How do I control the IMP85 port selection?
The IMP85 is primarily controlled remotely over a network. You connect it via an Ethernet cable and access a simple web interface from a PC or mobile device to switch between the three ports. For hands-on control at the telescope, a manual selector switch is also located on the housing.
What is the main advantage of the IMP85's straight-through Port 1?
The primary benefit is zero light loss for your main camera. Because there is no mirror in the optical path for Port 1, 100% of the telescope's light reaches your sensor. This is critical for faint-signal deep-sky imaging. It also provides a more stable, balanced mounting point for your heaviest camera.
Does the IMP85 come with adapters for my telescope and cameras?
No, the IMP85 is delivered without adapters to allow for maximum flexibility. Due to the wide variety of telescopes and instruments it can support (from PlaneWave Hedrick focusers to Alluna systems), you will need to select the specific telescope-side and camera-side adapters for your setup. This ensures a rigid, parfocal connection for all three instruments.
My remote observatory uses a PlaneWave CDK with a large format camera. How does the IMP85 support this setup?
The IMP85 is ideal for this scenario. Its massive, CNC-machined dural aluminium body is designed to handle heavy loads from large cameras and filter wheels without flexure. You would mount your large format camera on the central, straight-through Port 1 for an uncompromised signal, while a secondary instrument like a guide camera or spectrograph can be placed on Port 2 or 3, ready to be switched in electronically.
I run public outreach with a large SCT. How can the IMP85 improve my workflow?
The IMP85 allows you to keep an eyepiece on a side port (e.g., Port 2) for public viewing while your primary imaging camera remains attached and ready on Port 1. After your outreach session ends, there's no need to break down the visual setup and re-attach the camera. You can simply switch the IMP85 back to Port 1 via the web interface and begin imaging immediately.
Does the IMP85 work with ASCOM drivers?
Currently, the IMP85 does not have standard ASCOM support. However, ASCOM-Alpaka drivers are in preparation. Alpaka is the next-generation, network-native ASCOM standard, which aligns perfectly with the IMP85's Ethernet-based control system.