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Pegasus Dual Motor Focus Controller
Pegasus Dual Motor Focus Controller

Pegasus Dual Motor Focus Controller

by Pegasus Astro
SKU PEG-DMFC
$215.22 - $215.22
$215.22
$215.22 - $215.22
$215.22
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  • Drives DC motors (up to 1A) and unipolar/bipolar stepper motors (up to 2A)
  • Manual control via digital encoder knob and PC control via USB 2.0
  • ASCOM and INDI compatible for full software integration
  • Includes external temperature sensor with 9-bit resolution for thermal focus compensation
  • Firmware-based backlash compensation for precise focusing
  • Compact 66mm x 66mm x 28mm aluminum enclosure weighs only 280g
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
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  • Pegasus Astro Dual Motor Focus Controller

    The Pegasus Astro Dual Motor Focus Controller delivers precise, repeatable autofocus for modern imaging systems by driving both DC and stepper motors with up to 2.0 Amps of current. Housed in a compact 66mm x 66mm x 28mm enclosure, it connects to your PC via a USB 2.0 interface for full software control. An included temperature sensor with 9-bit resolution enables automatic focus adjustments as ambient temperature changes, while firmware-based backlash compensation ensures mechanical play in the focuser is eliminated from the focusing routine.

    Dual-Mode Motor Drive: 2A Stepper and 1A DC Motor Support

    The controller's core strength is its ability to adapt to any focuser motor you use. It supports both high-resolution unipolar and bipolar stepper motors for absolute position focusing, delivering up to 2.0 Amps (1.0 Amp per phase). It can also drive simpler DC motors with up to 1 Amp of continuous current using adjustable Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). You can switch between motor types with a single click in the control software, and the setting is saved directly to the controller's memory.

    ASCOM, INDI, and Manual Control via a Digital Encoder

    Integrate the Dual Motor Focus Controller seamlessly into your existing imaging workflow. The controller is fully compatible with the latest ASCOM 6 platform for Windows and has a native INDI driver for Linux-based systems like Astroberry or Stellarmate. For moments when you're at the telescope without a computer, a tactile digital encoder knob on the side of the unit allows for precise manual control, with a push-to-reduce function that drops motor speed by a factor of 10 for fine adjustments.

    Temperature Compensation and Backlash Correction with 9-bit Accuracy

    Fast optical systems are highly sensitive to thermal shift, where changes in temperature alter the telescope's focal length. The Dual Motor Focus Controller includes a 0.6m temperature probe that measures ambient temperature with 9-bit resolution. This data allows your automation software to trigger an autofocus routine when a significant temperature change is detected, keeping your images sharp all night. The firmware also includes a backlash compensation routine, which corrects for mechanical slop in the focuser drawtube for consistent, accurate results.

    A Compact 66mm x 66mm, 280g Controller

    Designed to ride on your telescope without adding significant weight or cable drag, the controller measures just 66mm x 66mm x 28mm. The robust, anodized aluminum chassis weighs only 280g, including its mounting bracket. It utilizes standard connectors for reliability, including a 2.1mm center-positive 12V DC input, a USB 2.0 Type B port for data, and a secure RJ45 port for the motor connection.

    What's New in Version 3: More Power, Smaller Size

    This latest version of the Dual Motor Focus Controller incorporates a decade of focusing experience and user feedback. Compared to its predecessors, it features more powerful motor outputs capable of driving heavier loads with greater torque and precision. This increased capability is engineered into an even more compact and lightweight package, minimizing its footprint on your imaging rig.

  • What types of motors can the Dual Motor Focus Controller handle?

    The controller is designed for universal compatibility. It can drive DC motors (up to 1 Amp) via Pulse Width Modulation and both unipolar and bipolar stepper motors (up to 2.0 Amps) for high-precision, absolute-position focusing. You can switch between motor types in the software.

    How do I control the DMFC at the telescope without a laptop?

    The Dual Motor Focus Controller includes a digital encoder knob on the side of the unit. Turning this knob provides direct, manual control over the motor, simulating the feel of a traditional focuser. Pressing the knob reduces the motor speed by a 1:10 ratio, allowing for very fine adjustments.

    Does the Dual Motor Focus Controller work with imaging software like N.I.N.A. or SGP?

    Yes. The controller is fully compatible with any software that supports the ASCOM standard, including popular applications like N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro (SGP), and others. It also has a native INDI driver for use with software on Linux and macOS.

    My focuser has some mechanical play. Can the DMFC help with that?

    Absolutely. The controller has a built-in backlash compensation feature managed by its firmware. You can input a compensation value in the software to ensure the focuser motor always finishes its movement in the same direction, effectively eliminating the impact of gear play and ensuring repeatable focus positions.

    How does the temperature sensor on the DMFC improve my images with an f/4 Newtonian?

    Fast telescopes like an f/4 Newtonian have a very narrow critical focus zone. As the temperature drops overnight, the telescope's metal tube contracts, changing the focal point. The included 9-bit resolution temperature sensor allows your ASCOM or INDI-compatible software to monitor this change and automatically run a new focus routine when the temperature shifts by a set amount, keeping stars perfectly sharp.

    What power supply do I need for the Dual Motor Focus Controller?

    The controller requires a 12V DC power source. The input connector is a standard 2.1mm center-positive socket. While the controller can accept 5V for specific 5V motors, a 12V supply is recommended for standard operation.

  • Supply Voltage 12V DC (Can accept 5V for 5V motors)
    Motor Compatibility DC motors (adjustable PWM), Unipolar & Bipolar stepper motors
    Motor Output (DC) 1 Amp Maximum
    Motor Output (Stepper) 2.0 Amps Maximum (1.0 Amp per phase)
    USB Connectivity USB 2.0 Type B
    Temperature Sensor Resolution 9-bit Celsius measurements
    Power Input Connector 2.1mm Centre Positive Socket
    Motor Connector RJ45
    Dimensions 66mm x 66mm x 28 mm
    Weight 280g (including bracket)

    • Dual Motor Focus Controller

      × 1

    • Temperature Sensor (0.6m)

      × 1

    • USB Type B Cable (1.8m)

      × 1

  • Pegasus Astro 2-Year Warranty