1) Can I use my FocusStar motor with FocusStar Pro?
Yes, the stepper motors are the same whether supplied with FocusStar or FocusStar Pro. However, no other
components supplied with FocusStar can be used with FocusStar Pro. FocusStar Pro requires a different cable.
2) Can I use my RoboFocus or Moonlite motor with FocusStar Pro?
Yes, just order the A644M-series motor cables. The DB9 connector mates with the DB9 interface used by Robofocus
or Moonlite.
2a) Can I use a Robofocus motor bracket with FocusStar Pro motor?
Yes, the Cercis Astro and Robofocus stepper motors are the same configuration.
3) I do not see a bracket listed for my telescope - how do I order one?
If your telescope/focuser is not listed, you can email photos and precise measurements of your focuser to us. Or you
can send the focuser. We will make a bracket and return the focuser with the bracket mounted on it to you. Normally,
it takes 2-4 weeks to design and make a bracket.
4) I have a RoboFocus or Moonlite motor which I want to use for my primary motor, and I want a secondary motor.
How do I order the cable?
The primary motor cable will have a DB9 interface; the secondary motor will have Cercis Astro' standard Mini-DIN. The
primary and secondary motors must be specified at time of order as the cable is configured for each motor. If you
switch and want Cercis Astro motor as primary and RoboFocus or Moonlite motor secondary, a new cable will be
necessary. All cable options are available for use with Cercis Astro and/or RoboFocus or Moonlite motors.
5) Can I use an AC or DC motor instead of the stepper motor?
No, only the stepper motor provides absolute positioning - wherein the steps can (and are) counted by the FocusStar
Pro in order to provide accurate positioning.
6) Why did Cercis Astro switch to FocusStar Pro from the FocusStar?
The FocusStar Pro uses a ABS case used for other Cercis products. It allows use of a backlit graphic display which
provides full text rather than encrypted acronyms of FocusStar's segmented LEDs. It is light, small and easily
handheld with buzzer-feedback membrane switches rather than individual round keys. FocusStar Pro also uses next
generation MPU and USB ICs.
7) I need a cable longer than the standard 6 foot length supplied. How do I order this?
For longer cable lengths, add $2 per foot per cable. So if you need a cable for 2 motors with 2 temperature sensors
(A644-2T2) but you need 12 foot length, it is (base price) $65 plus ($2 per foot X 6 feet X 4 cables ($48) = $113. If
this is the motor cable that you are ordering with the FocusStar Pro, then deduct $25 (basic cable cost) = $88.
8) I have a RoboFocus or Moonlite stepper motor - can I buy the FocusStar Pro only without the motor?
Yes. Price for FocusStar Pro without the motor is $229. You will need to specify the A644M-XXX motor cable that
you want supplied with the FocusStar Pro.
9) I have a A644-1 cable and I want to add a temperature sensor. Can I return it for modification?
No, the motor cables cannot be reworked. If you want a temperature sensor and a cable for one motor only, you can
choose either the A644M-1T1 (which includes the motor cable and another cable for the temperature sensor or a
A644-1S1 which is the motor cable with the temperature sensor within the DB15 housing.
9a) What is the difference between the "T" temperature sensor and the "S" temperature sensor option?
The advantage of the internal temperature sensor (S) is that there is no extra cable; however, the external temperature
sensor (T) has a threaded end which enables the temperature sensor to be mounted near the telescope.
10) What is the COM Link motor cable option?
The COM link will be used to interface the FocusStar Pro to the DslrStar Pro and other products to be offered by
Cercis Astro. DslrStar Pro will be a replacement for the DslrStar; it should be available in late fall 2009.
Menus: T-Compensation, Focuser, Configure, & Presets
