Skip to content
PrimaLuceLab ALTO-1 Telescope Cover Motor for GIOTTO up to 220mm

PrimaLuceLab ALTO-1 Telescope Cover Motor for GIOTTO up to 220mm

by PrimaLuceLab
SKU PLL-PLLALTO1
CA$693.00 - CA$693.00
CA$693.00
CA$693.00 - CA$693.00
CA$693.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Automates telescope opening and closing
  • Designed for GIOTTO flat field generators up to 220mm
  • USB-C and WiFi connectivity
  • ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver support
  • 12V DC native power with passthrough ports
Backordered
Request Stock Alert
Availability Info
FREE Shipping in Canada
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • PrimaLuceLab ALTO-1 Telescope Cover Motor for GIOTTO up to 220mm

    The PrimaLuceLab ALTO-1 Telescope Cover Motor converts your GIOTTO flat field generator into a fully remote-controlled motorized cap for telescopes up to 220mm in aperture. This system allows you to open and close your optical tube and capture flat frames without being physically present at your observatory. Powered by a native 12V input, the ALTO-1 integrates seamlessly into your existing setup via USB-C or WiFi, controlled by PLAY software or any ASCOM-compatible application.

    Remote Automation for GIOTTO Panels up to 220mm

    The primary function of the ALTO-1 is to motorize your GIOTTO flat panel, enabling remote operation of your telescope's cover. This is essential for remote observatories or for simply streamlining your imaging workflow by allowing automated flat frame acquisition at the beginning or end of a session. This model is specifically engineered to handle the torque required for GIOTTO models up to and including the 220mm version.

    • Automated Flat Frames: Trigger your GIOTTO to illuminate and capture flats through your imaging software sequence without manual intervention.
    • Telescope Protection: Remotely close the cap at the end of the night or if weather conditions change unexpectedly.
    • Dark Frame Limitation: As the GIOTTO with ALTO does not create a perfectly light-tight seal, it is not recommended for taking dark frames; a pre-recorded dark library is the suggested method.

    Flexible Control: USB-C, WiFi, PLAY, and ASCOM

    PrimaLuceLab ensures the ALTO-1 can be controlled from virtually any device in your astrophotography ecosystem. A modern USB-C port provides a reliable wired connection to an EAGLE or Windows PC, while built-in WiFi allows for wireless control from a smartphone or tablet.

    • PLAY Software: PrimaLuceLab's dedicated software includes a wizard for easily calibrating the open and close positions of the ALTO-1.
    • ASCOM Compliant: For users of third-party software like N.I.N.A. or SGP, the ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver provides universal compatibility.
    • Virtual HandPad: Connect directly to the ALTO-1's WiFi network with your phone to use a web-based interface for quick manual control without a computer.

    12V Power and Passthrough Cabling for Simpler Setups

    The ALTO-1 is designed to reduce cable clutter by running on a standard 12V DC input, the same power source used by most astronomy mounts and cameras. More importantly, it features integrated USB and 12V power passthrough ports. You can connect your GIOTTO's power and data cables directly to the ALTO-1, requiring only a single set of cables running from the ALTO-1 back to your main controller, simplifying cable management at the front of your telescope.

    ALTO-1 vs. ALTO-2/ALTO-3: Selecting the Correct Motor for Your GIOTTO

    PrimaLuceLab offers different ALTO models to match the size and weight of their GIOTTO flat field generators. It is critical to select the correct motor to ensure reliable operation.

    • ALTO-1: This model provides the correct torque for GIOTTO models 120, 150, 185, and 220.
    • ALTO-2 / ALTO-3: These are more powerful motors required for the larger GIOTTO models. Using an ALTO-1 with a GIOTTO larger than 220mm is not supported and will not function correctly.

  • How do I mount the ALTO-1 motor to my telescope?

    The ALTO-1 can be mounted in two ways. The recommended method is using the optional PLUS dovetail clamp (PLLMORVLP), which attaches the motor to any standard Vixen or Losmandy style dovetail bar on your telescope. Alternatively, the ALTO-1 body has M6 threaded holes for custom mounting solutions.

    Can I control the ALTO-1 and my GIOTTO from the same USB port?

    Yes. The ALTO-1 features a USB passthrough port. You connect the GIOTTO to the ALTO-1, and then a single USB cable from the ALTO-1 to your computer. Your computer will recognize both devices independently, allowing you to control them separately from your software.

    Will the ALTO-1 work with my Celestron 8" EdgeHD telescope?

    Yes, the ALTO-1 is an excellent match for an 8" (203mm) SCT like the EdgeHD 800. You would pair it with the GIOTTO 220 flat panel. The combination allows you to remotely open the scope for imaging and then close it and take automated flat frames at the end of your session.

    Why can't I use the ALTO-1 with GIOTTO to take dark frames?

    The ALTO-1 and GIOTTO system is designed as a motorized cap and flat field device, not a light-tight shutter. It may not create a perfect seal against the front of your telescope tube, potentially allowing stray light to leak in. For this reason, PrimaLuceLab recommends creating a separate dark frame library for calibration.

    What happens if I lose my WiFi connection to the ALTO-1?

    If you are controlling the ALTO-1 via its WiFi Virtual HandPad and the connection drops, the motor will simply stop in its current position. You can reconnect to continue operation. For fully automated observatory sessions, a wired USB-C connection to your EAGLE or control computer is the most reliable method.

    Is the ALTO-1 compatible with software other than PLAY?

    Yes. The ALTO-1 uses a standard ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver. This allows it to be controlled by most popular Windows-based astrophotography software packages, such as N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro (SGP), and others that support the ASCOM platform.

  • PrimaLuceLab 1-Year Warranty