The Sky-Watcher EQ5 PRO's SynScan Computer Control System . . .
- Computer hand control: The computerized Sky-Watcher go-to EQ5 PRO mount uses the revolutionary SynScan computer controller. In addition to fully computerized go-to operation, SynScan also allows you to use the mount manually, using the computer to control the movement of the mount as you search the skies on your own, star-hopping from object to object. The SynScan's hand control plugs into the EQ5 PRO's motor-control panel. Unlike other controllers, the easy-to-read, 2-line, 16-character backlit LCD display of the SynScan controller will display clearly in temperatures as cold as approximately 10 degrees below zero Fahrenheit. There are 19 fiber optic red-backlit positive-contact pushbuttons (not failure-prone membrane-type buttons) to make it easy for you to control the computer without affecting your dark-adapted vision. An RS-232 communication port on the hand control allows you to operate the telescope remotely via a personal computer using any ASCOM-compliant software program. A serial PC connector/hand-controller phone-jack plug computer interface cable is included.
- Built-in programs: Several different alignment methods are built into the SynScan computer, allowing you to choose the level of computer accuracy in automatically finding objects with which you are comfortable. One, two, and (more accurate) three star computer-guided alignment methods are easily accomplished in only a few short minutes. You can be observing in less than 15 minutes after you first take the scope outdoors, including telescope assembly time. The EQ5 PRO mount is compatible with operations in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. There is a GPS upgrade option to facilitate entering ultra-precise time, date, and location. There is an auto-guider port for hands-free guiding of the mount during astrophotography. Backlash compensation is provided in both RA and Dec to keep the slewing and tracking response prompt and uniform.
- Periodic error correction: The SynScan firm-wear includes a programming algorithm for periodic error correction. The PEC circuit eliminates the unavoidable small tracking errors in right ascension that are common to all worm-gear drive systems, no matter what size the telescope or what its cost. Such errors are only of concern during long exposure deep space astrophotography. Visual observing is not affected by periodic drive errors.
- Computer database: The SynScan computer includes a celestial database of over 30,000 objects, including all the crowd pleasers like the planets, the Moon, Messier objects, and interesting double stars. In addition, the library includes many objects for advanced study in the CNGC, IC, and Caldwell catalogs, plus other specialized lists. There is also the provision for adding 25 user-defined celestial favorites.