Setting up an AO-8A with FW8G and Aluma 8300

Discussion in 'Aluma CCD Series' started by Michael Brown, Feb 18, 2019.

  1. Michael Brown

    Michael Brown Standard User

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    I'm setting up an AO-8A with an FW8G and Aluma 8300. The AO-8A does look slightly different to the AO-8T and obviously connects differently to what is described for the AO-8T in http://diffractionlimited.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ao8manual.pdf.

    That being the case, would it be possible for some updated photos and/or instructions be provided so users can be confident they're set up correctly worrying about drivers and switching on power etcetera?
     
  2. Doug

    Doug Staff Member

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    The AO-8A is identical except for the connector. Everything installs identically to the AO-8T.

    I do have to warn you that the updated AO control software isn't working yet. We're getting that solved but it's behind schedule.
     
  3. Michael Brown

    Michael Brown Standard User

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    Got it. I was putting everything together yesterday and right now I've got just one cable connected to the AO-8A.

    Regarding the software issues for the AO-8A, does that impact the Aluma API and Ascom driver too, and thus TheSkyX etcetera.
     
  4. Doug

    Doug Staff Member

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    The DL Imaging API includes AO support.

    Currently there isn't an ASCOM standard for AO. I do believe it's time to make a proposal for a new standard!

    What isn't quite finished is the MaxIm DL feature for running the AO with the Aluma cameras.
     
  5. Michael Brown

    Michael Brown Standard User

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    So who can run the AO-8A at the moment, and how are they doing it?
     
  6. Colin Haig

    Colin Haig Staff Member

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    The AO-8A is basically the same device as the AO-8T which is supported for the prior series cameras. (It's just the connector that is different).
    MaxIm supports the AO-8T and some other programs such as TheSkyX Camera Add On support it and the other AO-devices based on SBIG driver architecture.
    Since the Aluma camera controls the AO-8A via DL Imaging drivers instead of SBIG w/AO drivers, software updates are needed for any application to use the AO-8A.
    We just did a firmware update for Aluma to address a guiding issue affecting certain customers.
    We expect to have the AO-8A update out shortly - we want to get some real-world testing in.
     
  7. Greg Crawford

    Greg Crawford Cyanogen Customer

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    Is there any update on this situation from 2 months ago? I've just updated my sub to MaxIm DL Pro and I think I have the AO plugged in correctly. (One DIN plug from the Aluma Filter Wheel and one from the AO into the camera; plus the HDMI connection.)
     
  8. Doug

    Doug Staff Member

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    Adam has been working on the software, but we're not there yet. Sorry this is taking so long... there's a lot on his plate.
     
  9. Michael Brown

    Michael Brown Standard User

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    I just saw there's been some recent relevant posts on this topic, but I haven't followed all the details.

    What is the current status of the software/drivers, including TheSkyX support, for the Aluma 8300 + FW8G + AO-8A package?
     
  10. Colin Haig

    Colin Haig Staff Member

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    Good news -
    Ubuntu Linux, MacOS, Windows DL Imaging drivers for all six Aluma cameras, Filter Wheels, and AO-8A are now available for software developers.
    ASCOM Drivers are available for Windows for all six Aluma series cameras, and the FW8G filter wheels. (ASCOM doesnt have a mechanism to support AO).
    MaxIm's support of AO-8A and DL Imaging is being tested at a real-world observatory presently - so far, so good.
    We've been in touch with Software Bisque and are sending them hardware and providing support, based on their schedule.
    My colleague @Adam Robichaud is providing support to software developer partners.
    We're also getting ready to release a more sophisticated simulator for developers to test, without the need for a camera and clear skies. (That will be a few more weeks).
     

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