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PrimaLuceLab SESTO SENSO 3 LS Robotic Focusing Motor for Telephoto Lenses

PrimaLuceLab SESTO SENSO 3 LS Robotic Focusing Motor for Telephoto Lenses

by PrimaLuceLab
SKU PLL-SESTOSENSO3LS
CA$489.00 - CA$489.00
CA$489.00
CA$489.00 - CA$489.00
CA$489.00
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  • Robotic focusing motor designed for telephoto lenses
  • Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) for direct, backlash-free connection
  • Integrated position encoder allows manual override without losing focus position
  • USB-C and built-in WiFi for wired or wireless control
  • Arca-Swiss style mount for secure attachment to PLUS system dovetails
  • Full integration with PrimaLuceLab PLAY software and ARCO rotator
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • SESTO SENSO 3 LS Robotic Focusing Motor for Telephoto Lenses

    The SESTO SENSO 3 LS is a dedicated robotic focusing motor engineered to bring high-precision, automated focusing to astrophotography with telephoto lenses from Canon, Nikon, and others. It integrates its motor, high-resolution encoder, and control electronics into a single, compact unit that connects directly to your lens's focus ring via the innovative Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) system, providing backlash-free adjustments. With both USB-C and built-in WiFi connectivity, you can control focus from a computer or wirelessly from a smartphone, fully integrating your camera lens into a modern astrophotography workflow.

    LGC System: Precision, Backlash-Free Focusing for Telephoto Lenses

    Unlike universal motors that rely on external belts, the SESTO SENSO 3 LS uses the new Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) system. This custom mechanical interface engages the lens's manual focus ring with a direct-drive rubber gear, eliminating the slip and backlash common with belt-driven systems. This ensures that every command from the control software translates into precise, repeatable focus adjustments critical for sharp stars.

    Integrated Encoder: Manual Override with Automatic Position Recovery

    A key innovation in the SESTO SENSO 3 LS is its integrated position encoder. This allows you to manually turn the lens's focus ring at any time—even while the motor is powered on—without losing the system's focus position. The focuser instantly knows its new position, enabling seamless transitions between manual tweaks and automated control. The system also features an Automatic Position Recovery function, which can be configured to return the lens to its last commanded position if it's accidentally moved, safeguarding your focus during an imaging session.

    Wireless & Wired Control: USB-C, WiFi, and PLAY Software Integration

    The SESTO SENSO 3 LS offers flexible control options to suit any imaging setup. Connect it to an EAGLE control unit or any Windows computer via the modern USB-C port for robust, hardwired control. For a cable-free setup, use the built-in WiFi to connect to the Virtual HandPad on a smartphone or tablet. The motor is fully compatible with PrimaLuceLab's PLAY astrophotography suite, supports ASCOM drivers for third-party software, and features a dedicated ARCO port for single-cable power and control of the ARCO robotic rotator.

    Rig Integration: Compact All-in-One Design with Arca-Swiss Mounting

    Designed as a self-contained unit, the SESTO SENSO 3 LS houses all its electronics within a single lightweight chassis, minimizing cable clutter. An integrated Arca-Swiss style foot allows for direct and secure mounting to any PLUS Vixen-style dovetail bar. For dark sky imaging, the status LEDs are dimmable and can be turned off completely to prevent any stray light from affecting your exposures.

    SESTO SENSO 3 LS vs. SESTO SENSO 3: Choosing the Right Focuser

    While both motors share core technology, their applications are distinct. The standard SESTO SENSO 3 is designed for telescopes, using bushings and couplings to attach to the pinion shafts of traditional Crayford or SCT focusers. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS is engineered exclusively for photographic telephoto lenses, using its unique LGC system to interface directly with the lens's focusing ring. If you are imaging with a telescope, choose the SESTO SENSO 3; for a telephoto lens, the SESTO SENSO 3 LS is the correct tool for the job.

  • What makes the SESTO SENSO 3 LS different from the standard SESTO SENSO 3?

    The primary difference is the mechanical interface. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS is designed specifically for photographic telephoto lenses and uses the Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) to directly drive the lens's focus ring. The standard SESTO SENSO 3 is for telescopes and connects to the focuser's pinion shaft using various-sized bushings.

    Can I still focus my lens manually with the SESTO SENSO 3 LS attached?

    Yes. Thanks to the integrated high-resolution encoder, you can turn your lens's focus ring by hand at any time. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS will track the movement and update its position in the software, allowing you to switch between manual and automated focusing without needing to recalibrate.

    What is the "Automatic Position Recovery" feature on the SESTO SENSO 3 LS?

    This feature uses the encoder to protect your focus. If the lens focus ring is moved manually or accidentally bumped, the motor can automatically return it to the last commanded position. You can set a delay for this recovery, from an instant reaction to a longer pause, giving you full control over the behavior.

    How does the Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) on the SESTO SENSO 3 LS work?

    The LGC is a gear-based system that clamps around the barrel of your telephoto lens. An integrated rubber gear makes direct, firm contact with the manual focus ring. This eliminates the need for external belts and prevents the mechanical slip and backlash that can ruin focus precision.

    How would I integrate the SESTO SENSO 3 LS into a portable setup with a Canon 400mm lens and an EAGLE computer?

    Integration is straightforward. You would mount your Canon lens and camera to a PLUS Vixen-style dovetail bar. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS attaches to the same bar via its Arca-Swiss foot and is positioned so the LGC engages the lens's focus ring. You would then connect the SESTO SENSO 3 LS to your EAGLE using a single USB-C cable for power and data, allowing for full control through the PLAY software.

    Can the SESTO SENSO 3 LS compensate for temperature changes when imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) with my lens?

    Yes, it is equipped for this. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS includes a dedicated port for an optional temperature probe. When connected, and used with third-party software that supports it (like SGP or N.I.N.A.), you can configure automatic focusing routines that trigger when the ambient temperature changes by a set amount, ensuring M31's details remain perfectly sharp throughout the night.

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