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PrimaLuceLab ALTO-2 Telescope Cover Motor for GIOTTO up to 320mm

PrimaLuceLab ALTO-2 Telescope Cover Motor for GIOTTO up to 320mm

by PrimaLuceLab
SKU PLL-PLLALTO2
CA$833.00 - CA$833.00
CA$833.00
CA$833.00 - CA$833.00
CA$833.00
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  • Motorizes GIOTTO Flat Field Generators
  • For Telescopes with Apertures up to 320mm
  • USB-C and WiFi Connectivity
  • ASCOM CoverCalibrator Compatible
  • 12V DC Power with Passthrough Ports
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • PrimaLuceLab ALTO-2 Telescope Cover Motor for GIOTTO up to 320mm

    The PrimaLuceLab ALTO-2 Telescope Cover Motor automates your imaging workflow by converting a GIOTTO flat field generator into a fully remote-controlled cap for telescopes up to 320mm in aperture. Powered by a standard 12V source and connecting via a single USB-C port, the ALTO-2 allows you to open and close your telescope from anywhere, streamlining the capture of flat calibration frames without being physically present at your equipment.

    Remote Operation for Telescopes up to 320mm

    Designed specifically for remote observatories and automated imaging sequences, the ALTO-2 motorizes your GIOTTO, allowing you to uncover your optics at the start of a session and cover them at the end with a simple software command. This is essential for protecting your telescope from dust and dew and enables the automated acquisition of flat frames as part of your shutdown procedure.

    Note that while the ALTO-2 provides excellent coverage, it does not create a perfectly light-tight seal. For this reason, it is recommended for taking flat frames, but you should maintain a separate library of dark frames rather than attempting to capture them with the cap on.

    3 Control Methods: USB-C, WiFi, and ASCOM

    The ALTO-2 integrates seamlessly into any modern astrophotography setup, offering multiple control pathways to suit your workflow.

    • USB-C and PLAY Software: Connect directly to your EAGLE or Windows computer for robust control through PrimaLuceLab's PLAY software, which includes a dedicated wizard for calibrating the open and close positions.
    • ASCOM Driver: For use with third-party software like NINA, SGP, or TheSkyX, the ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver provides universal compatibility, allowing you to integrate the ALTO-2 into existing automation scripts.
    • WiFi Virtual HandPad: If you only need to open or close the cover without a computer, you can connect directly to the ALTO-2's WiFi network with a smartphone or tablet and use the web-based Virtual HandPad.

    12V Passthrough Power for Simplified Cable Management

    To combat cable drag and complexity, the ALTO-2 features an intelligent power and data passthrough system. You connect your GIOTTO's 12V power and USB cables directly to the ALTO-2 motor itself. A single 12V power cable and USB-C cable then run from the ALTO-2 to your EAGLE or computer, powering and controlling both devices while minimizing the number of wires at the front of your telescope.

    Even with this consolidated connection, your computer's device manager will recognize the GIOTTO and ALTO-2 as two separate devices, ensuring you retain individual control over each component in your software.

    ALTO-2 vs. ALTO-1 & ALTO-3: Choosing the Right Motor

    PrimaLuceLab offers a family of ALTO motors, each designed for a specific range of GIOTTO flat field generators. The ALTO-2 is the mid-range model, engineered for precise compatibility and torque for specific GIOTTO sizes.

    • ALTO-1: Designed for smaller GIOTTO models.
    • ALTO-2 (This Model): Compatible with GIOTTO 225, GIOTTO 285, and GIOTTO 320 models.
    • ALTO-3: Built for the largest GIOTTO models exceeding 320mm.

    Selecting the correct ALTO for your GIOTTO is critical for proper function. The ALTO-2 provides the appropriate rotational force for generators up to 320mm, ensuring reliable opening and closing without straining the motor or your equipment.

  • How do I control the PrimaLuceLab ALTO-2 motor without a computer?

    You can control the ALTO-2 without a computer by connecting your smartphone or tablet to its built-in WiFi network. Once connected, you can access the Virtual HandPad through a web browser to open and close the telescope cover, save your settings, and recall them easily.

    Can I use the ALTO-2 with my GIOTTO 200?

    No, the ALTO-2 is specifically designed for GIOTTO models from 225mm up to 320mm. For GIOTTO models smaller than 225mm, you would need the ALTO-1 motor, which is engineered for the torque requirements of the smaller units.

    Does the ALTO-2 simplify the wiring on my telescope?

    Yes, significantly. The ALTO-2 features USB and 12V power passthrough plugs. This allows you to connect your GIOTTO flat field generator directly to the ALTO motor, and then run just one set of power and USB cables from the ALTO back to your control computer, reducing cable clutter at the front of your telescope.

    Can I use the PrimaLuceLab ALTO-2 to take dark frames on my Celestron 8" SCT?

    It is not recommended. While the ALTO-2 and GIOTTO combination covers the telescope aperture, it is not designed to create a perfectly light-tight seal. For accurate calibration on your 8" SCT, you should use the ALTO-2 for automating flat frames and maintain a separate, pre-recorded library of dark frames.

    How do I mount the ALTO-2 to my telescope tube?

    The ALTO-2 can be mounted in two primary ways. The most common method is using the optional PLUS dovetail clamp to attach it to any Vixen or Losmandy style dovetail bar on your telescope. Alternatively, the bottom of the ALTO-2 body has several M6 threaded holes that allow for custom mounting solutions directly to your telescope's tube rings or support plates.

    Will the ALTO-2 work with my imaging software like NINA or SGP for automating flats of the Orion Nebula (M42)?

    Yes. The PrimaLuceLab ALTO-2 includes an ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver. This allows it to be recognized and controlled by any ASCOM-compliant software, including NINA and SGP. You can integrate it into your automated imaging sequence to close the scope and take flat frames after your session imaging M42 is complete.

  • PrimaLuceLab 1-Year Warranty