Can I use the StarFi adapter to control my CEM25 mount with Sky Safari Pro on my iPad?
Yes. The StarFi adapter is fully compatible with the CEM25 mount and supports Sky Safari Pro on iOS devices like the iPad. You can connect your iPad directly to the StarFi's Wi-Fi network and enjoy complete wireless GoTo control.
How can I control my CEM60 mount from my laptop inside while imaging the Orion Nebula (M42)?
To control your CEM60 from an indoor laptop, you would configure the StarFi adapter to STAtion (STA) mode. This connects the adapter to your home Wi-Fi network. Your laptop, on the same network, can then connect to the mount using the iOptron ASCOM driver in your preferred imaging software.
What is the difference between AP and STAtion mode on the StarFi adapter?
Access Point (AP) mode is the default setting where the StarFi creates its own Wi-Fi network. You connect your phone or tablet directly to it, which is ideal for field use where no other network is available. STAtion (STA) mode allows the StarFi to join an existing Wi-Fi network, like your home router, enabling control from any device on that network.
What do I need to connect the StarFi to my older iEQ45 mount?
The required cables for an older iEQ45 depend on its hand controller.
- If you have the 8407 hand controller, you will need a DB9 RS232 male-to-male connector.
- If you have the 8406 hand controller, you will need both a DB9 RS232 male-to-male connector and an iOptron RS232-RJ9 cable (#8412).
My SmartEQ Pro mount isn't powering the StarFi adapter. What's wrong?
This is expected behavior. The SmartEQ Pro and SmartEQ mounts cannot supply power through their ports to run the StarFi adapter. You must connect an external 12V DC power source directly to the StarFi for it to function with these specific mounts.
Will the StarFi adapter work with a non-iOptron mount?
The StarFi adapter is designed and supported for iOptron mounts. While it may work with other manufacturers' mounts that use serial control, this is not guaranteed. Doing so would likely require a DB9 RS232 male-to-male connector and an iOptron RS232-RJ9 cable (#8412), and would be considered an experimental setup.