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PrimaLuceLab ALTO-3 Telescope Cover Motor for GIOTTO larger than 320mm
The PrimaLuceLab ALTO-3 Telescope Cover Motor fully automates your imaging workflow by motorizing GIOTTO flat field generators on telescopes larger than 320mm in aperture. This unit operates on a standard 12V power source and connects via a modern USB-C port, giving you reliable remote control to open and close your telescope's cover for acquiring flat calibration frames without being physically present. By integrating the ALTO-3, you can program your entire imaging session, from startup to shutdown, including the critical step of taking flats.
Automated Control for GIOTTO Generators Larger Than 320mm
The ALTO-3 is engineered specifically to motorize large-aperture flat field generators like the GIOTTO 430 and GIOTTO CUSTOM models. It transforms your static flat panel into a remotely operated dust cover, allowing you to seamlessly integrate flat frame acquisition into your automated observatory sequence. This eliminates the need to manually place and remove the panel at the beginning or end of a session, a critical advantage for remote imaging setups.
USB-C and WiFi Control with PLAY and ASCOM
Control of the ALTO-3 is designed for maximum flexibility in any observatory environment. A USB-C port provides a robust, hardwired connection to an EAGLE control unit or any Windows PC, allowing full integration with PrimaLuceLab's PLAY software or third-party applications via the ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver. For computer-free operation, the ALTO-3 generates its own WiFi network, letting you use the Virtual HandPad on a smartphone or tablet to open and close the cover on demand.
Simplified 12V Power and Cable Passthrough
To reduce cable clutter at the front of your telescope, the ALTO-3 runs on a native 12V power input and incorporates power and data passthrough ports. You connect your GIOTTO's 12V power and USB cables directly to the ALTO-3 unit, which then requires only a single power and USB-C cable running back to your main control computer or power supply. This design treats ALTO and GIOTTO as two separate devices in your system but physically manages them as one, drastically simplifying cable management.
Flexible Mounting with M6 Threads and Optional Clamps
The ALTO-3 can be attached to your optical tube in multiple ways to ensure a secure fit and correct alignment with the GIOTTO panel. The base includes several M6 threaded holes for custom mounting solutions. For a simpler, more adjustable setup, you can add the optional PLUS dovetail clamp, which allows the ALTO-3 to attach directly to any Vixen or Losmandy-style dovetail bar on your telescope, a common feature on SCT, Aplanatic SCT, and RCT designs.
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What is the primary purpose of the PrimaLuceLab ALTO-3 motor?
The ALTO-3 motor is designed to attach to a large PrimaLuceLab GIOTTO flat field generator, allowing you to remotely open and close your telescope's front aperture. This is essential for automated observatories, as it enables you to take flat calibration frames without manually handling the equipment.
Which GIOTTO models are compatible with the ALTO-3?
The ALTO-3 is specifically designed for larger GIOTTO models with an illuminating surface greater than 320mm. This includes models like the GIOTTO 430 and GIOTTO CUSTOM. For smaller GIOTTO models, you would need the ALTO-1 or ALTO-2.
Can I use the ALTO-3 and GIOTTO to take dark frames?
No. PrimaLuceLab advises against using the ALTO-3 and GIOTTO combination for dark frames because it does not create a perfectly light-sealed closure. It is designed for taking light-on flat frames only. For darks, it is recommended to build and use a separate dark frame library.
How do I control the ALTO-3 motor?
You have multiple control options for the ALTO-3:
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USB-C Cable: Connect to an EAGLE or Windows computer to use PrimaLuceLab's PLAY software.
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ASCOM Driver: Use the ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver to integrate it with third-party software like N.I.N.A. or SGP.
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WiFi: Connect directly to the ALTO-3's WiFi network with a smartphone or tablet and use the web-based Virtual HandPad.
How would I mount the ALTO-3 motor on my large Richey-Chrétien telescope?
Most large RCTs have a Losmandy-style dovetail bar running along the top or bottom of the tube. The easiest method is to use the optional PLUS dovetail clamp from PrimaLuceLab, which attaches to the ALTO-3 and then clamps directly onto your existing dovetail bar, allowing for easy positioning and adjustment.
Will the PrimaLuceLab ALTO-3 work with my observatory software like N.I.N.A.?
Yes. The ALTO-3 is fully compatible with any Windows-based astrophotography software that supports the ASCOM standard. By installing the ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver for the ALTO, you can integrate it into your N.I.N.A. or Sequence Generator Pro imaging sequences as a standard motorized flat panel or cover.
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| Compatibility |
PrimaLuceLab GIOTTO Flat Field Generators larger than 320mm |
| Control Interface |
USB-C, WiFi |
| Software Support |
PrimaLuceLab PLAY, ASCOM CoverCalibrator Driver |
| Power Input |
12V DC |
| Mounting |
M6 Threaded Holes, Optional PLUS Dovetail Clamp |
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Note: This is an accessory motor. The GIOTTO Flat Field Generator and mounting hardware are sold separately.
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PrimaLuceLab 1-Year Warranty
