1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. ASTRO-PHYSICS Manuals
  4. Keypad
  5. Mach2GTO
  6. Manual

ASTRO-PHYSICS MACH2GTO Manual

Hide thumbs Also See for MACH2GTO:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
ASTRO-PHYSICS
GTO KEYPAD
Version v5.xxx
Please read the manual even if you are familiar with previous keypad versions
Flash RAM Updates
Keypad Java updates can be accomplished through the Internet.
Check our web site www.astro-physics.com/software-updates/
November 11, 2020

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the MACH2GTO and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Subscribe to Our Youtube Channel

Related Manuals for ASTRO-PHYSICS MACH2GTO

Summary of Contents for ASTRO-PHYSICS MACH2GTO

  • Page 1 ASTRO-PHYSICS GTO KEYPAD Version v5.xxx Please read the manual even if you are familiar with previous keypad versions Flash RAM Updates Keypad Java updates can be accomplished through the Internet. Check our web site www.astro-physics.com/software-updates/ November 11, 2020...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    ASTRO-PHYSICS KEYPAD MANUAL FOR MACH2GTO Version 5.xxx November 11, 2020 ABOUT THIS MANUAL REQUIREMENTS What Mount Control Box Do I Need? Can I Upgrade My Present Keypad? GTO KEYPAD Layout and Buttons of the Keypad Vacuum Fluorescent Display N-S-E-W Directional Buttons STOP Button <PREV and NEXT>...
  • Page 3 OBJECTS MENU – HAVE SOME FUN! Objects Menu Tips for Using the Buttons and Menus Object Bookmark Tool/Utility Creating Bookmarks - Adding an Object to the List Viewing Your Bookmarked Objects Delete Bookmarks M, NGC, IC Common Object Names Solar System Objects (Sol) Common Star Names - Non-scientific Greek Star Names, Organized by Constellation Abell Galaxy Clusters...
  • Page 4 Point + Track Model Pointing Model Pointing Creating a custom tracking model Error Codes Drift Model Error Codes Ortho Model Track Status Photographic Timer BookMark Edit +- BUTTON, HIDDEN TREASURES Edit Function Button Rate Slew Home & Recal RA/Dec Controls FEATURE DISCUSSION RA/Dec Reverse Tweak Your Pointing Accuracy...

  • Page 5: Version

    The keypad features that are available in version 5 will depend on the software of your control box. These are some differences: ● The GTOCP5 and Mach2GTO have a different startup routine due to the construction of the mount. ● The pointing, tracking and drift modeling features are available to all GTOCP5 control boxes (available to Mach2 only) and only those GTOCP4 control boxes that have this feature enabled by Astro-Physics.

  • Page 6: Requirements

    If you load v5.xxx onto an older keypad, you can continue to use your original buttons and simply memorize the new function. Alternatively, you may send your keypad to Astro-Physics to be upgraded the button pad. Contact Astro-Physics for additional information.

  • Page 7: Gto Keypad

    GTO KEYPAD The GTO keypad is the communication center for the operation of your GTO mount. We have designed this unit to be as intuitive and easy to use as possible while filling it with terrific features to make your observing session productive and pleasurable.

  • Page 8: Prev And Next> Buttons

    <PREV and NEXT> Buttons These buttons are used for the following functions depending on the commands you are entering: move from one menu level to another, backspace to make corrections to number entry, or scroll through lists of objects. The < and > symbols appear on many window displays.

  • Page 9: Keypad Protector

    This battery has been wired into a special assembly, so the replacement battery must be purchased from Astro-Physics (part # E0334 or E0338), but it can be installed by the customer. If the battery fails within the 3-year warranty period, it is best to have the manufacturer replace it.

  • Page 10: Getting Started - Do This At Home, If Possible

    GETTING STARTED – DO THIS AT HOME, IF POSSIBLE Set Up your Mount and Cable Connections Refer to the instructions in the mount assembly manual to set up your mount. The following cables must be connected: RA and Dec cables, keypad controller cable and power cable. You do not need the mounting plate or telescope tube assembly for these setup procedures.

  • Page 11: Set Up Your Mount In The Field

    One of our favorite methods utilizes the keypad and can be accomplished during daylight hours. It is quick and easy and only requires only a carpenters level. Mach2GTO Daytime Alignment Routine Being able to polar align your mount during the daytime is a great way to prepare for solar observing or events.

  • Page 12: Keypad Start Up Sequence For New Setups Or Setup In New Location

    Startup Sequence When you turn on the power, the first display of the keypad will briefly read “Astro-Physics Dedicated to Craftsmanship” and then the window changes to display the firmware version number of your CP4/5 and keypad version number for a few seconds.

  • Page 13: Date And Time

    Additional Information Mach2GTO and 1100 or 1600 Mounts with absolute encoders: After you have started the mount and are not sure if it is pointing correctly, send the mount HOME . You can locate this function in most menus by pressing the +- button and then press 1=Slew Home.

  • Page 14: Keypad Start Up Sequence For Mounts Used At The Same Location Withouta Computer

    Objects Menu and enter the desired objects to be viewed. Mach2GTO and 1100 or 1600 Mounts with absolute encoders: After you have started the mount and are not sure if it is pointing correctly, send the mount HOME . You can locate this function in most menus by pressing the +- button and then press 1=Slew Home.

  • Page 15: Keypad Start Up Sequence For Computer Controlled Mounts

    Main Menu. Mach2GTO and 1100 or 1600 Mounts with absolute encoders: After you have started the mount and are not sure if it is pointing correctly, send the mount HOME . You can locate this function in most menus by pressing the +- button and then press 1=Slew Home.

  • Page 16: Objects Menu - Have Some Fun

    OBJECTS MENU – HAVE SOME FUN! Objects Menu ● <=Object will display current object. Press <PREV button. The object data for the last object that was selected for a slew will display. RA/DEC=> will display actual current RA/Dec and Alt/Az coordinates. When ●...

  • Page 17: Viewing Your Bookmarked Objects

    you can add it to the bookmark list by pressing the BkMk option from the object detail window. The bookmark utility will auto-determine the first FREE bookmark space inside the bookmark list. You can also override this selection by pressing the <PREV’...

  • Page 18: Common Object Names

    3. Enter the catalog number with your keypad. Look carefully to be sure that the numbers register as you press them. 4. Choices: Press GOTO to initiate slewing, NEXT to review object data or MENU to exit. a) After you press NEXT> for object data, you can press <PREV for RA/Dec coordinates. You may also GOTO from that window.

  • Page 19: Greek Star Names, Organized By Constellation

    4. Choices: Press GOTO to initiate slewing, <PREV to review RA/Dec coordinates or MENU to exit. 5. Once you reach the target object, press <PREV to view the RA/Dec coordinates. Press <PREV again to return to the object data. 6. Once you reach the target star, press <PREV to view the RA/Dec coordinates. Press <PREV again to return to the object data.

  • Page 20: Palomar Globular Clusters (Pal)

    3. Select a double star. The window will display the approximate separation of the stars, constellation and object typeSe- lect a double star. The window will display the approximate separation of the stars, constellation and object type (Dbl. Star). Remember that apparent separation may vary from year to year. Consult an ephemeris for the most accurate data.

  • Page 21: Lynds' Catalog Of Dark Nebula (Lnd)

    4. Choices: a) Press GOTO to initiate slewing. b) Press NEXT> to view the object data, then press GOTO to slew. 5. Press <PREV to toggle between RA / Dec. data and object data. 6. Press MENU to return to More Objects Menu to make an alternate selection. Lynds’...

  • Page 22: Tour Objects Within Constellations

    a) When an object is found in the database, the object data screen will display indicating the catalog number, magni- tude, constellation and type of object. Your choices: i) Press GOTO to slew to the object if it interests you. ii) Press NEXT>...

  • Page 23: Custom Alt / Az Coordinates

    Important Note: When you enter custom RA and Dec coordinates they should preferably be entered as precessed coordinates (JNow or Topocentric coordinates). The keypad automatically precesses objects in its database, and any prior RECALS will have been done on precessed coordinates. However, the keypad cannot know the epoch of the coordinates that you are entering, so it only applies the small refraction transformations.

  • Page 24: Main Menu Functions

    MAIN MENU FUNCTIONS Brightness of the Display Window Use the <PREV and NEXT> buttons to adjust the brightness of the display to a bright or dim setting. Note: Even when the keypad is set to the bright setting, it will be difficult to see during daylight hours. You will need to shield it with your hands or drape a dark cloth over your head.

  • Page 25: 7=Tracking Rate

    7=Tracking Rate Press 7 on your keypad to change the tracking rate: Side (Sidereal), King, Cstm (Custom) and Stop. There is no Solar or Lunar rate setting since these will be set automatically when the user slews to the Sun or Moon. T:Side Brings up the default sidereal tracking rate.

  • Page 26: Setup Menu

    SETUP MENU Locations & Time Press 1 in the Setup Menu to bring up location and time data that can be edited or updated as required. Up to 9 locations can be saved. Time data can be edited or updated from data stored in the mount from an external precise time source such as a computer.

  • Page 27: Set Date And Time

    Please double check your location data to make sure you entered it in the correct format. If you have access to the internet, download the Default IP Address Calculator and Latitude/Longitude Coordinate Converter from our website: https://astro-physics.info/tech_support/mounts/servo/latlong-ip-calculator.html It is also relatively easy to calculate the conversion. Using the example above: 1.

  • Page 28: Qwik Daylight Saving Time

    Press the +/- button to modify the information. An information screen will display regarding time zones and Daylight Saving abbreviations. Make sure you note the definitions and abbreviations. Press ENT to proceed. 3. You MUST enter time in 24 hour format. If you make a mistake while entering the data, use the <PREV and NEXT> keys to move back and fix it.

  • Page 29: Setting Keypad To Utc (Aka Gmt)

    Setting Keypad to UTC (aka GMT) Running everything on UTC is a great way to do things if the laptop is completely dedicated to astronomy endeavors. Professional astronomers all generally set everything including their lives to UTC. The main thing to remember is that EVERYTHING needs to be set to UTC.

  • Page 30: Get Time From Mount

    Get Time From Mount If you are using an external computer to control your telescope, the mount and the keypad could be using different time settings. This command is extremely handy for computers synced with atomic clocks and will sync the keypad with the time that was sent to your mount by the computer.

  • Page 31: Set Limits, Power

    Set Limits, Power Press 3 in the Setup Menu to bring up mount tracking limits and power settings. Limits On/Off Limits can be toggled ON or OFF by pressing 1. Limits OFF allows the mount to track past the meridian with the scope underneath the mount until the safety hard stop is reached in the Mach2.

  • Page 32: Auto-Connect

    current position. The motors are de-energized, but the keypad and CP4/5 remain powered on until the power is turned off. Impact of Auto-Connect Settings: ● Auto-Connect set to NO: The mount will not start tracking until you complete the startup routine. ●...

  • Page 33: Tools Menu

    TOOLS MENU Modeling Under Tools Menu there are 3 choices for the GTOCP5: Modeling, PhotoTimer, and Bookmark. Select 2 = Modeling to bring up 3 modeling choices - Point&Track, Drift and Ortho models. Depending on the setup and software available, the user can employ the Drift and Ortho routines with just the keypad or the full Point + Track model for all-sky modeling.

  • Page 34: Creating A Custom Tracking Model

    Creating a custom tracking model You can create a tracking model for any object by creating a path that the object will follow across the sky. You only need to model 8 points on the declination line that the object is on. The 8 stars chosen for the model will need to be on the same declination within +- 20 arc minutes of each other (the closer the better).

  • Page 35: Drift Model

    Drift Model The Drift model is an alternate way to measure an object’s path through the sky and then use it to compensate for drift for unguided imaging. It does not require any external planetarium software - it is a self-contained keypad routine. This model allows the user to build a tracking path for any object as it moves across the sky for a number of hours from East to West.

  • Page 36: Error Codes

    9. Find another star in the new field, center it and press ENT. You have just selected your second point. 10. Allow the mount to drift again and repeat the above procedure for as many points as you wish. If you plan to image 1/2 to 1 hr, two points may be enough, one point near the object and the 2nd point 1 hr west of the object.

  • Page 37: Ortho Model

    Ortho Model The Ortho routine uses the stars in the keypad to compensate for telescope non-orthogonality. It is an automatic routine that simply requires the user to start it going and to center the star at the keypad prompt. The Ortho model can be used by itself or in conjunction with the pointing model to form an all-sky model.

  • Page 38: Photographic Timer

    Photographic Timer Activate the countdown photographic timer to remind you when your exposure is completed. An audible beep will alert you that the time has expired. 1. Go to Photographic Timer window. (Main Menu > 3=Tools > 3=Photo Timer). The Photographic Timer window will appear. 2.

  • Page 39: Button, Hidden Treasures

    The home position was preset at Astro- Physics at the park 3 position. The encoders know that position in all circumstances. This is a very special position that is established by Astro-Physics when programming the Absolute Encoders. It is highly precise. Park Controls Select 4=Park Controls to reveal the following options that are discussed fully in “Kpd, Mnt, Park Opt.”...

  • Page 40: Feature Discussion

    This feature is available for all GTOCP5 control boxes and only those GTOCP4 control boxes that have this feature enabled by Astro-Physics. If orthogonality issues are affecting your pointing accuracy, use the extremely quick and easy “Ortho Model” on page 36.

  • Page 41: Meridian Delay Options

    Meridian Delay Options Flip Scope The Flip Scope routine is an alternative way to achieve meridian delay and is easier to accomplish than the Meridian Delay Setting described below. Path to this function: +- Button > 9=RA/DEC Controls > 4=Flip Scope 1.
  • Page 42 As a general rule, objects on the pole side of your zenith are poor choices for using the meridian delay. When the telescope is pointed at an object on the pole side, the back of the instrument can hit the pier if you go past the meridian. Objects away from the pole (south if you are in the north and north if you are in the south) are less likely to be a problem.

  • Page 43: Orthogonality

    Telescope orthogonality requires that two conditions be met: 1. The RA and Dec axes of the mount are at precise right angles to each other. Astro-Physics mounts are very accurately machined and fulfil this condition. 90° 2. The optical axis of the telescope must be parallel to the RA (polar) axis.

  • Page 44: Slewing During The Day

    SLEWING DURING THE DAY You must take extra precautions when observing during the daytime. If not done correctly, you may suffer permanent damage to your eyesight. Be sure to supervise all children and other observers who may not be aware of the dangers. Observing in the daytime offers many rewards –...

  • Page 45: Updating Your Keypad

    UPDATING YOUR KEYPAD Keypad updates will be available periodically through the Software Updates tab on our website. The keypad loader program is Java-based and can be used on Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems. Follow the directions available from the website to complete the load process. There are two parts of the keypad software.

  • Page 46: Troubleshooting

    Battery power has dropped below the required threshold. If you measure the output of your battery to be above 11.5V, but the Keypad is still blinking on and off, please contact Astro-Physics. If your battery measures below 11.5V, recharge or replace your battery.
  • Page 47 The Keypad is resetting – making a clicking sound as the window display disappears and reappears ● If Auto-Connect had been set to “NO”, the Location Selection menu will appear each time requesting you to startup again. ● If Auto-Connect had been set to “YES” or “EXT”, the display will reappear wherever you left off. The clicking noise will be annoying, but you will not lose functionality.
  • Page 48 Keypad battery improperly, having a dead or dying battery or power surges caused by lightning strikes are all common triggers for this. Follow the directions on the website to reload the database. If the database continues to fail after you have reloaded it, please call Astro-Physics for further instructions.

  • Page 49: Appendix A: Release Notes

    APPENDIX A: RELEASE NOTES Version 5.001, 11-10-20 ● Improved routine for Get Time from Mount and Get Location from Mount. Version 5.00.135.2, 11-07-20 ● Released for Mach2GTO mounts with GTOCP5.

  • Page 50: Appendix B: Common Stars - By Constellation

    APPENDIX B: COMMON STARS – BY CONSTELLATION Constellation Star Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev Magnitude(SAO) Andromeda Alpheratz 21-Alpha Andromedae Alf And Mirach 43-Beta Andromedae Bet And Almach 57-Gamma1 Andromedae Gam And Aquarius Sadalmelik 34-Alpha Aquarii Alf Aqr Sadalsuud 22-Beta Aquarii Bet Aqr Skat 76-Delta Aquarii Del Aqr...
  • Page 51 Constellation Star Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev Magnitude(SAO) Menkent 5-Theta Centauri Tet Cen Cepheus Alderamin 5-Alpha Cephei Alf Cep Alfirk 8-Beta Cephei Bet Cep Erral 35-Gamma Cephei Gam Cep Kurhah 17-Xi Cephei Xi Cep Cetus Menkar 92-Alpha Ceti Alf Cet Diphda 16-Beta Ceti Bet Cet Kaffaljidhma...
  • Page 52 Constellation Star Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev Magnitude(SAO) Hydra Alphard 30-Alpha Hydrae Alf Hya Regulus 32-Alpha Leonis Alf Leo Denebola 94-Beta Leonis Bet Leo Algieba 41-Gamma2 Leonis Gam Leo Zosma 68-Delta Leonis Del Leo Adhafera 36-Zeta Leonis Zet Leo Alterf 4-Lambda Leonis Lam Leo Chertan 70-Theta Leonis...
  • Page 53 Constellation Star Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev Magnitude(SAO) Kaus Borealis 22-Lambda Sagittarii Lam Sgr Nunki 34-Sigma Sagittarii Sig Sgr Scorpius Antares 21-Alpha Scorpii Alf Sco Graffias 8-Beta Scorpii Bet Sco Shaula 35-Lambda Scorpii Lam Sco Lesath 34-Upsilon Scorpii Ups Sco Serpens Unukalhai 24-Alpha Serpentis Alf Ser...

  • Page 54: Appendix C: Alphabetical Star List

    APPENDIX C: ALPHABETICAL STAR LIST These stars are listed in the same order as they appear on your display when you are either following the calibration routine or have chosen Stars from the Objects Menu. Note that Polaris appears twice. Common Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev.
  • Page 55 Common Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev. Magnitude (SAO) Alya 63-Theta Serpentis Tet Ser Ankaa Alpha Phoenicis Alf Phe Antares 21-Alpha Scorpii Alf Sco Arcturus 16-Alpha Boötis Alf Boo Arkab Beta1 Sagittarii Bet Sgr Arneb 11-Alpha Leporis Alf Lep Ascella 38-Zeta Sagittarii Zet Sgr Asellus Australis 47-Delta Cancri...
  • Page 56 Common Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev. Magnitude (SAO) Giausar 1-Lambda Draconis Lam Dra Gienah 4-Gamma Corvi Gam Crv Gomeisa 3-Beta Canis Minoris Bet CMi Graffias 8-Beta Scorpii Bet Sco Grumium 32-Xi Draconis Xi Dra Hadar Beta Centauri Bet Cen Hamal 13-Alpha Arietis Alf Ari Hinds Crimson Star Homam...
  • Page 57 Common Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev. Magnitude (SAO) Navi 27-Gamma Cassiopeiae Gam Cas Nekkar 42-Beta Boötis Bet Boo Nihal 9-Beta Leporis Bet Lep Nunki 34-Sigma Sagittarii Sig Sgr Nusakan 3-Beta Coronae Borealis Bet CrB Peacock Alpha Pavonis Alf Pav Phact Alpha Columbae Alf Col Phecda 64-Gamma Ursae Majoris...
  • Page 58 Common Name Flamsteed-Bayer Designation Abbrev. Magnitude (SAO) Taygeta 19 Tauri 19 Tau Thuban 11-Alpha Draconis Alf Dra Trapezium 41-Theta1 Orionis Tet Ori Unukalhai 24-Alpha Serpentis Alf Ser none none Vega 3-Alpha Lyrae Alf Lyr Vindemiatrix 47-Epsilon Virginis Eps Vir Wasat 55-Delta Geminorum Del Gem Wazn...

  • Page 59: Appendix D: Constellation Abbreviations

    APPENDIX D: CONSTELLATION ABBREVIATIONS Andromeda Leo Minor Antlia Lepus Apus Libra Aquarius Lupus Aquila Lynx Lyra Aries Mensa Auriga Microscopium Boötes Monoceros Caelum Musca Camelopardalis Norma Cancer Octans Canes Venatici Ophiuchus Canis Major Orion Canis Minor Pavo Capricornus Pegasus Carina Perseus Cassiopeia Phoenix...

  • Page 60: Appendix E: Common Object Names

    APPENDIX E: COMMON OBJECT NAMES These objects are listed in the order in which they appear on the window. 47Tuc Hourglass Nebula Eta Carina Nebula Andromeda Galaxy Hubble’s Variable Nebula Gamma Cas Nebula Antennae Jewel Box Gamma Cygnus Nebula Barnard’s Galaxy Lacework Nebula Kappa Cru Cluster Baxendell’s Nebula...

  • Page 61: Appendix F: Aitken's Double Star (Ads) List

    APPENDIX F: AITKEN’S DOUBLE STAR (ADS) LIST These commonly observed double stars were chosen from R. G. Aitken’s New General Catalogue of Double Stars. Please note that the separations are approximate and may vary from year to year. If you are an avid double star observer, please consult an ephemeris for the most accurate data.
  • Page 62 Number Name Separation Number Name Separation 08175 57 UMa 11635 Epsilon Lyr 207.7 08196 88 Leo 11639 Zeta Lyr 43.7 08197 Omicron Sigma 235 UMa 11745 Beta Lyr 45.7 08406 2 Com 11853 Theta Ser 22.3 08539 Sigma 1639 Com 12197 Eta Lyr 28.1...

  • Page 63: Appendix G: The Greek Alphabet

    APPENDIX G: THE GREEK ALPHABET We have included this list for your reference to help you translate Greek letter designations that may be used in your star atlas or other reference. The abbreviations are used in the keypad’s Stars/Constell Tour as described previously under the head- ing “Greek Star Names, organized by constellation.”...

  • Page 64: Appendix H: Suggested Stars For The Gto Quick Star Drift Method

    APPENDIX H: SUGGESTED STARS FOR THE GTO QUICK STAR DRIFT METHOD The following list of stars is intended to make the GTO Quick Star Drift Method much quicker and easier. Since hunting through a star atlas for suitable stars can take as long as performing the actual method itself, we put together this list of sug- gested stars to give you a big head start in most situations.
  • Page 65 Northern Hemisphere Southern Hemisphere North South North South Optional Stars Star: Eta Per Tau 2 Eri Azha Acamar Mu Cet Nu Hyi 02:50:41 02:51:02 02:56:26 02:58:16 02:44:56 02:50:28 Dec: +55*53:00 -21*00:00 -08*53:53 -40*18:18 +10*06:00 -75*04:00 Star: Gam Cam Tau 8 Eri Lam Tau Del Ret Atik...
  • Page 66 Northern Hemisphere Southern Hemisphere North South North South Optional Stars Star: Chi Dra Kaus Borealis Eta Ser Vega Xi Pav 18:21:03 18:27:58 18:21:18 18:36:56 18:23:13 Dec: +72*43:00 -25*25:18 -02*53:00 +38*47:01 -61*29:00 Star: Rho Dra Eta Aql Gam Sge Del Pav 20:02:48 19:52:28 19:58:45...

  • Page 67: Appendix F: Pre-Defined Park Positions

    APPENDIX F: PRE-DEFINED PARK POSITIONS 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...
  • Page 68 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 69: Appendix G: How Does Keypad V5.X Differ From V4.19.3

    APPENDIX G: HOW DOES KEYPAD V5.X DIFFER FROM V4.19.3? We offer this information so that users of the previous v4.19.3 can quickly identify differences between the two programs. This should help to aid the transition from one to the other. ●...

Table of Contents