How do the ESATTO 3" and ARCO 3" connect and get power?
The two units are designed for integrated operation. The ARCO rotator connects directly to a dedicated port on the ESATTO focuser with a short cable. The ESATTO then connects to your control computer with a single USB cable. This one cable handles data for both devices and often provides enough power. An external 12V power supply may be needed only if your computer's USB port cannot supply sufficient current.
What is the total back focus consumed by the ESATTO 3" and ARCO 3" bundle?
The combined thickness of the ESATTO 3" focuser, the ARCO 3" rotator, and the connecting adapter is 86.5mm. This is the total amount of back focus required by the integrated unit in your imaging train.
Can the ESATTO 3" focuser handle a heavy imaging train on my Ritchey-Chrétien telescope?
Yes. The ESATTO 3" is specifically designed for this purpose. With a robust payload capacity of 8kg, it can securely hold and precisely focus a full imaging setup, including a large format camera, a heavy filter wheel, and an off-axis guider, without introducing sag or flexure into the optical path.
How precise is the ARCO 3" rotator for framing a target like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?
The ARCO 3" is exceptionally precise. It offers a rotational resolution of 1 arc second per step. This level of accuracy allows you to make minute adjustments to your camera's orientation, ensuring you can perfectly frame large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or precisely align with a specific guide star for autoguiding.
What software do I need to control the ESATTO 3" and ARCO 3" bundle?
You have two main options. The bundle comes with ASCOM drivers, allowing you to control both the focuser and rotator from any ASCOM-compliant astrophotography software on Windows (such as N.I.N.A. or Sequence Generator Pro). Alternatively, you can use PrimaLuceLab's own PLAY software for a deeply integrated, all-in-one control experience.
Can I use the ARCO 3" as a field de-rotator?
Yes. The ARCO 3" is designed to function as both a camera rotator and a field de-rotator. Its role depends on your mount type. With an equatorial mount, you use it to frame your target. With an alt-azimuth mount, it can be controlled by software to actively counteract field rotation, enabling long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography.
