User Manual

7
SYSTEM SETUP
Welcome to the PMC-Eight
™
System!
The PMC-Eight™ is a precision motion control system designed to flawlessly navigate the night
sky and ensure you spend more time observing and imaging. Astronomical GOTO systems play an
important role in the world of amateur astronomy. A GOTO mount works with a variety of software
platforms to move an attached telescope to a specific celestial object that is chosen by the observer
from a vast database of potential targets. Most serious GOTO systems offer single processors. The
PMC-Eight™ is a revolution in precision motion control technology because it utilizes eight central
processing units (CPUs) that are each independently tasked with performing dedicated functions.
By delegating tasks among the processors, the system operates smoothly and functions at a high
level of reliability and efficiency. As an added benefit, the electronics feature conformal coating that
protects them from contamination by dust and other debris, moisture build-up, corrosion and harsh
environments. Although the inner workings of the system are complex, it is easy to set up and use.
This manual and the accompanying materials will guide you through basic assembly and operation
procedures for the PMC-Eight™.
Contents
The PMC-Eight™ package contains the following:
• PMC-Eight™ System box
• AC power supply
• RJ-12 WiFi Channel Switch
• One set of motor cables (each with a male and a female connector)
• Mounting bracket with Velcro strap
• Antenna
• Set-up Manuals
Balancing The Telescope
Before connecting the PMC-Eight™ System, you will need to set up your tripod, mount and telescope
per the telescope’s manual, and then balance the telescope. Balancing is essential because it
stabilizes the scope and allows it to move smoothly.
CAUTION: It is vital that you hold the telescope with a tight grip when the locks are loosened because the weight of
the telescope can cause it to really swing. Failure to maintain a firm grasp could easily and quickly result in damage
to the telescope, other optical equipment, yourself or those around you.
To Balance The Telescope:
1. Start by firmly holding the telescope and loosening the Right Ascension (RA) lock. The telescope
should now move freely about the RA axis.
2. While continuing to hold onto the telescope, rotate it so that the counterweight shaft is parallel to
the ground. Unlock the counterweight lock knob and slide the counterweight along the
counterweight shaft until the telescope remains in one position without drifting down
in either direction.
3. Retighten the counterweight lock and then secure the RA lock.
4. With a firm grip on the telescope tube, undo the Declination (DEC) lock and loosen the cradle rings
so that the optical tube slides easily back and forth in the cradle rings.
5. Move the main tube horizontally in the cradle rings until the telescope remains in one position
without tending to drift down in either direction. Secure the DEC lock.
6. Loosen the RA and DEC locks and return the telescope to the PARKED position.