From: Milton Aupperle <milton@outcastsoft.com>
Date: February 2, 2007 5:50:27 PM MST
To: Astro_IIDC@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Astro_IIDC] What else do I need
Dear Tom;
On 2-Feb-07, at 5:23 PM, tom robison wrote:
Hello!
If I were to get the DFK 21BF04 camera and AstroII DC software for Mac OS, what else would I
need to start capturing images?
I have anETX-125 w/UHTC, an 80mm ED refractor and an alt/az mount. My computer is a
Powerbook G4 867mhz, Mac OS 10.4.4.
Would appreciate helping me set up a shopping list for the bare minimum it would take to
get going.
Your equipment list sounds fine and the only thing you need to get is a C-Mount to 1.25" adapter so the Camera can be connect to the scope.
I bought a Lumacon version from "Island Eyepiece" in BC, but this Scopetronix model
"C Mount for Video Cameras - Model # STC125 $22.95"
from the Scopetronix web page at:
http://www.scopetronix.com/webcam.htm
will do fine.
Make sure the 1.25" end is threaded for filters or focal reducers etc.
I would also recommend you order the DFK 21AF04 instead of the DFK 21BF04. The only difference is the that the B series has external trigger and unless your really planning using it for something like Machine vision stuff, save your self $70.00 USD.
With an Alt/Azimuth mount, you will be pretty much limited to Planetary / Lunar / Solar imaging +/- short < 20 second exposures.
An good polar aligned EQ mount or a Fork with appropriate wedge will be required if you decide to go after DSO's. For telescope guiding control, you need a KeySpan USB to Serial Adapter so that Astro IIDC can shove the scope around for image tracking.
HTH..
Milton J. Aupperle
President
ASC - Aupperle Services and Contracting
Mac Software (Drivers, Components and Application) Specialist
#1005 - 815 14th Avenue. S.W.
Calgary Alberta Canada T2R0N5
1-(403)-229-9456
www.outcastsoft.com