{"product_id":"rb-focus-merlin-3-0-electronic-focuser","title":"RB Focus Merlin 3.0 Electronic Focuser","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAutomates telescope focusing for astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e0.7 micron precision for critical focus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16,000 steps per revolution for fine adjustments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB 2.0 and Bluetooth connectivity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eASCOM and INDI compatible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnboard full-color IPS LCD display\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRB Focus Merlin 3.0 Electronic Focuser\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe RB Focus Merlin 3.0 Electronic Focuser is a NEMA 17 focus motor that automates your telescope's existing focuser, with 16,000 steps per revolution (0.7 microns), a Dual Core processor, Sensorless AutoHoming, a temperature sensor, an IPS display, USB 2.0 and Bluetooth. RB Focus makes it in Spain, CNC-machined from aluminum, and it weighs 280 g.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e0.7 Micron Precision from 16,000 Steps per Revolution\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Merlin 3.0 moves your focuser with a resolution of 16,000 steps per revolution, or a precision of 0.7 microns. Autofocus with it can reach focus more precisely than a Bahtinov mask, without slewing the telescope to a bright star.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts DirectDrive (direct transmission) avoids the mechanical play common in other products, and RB Focus notes it even lets you focus manually when you have no computer at hand. The InteligentSilentDrive system actively adjusts the motor's force for completely silent operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSensorless AutoHoming™: Position Recovery via Magnetic Fields\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Merlin 3.0 introduces a position recovery system that doesn't rely on mechanical limit switches. Using a proprietary system that senses magnetic fields, Sensorless AutoHoming™ calibrates the focuser's position and ensures the correct tension is applied to the drive mechanism, preventing slippage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the tube is moved by accident, or you rack the focuser in by hand at the end of the session, the system senses its home position and returns the focuser to the last focus point applied by your capture program, so position is not lost and you do not need to remember your starting settings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e280g Design with Onboard IPS Display and Dual-Core CPU\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngineered to add minimal weight and bulk, the Merlin 3.0 motor body weighs just 280g and measures 42 x 60 x 70 mm. Inside the compact, CNC-machined aluminum housing, a Dual Core processor runs autofocus without interruption while it refreshes the display and handles its other functions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn integrated full-color IPS LCD screen, with automatic on\/off, lets you check that the focuser is working correctly, review saved settings and follow its movements in real time without looking at your computer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUSB 2.0 and Bluetooth for App or PC Control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Merlin 3.0 connects to your computer by USB 2.0 for control through ASCOM or INDI drivers, and has antennas for Bluetooth, which reduces cables and weight on your setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith RB Focus's mobile app you can also focus manually from your phone, which RB Focus suggests for visual or planetary observing without touching the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eASCOM \u0026amp; INDI Control for SCT, Crayford \u0026amp; Takahashi Focusers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the ASCOM and INDI standards, the Merlin 3.0 works with the capture programs RB Focus names: APT, SGP, N.I.N.A., Voyager, KStars and Ekos. RB Focus says it has been tested with color, mono and DSLR cameras, from basic to advanced models, on reflectors and refractors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe box includes a self-aligning shaft coupler, shaft adapters for 4 mm, 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm (Takahashi) shafts and an adapter for dual-speed Crayford focusers with a 27 mm reducer. Choose the bracket format for your focuser: Standard format (Sky-Watcher models with dual-speed focuser, TS, GSO, William Optics and similar), Large format (Feather Touch and similar), Mak 127 base, SCT base (Mak 150 and larger), or the Takahashi adapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat telescopes will the RB Focus Merlin 3.0 fit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt mounts on your telescope's existing focuser with the bracket format you choose: Standard format (Sky-Watcher models with dual-speed focuser, TS, GSO, William Optics and similar), Large format (Feather Touch and similar), Mak 127 base, SCT base (Mak 150 and larger; RB Focus lists Sky-Watcher Maksutovs and Celestron and Meade SCTs and asks you to confirm the size), or the Takahashi adapter (27 mm with 3.5 mm shaft).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat power supply do I need for the Merlin 3.0?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Merlin 3.0 requires a \u003cstrong\u003e12V DC\u003c\/strong\u003e power source. The power connector is a standard \u003cstrong\u003e2.1 x 5.5 mm DC jack\u003c\/strong\u003e. Please note that a 12V power adapter is \u003cstrong\u003enot included\u003c\/strong\u003e in the box and must be supplied separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Merlin 3.0 for planetary imaging on my 8\" SCT?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Choose the SCT base version. RB Focus suggests the mobile app for focusing during visual or planetary observing without touching the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the included temperature sensor on the Merlin 3.0 work?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe external temperature sensor allows your autofocus software to perform temperature compensation. As the ambient temperature changes overnight, a telescope's metal tube can expand or contract, causing the focal point to shift. By monitoring this temperature change, software like N.I.N.A. or SGP can be configured to automatically trigger a new autofocus run after a set temperature drop, ensuring your images remain sharp all night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need a computer to use the RB Focus Merlin 3.0?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor automated focusing within an imaging sequence you need a computer running ASCOM or INDI capture software. For manual electronic focusing, RB Focus's mobile app connects over Bluetooth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Merlin 3.0 compatible with my Canon DSLR and a William Optics refractor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. RB Focus says it has been tested with color cameras and DSLRs as well as mono cameras, and William Optics focusers are among those covered by the Standard bracket format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I still focus by hand with the Merlin 3.0 installed?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRB Focus says the DirectDrive transmission lets you focus manually even when you have no computer at hand, and the mobile app allows manual electronic focusing. RB Focus does not say whether the focuser knob can be turned by hand with the motor fitted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is Sensorless AutoHoming™ on the Merlin 3.0?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRB Focus's Sensorless AutoHoming automatically calibrates the focuser in several directions. If the tube is moved by accident or racked in by hand, it returns the focuser to the last focus point applied by your capture program. A magnetic-field sensing system also ensures correct tension on the focuser mechanism, avoiding slippage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Merlin 3.0 difficult to configure in software like N.I.N.A. or SGP?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo, it is designed for straightforward setup. After installing the ASCOM driver, the Merlin 3.0 appears as a standard focuser in your software. The driver provides simple, minimal settings, allowing you to connect and start an autofocus run quickly without needing to understand complex parameters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWill the NEMA 17 motor in the Merlin 3.0 cause vibrations?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Merlin 3.0 incorporates a system called InteligentSilentDrive™, which actively adjusts the motor's force for completely silent operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the benefit of the Merlin 3.0's DirectDrive system?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe DirectDrive system connects the motor shaft directly to the focuser pinion via a coupler. This eliminates the need for belts or gears, which can introduce backlash (a small amount of \"slop\" or delay when changing direction). RB Focus says this avoids the mechanical play common in other products.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNEMA 17\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e42 x 60 x 70 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e280 g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrecision\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.7 microns\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStep resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e16,000 steps per revolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDisplay\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFull-color IPS LCD with automatic on\/off\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData interface\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWireless\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBluetooth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eASCOM and INDI software\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePower\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12V DC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePower connector\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.1 x 5.5 mm DC jack\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperature sensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eRB Focus electronic focus motor\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eTemperature sensor\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eUSB Type-A to USB Type-C cable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eSelf-aligning shaft coupler\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eShaft adapters 4 mm, 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm (Takahashi)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1 set\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eAdapter for dual-speed Crayford focusers with 27 mm reducer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/rb-focus-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRB Focus 2-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"RB Focus","offers":[{"title":"Mak 127 Base","offer_id":67881968894237,"sku":"RB-MERLIN3-MAK127","price":451.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"SCT Base (Mak 150 and Larger)","offer_id":67881968927005,"sku":"RB-MERLIN3-SCT","price":451.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Standard Format (27 to 33 mm)","offer_id":67881968959773,"sku":"RB-MERLIN3-STD","price":418.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large Format (Feather Touch and Similar)","offer_id":67881968992541,"sku":"RB-MERLIN3-LARGE","price":475.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Takahashi Adapter (27 mm, 3.5 mm Shaft)","offer_id":67881969025309,"sku":"RB-MERLIN3-TAK","price":418.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/78d234_ea993f8778a9484784787902661d4426_mv2.jpg?v=1793070891","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr\/products\/rb-focus-merlin-3-0-electronic-focuser","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}