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ASTRO-PHYSICS GTOCP5 Operating Instructions Manual

Micro-step servo system
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GTOCP5 Micro-step Servo System
Astro-Physics Command Center
Non-ASCOM
Windows
Program
Non-ASCOM
Mac
Program
Astro-Physics
Mach2GTO only
Operating Instructions
Control Box
AP GTO Keypad
ASCOM
AP
V2 Driver
GTOCP5
August 2020
Windows Computer
with ASCOM
Planetarium
Multiple
Software
ASCOM
Client
Applications
ACP on iPad
Auto-guider Inputs
Guide Camera
Apple, Android
& Windows
Mobile Devices
via
Direct or
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Summary of Contents for ASTRO-PHYSICS GTOCP5

  • Page 1 Astro-Physics GTOCP5 Micro-step Servo System Mach2GTO only Operating Instructions ASCOM Astro-Physics Command Center V2 Driver Windows Computer with ASCOM Planetarium Multiple Software ASCOM Client Applications Non-ASCOM Windows GTOCP5 Program ACP on iPad Control Box Non-ASCOM Program Auto-guider Inputs from Guide Camera Apple, Android &...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    ASCOM Ethernet Wi-Fi Poll Utility and FindMounts.jar Do the Math Yourself Use the Hostname Set Ethernet Parameters Through Your Browser Commanding Your Mount from the GTOCP4 or GTOCP5 Home Page Technical Information and Terminology Regarding Ethernet Wi-Fi Connection Access Point Configuration...

  • Page 3: Rs-232 Ports

    Use the ASCOM V2 Driver Rather than Other Native Drivers Setting Up the Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver Workflow When Using the AP V2 Driver with Third-party Software The Astro-Physics Command Center - Standard & Pro Versions Some APCC Thoughts Setting Up the Astro-Physics Command Center Workflow When Using APCC &...
  • Page 4 Serial Number Location Please Record the Following Information for Future Reference GTOCP5 Serial Number: _____________________________________________ Purchase Date: _____________________________________________ User Name ________________________ Password _________________________ Ethernet IP Address ____________________________________ Access Point Wi-Fi Network Name _____________________________________ Access Point IP Address _____________________________________...

  • Page 5: Gtocp5 Control Box - Your Mount's Brain

    There are three major sub-systems to the GTOCP5 Micro-step Servo System: 1. The GTOCP5 Control Box This is the real “brain” of your mount. Please try to understand this from the outset. Your mount is NOT controlled by the Keypad or by your computer. They merely serve as input devices and convenient inter- faces for you, the user.

  • Page 6: Environmental Considerations

    ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS Astro-Physics mounts are used in a variety of climates and conditions. Some people live in areas with high humidity and others use their mounts in dry, dusty environments. Insects can be problematic no matter where you are located. Each of these environments present challenges for all of your electronic equipment, including your mount.

  • Page 7: Gto Micro-Step Servo System Specifications

    Optional Keypad to control all mount functions. Includes extensive databases and Hand-held Computer tour features in a simple, intuitive interface. Software updates via internet. GTOCP5 Servo Control GTOCP5 Control Box, removable GTOCP5 Dimensions 6.375” x 4.9” x 1.8” (16.1 x 12.5 x 4.6 cm) GTOCP5 Weight 1.8 lb.

  • Page 8: Gtocp5 Control Box - Layout And Features

    . There is no on-off switch on the GTOCP5. We recommend that you connect all of your cables to the GTOCP5 Servo Control Box before applying power, whether from a power supply or from a battery. To turn the unit off, simply disconnect the power cable.

  • Page 9: Keypad Receptacle

    Wi-Fi Module and Antenna The Wi-Fi module is part of the circuit board within the GTOCP5 and the antenna is recessed into the top of the box on the exterior. The position of the articulating arm of the antenna can be adjusted. When communicating via Wi-Fi, move the antenna as needed to provide the optimum signal to your control box.

  • Page 10: Removing And Installing The Gtocp5 Control Box

    GTOCP5 control box and its predecessors. The GTOCP5 may be held in a dovetail bracket angled from the top of the Eagle EZ pier, or alternatively, with the bracket attached to the side of the pier. When using one of the available tripods, it may be necessary to attach the control box adapter by using an extension to offset the adapter for clearance.

  • Page 11: Communicating With Your Mount

    Remote observatories will generally require a computer or an IP addressable server in the remote observatory itself, along with a high-speed internet connection for communication with your home computer. The Ethernet and Wi-Fi discussed below will prove helpful. However, such complete long-range solutions are beyond the scope of Astro-Physics to supply or support.

  • Page 12: Rs-232 Ports

    chipset in the CP4/5 remains powered, it will almost never crash. In addition, the chip is uniquely serialized, so that every time you connect to the CP4/5 it will be found on the same COM port, preventing COM port hunts. The port itself is sturdy and will provide excellent connector retention after many, many connections.

  • Page 13: Ethernet Port

    Ethernet connection interfaces are available in software like the Astro-Physics Command Center Standard and Pro versions (APCC-ST and APCC-Pro) and the Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver. These programs allow you to connect other programs through virtual ports.

  • Page 14: Apcc-St And Apcc-Pro Com Setting

    These were provided in the welcome letter that you received with your mount. If you can't remember your user name and password, contact Astro-Physics and be sure to jot them down. The Java applet will also work from non-Windows computers. You must have Java installed on your computer to use this applet: https://java.com/en/download/manual.jsp...

  • Page 15: Do The Math Yourself

    For a CP5, the factory default Hostname is GTOCP5_X, where X is the serial number of the GTOCP5 without leading zeros. The hostname is user-configurable. Use of the hostname as the URL will only work with NetBIOS enabled. .By default NetBIOS is enabled on all Windows machines through Windows 10 as of 2020, but is essentially depreciated and is only default for fixed-IP nodes like the CP4/5.

  • Page 16: Technical Information And Terminology Regarding Ethernet

    Technical Information and Terminology Regarding Ethernet It is important to keep in mind that unlike the serial connection, which is used by a program on the computer, Ethernet is between the computer itself and the CP4/5. The computer will send packets to the CP4/5 during the initial DHCP handshake and send packets regularly to make sure the CP4/5 is still there.

  • Page 17: Wi-Fi Connection

    Term Definition Network Switch A device that can connect multiple nodes on a network. You may use a network switch so that a computer with one Ethernet port can connect to both a router and a CP4/5 at the same time. The network switch will only send information to an address if it pertains to that address.

  • Page 18: Access Point Configuration

    Your CP4/5 has the capability of acting as a Wi-Fi access point. This is the default Wi-Fi setting when a new control box is programmed at Astro-Physics. The access point setting will allow you to connect another wireless device to your CP4/5 even without the presence of a wireless router and established wireless network.

  • Page 19: Station Configuration

    Change Your Wi-Fi Settings As mentioned earlier, your CP4/5 default Wi-Fi setting was programed at Astro-Physics to be the Access Point setting. In order to configure your Wi-Fi connection to Station Mode via a wireless device, follow the procedure below. You may also make these changes from an Ethernet connection as described in section "Set Ethernet Parameters Through Your...

  • Page 20: Ethernet And Wi-Fi Best Practice Recommendations

    Astro-Physics forums. PLEASE use the ap-gto forum for all things mount related. Instructions for upgrading to the latest software version are in "Appendix A: GTOCP5 Software Update" on page 48. and are also available when you download the new version.

  • Page 21: Controlling Your Gtocp5 Mount

    The real brains of the Astro-Physics GTO Micro-step Servo System are in the CP5 control box. Simply think of your Keypad or computer as being an input device for the CP5.

  • Page 22: What Is Meant By "Initialization

    These four points are outlined below. 1. Latitude and longitude coordinates tell the mount where it is located on Earth. The GTOCP5 will remember your loca- tion when last powered down, but can’t know if you have moved to a new location unless it is told.

  • Page 23: Using Your Keypad And Pc In Harmony

    PC will be known to the Keypad. Refer to the Keypad manual for additional information. Keypads with the v5.xx firmware require the GTOCP5 (or GTOCP4 as used with our other mounts) control boxes. The above advances in Keypad / computer communication are the reason for our STRONG recommendation to update your Keypad to the version 5.xx firmware.

  • Page 24: The Astro-Physics V2 Ascom Driver

    ● The AP V2 ASCOM Driver takes advantage of the current set of Astro-Physics servo commands, many of which were developed specifically for either the driver or for APCC. Since these new commands are not being published, the native drivers found in other software will be limited to the older set of published commands.

  • Page 25: Setting Up The Astro-Physics V2 Ascom Driver

    Setting Up the Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver One of the first things that must be done is to set up the Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver. This is extremely important, as the settings that you enter will be used to initialize the mount once you power up and connect to the mount with your third-party software.
  • Page 26 b) Set Latitude / Longitude - default is to leave it Checked. c) Enable Mount Tracking on Unpark - under normal circumstances this is usually Checked. d) Set Slew Rate - this may be set as you like. In colder weather it is generally set to a slower speed. Also, remember that you will need to use 24 volts to achieve the fastest speed.

  • Page 27: Workflow When Using The Ap V2 Driver With Third-Party Software

    You can review it if you wish. Then click OK once or twice and you are done. The Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver is a hub through which all third-party ASCOM compliant software can be connected. Planetarium, camera control, and focusing software, etc.

  • Page 28: The Astro-Physics Command Center - Standard & Pro Versions

    The Astro-Physics Command Center - Standard & Pro Versions The Astro-Physics Command Center (APCC) adds many features and extended functionality to the control system of the mount and it will act as a serial hub for the use of additional applications. It takes remote operation to the next level with safety and convenience that you won't want to be without.

  • Page 29: Some Apcc Thoughts

    Much more !!! The APCC Pro version includes the following additional features: ● Highly-sophisticated pointing model and variable tracking for both axes; includes the Astro-Physics Point Mapper (APPM) for automated collection of pointing data. ● Camera options: Maxim, Sequence Generator Pro, ASCOM camera and SkyX Image Linking camera Add-on (part of APPM).

  • Page 30: Setting Up The Astro-Physics Command Center

    Setting Up the Astro-Physics Command Center APCC can be as simple or as complex as you wish to make it. This Quick Start guide will only touch upon the Setup of this software. The Help menu will provide more detailed information. Don’t forget to click of the “?”...
  • Page 31 Serial. These will also allow greater computer-to-mount connectivity distance (up to 100’ or more). The GTOCP5 uses an industrialized and self-powered USB connector and its robustness will only be limited by the USB of your computer (the weak link). Avoid using USB hubs which can reduce reliability. If you must use a hub, then buy a high-quality, powered hub.

  • Page 32: Workflow When Using Apcc & The Ap V2 Driver With Third-Party Software

    You can review it if you wish. Then click OK once or twice and you are done. The Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver is a hub through which all third-party ASCOM compliant software can be connected. Planetarium, camera control and focusing software, etc.
  • Page 33 10. Once the mount is parked disconnect and close the active third-party software. 11. Close APCC. The AP V2 Driver will automatically close. 12. Power down the mount. Important note: If you are starting the mount and initializing from APCC, then it will override what has been set in the AP V2 ASCOM Driver.

  • Page 34: Workflow When Using Theskyx™ With The Ap V2 Driver

    Setup Telescope window that you filled out earlier. You can review it if you wish. Then click OK once or twice and you are done. The Astro-Physics V2 ASCOM Driver is a hub through which all third-party ASCOM compliant software can be connected. Planetarium, camera control and focusing software, etc. can be connected to it and operated simultaneously.

  • Page 35: Workflow When Using Mobile Smart Devices And Non-Windows Pcs

    Note: Smart Device companies are currently revising their software to be able to utilize the unique start-up features of the Mach2GTO and the GTOCP5. We expect that SkyX for Mac will also become available for use in the future, but at this time, it is unavailable.

  • Page 36: Planetarium, Imaging And Observatory Software From Other Vendors

    Planetarium, Imaging and Observatory Software from Other Vendors There are a number of planetarium and camera control programs that can be used to control the Astro-Physics GTO Servo System. Many of these use the ASCOM interface and will take advantage of the V2 ASCOM Driver mentioned previously.

  • Page 37: Understanding The Gtocp5 Servo Logic

    Park positions can be handy, but they are not a requirement. With the Astro-Physics system, think of "park" as a state where the drive motors are de-energized - not a "place" where the mount goes.

  • Page 38: The Role Of Time And Location Data In The Servo System

    It is even possible that a three-part slew may take place if you are slewing from a counterweight-up position and into another counterweight-up position. Having this firmware logic in the GTOCP5 control box means that it will work regardless of whether you are using computer software or the keypad to control your mount.

  • Page 39: The Concept Of "Pier Side" As It Relates To The Servo

    ASCOM as well. Pier side gets confusing because the correctly reported pier side can differ from what our eyes are telling us if we look at the mount. The Astro-Physics reference Park 1 position is the classic example of this.

  • Page 40: Tracking Past The Meridian

    Tracking Past the Meridian Unlike other German Equatorial mounts, Astro-Physics GEMs do not require a flip at the meridian in order to follow an object in its nightly journey across the sky. Tracking through the meridian is a unique function of AP mounts.

  • Page 41: Recalibrate And Sync

    GTOCP1,2,3 or 4 control boxes will remember that sync and recalibrate represented very distinct meanings for Astro-Physics mounts and, confusing the two, could send your mount slewing the wrong direction and, in the worst case scenario, ending with a pier crash. However...no more!

  • Page 42: Autoguiding Tips And Notes

    AUTOGUIDING TIPS AND NOTES Autoguiding is an art. It is the most complicated, yet most important, part of imaging. If it is not mastered, images will suffer. Anything you can do to make your autoguider's job easier will make imaging more fun. Here are some suggestions and things to keep in mind.

  • Page 43: Maxim Dl ™ Guiding Recommendations

    ● Calibration and guiding should always be done at 1x guide rate. ● Turn all backlash to zero (Keypad and computer software) and turn off "stiction." ● Since the Mach2GTO has absolute encoders, PE correction is no longer needed. The encoder eliminates all periodic error, so no need for doing PE compensation.
  • Page 44 14. Observe the Dec gears for rotation at 1x. The direction of rotation should be opposite of the direction observed in step #12. 15. Note any differences from the expected performance for communication with the technical staff at Astro-Physics. If the mount performs as expected, then the issue must lie elsewhere.

  • Page 45: Unguided Imaging With The Gtocp4 And Gtocp5

    The keypad models do not need a laptop computer, and they are stored in the GTOCP4 or GTOCP5 control boxes for future use. This makes it possible to do astro-photography with minimal equipment, no guider or guide scope and just a...

  • Page 46: Troubleshooting, Tips And Support

    Additionally, the GTOCP5 control boxes are matched to the individual Mach2GTO that they ship with. You'll note that they have the same serial number. You cannot use a GTOCP5 control box from one Mach2GTO with any other Mach2GTO mount.
  • Page 47 You may also try disconnecting the external antenna. Alternatively, you may need to move the antenna or even your GTOCP5 to another position for a clear line of sight to your...

  • Page 48: Additional Support

    Physics also participate and you will find a wealth of information in the archives. If any problems occur, please don’t hesitate to contact Astro-Physics for assistance. We encourage you to submit your technical support questions directly to Astro-Physics by phone or email: support@astro-physics.com.

  • Page 49: Appendix A: Gtocp4 And Gtocp5 Software Update

    Field Download of GTOCP4 or GTOCP5 Software One of the advantages of the GTOCP4 or GTOCP5 (referred to as CP4/5) over the previous GTOCP1, 2 or 3 that updates to the software can be downloaded over the internet and then uploaded to your control box. There are two methods of updating CP4/5 software.
  • Page 50 5. Enter IP address. On the URL line of your browser, enter the IP address of the CP4/5. (As mentioned above, Windows users may be able to simply enter their Host name.) The CP4/5 will place the following page in the browser window. 6.
  • Page 51 15. Click the Program button. 16. Wait approximately 10 seconds for Running New Program to be displayed. When programming “part 2” of the CP4/5 software, an indication of Preparing Unit… will appear. This means that the CP4/5 will need to re-boot and execute “part 1”...

  • Page 52: Appendix B: Pre-Defined Park Positions (Northern & Southern Hemispheres)

    APPENDIX B: PRE-DEFINED PARK POSITIONS (NORTHERN & SOUTHERN HEMISPHERES) The Mach2GTO does not require starting from pre-defined park positions, but it is often helpful to finish the evening in one. Recommended: Park 3 is a safe and balanced position. Park 2 is a convenient position for loading and unloading your scope.
  • Page 53 Southern Hemisphere Southern Hemisphere HOME POSITION (Mach2GTO / GTOCP5) Northern Hemisphere & Southern Hemisphere This is a very special position that is established by Astro-Physics when programming the Absolute Encoders. It is highly precise.

  • Page 54: Appendix C: Regulatory Information For Transmitter Module

    APPENDIX C: REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR TRANSMITTER MODULE FCC Notice (USA) This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.

  • Page 55: Appendix D: Country Codes For Wi-Fi

    APPENDIX D: COUNTRY CODES FOR WI-FI If you are operating the GTOCP5 in a country other than the United States, locate the appropriate Country Code in the table below, and enter it in the Country Code field in the Advanced Wi-Fi Settings webpage of the GTOCP5’s built-in webpages.
  • Page 56 Country Country Code Country Country Code Country Country Code Greece Korea, Dem. Mongolia Peoples Rep. of Greenland Montenegro Korea, Republic of Grenada Montserrat Kuwait Guadeloupe Morocco Kyrgyzstan Guam Mozambique Lao, Peoples Guatemala Dem. Rep of Myanmar Guernsey Latvia Namibia Guinea Lebanon Nauru Guinea-Bissau...
  • Page 57 Country Country Code Country Country Code Country Country Code Puerto Rico Svalbard and Virgin Islands, British Jan Mayen Qatar Virgin Islands, US Swaziland Reunion Wallis and Futuna Sweden Romania Western Sahara Switzerland Russian Fed. Yemen Syria Rwanda Yugoslavia Taiwan Saint Helena Zambia Tajikistan Saint Kitts and Nevis...

  • Page 58: Appendix E: Network Protocol License

    APPENDIX E: NETWORK PROTOCOL LICENSE The GTOCP5 implements the network protocol stack using Light Weight IP (LwIP): lwIP's License lwIP is licenced under the BSD licence: Copyright (c) 2001-2004 Swedish Institute of Computer Science. All rights reserved. Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted provided that the following conditions are met: 1.

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