FocusLynx Dual-Focus Control System
Intelligent Automation for Telescope Focus Control
Optec's
FocusLynx Controller has a proven track record with years
of field experience offering multiple connection methods. FocusLynx is capable of operating two focusers simultaneously.
With full ASCOM compliance and multiple connection methods, FocusLynx is the most advanced
telescope focus controller
available.
FocusLynx was presented with a Star Products award for Astronomy Magazine's fifth annual event in 2014.
The official award reads, "Advanced astrophotographers appreciate the precise focusing control offered by the FocusLynx Focuser Hub. With this product in place, you can adjust up to two Optec or Starlight focusers simultaneously and independently via a computer, smartphone, or optional hand controller."
Multiple Ways to Connect
The FocusLynx Control Hub acts as the central controller to link one or two focusers to any control PC. The hub includes communication ports for Serial and USB (using Optec's USB/Serial cable) and wired Ethernet Network protocols as standard. An optional WiFi board and antenna can be added and installed at any time. Focuser 1 and Focuser 2 ports are available at the top of the FocusLynx hub with 12VDC Power, Network, optional Hand Control, and Serial connection ports available at the bottom. An optional aluminum mounting plate makes it easy to mount the FocusLynx Hub to any telescope pier or mount.
Multiple Software Options
Using the ASCOM Local Server model, Optec's
FocusLynx Commander software allows multiple clients to connect
simultaneously to the FocusLynx hub. Additionally, embedded
webservers in the wired Ethernet and WiFi connections enable FocusLynx
to generate a control interface accessible through any web browser or smartphone.
Free Android and iPhone applications search the local network and
load the interactive webpages. Because these pages are generated by the
hub itself, once you are connected, there is no further configuration required: just
connect to your focusers and enjoy remote wireless focus control
with the optional 802.11 WiFi add-on.
Any ASCOM client, Mac users of TheSky X or Equinox, or any web browser can be used to control either or both focusers attached to the FocusLynx hub.
Multiple Focusers to Control
The FocusLynx Control Hub can
be used with a variety of focusers and focus motor add-ons.
Sold as part of the TCF-Lynx, TCF-Lynx3, and
FastFocus focuser packages, FocusLynx can be configured as
a true absolute focus controller. Using Optec's
DirectSync,
QuickSync or Starlight Instrument's Handy Stepper
Motor, FocusLynx can also control the TEC, FeatherTouch,
Stellarvue, and other manual focusers with step counting circuitry
to function as an ASCOM absolute focuser. Special cables can be used
to control most unipolar motors including the MicroTouch and
Robo-Focus motors. The optional second stepper daughter board allows
use of the Focuser 2 port to control a second focuser of any type.
Multiple Options Available
Each FocusLynx package comes complete with
everything needed to connect. An optional Hand Control, WiFi
add-on board, second stepper controller, mounting plate, precision
external temperature probe, and motor-specific cables round out a
complete integrated package.
Contact Optec Sales or any of our Dealers for a system specifically configured for your telescope rig or observatory.
FocusLynx Commander Software
Visit the FocusLynx Software Downloads Page for the latest updates and ASCOM driver, FocusLynx Commander control software and additional resources.
FocusLynx
Commander creates an ASCOM Local Server or hub to allow
multiple clients access for communication and control of the
attached focusers. By using the local server model,
FocusLynx offers an easily configurable user experience for all
Windows ASCOM programs.
X2 Control for Mac and Non-ASCOM Applications
With TheSky X native X2 drivers, Mac users
can enjoy fully integrated control of FocusLynx in the latest
TSX builds. Windows users of TheSky X can
also enjoy native X2 control without requiring the ASCOM
platform.
Detailed Documentation
Optec
provides Quick Start Guides, full Help
files, wiring diagrams, and a detailed Programmer's Reference documents
for developers interested in programming their own control
applications. The latest FocusLynx Command Processing
document is always available from our Downloads page
along with the latest drivers and resource files.