optional Hand Control, and Serial connection ports available at the bottom. An optional aluminium mounting plate makes it easy to mount the FocusLynx Hub to any telescope pier or mount.

Multiple Software Clients

Following the ASCOM Local Server model Optec's FocusLynx Commander software allows multiple clients to connect simultaneously to the FocusLynx hub. Additionally, embedded webservers in the wired Ethernet and WiFi connections allow FocusLynx to generate a control interface accessible through any web browser or smartphone. Because this page is generated and displayed by the hub itself, once you are connected, there is no further configuration required: just attach your focusers and go!

Multiple Focusers to Control

The FocusLynx Control Hub can be used with a variety of focusers and focus motor add-ons. Sold as part of the TCF-Lynx, TCF-Lynx3, and FastFocus focuser packages, FocusLynx can be configured as a true absolute focus controller. Using Optec's DirectSync, QuickSync or Starlight Instrument's Handy Stepper Motor, FocusLynx can also control the TEC, FeatherTouch, Stellarvue, and other manual focusers with step counting circuitry to function as an ASCOM absolute focuser. Special cables can be used to control most unipolar motors including the MicroTouch and Robo-Focus motors. The optional second stepper daughter board allows use of the Focuser 2 port to control a second focuser of any type.

Multiple Options Available

Each FocusLynx package comes complete with everything needed to connect. An optional Hand Control, WiFi add-on board, second stepper controller, mounting plate, precision external temperature probe, and motor-specific cables round out a complete integrated package.

FocusLynx Control Hub Specifications

Functional Specifications:

• Stepper Motor Control: bipolar and unipolar stepper motors,
• Resolution: 16-bit controller with 65,535 step range per focuser,
• PC Connectivity: USB/Serial, Ethernet, or optional 802.11 WiFi,
• Hand Control: Optional 2-button with Digital Read-Out,
• WiFi Connection: Optional 802.11b/g compatible,
• Second Stepper: Optional plug-in daughter board,
• Input Power: 12VDC univeral power supply (110 to 230VAC input),
• Alternative Power: Field battery voltage (13.8VDC) with optional automotive cigarette lighter plug,
• Software Drivers: ASCOM local server, X2 native drivers for TheSky X

Physical Specifications:

• Length: 5.1" (130mm)
• Width: 3.2" (81mm)
• Height: 1.0" (27mm)
• Weight: 10 oz (285 g)
• Mounting Holes: Four 4-40 x 1/8" depth (reverse side)
• Case Material: 6061 aluminium, anodized black.

FocusLynx Port Connections:

• Focuser 1: RJ45 socket for standard Cat-5e/Cat-6 to focuser,
• Focuser 2: Optional second stepper board for RJ45 socket,
• Power: 12VDC input, 2.5 x 5.5mm plug, center pin positive,
• Network: Standard RJ45 Ethernet socket,
• Hand Controller: RJ22 socket for standard telephone handset cord,
• Serial: RJ12 socket for Optec USB/Serial cable (included).

FocusLynx Control Hub Quick Start Guide

Following the long tradition of the TCF-S Temperature Compensating Focuser, Optec's TCF-LSI features a robust 2-inch Crayford-style design for smooth focus. The updated model is faster and offers greater versatility in the same compact, yet solid, focuser design.

The TCF-LSI has all of the control electronics integrated into the focuser body. This means that you do not need any external controller. Simply connect power and the control cable and you are ready to begin. The TCF-LSI uses the same drivers as the rest of our FocusLynx family of focusers.

As a robust Crayford style 2-inch focuser, the TCF-LSI drawtube accepts any of our 2-inch adapters developed especially for the TCF-S and TCF-Lynx focusers. The optional 1-1/4" Centering Adapter allows any 1-1/4-inch diagonal or eyepiece to be added behind the focuser. Visual users will appreciate the In-Out Keypad for no-touch operation of the telescope focus.

Requires OPTEC 2400 Telescope Adapter

Specification:

SKU: 19702

OPTEC DirectSync SW25 Motor for Sky-Watcher Esprit 80 #19787

The Optec DirectSync SW25 motor with built-in clutch mechanism and temperature sensor allows both manual and motorised control with a simple twist of the motor housing. DirectSync SW25 can be ordered separately or as part of the FocusLynx Kit.

Designed especially for the Sky-Watcher Esprit series telescope 2-1/2-inch Dual-Speed focusers, the OPTEC DirectSync SW25 features simple installation and an elegant design. The DirectSync motors are fully compatiblity with the FocusLynx Control Hub making DirectSync the very best choice for motorising Sky-Watcher's premier astrograph telescopes.

For the larger Esprit APO's with the 3" focuser, see our DirectSync SW30.

Compatiblity:

• Sky-Watcher Esprit 80 Apochromat refractor.

Optec DirectSync SW25 Specifications:

DirectSync APO Motor (#19787)

• Motor: 35mm Nippon stepper motor with 50:1 gearhead,
• Material: 6061 aluminium, anodized black,
• Length: 3.75" (96mm)
• Width: 1.9" (49mm)
• Weight: 11.6 oz (330 g)
• Tools Required: 1/16" and 3mm hex keys (included)
• Motor Cable: Standard Cat-5e or Cat-6 (6-ft. length included)
• Connection to FocusLynx: Focuser 1 or Focuser 2 port- RJ45 socket

Installation Manual

Optec Gemini Focuser Rotator

Temperature Compensation:

Like all Optec focuser products, Gemini includes a remote temperature probe for automatic temperature compensation. Simply attach the temperature probe anywhere in the linear response zone of your OTA (usually the tube or truss assembly) and Gemini will automatically keep the camera package in sharp focus. The Gemini Commander software provides a convenient wizard to help determine your telescope's TC or temperature coefficient.

Robust Compact Design

To maintain a flat, rigid base for heavy camera packages, Gemini's shell consists of two parallel plates machined from MIC-6 tool plate providing flatness within 0.001" (25 microns). Seven precise stand-off spacers maintain the 2.25" separation of these plates. The rotating drawtube is moved linearly with 1/2" of total travel using a premium timing belt driven by a high torque stepper motor. The entire package is accented with a beautiful carbon fiber wrap. Dual RJ45 connectors provide connection to the Gemini Control hub. The independent rotating drawtube is supported by a custom X-cage bearing system supported by large, 6mm chrome ball bearings.

Support for Multiple Telescopes

Featuring identical OPTEC-4300 mechanical interfaces front and back, the Gemini can be easily fitted to most any large telescope OTA. Recessed oval point setscrews provide three-point direct contact with the heavy wall OPTEC-4300 dovetail mount. Gemini's clear aperture of 3.75" is maintained through each adapter, passing even large light cones through to the camera image plane without vignetting.

On the camera side, a typical configuration might include a 4300 receiver for the Optec-DSI 3.5 High Performance spacer sets configurable to 1/4" increments when additional spacing is needed.

Currently designed telescope adapters include support for the AG Optical iDK's, Ceravolo Optical Systems Astrographs, Meade and Celestron 10-inch and larger class SCT, and Plane Wave Secure-Fit.

Multiple Ways to Connect:

The Gemini Control hub acts as the central controller to link both focuser and rotator to any control PC. The hub includes communication ports for Serial and USB (using Optec's USB/Serial cable) and wired Ethernet Network protocols as standard. An optional WiFi board and antenna can be added and installed at any time. Focuser and Rotator ports are available at the top of the Gemini hub with 12VDC Power, Network, optional Hand Control, and Serial connection ports available at the bottom.

Multiple Options Available:

Each Gemini package comes complete with everything needed to connect. An optional Hand Control allows manual access while at the telescope. WiFi add-on board mounting plate, precision external temperature probe, and motor-specific cables round out a complete integrated package.

Specifications for Gemini and Controller:

Focusing Rotator Physical Specifications:

• Clear Aperture: 3.75" (95mm)
• Back-Focus Usage: 2.2" to 2.7" (55.9 to 68.6mm)
• Focuser Travel: 0.5" (12.7mm)
• Focuser Resolution: 0.11 microns per step
• Rotator Resolution: 600 steps per degree
• Minimum Overall Thickness: 2.2" (55.9mm)
• Dimensions: 9.4" x 7.4" (239mm x 187mm)
• Weight: 6 lb. 6 oz. (2.9 kg)

Gemini Controller Hub Specifications:

Controller Hub Specifications:

• Length: 5.1" (130mm)
• Width: 3.2" (81mm)
• Height: 1.0" (27mm)
• Weight: 10 oz. (285 g)
• Mounting Holes: Four 4-40 x 1/8" depth (reverse side)
• Case Material: 6061 aluminum, anodized black.

Gemini Hub Port Connections:

• Focuser: RJ45 socket for standard Cat-5e/Cat-6 cable to Focuser port,
• Rotator: RJ45 socket for standard Cat-5e/Cat-6 cable to Rotator port,
• Power: 12VDC input, 2.5 x 5.5mm plug, center pin positive,
• Network: Standard RJ45 Ethernet socket,
• Hand Controller: RJ22 socket for standard telephone handset cord,
• Serial: RJ12 socket for Optec USB/Serial cable (included),
• Wireless: 802.11 WiFi option (coming soon).

Optec Temperature Compensating Focuser-S3i

No corners were cut with this model. The massive drawtube has a 3.00-inch I.D. and is made from 7075, the strongest of the commercial aluminum alloys. To prevent any slippage common to Crayford style focusers, the drive rod is pressed onto the drawtube with a force of about 500 pounds. The TCF-S3 can take this extreme pressure because the drive rod is made from a ground bar of high speed steel with a diameter of 0.375 inch. Hardened rails of stainless steel are embedded in the drawtube to engage the drive rod and take the strain.

The total linear travel of the drawtube is 1.00-inch with a resolution of 0.0001-inch. Like the TCF-S, a control box with IN and OUT pushbuttons, serial computer interface and digital display control all functions of the TCF-S3. All other features of the TCF-S3 are similar to the TCF-S. It uses the same cables, temperature probe and the new remote keypad. It is also compatible with the current Optec control software TCF-S.exe.

Other telescope mounts can be made custom in our shop. This focuser is only intended for large scope with massive mounts. See price list for a list of available mounts. A 3-inch to 2-inch adapter is available to fit Optec and other standard 2-inch accessories.

For owners of the Paramount ME, Optec offers a special kit that can conveniently wire the TCF-S3 through the mount. In addition, both the IFW and Pyxis can also be mounted and wired through the mount for easier use and less cables.