Wanderer Astro WandererCover V4-EC IR Motorized Flat Panel

Robotic Control with High-Precision Encoder Feedback

At the core of the WandererCover V4-EC IR is a robust, high-torque motor engineered for reliability, even in winter conditions. A built-in micro-encoder provides real-time, accurate feedback on the cover's position, allowing you to confirm its open or closed status remotely without needing a monitoring camera. This system supports precise, repeatable positioning and customizable open/close angles.

While the cover includes an automatic obstacle detection feature to set its limits, this is intended as a backup for when manual setup is impossible. For guaranteed accuracy, manual calibration of the open and closed positions is always the recommended procedure.

Reduced Banding with High-Frequency PWM Dimming

The flat panel is managed by a new dimming controller that doubles the PWM frequency. This design reduces the banding artifacts that can appear in flat frames taken with short exposures, a common issue with CMOS cameras, and ensures no banding at exposures of 0.1 seconds or longer. The result is clean, uniform calibration frames every time.

With multi-level dimming control, the panel's brightness can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of your imaging setup. It provides sufficient illumination for everything from one-shot color cameras to sensitive monochrome sensors shooting through narrowband filters, dramatically shortening the time required to capture high-quality flats.

Field-Ready Connectivity: IR Remote and 12V Power

Designed for convenience at remote sites, the WandererCover V4-EC IR can be operated using only a single 12V power cable. The included infrared remote allows you to open and close the cover without a USB connection to a computer, streamlining your setup when using standalone controllers like the ZWO ASIAIR. For full observatory integration, a new ASCOM driver supports automatic port selection and simultaneous connection of multiple devices.

WandererCover V4-EC IR vs. V4-EC: The Infrared Advantage

The primary distinction between the WandererCover V4-EC IR and the standard V4-EC model is the addition of infrared remote control. This key feature untethers the cover from a dedicated computer for basic open/close operations.

• WandererCover V4-EC IR (This Model): Includes an IR receiver and remote, making it ideal for field imagers or users of all-in-one controllers who need a simple, reliable way to protect their optics and take flats without relying on an ASCOM connection.
• WandererCover V4-EC: Lacks the IR functionality. It is controlled over USB with ASCOM or INDI, or through the DC port switching of an ASIAIR Plus or StellaVita. It is better suited for permanently mounted, computer-controlled observatory setups.