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Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller
Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller

Baader Planetarium Baader Steeldrive II Controller

by Baader Planetarium
SKU BAA-2957260
CA$648.00 - CA$648.00
CA$648.00
CA$648.00 - CA$648.00
CA$648.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Standalone hand controller for Baader Steeldrive II motor units
  • Three distinct, selectable focusing modes for any scenario
  • Full computer control and configuration via included SteelGo software
  • Onboard intelligence for setting limits and managing temperature compensation
  • User-configurable backlight and status LED brightness
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Baader Steeldrive II Controller

    The Baader Steeldrive II Controller is the dedicated command center for the Steeldrive II motor focuser system, providing precise, repeatable focus adjustments either standalone or via computer. This unit houses all the control electronics, allowing you to interface directly with the motor through its tactile keypad or unlock advanced features with the included SteelGo software. It enables you to manage everything from basic movement to temperature compensation and saved positional memory, forming the core of a professional-grade automated focusing setup.

    Three Precision Focusing Modes for Coarse to Micro-Step Adjustments

    The Steeldrive II Controller offers three distinct movement modes, selectable directly from the hand unit to match your immediate focusing needs. This allows you to transition seamlessly from initial setup to critical fine-tuning without touching the telescope.

    • Normal Mode: The focuser moves continuously for as long as a direction key is pressed, ideal for making large, rapid adjustments when changing eyepieces or cameras.
    • Jogging Mode: Each keypress moves the focuser a specific, pre-defined distance. This step size is user-configurable in the SteelGo software, enabling consistent, repeatable adjustments for dialing in focus.
    • Single Step Mode: A single keypress moves the focuser by the smallest possible increment the system can produce. This mode is essential for achieving critical focus on high-resolution planetary targets or when splitting tight double stars.

    SteelGo Software Integration for Full Computerized Focuser Control

    While fully functional on its own, the Steeldrive II Controller unlocks its full potential when connected to a PC running the included SteelGo software. This interface provides a graphical dashboard for all focuser functions, including setting the custom step size for Jogging Mode and managing automated temperature compensation routines.

    For advanced observatories or remote imaging rigs, the system is designed for scalability. A single computer can operate several Steeldrive II Controllers in parallel, allowing you to manage multiple independent telescope and focuser setups from one central command station.

    Standalone Operation: Configure Limits and Temperature Compensation without a PC

    The Steeldrive II Controller is engineered for robust field use, giving you access to critical settings directly from the hand controller without needing a laptop. You can program focuser travel limits, save and recall specific focus positions, and activate or deactivate the temperature control system on the fly.

    This standalone intelligence is a significant advantage for visual observers or anyone seeking a streamlined setup. You can even adjust the brightness of the keypad's backlight and status LEDs to preserve your night vision, ensuring the controller is a tool, not a distraction. Please note that the Steeldrive II motor unit and the focuser itself are sold separately.

  • What else do I need to use the Steeldrive II Controller?

    The Steeldrive II Controller is the control unit only. To create a complete motorized focusing system, you will also need a Baader Steeldrive II Motor Unit and a compatible focuser, such as a Baader SteelTrack or Diamond SteelTrack.

    Can I control two telescopes with one Steeldrive II Controller?

    No, one Steeldrive II Controller can operate one Steeldrive II motor unit at a time. However, if you have two complete setups (two motors and two controllers), you can connect both controllers to a single computer and operate them in parallel using the SteelGo software.

    How does the Steeldrive II Controller handle temperature changes during an imaging session?

    The controller has built-in logic for temperature compensation. When used with the temperature sensor on the Steeldrive II motor unit, it can automatically make micro-adjustments to the focuser position as the ambient temperature drops, keeping your images sharp throughout a long night without manual intervention.

    What is the practical difference between the "Jogging" and "Single Step" modes on the Steeldrive II Controller?

    Jogging Mode is for making small, repeatable adjustments where you define the step size (e.g., for finding focus with a Bahtinov mask). Single Step Mode makes the absolute smallest mechanical movement possible, which is essential for the final, critical tweak when visually observing a planet like Jupiter at high magnification.

    Do I need a computer at the telescope to use the Steeldrive II Controller?

    No, a computer is not required for core functionality. You can move the focuser, set travel limits, save positions, and manage temperature control directly from the hand controller, making it perfectly suited for visual observing or minimalist imaging setups.

    How would I use the Steeldrive II Controller to focus on Saturn with an 11" SCT?

    For a high-magnification target like Saturn, you would first use Normal Mode to get close to focus. Then, switch to Jogging Mode for finer adjustments until the Cassini Division is visible. For the final, sharpest view, you would use Single Step Mode to make tiny nudges to the focus point until the image is perfectly crisp.

  • Baader Planetarium Warranty Policy