Optec Gemini Combination Focuser and Rotator [OPC-19750]
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Optec engineers have developed a completely new concept for combining telescope focus and camera rotation functions into a single robust, yet compact package. Rather than simply adding a rotator onto the end of a focuser drawtube, Gemini was designed from inception with a rotating drawtube providing superior strength and rigidity for heavy camera payloads. Featuring four lead-screws and four linear bearings, Gemini can easily handle 10 kg (22 lbs) payload packages without flexure. Full 360 degree rotation is a built-in function of the Gemini with a full 1/2" of linear travel. At the midpoint, Gemini measures a mere 2.5" in thickness.
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, 6 mm chrome ball bearings.
Dual Function Control with Multiple Options
Support for Multiple Telescope:
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 16-inch 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 12 VDC 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.
Coming Soon - 802.11 WiFi Option:
Using the ASCOM Local Server model, Optec´s Gemini Commander software allows multiple clients to connect simultaneously to the Gemini hub. Soon to be released embedded webservers in the wired Ethernet and WiFi connections enable Gemini to generate a control interface accessible through any web browser or smartphone. Free Android and iPhone applications search the local network and load the interactive webpages. Because these pages are generated by the hub itself, once you are connected, there is no further configuration required: just connect to Gemini and enjoy remote wireless focus control with the optional 802.11 WiFi add-on.
Gemini Commander Software
Visit the Gemini Software Downloads Page for the latest updates and ASCOM driver, Gemini Commander control software and additional resources.
Gemini Commander creates an ASCOM Local Server or hub to allow multiple clients access for communication and control of the attached focusers. By using the local server model, Gemini offers an easily configurable user experience for all Windows ASCOM programs.
Specifications for Gemini and Controller:
Focusing Rotator Physical Specifications:
Clear Aperture: 3.75"
Back-Focus Usage: 2.2" to 2.7"
Focus Travel: 0.5"
Focuser Resolution: 0.11 microns per step
Rotator Resolution. 600 steps per degree
Minimum Overall Thickness: 2.2" (Full IN position)
Dimensions: 9.4" x 7.4"
Weight: 6lb. 6oz.
Gemini Controller Hub Specifications:
Controller Hub Specifications:
Length: 5.1"
Width: 3.2"
Height: 1.0"
Weight: 10oz.
Mounting Holes: Four 4-40 x 1/8" depth (reverse side)
Case Material: 6061 aluminium, 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: 12 VDC input, 2.5 x 5.5 mm 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)
Delivery contains:
Gemini Focuser Rotator System
Gemini Controller Hub
12 V Power Supply
Cable
About Optec Gemini Combination Focuser and Rotator [OPC-19750]
Optec: New Design Concept:
Optec engineers have developed a completely new concept for combining telescope focus and camera rotation functions into a single robust, yet compact package. Rather than simply adding a rotator onto the end of a focuser drawtube, Gemini was designed from inception with a rotating drawtube providing superior strength and rigidity for heavy camera payloads. Featuring four lead-screws and four linear bearings, Gemini can easily handle 10 kg (22 lbs) payload packages without flexure. Full 360 degree rotation is a built-in function of the Gemini with a full 1/2" of linear travel. At the midpoint, Gemini measures a mere 2.5" in thickness.
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, 6 mm chrome ball bearings.
Dual Function Control with Multiple Options
Support for Multiple Telescope:
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 16-inch 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 12 VDC 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.
Coming Soon - 802.11 WiFi Option:
Using the ASCOM Local Server model, Optec´s Gemini Commander software allows multiple clients to connect simultaneously to the Gemini hub. Soon to be released embedded webservers in the wired Ethernet and WiFi connections enable Gemini to generate a control interface accessible through any web browser or smartphone. Free Android and iPhone applications search the local network and load the interactive webpages. Because these pages are generated by the hub itself, once you are connected, there is no further configuration required: just connect to Gemini and enjoy remote wireless focus control with the optional 802.11 WiFi add-on.
Gemini Commander Software
Visit the Gemini Software Downloads Page for the latest updates and ASCOM driver, Gemini Commander control software and additional resources.
Gemini Commander creates an ASCOM Local Server or hub to allow multiple clients access for communication and control of the attached focusers. By using the local server model, Gemini offers an easily configurable user experience for all Windows ASCOM programs.
Specifications for Gemini and Controller:
Focusing Rotator Physical Specifications:
Clear Aperture: 3.75"
Back-Focus Usage: 2.2" to 2.7"
Focus Travel: 0.5"
Focuser Resolution: 0.11 microns per step
Rotator Resolution. 600 steps per degree
Minimum Overall Thickness: 2.2" (Full IN position)
Dimensions: 9.4" x 7.4"
Weight: 6lb. 6oz.
Gemini Controller Hub Specifications:
Controller Hub Specifications:
Length: 5.1"
Width: 3.2"
Height: 1.0"
Weight: 10oz.
Mounting Holes: Four 4-40 x 1/8" depth (reverse side)
Case Material: 6061 aluminium, 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: 12 VDC input, 2.5 x 5.5 mm 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)
Delivery contains:
Gemini Focuser Rotator System
Gemini Controller Hub
12 V Power Supply
Cable
- Connection camera: Optec 4300 Connector
- Connection telescope: Optec 4300 Connector
- Total length: 55.9 mm
- Unobstructed inner diameter: 95 mm
- Focuser type: Focuser and Rotator motorized
- Max. Payload: 22 lb
- Length: 239 mm
- Width: 187 mm
- Accessories: Gemini Controller Hub, 12 VDC Power Supply, Cable
- Weight: 6.4 lb
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