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Lunt PC-USB Pressure Tuner Controller
Lunt PC-USB Pressure Tuner Controller
Lunt PC-USB Pressure Tuner Controller

Lunt PC-USB Pressure Tuner Controller

by Lunt Solar Systems
SKU LSS-PCUSB
$995.00 - $995.00
$995.00
$995.00 - $995.00
$995.00
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  • Automates pressure tuning for any Lunt PT solar telescope
  • Connects and is controlled via a standard USB connection
  • Internal microprocessor compensates for temperature and altitude changes
  • Retrofits to any existing Lunt PT system without factory service
  • Internal battery runs the unit for more than 12 hours
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Lunt PC-USB Pressure Tuner Controller

    The Lunt PC-USB Pressure Tuner Controller automates the most critical variable in solar imaging: etalon tuning. This microprocessor-controlled system replaces manual adjustments with repeatable, software-driven precision, allowing you to control your Lunt Pressure-Tuned (PT) telescope from a connected computer. It maintains the center wavelength setpoint regardless of changes in ambient temperature or altitude, providing stable, optimized views of the Sun's chromosphere throughout your observing session.

    Remote Operation: Computerized Control for Lunt Pressure Tuners

    The PC-USB connects to your Lunt solar telescope via a simple airline, giving you full control over the etalon's pressure from your computer. This eliminates the need to physically touch the telescope to make fine adjustments, a critical advantage for high-magnification imaging where even minor vibrations can ruin a capture. The simple two-button system (one button to increase, one to decrease) allows for precise changes in pressure, with digital feedback confirming the exact setting.

    Automated Precision: Set-and-Forget Altitude and Temperature Compensation

    A key challenge in solar observation is etalon drift caused by environmental changes. The PC-USB solves this by creating a sealed, closed-loop system. It automatically compensates for pressure fluctuations caused by temperature shifts and maintains its setpoint even if you travel from sea level to a high-altitude observing site. This stability allows imagers to correlate pressure changes with doppler-shifted solar events, opening the door for more advanced solar study without constant manual retuning.

    Power & Installation: Field-Ready Power and Simple Retrofit

    Designed for both backyard and remote field use, the PC-USB runs on its internal rechargeable battery for extended imaging sessions. It can also be powered by an external adapter, which simultaneously charges the unit. Critically, the system can be retrofitted to any existing Lunt PT telescope by the user without requiring a return to the factory. An adapter fits over the standard PT knob, or future systems can be ordered with a quick-disconnect port for a cleaner setup.

  • How does the Lunt PC-USB improve on manual pressure tuning?

    The Lunt PC-USB provides repeatable, remote-controlled precision that is difficult to achieve manually. It eliminates vibrations from hands-on adjustments and automatically compensates for temperature and altitude changes, ensuring your telescope remains perfectly on-band for the duration of an imaging session.

    Can I install the PC-USB on my older Lunt solar telescope?

    Yes. The PC-USB is designed to be retrofitted to any Lunt PT product. It includes an adapter that fits over the existing pressure tuner knob, and the system connects via a simple airline. You do not need to send your telescope to Lunt for installation.

    How does the Lunt PC-USB handle altitude changes when I travel to a mountain observing site?

    The PC-USB creates a sealed, closed-loop pressure system. Once you set your desired tuning pressure, the controller will maintain that internal pressure regardless of the external ambient air pressure. This means your center wavelength setpoint remains constant at any altitude, eliminating the need to retune when you change locations.

    What power options does the Lunt PC-USB have for a full day of solar imaging?

    The controller can run continuously on its internal battery for more than 12 hours. For longer sessions or permanent setups, it can also be powered by an external DC power adapter, which will run the unit and charge the internal battery at the same time.

    Can the Lunt PC-USB help track doppler shifts in solar prominences?

    Yes. Because the PC-USB provides precise digital feedback of the internal etalon pressure, advanced users can correlate specific pressure changes to doppler-shifted events on the Sun. This allows you to precisely quantify the shift off the H-alpha line when observing fast-moving solar features.

    Do I need special software to use the Lunt PC-USB?

    For remote use, yes: the PC-USB is controllable via a USB connection and software (USB cables are not included). On the unit itself, one button increases and one decreases the pressure, with digital feedback and indicator lights.

  • SKU PC-USB
    Kind Pressure tuner controller
    Input power 12-15 VDC (AC adapter), internal battery >12 h
    Connector USB (cable not included); 1/8" airline to telescope
    Control / software 2-button unit + USB software, 0.3 PSI accuracy
  • Lunt Solar Systems 5-Year Warranty