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iOptron Controller Cable - 6P4C

iOptron Controller Cable - 6P4C

by iOptron
SKU IOP-8415
CA$25.00 - CA$25.00
CA$25.00
CA$25.00 - CA$25.00
CA$25.00
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  • 6P4C (6 Position, 4 Conductor) Connector
  • Standard Replacement for Telescope Hand Controllers
  • Flexible Coiled or Straight Cable Design
  • Durable Locking Tabs
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • Controller Cable - 6P4C

    This Controller Cable is a direct replacement cable for connecting a telescope mount's hand controller to the main control board, utilizing the common 6P4C connector standard. The 6P4C plug, often visually similar to a telephone handset jack, ensures a secure, locking connection for reliable communication between your controller and mount.

    6P4C Connector: The Standard for Hand Controller Connections

    The 6P4C (6 Position, 4 Conductor) connector has been adopted by many major telescope manufacturers for their GoTo systems. This cable serves as a fundamental link, carrying power and data signals that allow your hand controller to command the mount's motors for slewing, tracking, and alignment procedures.

    • Secure Connection: The plastic locking tab on the 6P4C connector prevents accidental disconnection during an observing session, which could otherwise interrupt tracking or cause a loss of alignment.
    • Common Application: This cable style is frequently used for the primary hand-controller-to-mount connection on systems from brands like Celestron (NexStar/CGX), Sky-Watcher (SynScan), and others.

    Critical Compatibility Check: Verifying Your Mount's Pinout

    While the 6P4C connector itself is standardized, the internal wiring arrangement, or "pinout," is not. Different manufacturers—and sometimes even different mount models from the same manufacturer—use different pinouts for their controller ports.

    Using a cable with an incorrect pinout can lead to erratic behavior or, in worst-case scenarios, damage to the electronics in your mount or hand controller. It is essential to confirm that this replacement cable's pinout matches the specific requirements of your telescope mount before connecting it. Consult your mount's original documentation to verify compatibility.

  • Will this 6P4C cable work with my Celestron NexStar 8SE mount?

    Many Celestron mounts, including the NexStar series, use a 6P4C cable for the hand controller. However, you must verify the pinout. A "straight-through" telephone handset cord will not work and may cause damage. This cable is intended as a like-for-like replacement for the original Celestron controller cable.

    What is the difference between a 6P4C and a 6P6C controller cable?

    The numbers refer to the connector's physical size and the number of electrical contacts.
    • 6P4C means 6 Positions, 4 Conductors. The plug has space for six pins, but only the middle four are present and wired. This is common for hand controllers.
    • 6P6C means 6 Positions, 6 Conductors. All six positions in the plug have pins and are wired. This is often used for autoguider (ST-4) ports or auxiliary ports that require more connections.

    Can I use a standard telephone handset cord as a replacement 6P4C controller cable?

    No, you should not. While they use the same 6P4C connector, standard telephone handset cords have a "crossover" or "reverse" pinout. Telescope controller cables typically require a "straight-through" pinout. Using a phone cord can connect power to data lines, potentially damaging your mount's electronics permanently.

    My hand controller doesn't power on with this new 6P4C cable. What should I check?

    First, ensure the cable is fully seated and the locking tabs have clicked into place on both the mount and the hand controller. Second, confirm that the mount itself is powered on and receiving adequate voltage. If it still doesn't work, the issue may be an incorrect pinout for your specific mount model, so double-check the cable's compatibility against your mount's requirements.

    What does the "6P4C" in Controller Cable mean?

    "6P4C" is a standard designation for a modular electrical connector. It stands for 6 Position, 4 Conductor. This means the plastic plug has six available positions for pins, but only the central four positions are fitted with metal conductors to carry a signal.

    Is this 6P4C cable for connecting my Sky-Watcher mount to a PC?

    No, this cable is typically for connecting the SynScan hand controller to the mount's hand controller (HC) port. To connect a Sky-Watcher mount to a PC for computer control, you generally need a different cable, often a USB-to-Serial adapter that connects to the bottom of the hand controller.

  • Connector Type 6P4C (6 Position, 4 Conductor)
    Application Telescope Hand Controller to Mount Connection

    • Controller Cable - 6P4C

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  • Please see manufacturer's warranty policy for details.