How do I control the FlatMasterL 250 with my smartphone?
You can connect your phone to the FlatMasterL 250's built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi hotspot. Once connected, open any web browser and navigate to `flatmaster.local` to access a web dashboard that allows you to adjust the panel's brightness from 0 to 100% remotely.
Is the FlatMasterL 250 bright enough for narrowband filters?
Yes. The panel is designed to reach very high brightness levels, enabling you to capture flat frames with short exposures (typically 2-3 seconds) even when using 3nm narrowband filters on telescopes with focal ratios around f/7.
What software is compatible with the FlatMasterL 250?
The FlatMasterL 250 is supported by the Pegasus Astro Unity Platform and most major astrophotography automation software, including:
- N.I.N.A (Nighttime Imaging 'N' Astronomy)
- SGP (Sequence Generator Pro)
- APT (Astrophotography Tool)
- Voyager Astrophotography Automation
Can I use the FlatMasterL 250 on a telescope smaller than 10 inches?
Absolutely. The 250mm (10-inch) designation indicates the maximum recommended aperture. It works perfectly for any telescope with an aperture up to that size, such as an 8-inch SCT or a 130mm refractor.
How do I power the FlatMasterL 250 in the field?
The panel is powered by a standard 5V DC USB connection and draws a maximum of 500mA. You can power it from a USB port on your laptop, a powered USB hub, or any portable USB power bank, making it easy to use at any remote observing site.
What is the purpose of the manual push button on the FlatMasterL 250?
The manual button allows you to operate the FlatMasterL 250 without connecting to a computer or Wi-Fi. Each press of the button cycles through different preset brightness levels, providing a quick and simple way to take flat frames if you are operating a simple DSLR setup without a PC.