Socket Mobile GTOCP2 - Manual (Page 18)

18
Prevent the Cables from Tangling
The movement of the mount across the meridian during slewing functions is calculated so that the cables will not tangle if
they are set up properly. In addition to the motor and power cables that are provided with the mount, you may have
additional cables for other accessories. These may be powered from the GTO Control Panel or from another power source.
We suggest that you position your cabling carefully to avoid a tangled mess. When your cables are set up, move the
telescope manually throughout the normal range of movement to be sure that the cables do not catch on anything and that
you have enough length. Here are a few pointers:
1200 Motor Cables
Note that the “Y” cable for the 1200 mount originates at the GTO Control Panel connector, then splits into two. The short
portion connects to the RA motor box and is not likely to be in the way because this axis remains in the same position. The
longer Dec portion of the cable must be set up properly to ensure that as the Dec axis moves, the cable follows smoothly.
Please insert this cable into the cable mount in the upper left corner of the GTO Servo Control Box as shown above. When
the connector is attached to the Dec motor box, the cable should be positioned as shown in the photograph.
Accessory Cables
Accessories may include Kendrick Dew Removers, CCD cameras and autoguiders, focus motors, illuminated guiding
eyepiece reticles, power cords for the Pentax 6x7 camera, etc. As you attach each accessory, carefully assess the best
position to assure complete movement as your telescope slews from one side of the mount to the other. If an external
power source is used, determine the optimum location for the battery. We prefer to use tie wraps (not glamorous, but
effective) or cable ties (from electronic supply store or catalog) to secure our cables to the mount, telescope, rings or bind
them together. Plastic adhesive cable mounts, available from electronic supply stores, are an alternative choice. We prefer
to use ties since we cannot bear to attach adhesive cable mounts to our telescopes or mounts.
If we use tie wraps to secure several cables together and plan to use that same setup in our next observing session, we
keep the ties in place when we disassemble our equipment. The setup for the next session is much quicker.
Removing the GTO Control Box From 1200 Mount
The GTO control box can be removed easily from the RA axis. It is secured by two 8-32 set
screws located at the base of the GTO Servo Control Box. Loosen the screws with one of the
hex keys from the set included with the mount. Lift the box up from the bottom and tilt so that it
frees from the dovetail connection.
Some people have a permanent observatory, yet prefer to store their electronics in their home
to keep them clean and free of cobwebs. If you do, you may wish to substitute the 8-32
thumbscrews (included with your mount) for the setscrews. This will allow you to remove and
install your GTO control box without tools.
GTO Keypad Controller Operation
Please refer to the manual for the GTO Keypad Controller for complete instructions.