Orion STARBLAST 6/6I - Manual (Page 26)

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each of the digit pairs rises and falls. None of the digit pairs
should ever go above “F3.” If they do, then the encoder disk is
too close to the sensors on the encoder board. This will gener-
ally not happen in altitude, but can happen in azimuth.
If you notice that the first or second digit pair on the second line
of the display goes above “F3,” then try loosening the lock nut
on the azimuth nut of the base by about 1/16 turn. If this does
not work, you will need to disassemble the azimuth encoder
(azimuth encoder disk, brass bushing, and azimuth encoder
board) and reassemble it carefully according to the assembly
instructions.
If you notice that the two digit pairs on the first line are going
above “F3,” then there is a problem with your altitude encoder
assembly. More than likely, the altitude encoder disk is bent.
The three-digit number displayed after the digit pairs on each
line is the “radius” for each encoder. This number should not
go above about 125 or below about 30. If it does, performance
may be compromised for the corresponding encoder. If the
number goes above 125, then the encoder disk and magnet
may be too close to each other. If the number goes below 30,
then the encoder disk and magnet may be too far away from
each other. Also, if the radius varies by more than 30 counts
in a cycle, encoder performance may not be optimal, and you
should contact Orion Technical Support.
The four-digit number at the end of each line is the raw encod-
er “ticks” in hexadecimal numbers. This information will gener-
ally not be useful for diagnostic testing of the encoders.
Download
This function allows downloading of software changes and
upgrades available from Orion’s website. To use this option,
you must have the optional IntelliScope-to-PC cable, available
from Orion. Check www.oriontelescopes.com for more infor-
mation about available software downloads for the IntelliScope
Computerized Object Locator.
Checksum
The checksum function is used to make sure that software has
loaded into the controller properly. It has no purpose until a
new software version is downloaded. Check the IntelliScope
download section on www.telescope.com to see what the
proper checksum should be for each new software version.
Rewrite
Rewrite is also only used after a new software version has
been downloaded. It rewrites the new software into its memory
in order to prevent any potential problems from arising after
the software transfer.
Clock
This function allows use of the IntelliScope system with equa-
torial platforms for Dobsonian telescopes. If you are using your
IntelliScope with a Dobsonian equatorial platform, press Enter
when the selection “CLOCK” is displayed from the available
“hidden” function choices. The LCD screen will then show the
word “ON” blinking. For normal operation of the IntelliScope
system, the controller’s internal clock should be on. For use
with a Dobsonian equatorial platform, use the up or down
arrow button to change “ON” to “OFF,” and press Enter. The
controller is now ready to be used with a Dobsonian equatorial
platform. Now, when you press Power to turn the controller on,
the LCD screen will state “CLOCK IS OFF” on the second line
of its introduction screen.
To turn the controller’s internal clock back on, access the hid-
den functions, select “CLOCK,” press Enter, change the “OFF”
back to “ON,” and press Enter again.
9. Care and Maintenance
If you give your telescope reasonable care, it will last a life-
time. Store it in a clean, dry, dust-free place, safe from rapid
temperature changes and humidity. Do not store the telescope
outdoors, although storage in a garage or shed is OK. Small
components like eyepieces and filters should be kept in a pro-
tective box or storage case. Keep the dust caps on the front of
the telescope and on the focuser when it is not in use.
The telescope requires very little mechanical maintenance.
The optical tube is made of steel and has a smooth painted
finish that is fairly scratch resistant. If a scratch does appear on
the tube, it will not harm the telescope. Smudges on the tube
can be wiped off with a soft cloth and a household cleaner.
Refer to Appendix B for detailed instructions on how to clean
the optics of the StarBlast 6/6i.