DownloadmyFocuserPro is an ASCOM and Moonlite compatible stepper motor telescope focus controller (DIY) based on Arduino Nano/Uno. A popular DIY ASCOM focuser with more than 117,000+ downloads.
(c) Copyright Robert Brown 2014-2024. All Rights reserved.
Permission is granted for personal and Academic use only.
Spreadsheet to calculate what stepper motor to use.
https://sourceforge.net/projects/arduinoascomfocuserpro2diy/files/Documentation/Nema-Stepper-Motors.xlsx/download
Features
- ASCOM driver tested with FocusMax, Nebulosity 4.1.1, APT v3.13 and ScopeFocus
- Supported Driver Boards - A4998, ULN2003, L293D, L298N, DRV8825, EasyDriver, ST6128, RAPS128, TMC2225/2209
- Software - Windows Application, ASCOM driver, INDI moonlite driver
- Create using stripboard layout or using PCB design
- Tested with INDI moonlite driver under Ubuntu and Ekos
- Tested on MacBook with TheSky and Moonlite driver
- Manual or full automated remote control (eg focusmax)
- Manual control by Push Buttons, Infra-red controller, rotary encoder
- Manual zero position (hold down both push buttons for 2 seconds) or via application/ASCOM driver
- Arduino code, ASCOM driver and Windows Application support for all build options
- Multiple Language support
- LED indications for IN, OUT (optional) and external PWR
- LCD1602/I2C display (optional) for positional information (Current and Target positions)
- Temperature probe support (optional - DS18B20 accurate to 0.5 degree)
- Reverse voltage protection on 12VDC input
- Option1: 28BYJ-48 Stepper Motor and ULN2003 driver board using Arduino Nano
- Option2: NEMA17HS15-0404S-PG5 Stepper Motor and L293D Motor Shield using Arduino Uno
- Option3: NEMA17 and DRV8825 driver board - up to 6400 steps per revolution!
- Option4: NEMA17 and EASYDRIVER board - up to 1600 steps per revolution
- Specify Reverse Direction, Coil Power, Stepping mode in either ASCOM or Windows application
- Important focuser parameters stored in controller EEPROM and retrieved when driver/application connects
- Full build instructions, diagrams, test scripts, comprehensive manual, bracket design and more
- Detailed instructions on initial setup, operation and selection of stepper motors
- Full parts list with suppliers, costs and build options
- Bluetooth Wireless adapter HC05 option
Project Samples
Follow Arduino ASCOM Focuser Pro DIY
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User Reviews
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Fantastic work and a joy to build this. Not so much a cost exercise, but yes, the commercial alternatives are all at least 200+. This was fun. Would love to work with someone to test this on a Teensy.
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If you have any level of electronics knowledge (can hold a soldering iron) and can handle a little DIY this is a great project. A fraction of the cost of a commercial solution and you can make whatever you need. I am hanging some pretty heavy camera gear on my scope so I could choose a high torque motor to handle the load. The community here has been great too with a special shout out to Rob.
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If you were thinking of buying an aftermarket focus controller but scared off by the silly prices then look no further, this project and it's V2 version simply can not be beaten on cost or functionality. The developer is very responsive to help and feature requests.
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This is one of the easiest and most cost effective astronomy projects you can build. Works well with the Moonlight driver. Saves hundreds.
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Great project. Full professional focuser with many different options. The author maintains the project updated and he is always ready to answer any suggestions or queries. Thank you very much for sharing this project.