What is needed to set up a power cable to allow the Aluma AC455 to be powered from a 12V DC power source? There is a 12V DC extension cable that is offered for the Aluma CCD cameras (SKU 68007), but will it work on the AC455 CMOS camera? Mike
Hi Mike. The AC455 takes a Switchcraft S10KS17 coaxial power connector with a threaded locking ring, available from Digikey etc. (It's in the manual). The manual specifies 10V-14.5V. However, in my experience, with DC power in the observatory, cable losses can be significant, especially if the camera is drawing 6-8A during full cooler load with a filter wheel attached. So I'd try to keep that closer to 12-14V. The camera will shut down to protect the sensor if the voltage drops out under load. I've made a short cable with the S10KS17 on one end, Anderson Power Poles on the other, then from that, 10AWG silicone flexible wire to a RigRunner mounted on top of the scope. Next time, I'd probably redo it with wire that will pass through the connector cover, then solder and heatshrink to 10AWG, and Power Poles just on the RigRunner end. I'll go snap a photo for you.
Thanks for the photo, Colin Is that 10 gage cable the same zip line that West Mountain radio sells for their Powerpole connectors? FYI - I received a notification from Fed-Ex that my AC455 camera and accessories are scheduled for delivery on Friday. I had to delay the delivery until next week because I am out of town. Mike
No, it's not the PVC plastic-insulated zip wire. If your camera is in a fixed position (not rotating) then it's probably fine to use that. Temperatures here get low in winter, and some of that zip cord gets quite stiff. If the item moves (like on a rotator) or the connection goes to a power supply at the base, I've been using the flexible silicone rubber insulated wire. Hobby shops often have it.
