Logbook 

_______________________________________________________________________________
This logbook is in reverse entry format. The first entry is at the bottom.
_______________________________________________________________________________
=============================================================================+=
08/24/08
- Cleaned the #1 SBIG ST-2000MX CCD window and filter wheel.
- Installed software as of 8/24/08

COMPUTER: OBSERVATORY

=============================================================================+=
08/23/08
- The observatory is back on-line and fully operational. The problem turned out
to be a faulty USB port that was dragging down the 12 volt power supply.
- USB routing was redone so the 2 USB hubs where not in a chain. They are
now connect to root ports.
- Current Com port configuration:
  Com 1 = Serial Switch Box - connected to onboard serial port
  Com 2 = Power control outlets - connected to USB to serial adapter (USB hub)
  Com 3 = Paramount ME - connected to left port on PCI board
  Com 4 = Dome rotation - Connected to right port on PCI baord
  Com 5 = reserved for camera rotator - USB to serial adapter (USB hub)
  Com 6 = Undefined - connected to USB to serial adapter (USB hub)
- Installed MaxIm DL 5.00
- Toped off the water in the battery pack. Both were low.
=============================================================================+=
08/22/08
- The observatory computer suffered a boot failure during the driver loading.
The failure occurs after the Mup.sys driver is loaded. The last time his occurred
the power supply had failed (see 2/16/08 entry). The problem appears to be with
either the USB to serial converters or the 2 port serial PCI cards. The computer
was removed from the observatory and the PCI serial card was removed. The BIOS
was reset and the computer was able to be booted to the Windows OS. The current
problem is the serial ports (both PCI and USB) are either defective or not
configured correctly as communication with the scope is not possible on com
port 5. Each com port will have to be traced and tested.
=============================================================================+=
08/20/08
- Installed the Shorty metal dew. This dew was originally designed for the 12"
RCX400. The dew shield also has a triangular Hartman mask.
=============================================================================+=
08/19/08
- Aligned the 3 telescopes SCT, 50mm and 66mm so all are pointing to the same
object.
- Created a T-Point model.
=============================================================================+=
08/14/08
- Modified the Center Image script used in CCDSoft to display crosshair. The
script will now turn on the crosshairs, center the brightest star (or object)
then turn off the crosshairs.
=============================================================================+=
08/09/08
- Installed the Willams Optic 66mm refracto attached the SBIG ST-402ME camera
- Installed the Stellarvue 50mm F50e finder and Mallicam video camera.
- Removed the Stellarvue SV102APO refractor
- Removed the Pyxis camera rotator
- Removed the Meade micro focuser
==============================================================================
7/24/08
- After rewriting and testing the Observatory Control Program, version 8.3.2
is ready for full time use. The new version cleans up the code but has no new 
features.
==============================================================================
7/12/08
- Removed:
  WO66mm refractor
- Installed
  SV102APO
  Pyxis camera rotator
  Meade micro focuser
==============================================================================
7/04/08
- Removed the telscope "array"
- Installed the 12" SCT, moonlite focuser and Williams Optics 66mm refractor. 
- Attached the SBIG St-402ME to the WO66mm.
- Attached the Mallincam to the SCT.
- Attached the Stellarvue 50MM finder to the SCT
- Attached the Telrad to the SCT
- Installed dew heaters on the SCT, 66mm and and 50mm finder.
- Balanced the setup
==============================================================================
7/03/08
- Received the 12" LX200R OTA, Moonlite focuser, Rigel Systems nFocus controller
dew heater, Telrad and SCT ventilator.
==============================================================================
7/02/08
- Received the ST-402ME back from SBIG. The camera was sent in to repair a 
no connection issue. SBIG replaced a board at No Charge. 
==============================================================================
6/22/08
- Installed the 10" OTA back on the forks. The optics still need to be 
collimated. Handbox version is 4.1i.
==============================================================================
6/13/08
- Added a blog to the website.
==============================================================================
6/12/08
- Added a new inlet to the heating and A/C for the observatory. The inlet is 
just below the rotational dome section. The cool forced air will enter from
there and should allow better cooling. In the winter the warm air will be
drawn from there in the hope of providing better circulation.
==============================================================================
5/30/08
- Sent the ST402-ME back to SBIG for repair (unable to connect to the camera).
==============================================================================
5/13/08
- The telescope configuration was recently changed. The 10" SCT is no longer 
in use. The new configuration consists of 6 refractors ranging in size from 
40mm to 102mm mounted on a common fixture. The setup has been nicknamed "the 
Array" and it can either be used for visual observing or imaging. The 
GStar-Ex camera that is used for monitoring the dome position is part of the 
Array.  All of the scopes except for the larger 102mm mounted in the middle 
ride on dovetail adapter plates and are adjustable. This allows the Array to 
be collimated so all scopes point at the same target as the 102mm.
==============================================================================
4/14/08
- The DC to DC power supply for the ST-2000XM camera arrived today. The camera
now operates fine. 
- Requested that Bisque provide the new cover for the upgraded MKS-4000 board.
- ST-402ME will be package up and returned the SBIG for repair. Can't connect
to the camera.
==============================================================================
4/12/08
- Installed the MKS-4000 controller and interface panel board.  Slew 
temperature compensation has been set to 50F (10C). New values for
the MKS4000 are below. 

Bisque Telescope Control System (TCS) 
Copyright © 2002-2006 Software Bisque, Inc.

Mount Id.: Paramount ME Running at: 3333.333
***************** Axis 0 (RA) Control version: 1.1.45 *****************
Index angle: 361
Base rate: -43067265
Maximum speed: 600000000
Acceleration: 400
Non-sidereal tracking rate: 0
Minimum position limit: -4960000
Maximum position limit: 1120000
Sensor HA (from sync): 1.9859 
Guide: -672926
Tics per revolution: 11520000
PEC ratio: 10
Maximum position error: 1000
Unit Id.: 100
EMF constant: 72
Home velocity high: 660000000 
Home velocity medium: 110000000 
Home velocity low: 3900000 
Home direction, sense: 1100
Home mode, required, Joystick, In-out-in: 2111
Home index offset: 0 
PEC cutoff speed: 0
Maximum voltage: 15
Maximum gain: 150
***************** Axis 1 (Dec) Control version: 1.1.45 *****************
Index angle: 1369
Base rate: 0 
Maximum speed: 600000000
Acceleration: 400
Non-sidereal tracking rate: 0
Minimum position limit: -5460000
Maximum position limit: 1700000
Sensor Dec (from sync): 0.0886 
Guide: 438102
Tics per revolution: -7500000
PEC ratio: 10
Maximum position error: 1000
Unit Id.: 100
EMF constant: 72
Home velocity high: 660000000 
Home velocity medium: 110000000 
Home velocity low: 3900000 
Home direction, sense: 1100
Home mode, required, Joystick, In-out-in: 2111
Home index offset: 0 
PEC cutoff speed: 0
Maximum voltage: 15
Maximum gain: 150
==============================================================================|
4/11/08
- A new power supply for the ST-2000XM was ordered. 
- Re-installed the dehumidifier and configured the Heating and A/C unit for 
A/C.
- Re-installed Quicktime 7.1.3 along with new SiS651 video drivers and 
Starry Nights Pro now works.
- The LX200GPS OTA needs to be collimated. 
- Modified the OCP8 code to turn on/off the dehumidifier. Since the 
dehumidifier replaces the Heat & A/C unit the code now also turns off the 
A/C when the shutters are open. The interior lights have now been coded to
work on the Aux outlet. The lighting outlet was allocated back to the 
dehumidifier.
==============================================================================
4/6/08
- The observatory is off line for some spring maintenance and upgrades. The 
control board for the Paramount ME will be upgraded from the old 3000 series
to the newer MKS-4000 series. An attempt will be made to seal the gap where 
the upper and lower shutters overlap. New sealant will be applied to dome walls
and decking. Cameras will also be moved between scopes as I continue to have 
problems with the SBIG cameras. The ST-2000XM is on it way back from SBIG. It
was returned to them again after repair for a black image. They can't seem to 
find a problem. The ST-401ME was sent in for repair for not being able to 
connect to the camera. The problem has returned. The camera will have to be sent 
back again.
==============================================================================
3/6/08
- Installed one of the 4 port PCI serial port cards in the Weather Station PC. 
The system is functional and data transfer between the weather module in the 
observatory and the WeatherLink 5.6 software is much faster. The rain and cloud
detector has also been reconnected to the weather station PC. Both USB to 
serial adapters have been uninstalled. There is one open com port (Com5).
==============================================================================
2/24/08
- Ordered two 4 port PCI serial port cards. One for the observatory and one for
the weather station PC.
- Repaired broken links on weather page.
==============================================================================
2/17/08
- Installed a new 500 watt power supply. The observatory is up and running.
==============================================================================
2/16/08
- The main observatory computer has failed.  The power supply is burned out.
A replacement supply was installed boot the system would not power up. The 
observatory will be offline until the computer is either repaired or replaced.
- The MKS4000 upgrade controlled for the Paramount ME will be installed during
the down time.
- The short belt in the RA axis will also be replaced.
==============================================================================
2/2/08
- The ST-2000XM was shipped back to SBIG today.
- The scope's park position had the be reset.
==============================================================================
1/30/08
- Received the ST-2000XM back for SBIG. The camera still has the original
problem of a black screen after image download. The ADU count is always 0.
Needless to say I am not happy with SBIG's repair service.
==============================================================================
1/28/08
- Ordered the MKS 4000 upgrade for the Paramount Me. SB threw in two new belts
for the Dec drive.
==============================================================================
1/08/08
- Replaced the 2 deepcycle 100 amp hour marine batteries, with two 115 amp 
hour units. The old batteries had begun to fail.
- Strung a temporary composite video cable between MallinCam and the Dazzle
video capture box. The original cable was damaged and needs to be replaced.
- Aligned the MallinCam, finder scopes and the SV102APO to each other.
==============================================================================
12/31/07
- Solved a long standing issue with the dome rotation unexpectedly stopping 
during operation. Two switches on the wall mounted rotation interface box had
been left in the wrong position. During remote control operations the wireless
switch box enables the "Dome Enable" and "Dome Power" functions via relays on
the circuit board, but the manual switches must be in the up position.
- The 5 port USB hub on the pier is intermittently cycling off and on during
the dome rotation. I suspect there is an issue with power supply that is being
used to power the dome.
- The Adirondack Flat Fielder light box was remounted on the ceiling just past
the rear of Zenith. The scope and dome where tested to be sure they don't
interfere with each other.
==============================================================================
12/30/07
Water was found on the floor of the observatory near the entrance door. It 
appears the caulking at the base of the dome's walls where damaged when the
decking was leveled a few months ago. New caulking will be applied to the 
full diameter of the wall and decking interface.
==============================================================================
12/28/07
- The repaired ST-402ME has returned from SBIG. The camera now has enchanced
cooling. Previously the camera was only able to be cooled to above -3C. Now it
is able to be cooled to about -15C. The ST2K is not expected back until 
sometime after the New Year.
==============================================================================
12/23/07
- Removed the dehumidifier from the observatory. The drain hose remains for
future use.
==============================================================================
12/06/07
- Received the Williams Optic 66mm SD 388mm focal length APO refractor.
==============================================================================
12/01/07
- Wired up the outside batteries.
- Connected the Velleman voltage/data logger as follows:
  	Channel 1 - Solar Panel Voltage
	Channel 2 - Load Voltage (battery output voltage)
        Channel 3 - 12 volt DC main power supply
        Channel 4 - Pier Power (DC voltage)
- The #2 analog voltmeter was reconfigured to display the Main DC power supply
  voltage instead of battery voltage.
- Shipped the ST-402ME back to SBIG for repair. No info on when either it of the 
  ST-2000XM will be returned.
- Install the DSI-Color and DSI Pro CCD camera in place of the ST-2000XM and 402.
==============================================================================
11/25/07
- Moved the batteries outside the observatory. They are installed in a plastic
Stanley Tool box. They have not been wired to the solar panel and charge 
regulator yet. The batteries have been replaced with a 15 amp DC power supply.
This power supply drives the dome rotation only. The 10 amp DC supply is used
to power the pier. During the rewiring some issues have cropped up:
  The SBIG 402ME has no power.
  The 4.5v power supply smoked due to a voltage reversal during the rewire. 
  The USB Vellman data logger is not connected.
  The Red & White florescent are not working.
-The Observatory Control GUI (ver 8.2.2) has been upgraded and tested. 
-Drawers (2 on each side) have been installed to support the computer self.
-The batteries where filled with water.

==============================================================================
11/16/07
- The ST-2000XM was shipped to SBIG. It should arrive there on 11/26.
==============================================================================
11/15/07
- The Observatory Control Panel GUI is being modified to handle the Heating &
Air Conditioning unit. The new GUI is shown below. A additional remote control 
power strip was installed to support automation of the HAC unit. The GUI also 
now supports the Sling Player and has the option to reboot the observatory PC.

==============================================================================
11/13/07
- Comet 17P/Holmes continues to be an amusing object in the Northeastern sky.
This evening I used my iPhone running the latest version of VNC the control
the observatory and capture an image of Holmes. The first image below shows 
the iPhone connected to the observatory computer with is running CCDSoft. 

Hers is the actual picture. The image was taken with a Stellervue 104 mm apo refractor
and a SBIG ST-402ME. Until the ST-2000 I returned to SBIG for repair comes back the 
402 ME is my primary imager.

==============================================================================
11/03/07
- The ST-2000XM CCD camera is malfunctioning (it only produces black images). 
- Installed the heating and AC unit. The unit sits outside the obs. There are 
two hole approx 2-1/2 inches in diameter. One is a feed the other is a return.

==============================================================================
10/28/07
- Shimmed Southeast side of the of the observatory platform. The platform had
settled more than an inch. This caused rotation problems for the dome as the
battery for shutter had to rotate up-hill. 
- The SBIG ST2000-XM is not functioning. 
- Batteries showing low voltage.
- Received the HAC unit for the observatory.
- Plans to move the batteries outside the observatory. This wall free up space
inside.
==============================================================================
10/14/07
- Weather-stripping was installed on the top of the lower shutter to fill the
gap between the upper and lower shutters. 
- The weather-cam server was hung and required a restart.
==============================================================================
10/13/07
- The battery issue has been solved. It appears the manually operated 12vdc 
oscillating fan and a CCD camera were left on. The equipment ended up draining 
the battery packs (this took about 3 weeks). The batteries have been recharged 
and the charge regulator appears to be functioning OK.
==============================================================================
10/10/07
- The two 100 amp hour marine batteries have gone dead. The battery packs are
currently being charged via a AC power charger. This will allow the interior
lights, cameras, fans and other 12 vdc items that are powered from the batteries
to function. The next step will be to check the water level of the battery 
packs and test the solar charge regulator to be sure that it is functioning. 
==============================================================================
09/15/07
- Replaced the upper shutter. The wider flange of the new design allows the 
shutters to be closed from any dome rotation position without the upper and 
lower shutters smashing into each other. The solar vent will be installed at
a later date as will the lower shutter. Stops for the open and close limit 
switches had to fabricated as the upper shutter didn't have them. Also it was
necessary to remove some fiberglass from the rear of the upper shutter to 
prevent it from binding on the domes outer rails. 
==============================================================================
09/07/07
- The Weather Server is off-line for scheduled maintenance. That means no local 
wind, rain, lightning, cloud, humidity or temp data. The Underground Weather &
the Citizen Weather Program data are also effected. The system should be back 
up in the next 24 hrs (or sooner).
==============================================================================
08/29/07
- The upper and lower shutters have developed a problem that is preventing 
them from closing without manual intervention. A new set are on order and 
should ship from the Sirius factory the week of 9/10/07. Until the new 
shutters are installed the observatory will remain off-line. 

==============================================================================
08/28/07
- A terabyte of disk storage was added to the observatory's network. The 
network drive will be used mostly as a backup device and to house the 
observatory's star catalogs.

==============================================================================
08/20/07
- The timer for the routine within the Observatory control program that parks 
the telescope was changed. It is was increase from 60 seconds to 90 seconds. 
At 60 seconds depending on where the the scope was pointing and what the slew 
speed was set to, the Paramount ME would not reach the park position. 
- Installed ESD dust covers on all open 9 pin serial ports.
- Used the iPhone to remotely control the observatory while on a business trip
  from Sunnyvale, Ca. 
  The iPhone was used as the interface while connected to AT&T's EDGE network 
  in order to: 
  Power-up the observatory, telescope mount and cameras.
  Configure, align and point the telescope.
  Set-up and initiate the autoguider.
  Focus the camera.
  Begin the 15 minute exposure of the Bubble Nebula (NGC7635)
  Process the image.
  Shut-down and secure the cameras, telescope and observatory.
  


==============================================================================
07/17/07
- Installed the additional counterweight on the Paramount. The Cal-K solar 
scope was temporarily removed until the Dec axis of the mount can be better 
balanced. 
==============================================================================
07/16/07
- The data logger and the Weather Envoy for the weather station showed up 
today after repair by Davis Instruments. They replaced the Data logger with 
refurbished unit and they updated the firmware. It took a while to get the unit 
setup and running again but it is back on-line. 
==============================================================================
07/4/07
- Updated the Observatory Control Panel GUI. The update adds access for the 
Pyxis camera rotation and the Vellman data logger (used to monitor solar panel 
and battery voltage). Two new buttons were added to allow the dome to be homed 
or parked from the GUI. There was also some general clean-up to the GUI's 
internal code in how command windows and processes are handled.
==============================================================================
06/30/07
- Connected the AO-7 (Adaptive Optics) unit to the SBIG ST-2000XM CCD camera
which is attached to 10" SCT OTA. The camera has not been re-aligned.
==============================================================================
06/29/07
- The replacement stepper driver chip ordered from Digikey arrived today. The
installation of the chip restored the LazyFocus to full functionality.

==============================================================================
06/28/07
- A thunder storm took out the Wireless Weather Envoy. The WWE relays data 
from the weather station to the weather PC (which uploads the data to this
web page). So there won't be any weather data until the WWE is repaired. I
believe the data logger module is fried. The unit has been returned to the
manufacturer. I estimate about 10 to 14 days for the repair.
==============================================================================
06/25/07
- The LazyFocus emitted magic smoke this evening. Fortunately I was in the
observatory when it occurred. Upon inspection of the device I found the Stepper 
Motor Driver chip was damaged. The chip (TEA3718) will have to be replaced. A
new one was ordered from Digikey.

==============================================================================
06/24/07
- Move the GStar CCD video cam to the left side of SV102APO. This was done
because the camera cables interfered with Pyxis cables. 
==============================================================================
06/23/07
- Installed Pyxis camera rotator. It was originally acquired for use one the 
ST-2000XM but the play in the gear drive and its inability to hold the ST2K in 
position when the power to the unit is off relegated it for use on the ST-402ME.
==============================================================================
06/13/07
- Recently in an attempt to improve the system the cloud sensor software was 
moved to the observatory PC. An FTP server was installed on the Weather PC and
a remote serial port server was also installed on the Weather PC. The idea was
to allow the ACP program to access the cloud sensor. For that the happen the 
software needs to be running on the observatory PC. This configuration turned
out to be to unreliable. The link between the serial port on the observatory 
and the on on the weather PC would not auto-reconnect if the connection was 
lost. This would cause the ACP scripts to fail because the loss of weather 
data to be seen as "Sky Unsafe" message.
- A storm blew the cloud detector off the roof. It had be secured with ty-wraps.
Fortunately the detector landing on the rain soaked lawn so it wasn't damaged
in the fall. But it did get wet. It was dried, tested and re-secured using 
stainless steel hose clamps. 
==============================================================================
06/12/07
- A fairly violent storm passed through area about 2:00 PM today. During the 
storm the Cloud and Rain sensor was blown from the roof. The nylon ty-wraps
had became brittle due to Solar UV radiation. Fortunately the sensor landed
in the grass. It was dried out with a hair dryer become being remounted using
stainless steel hose clamps. It was also tested to be sure it still worked. 
==============================================================================
06/3/07
- Tweaked the Observatory Control Program (OCP8). It now full starts up and
shuts down the observatory. That includes homing both the dome and scope on
start-up. The shut-down procedure parks the dome, closes the shutters and
parks the scope. 
==============================================================================
06/2/07
- Last night a storm rolled through and had some lightning activity with it. 
A strike took out com port 1 on the Weather PC and the wireless (DIY) shutter
control board. The control board was replaced with a spare. The serial port
on the Weather PC was connected to the wireless temperature and humidity sensor
located inside the observatory. The sensor still works and was moved to com2.
Com2 was connected to the wireless transmitter insider the house. Since a 
transmitter was added to the observatory PC as part of the the ACP upgrade the
loss of the serial connection to inside transmitter won't result in any loss of
functions. The inside transmitter is still connected to the Boltwood sensor and
still functions are the primary dome closure system in case of bad weather. It

==============================================================================
05/26/07
- The MaxDome II board has been installed and is operational. 

=====================================================================================
                                     ACP Dome Control update TO-Do-List
- Purchase Maxdome-2 dome rotation controller. Done
  This controller will replace the old Autodome controller currently used to
  control the dome rotation. The new controller is ASCOM compatible.
- Design wireless interface to Maxdome-2 controller board. Done
  Needed for wireless control of dome rotation by special user programs.
- Rewrite routines for JAT Observatory Control GUI. Done
  Since the new wireless transmitter is located in the dome, the control program 
  will have to use a local serial port instead of the remote/virtual serial port for 
  the wireless transmitter. This includes the shutters, focuser switch box, and 
  the any custom software to manually move the dome.
- Write stand alone control routines. Done
  The stand alone routines are needed so ACP can control power and equipment. 
  These routines will have no user GUI. The following new routines are needed:
  * Pier Power.
  * Shutter open.
  * Shutter close.
  * Top shutter open only (used when drift scanning).
  * Focuser switchbox control.
  * Dome rotation control (used by special user programs).
- Install Clarity software for the Boltwood Cloud Sensor on the observatory PC. Done
- Configure Network serial port. Done
    The clarity software needs to access the Boltwood sensor which is not connected
    to the observatory computer.
- Configure and test ACP control program In Process
  Interface to MaxImDL 4.x
   * Camera(s)
      - Imaging
      - Filter wheel
      - Dark, Flats, Bias frames
        > Scripts for light box control
      - Interface to Pinpout
          - Plate solving 
          - Mount pointing correction
  Interface to Maxdome2
   * Dome
      - ASCOM compatibility
  Remote user account setup 
      - Controls 
      - Restrictions
=====================================================================================
==============================================================================
05/24/07
- The MaxDomeII Dome rotation controller arrived today. Now I just have to
install it and make it work.
==============================================================================
05/21/07
- Clarity software for the Boltwood sensor is now running on the observatory
PC. That includes Russell Croman's Boltwood graphing program. I have not been
able to make the split serial port software work for the Clarity software so
the software on the Weather Station PC has been disabled. The Clarity software
in the observatory is connect to Com Port 6. Com6 is networked to com4 on the
Weather PC.
- The ACP software is now using the Clarity software to determined the safety
of the sky. Anything below "Cloudy" is seen as an "Unsafe" Sky. Anything
above Wet or Very Cloudy is seen as a "Safe" sky. It would have been nice if
the ACP software would have displayed Clear, Cloudy, Very Cloudy of Wet like
the sensor software display does. It would have been more useful.
==============================================================================
05/20/07
- Completed rewrite of remote control software GUI. The Observatory Control 
Program is now at version 8. The software now uses the transmitter located in
the observatory and not the house. The house transmitter with still be used to
close the shutters when it rains. The Clarity software installed in the
observatory will eventually be linked to the ACP software. The stand alone
remote software OBS Start-up, Shut-down, Focuser#1 and Focuser#2 was also 
rewritten to use the new transmitter. 
- The OCP8 GUI now supports "Nudging the dome <<CCW and CW>>. The dome will
rotate for 1 second when the two new radio buttons are pressed.
- Created a place holder button on the GUI for the Adirondack Flat Field Light 
Panel.
- The Power Strip control was placed back onto Com2. The problem was the 
CPS power strip needs to run @ 300 Baud, the serial port switch box will not
operate below 9600 so the 2 got not be used together. 
- A Dynex USB to Serial adapter was installed in the observatory. It is 
configured as serial port # 3.
==============================================================================
05/19/07
- Installed LazyFocus control box. Made new "Y" Power cable
- Disconnected focusers from Paramount.
- Reconfigured Com2 for LazyFocus (Com2 was Power Strip)
- Configured Serial Switch to use slot "J" for Power Strip (now Com1)
- Installed wireless transmitter in observatory (Slot D on Serial Switch)
- Configured Serial Switch to use slot "G" for Flat Fielder Light Panel (Com1) 
- Began writing software to control OBS side transmitter and account for new
  equipment configurations.

==============================================================================
05/15/07
- Reset Clear/Cloudy temp threshold on Boltwood Cloud sensor to -32 degrees F.
- Install solar powered red lamp on outside observatory near the door knob.
- All Astronomy/observatory software has been placed in it own case.
- Began storing install and setup software from weather & OBS PC onto CD-Rom

==============================================================================
05/09/07
- Ordered Lazy Focus to allow the Meade micro-focusers to be controlled by 
FocusMax while connected to the Paramount. Currently FocusMax can not talk
to them.
- working to figure out how to launch "exe" file from the ACP console and
browser. This is a requirement as this how observatory remote power-ups and 
shut-downs will be done.
- Evaluating DC3 Dreams Scheduler 2.0
==============================================================================
05/05/07
- Installed DC3 Dream's ACP 5.0 Observatory control software. The ACP software
required the 3.x version of MaxImDL be upgraded to 4.x. The problem is ACP will
not control the version of Sirius Dome Controller current in use by the 
observatory. This will require an upgrade of the old Autodome hardware and 
software. The remote browser has been assigned to port 30080.
- The disk provide by DC3 Dream is defective. I have requested a replacement.
==============================================================================
03/27/07
- Collimated the SV102A with the ST-200XM and the F50 Finder with the 
Mallincam to the 10" SCT with the ST-402ME. 
- Found a number of screws loose on the dovetail plate and one dovetail adapter
thumb screw was loose for the SV102a.
- Noticeable hot pixels present on the GSTAR-EX CCD video camera with the 
ambient temp being around 67 Degrees F. 
==============================================================================
03/25/07
- Modified the Observatory Control GUI to include control Mallincam and the 
GSTAR-EX as well as the 20 port serial switch. 
==============================================================================
03/24/07
- The 20 port serial switch was installed in the observatory. The cable for
the video camera was installed and routed under the floor.
- All the video cables were covered in split-loom.
==============================================================================
03/22/07
- The problem with the serial port switch not responding when the RS232 to 
RS485 converter was connected has been solved. The problem was twofold. The 
first issue is pins 2 & 3 on the RS232 side needed to be reversed when connected 
to the switch so a null modem was install on each of the 2 converters. The 
second issue is the RS485 side of the converter needs external power when
connected to the switch. Once these 2 conditions were satisfied the switch
worked as adverized. 
- A cable was fabricated using 6 wire telephone line, although only 2 wires are
need on the camera side for control (the +485 and -485). 2 of the wires were 
used for the Mallincam and 2 were used for the GSTAR-EX settings control. I
found the ground wires were not needed.
==============================================================================
03/20/07
- Building of the hyper and thermal electric cooler remote wireless controller 
for the Mallincam has been put on hold temporarily.
- Fabricated a cable to connect the GSTAR-EX video to the RS232 to RS485
converter. The cable with be used to remote control the GSTAR-EX camera.
- A 20 port serial switch was added to the observatory. This was done because 
of the increasing serial port requirements. While the switch adds 20 more ports
only one port can be use at a time. The switch will be used to switch between
the flat field light box, wireless controller, video cameras controllers and 
other RS232 devices. Currently the switch is hanging-up when the RS-232 to RS485
converters are attached to any of the port. The manufacturer of the switch has
been contacted.
==============================================================================
03/17/07
- Removed the Mallincam color video camera from the observatory in order to
build an remote controller to operate the  7 and 14 second Hyper switches and
the thermal electric cooler switch. The controller was designed using relays 
that will be connected to a wireless receiver. A new Beta GUI for the 
Observatory Control program is already being coded. The camera is being sent 
back to the vendor in Canada for an upgrade to the hyper system. The new system 
allows 7, 14, 28 & 56 second frame integration. The upgrade add a new switch the 
camera so the remote interface and software design won't be completed until
the returns from the vendor. The remote modification to the camera will 
requires a hole be drilled in the camera's case and small cable and connector
will the attached. The plan is to still keep the functionality of the manual
switch while adding the remote control ability. The new Beta GUI will also 
allow control of both the GSTAR-EX and Mallincam via a RS-232 controlled serial 
port switch. 
==============================================================================
03/10/07
- Updated the observatory PC's mememory to 1 gig.
- Attached the MallinCam Hyper to the 10" LX200GPS OTA. The Dazzle video 
capture unit was installed in order to capture the output of the Mallincam. An 
RCA composite video plug was connected (the S-video connector still goes to 
the SlingBox). 
==============================================================================
03/09/07
- Tested the dome rotation. No problems and no noises. I suspect it was ice
in the track. 
- Installed the GStar-Com remote control software on the observatory PC.
- Installed the Dazzle software. Dazzle is a video capture device that will
allow image to be captured from either GStar-EX or MallinCam Hyper. The 
hardware will be installed tomorrow. 
- Replacement 4 port USB hub will be installed in the observatory. The SBIG
cameras have been suffering from errors and non-responses. 
==============================================================================
03/08/07
- The dome started making a grinding noise when it was positioned southeast.
- The MallinCam Hyper & GStar-EX are now working under remote control. It was 
tested with the laptop. The interface is RS-485 and the GStar-EX software only 
works with COM1. The observatory PC with be setup for attachment of the 
MallinCam on COM1.
==============================================================================
03/04/07
- Updated the Observatory and Weather station PC to Service Pack 2
==============================================================================
02/05/07
- Constructed a "Y" DC power cord to allow both the Mallincam and the GStar-Ex
to be powered from a single power supply.
==============================================================================
02/04/07
- Installed Meade LPI
==============================================================================
01/29/07
- F6.3 focal reducer removed from 10" SCT. The FL is increased from 1600mm to
2500mm @ F10.
==============================================================================
01/17/07
- Shutter battery has been recharged.
==============================================================================
01/15/07
- The voltage in battery for the shutters dropped the ~5 volts. This prevented
the top shutter from being closed. The emergency external supply was connected
to the battery in order to close the shutter. The observatory has been taken 
off-line and the trickle charger was connected. I believe the reason for the
dead battery is extended cloudy weather. When the sky is cloudy the cloud 
sensor continuously sends the closure command to the shutter receiver. Since 
the battery is charged by a solar panel, if it remains cloudy for many days in 
a row the battery will be drained. 
==============================================================================
01/11/07
- The 4.5 vdc external power connector for the wireless weather module in the 
observatory managed to work itself loose. The module switch over to it's 
internal batteries (which went or where dead) and stopped working. New 
batteries where installed and the module was reconnected. The time and date was
reset. About 24 hours or weather data was lost.
==============================================================================
01/09/07
- Installed a GStar-Ex B&W video camera with a Tamaron wide-angle on the side 
of the SV102A. The camera is attached to an inverted Losmandy camera mount. 
The camera mount is mount the dovetail plate on the top of the SV102A. The 
camera is actually mount further forward than shown in the image. This was done
so the mounting clamps of the SV102a with be in the camera's view. The camera
is used to monitor the dome's slit in relation to the telescopes' aperture. 
The output from the GStar-Ex is routed to the Slingbox A/V the same as the 
Mallincam color video camera. The Mallincam is connected via a S-Video cable
and the GStar-Ex is connected via the RCA jack. This setup allows the video
output from from either camera to be selected remotely using the SlingPlayer
client software.
==============================================================================
12/28/06
- Given up on controlling the Mallincam remotely (at lest for the time being).
The Mallincam has been mounted to the modified Stellarvue F50 finder scope. 
The F50 has had its diagonal removed and a threaded 2" extension barrel has
been bonded to the removable back plate on the F50. The new configuration will
be used as an electronic video finder scope.  
==============================================================================
12/27/06
- Built 2 different cable in an attempt to control the Mallincam settings 
remotely. Neither cable works. One is based on a RS-485 protocal the other is
based on RS-232. The software use is from a GStar-EX camera which it appears
the Mallincam is based on. 
==============================================================================
12/14/06
- Installed the Mallincam video camera. The camera is connected to the a 
Slingbox AV unit. This allows the video to be accessed from any computer that
has the SlingPlayer software installed.
==============================================================================
12/09/06
- Replaced the screw for the screw-drive for the lower shutter. The dome is 
now operational. 
==============================================================================
12/07/06
- The dome has been taken off-line to prevent remote operation. The reason is 
a screw was found on the floor of the observatory. After a lengthy inspection
of the telescopes, pier and  dome the location of where the screw came from 
was found. The screw holds the screw-drive for the lower shutter and allows it
the pivot during opening and closing. Before the screw is replaced 
non-permanent locking compound will be applied in order to prevent the screw 
from working loose in the future. 
==============================================================================
12/05/06
- Reconfigured the SV102APO to use the stock Stellarvue mounting rings instead 
of the 3 point Losmandy rings. The stock rings hold the scope more rigidly then 
the 3 point rings. This should help eliminate most of the remaining flexing, 
but will require shimming in order to align the pointing of the piggy-backed 
scope with the main OTA. It will also no longer be possible to adjust the 
piggy-backed scope in order to locate a guidestar if needed.
==============================================================================
11/16/06
- Installed a CPS Intelligent Auto Push Board and a N-RRC controller to the 
Weather Station PC. The PC is now able to be shut-down and booted remotely and 
reliably.  (This setup is identical to the Observatory PC setup). 
- Added a link on website's Observatory status page for remote power control of 
both the Observatory and Weather Station PC.
- Installed new fully charged shutter motor battery.

==============================================================================
11/15/06
*** After 5 days FTP access to the website has finally been restored.  The FTP 
server for the observatory site stopped working @ 5:15 am Friday 11/10/06. 

That meant no weather, lightening, cloud, sky-cam or weather-cam pictures 
could be uploaded to the website, nor could the website be updated via FTP 
during that time. 

There is still no FTP access to the root directory and the FTP account name 
in use before the outage is no longer valid, so all the scripts and automated 
software that uploaded data to the website had to be changed.

So if you happen to be looking for web hosting services I would have to 
recommend that you steer clear of IPOWER Web. In my opinion they suck.

==============================================================================
11/1/06
- Created new local horizon mask. The mask defines what areas of the sky are
visible to the telescopes. 
- I decided my ISP (IpowerWeb) sucks. There has been no FTP access to site 
since Friday morning at about 5:15am. The CSR claims there was a power failure.
and the JATObservery domain was on one the FTP servers affected by the power
outage. Because of this issue no weather data, lightning data , cloud data or 
images can be uploaded to the website.

==============================================================================
11/03/06
- Ordered a new shutter battery. The new battery has slightly more capacity 
than the original Panasonic battery supplied (9ah vs the original 7.5ah)

==============================================================================
11/03/06
- Received the Baader solar filter for the Stellarvue SV102APO.
==============================================================================
11/02/06
- The shutter battery is showing signs of not holding a good charge since the
temperature has begun to drop. The battery is currently being charged at night
by an AC charger. Because the charger is connected, the dome rotation has been 
disabled so as not to allow remote start-up of the dome. Doing so with the 
charging cable is connected will cause damage.
==============================================================================
10/31/06
- Modified a Meade 8x50 finder scope to accept standard eyepieces. 
==============================================================================
10/26/06
- Aligned scope using the iterative method
==============================================================================
10/22/06
- Installed an RJ-11 "Y" on the end of the 9 pin to RJ-11 connector on the
Paramount ME.
- The 12 volt trickle charger has been connected the the shutter battery.
==============================================================================
10/17/06
- Installed a CPS Intelligent Auto Push Board into the Observatory PC. The PC
is now able to be shut-down and booted remotely and reliably. The Relay box
has been removed.
==============================================================================
10/16/06
- Removed Windows Service Pack 2 update from the Observatory PC. The SBIG 
ST-2000XM USB camera would not connect. After the SP2 was removed the camera
is functioning fine.
==============================================================================
10/15/06
- Re-installed side cover on Paramount. Scope only eyeballed aligned to Dec 40 
degree tick mark. The scope is operational but pointing will not be accurate.
- Remove the Windows Service Pack 2 update from the Weather Station PC. It was
hanging the WeatherLink software and preventing it from uploading correctly. 
After the removal of Windows SP2 the software is functioning correctly. 
==============================================================================
10/14/06
- The free version of "LogMeIn" software has been deployed to the PCs on the 
observatory's local network. The software provides an alternative method of 
remotely accessing the observatory's PCs from either the local intranet or the
internet.
==============================================================================
10/13/06
- The source of the noise in the RA drive has been located. The problem was one 
of the rubber cogs on the short belt had separated from the belt and became 
stuck in the pulley. Whenever that section of the pulley rotated around the 
belt would ride up over the filled gap. This caused a thumping noise whenever 
the scope was slewed at speed. The rubber was scraped out and the problem has 
gone away. The scope is still out of service because the declination axis had 
to be raised in order the get the screws off of the side cover plate. One of the 
screw heads was striped during removal. A new screw and belt will be ordered from 
Software Bisque. The mount with have to be realigned.
- All the PCs on the Network have been updated to Service Pack 2 and all 
Microsoft patched have been installed.
==============================================================================
10/12/06
- Adjusted the short and long belt on the Dec axis. There is now a bit of play
in the belts and slewing is quieter. Both the upper and lower Dec covers have
been replaced. The RA axis will be adjusted next, as that drive is noisy also.
==============================================================================
10/08/06
- The Paramount ME has been taken out of service. The Dec drive is suffering 
from a knocking noise during slews. The problem only occurs during cool weather. 
I believe the sound is caused by a change in belt tension when the temp drops.
Re-adjustment of the belt tension should correct the symptom. The Software 
Bisque belt adjustment procedure calls for use of a Sonic Tension Meter.
- Disconnected the DVD reader in the observatory PC. The reader malfunctioned
and was just drawing power from the PC. The CDR-W is still the E drive, there
is no longer a D drive.
- N-RRC Ethernet controller and remote relay box was placed back in the 
observatory. The PC's manual power switch was disconnected and replaced with
the remote relay box. The PC can my be turned on or off via the local network
or internet. 
==============================================================================
10/03/06
- The "Observatory Control Program 6a" was modified to automatically load the
Sirius ASCOM compatible control program when the "Observatory Start-Up" button
is selected.
==============================================================================
9/21/06
- Created 2 new T-Point models, one for the eastern side of the sky (75 points)
and one for the western side (66 points). Telescope pointing is now very 
accurate on both sides of the sky.
- Performed PEC training, the mount now has a PE of 2.0 arcseconds PP and 5 min
unguided images are now possible.
==============================================================================
9/17/06
- Rewired the AC outlets on the pier to eliminate the ON/OFF switch. Replaced
the switch with a 4th outlet. 
- Modified DC outlet #3 so it is controlled by the AC pier power. This was done
by rewiring the "Emergency Power Off" AC/DC relay from Normally Closed (NC) to
Normally Open (NO). The relay was moved from the output of the solar charge 
regulator to the (-) side of DC power #3, on the pier. The SBIG ST-402ME is now 
remote controllable via the Observatory Control 6a program.
- Modified the Observatory Control 6a program to set Focuser#1 as the active
focuser with the "Observatory Start-Up" button is selected. 
- Changed the buttons previously labeled "Paramount ON" and "Paramount OFF"
to "Pier Power ON" and "Pier Power OFF". 

==============================================================================
9/13/06
- Dome rotation power has been moved to the 10 amp 12 volt DC power supply. 
Dome power is now enabled with the Paramount and ST-2000XM energized (provided
the "Dome Power On" button on the GUI has been previously selected.

==============================================================================
9/6/06
- The filtered serial adapter has been added to the CPS power strip. This will
allow control via a Comm port on the observatory PC. The observatory control
program has been modified to include buttons that control the outlets on the
CPS. I didn't see a way the do that using the manufacturer's webserver control
box (N-RRC). The draw-back to this is the CPS will not work with both the 
N-RRC and the serial adapter connected at the same time. The good news is the 
N=RRC can be used to control a relay box so it is not a total waste of money.
I plan on building a relay box and connect it to the N-RRC to allow remote 
re-booting of the PC. 
- The modified control program is setup now to automatically 
turn off the dehumidifier when the shutters are opened, it is turned on when the 
shutter are closed. It addition a button has be added to the GUI that automated 
some portions of the observatory start-up routine. When selected the following 
actions take place:
* Dehumidifier is turned off.
* Shutters are opened.
* The dome's rotation power is turned and remote control is enabled.
* Paramount ME (GEM) is switched on.
* ST-2000XM CCD camera is switched on.
* Dew Heaters are switched on.
The plan is to modify the software to also start-up the Sirius Dome controller 
software as well as startup CCDSoft.

Now if I can just figure out a way to automate removal and replacement of the 
telescope aperture covers.
==============================================================================
9/4/06
- Modified the indoor remote shutter control box. A red covered switch was 
added the disables the Boltwood cloud and rain sensor closure signal. There 
are a number of reason this was done. When the closure signal is sent to the 
transmitter due to either "Very Cloudy" or "Rain" conditions no other signals
can be received by any of the other receivers within the observatory. Also if
maintenance or repair to the relay circuit is required the signal can be 
disabled. The remote disable toggle switch in the observatory was also 
replaced with a protected switch.
==============================================================================
9/1/06
- Installed the CPS remote IP control power strip. The strip is currently 
connected to the Dehumidifier, telescope, ST-2000XM and a fan.
==============================================================================
8/31/06
- Installed the 12 Vdc 10amp relay for the wireless remote dome rotation power 
controller. The relay was ordered from Jameco. The dome is now capable of 
complete remote start up. 
==============================================================================
8/28/06
- The 12 volt deep cycle batteries are of the wet cycle type and unfortunately
not maintenance free, they required almost 4 liters of water to top them off. 
==============================================================================
8/26/06
- Installed the wireless receiver and relay board to control the dome rotation
power and remote enable. The dome rotation and remote enable works, but a 5 
volt DC/DC 10 amp relay is needed in order to control the dome power remotely.
- Created a new GUI that includes a selection for dome rotation and power.
- Installed a Netgear ethernet switch in the observatory. The switch will be
use to connect the IP controlled power strip ordered from CPS.
- Installed a Dyanex 4 port USB Hub in order to reconnect the Velleman Logger.
==============================================================================
8/21/06
- Lubed the dome rotation gear.
==============================================================================
8/19/06
- The homing for the dome was still suffering from intermittent failure. An
inspection of the dome control box revealed some loose connections on the relay
board terminal strip. After tightening the problem appears to have been fixed.
==============================================================================
8/11/06
- Updated CCDSoft back to 5.00.175
*** The LPI camera seems to have developed a problem, it only displays in 
black & white.
*** The Homing sensor (N.O. magnetic switch) for the dome has stopped working.
The switch has replaced with a new one.
- Ran a small TPoint model and the pointing of the Paramount improved greatly.
(I should have done that sooner).
- Upgraded the LX200GPS forks to 4.1i (don't ask me why).
- Installed TLE Retriever. Satellite TLEs are downloaded every for hours. 
- Finally got the username and password working for the Air Force Weather
Agency website.
==============================================================================
7/25/06
*** During an imaging session on 7/24/06 of NGC-6205 (M13) a problem occurred 
with CCDsoft5 hotfix version 5.00.175. The setup consisted of the SV102a 
refractor using the SBIG CFW10a color filter wheel connected to ST-2000XM. The 
camera was setup to autoguide via the built-in 237a imager at a guide rate of 
1 frame per second. When the color series capture was executed CCDSoft would 
hang after the autodark frame download. The message "waiting on shutter" was
displayed. CCDSoft was downgraded to version 5.00.175 in am attempt to fix the
issue. As it turns out the problem was a "MultiFile Bad Pixel Remover" dll