I, for one, would like to see the thread continue here. If it
doesn't, would you mind posting details of the ultimate resolution
here? Thanks.

Phillip

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
Displays)" <jon.brewster@...> wrote:
>
> How about we take it private, as the exchange will get pretty
specific?
> See on the next email exchange.
>
> Jon
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 5:02 PM
> > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
> >
> > Jon,
> >
> > Thanks for your suggestions.  I really would like to resolve
> > this problem.  I have been working off and on this problem
> > for several months.  No, I have not done these tests.  I am
> > not very ASCOM- centric.  Could some one provide instructions
> > on how to do this (or at least where they can be found)?
> >
> > Thanks,
> > .
> > .
> > .
> > Rod
> >
> > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
Displays)"
> > <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi,
> > >
> > > I may be jumping in late, but does the RCX ASCOM driver connect
> > through
> > > to the scope with POTH?  Also does TheSky work with the ASCOM
scope
> > > simulator?  If you are still working this issue, those tests
could
> > help
> > > isolate things.
> > >
> > > Jon
> > >
> > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod
Gallagher
> > > > Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2006 11:38 AM
> > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
Sky
> > > >
> > > > Ajai,
> > > >
> > > > Nothing else is connected to the scope.  I can switch the
> > driver in
> > > > TheSky to LX200 GPS and the scope works well.
> > > > However, it will not work with the Telescope API and RCX
> > driver.  Is
> > > > there something else that I need to set up in ASCOM or
> > TheSky to get
> > > > this to work?
> > > > ..
> > > > ..
> > > > ..
> > > > Rod
> > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > Rod,
> > > > >
> > > > > That is very strange.  The RCX driver works great with the
2.2G
> > > > ROM.  I have
> > > > > never tried connecting through The Sky but I will try this
> > > > afternoon.
> > > > >
> > > > > Are you sure that nothing else is connected to the RCX as
well
> > at
> > > > the same
> > > > > time?
> > > > >
> > > > > Ajai
> > > > > (RCX Driver Author)
> > > > >
> > > > >   _____
> > > > >
> > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > Talk@yahoogroups.com] On
> > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 11:31 PM
> > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
Sky
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Hi Stef,
> > > > >
> > > > > Thanks for your reply.
> > > > >
> > > > > Yes I am selecting Telescope API in TheSky. I then select
the
> > RCX
> > > > > ASCOM driver in the settings and then call up the dialog
> > > > box to set up
> > > > > the properties for the RCX driver. I select COM6 and select
> > > > "OK". Then
> > > > > when I attempt to connect I get the error.
> > > > >
> > > > > Note: The scope works OK with all other drivers, it just
> > > > will not work
> > > > > with ASCOM.
> > > > >
> > > > > I forgot to mention earlier that I am running 2.2G
firmware in
> > the
> > > > > RCX. I've upgraded the firmware 3 times over the last
> > > > several months
> > > > > and ASCOM has not worked for any version that I have tried.
> > > > >
> > > > > I'm stumped.
> > > > >
> > > > > Rod
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > ups.com,
> > > > > "Stef Cancelli" <scancelli@>
> > > > > wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hi Rod,
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Which telescope driver are you selecting in TheSky? Go
to the
> > > > setup
> > > > > > telescope dialog in theSky and select Telescope API. Then
> > press
> > > > > the settings
> > > > > > button and select the ASCOM driver you want - i.e. the
RCX
> > > > driver.
> > > > > You setup
> > > > > > the properties there.
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hope that helps
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Stef.
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > _____
> > > > > >
> > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > ups.com
> > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > Talk@yahoogroups. <mailto:Talk%40yahoogroups.com> com] On
> > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 5:09 PM
> > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > ups.com
> > > > > > Subject: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
Sky
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I am still having problems using the ASCOM RCX driver. I
> > believe
> > > > > > that I am running all of the latest versions of all
> > applications
> > > > > > including:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > ASCOM 4.1
> > > > > > RCX Beta 6
> > > > > > TheSky6 6.0.0.52
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Whenever I attempt to connect to the RCX driver in
TheSky I
> > > > > receive
> > > > > > the following error,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "ASCOM RCX Equipped Telescope Driver There doesn't
appear to
> > be
> > > > > > anything connected to the COM port."
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I have used other non-ASCOM drivers and the scope works
> > great,
> > > > > > however I have never been successful with the ASCOM
driver. I
> > > > have
> > > > > > tried both connecting through the Meade USB connection
(COM6)
> > and
> > > > > > the RCX direct serial port (COM1), but receive the same
error.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I am not familiar with ASCOM and with the lack of
cohesive
> > > > > > documentation I suspect that I am missing something.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Here's the steps that I took to reach this point:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 1. Installed the latest version of ASCOM (ascom41.exe)
that I
> > > > > > downloaded from the ASCOM website.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 2. Updated the Updated TheSky Driver (4.1.3) to
c:\Program
> > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\TheSky Driver.dll
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 3. Updated Helper Component (4.1.5) to c:\Program
> > Files\Common
> > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper.dll
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 4. Updated Helper2 Component (4.0.3) to c:\Program
> > Files\Common
> > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper2.dll
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 5. Installed RCX Beta 6 driver (MeadeRCXSetup.exe, dated
> > > > > 06/13/2006)
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 6. Installed TheSky ASCOM Plugin using the directions in
> > > > > C:\Program
> > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium Plug-
> > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 7. Performed the One-Time Telescope Setup using
directions in
> > > > > > C:\Program Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium
> > Plug-
> > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > >
> > > > > > 8. Attempted to Operate the scope by establishing the
> > > > Telescope link
> > > > > > in TheSky. This is where I receive the error.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > What could I be missing?
> > > > > >
> > > > > > .
> > > > > > .
> > > > > > .
> > > > > > Rod
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
> > > >
> > > > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > ACCOUNT YOU
> > > > USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > > > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Yahoo! Groups Links
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
> >
> > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > ACCOUNT YOU USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> >
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>

Hello,

I'm new to the discussion but I'm experiencing a similar situation.
I have run some preliminary tests in my garage.  When I first ran
the RCX beta driver V6 it seems to load without any difficulties in
TheSky6.  When I terminated the link and then re-established the
link, I got several error messages and now it won't accept the
Telescope API.  The error messages follow:
"Runtime error '13': Type mismatch"
"The ASCOM scope driver is missing the Connected property"
"Application-defined or object-defined error"

The last menu box takes the Windows task manager to make it go away
along with TheSky.

The CCDSoft plug-in for the RCX focuser seemed to work, but the
position information is in steps instead of mm.  The step numbers go
beyond 17,000 when the normal range for steps I've read is 0-7000.
These step numbers are also seen in the RCX control panel Absolute
Focus box.  The sliders for focus speed disappear but I can see
focus postion in mm taken from the handbox status.  Also TheSky6
focus control doesn't work, but I would prefer to focus in CCDSoft
anyway.

When I connect to my SBIG camera in CCDSoft V5 the focuser drives
all the way to the aft limit until the camera actualy connects.  As
soon as the camera connects the focuser is driven back to the last
known position.  I'm grateful for any movement but, until TheSky
accepts the driver nothing will happen for now!

These are my observations so far and I would appreciate any news on
this issue.  Is anyone else having similar problems or maybe has a
suggestion to offer?  Thanks.

Jim

Hi Jim,

I have had similar problems with PemPro and Starry Night Pro.  The
only way I know of to fix the problem is to uninstall the RCX driver
and reinstall it.  In my experience this has only been a temporary
fix, and the problem has reoccurred often.  Unfortunately I haven't
figured out whether there's anything I can to do prevent it from
happening in the first place.

Hilary


--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "jimcj1953" <jim_cj@...> wrote:
>
> Hello,
>
> I'm new to the discussion but I'm experiencing a similar
situation.
> I have run some preliminary tests in my garage.  When I first ran
> the RCX beta driver V6 it seems to load without any difficulties
in
> TheSky6.  When I terminated the link and then re-established the
> link, I got several error messages and now it won't accept the
> Telescope API.  The error messages follow:
> "Runtime error '13': Type mismatch"
> "The ASCOM scope driver is missing the Connected property"
> "Application-defined or object-defined error"
>
> The last menu box takes the Windows task manager to make it go
away
> along with TheSky.
>
> The CCDSoft plug-in for the RCX focuser seemed to work, but the
> position information is in steps instead of mm.  The step numbers
go
> beyond 17,000 when the normal range for steps I've read is 0-
7000.
> These step numbers are also seen in the RCX control panel Absolute
> Focus box.  The sliders for focus speed disappear but I can see
> focus postion in mm taken from the handbox status.  Also TheSky6
> focus control doesn't work, but I would prefer to focus in CCDSoft
> anyway.
>
> When I connect to my SBIG camera in CCDSoft V5 the focuser drives
> all the way to the aft limit until the camera actualy connects.
As
> soon as the camera connects the focuser is driven back to the last
> known position.  I'm grateful for any movement but, until TheSky
> accepts the driver nothing will happen for now!
>
> These are my observations so far and I would appreciate any news
on
> this issue.  Is anyone else having similar problems or maybe has a
> suggestion to offer?  Thanks.
>
> Jim
>

No Problem.  We'll post back here.  I've shared my phone number off line
and we're planning a live debug session this weekend.

Jon

> -----Original Message-----
> From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Phillip Coker
> Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2006 4:56 AM
> To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
>
> I, for one, would like to see the thread continue here. If it
> doesn't, would you mind posting details of the ultimate
> resolution here? Thanks.
>
> Phillip
>
> --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> Displays)" <jon.brewster@...> wrote:
> >
> > How about we take it private, as the exchange will get pretty
> specific?
> > See on the next email exchange.
> >
> > Jon
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 5:02 PM
> > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
> > >
> > > Jon,
> > >
> > > Thanks for your suggestions.  I really would like to resolve this
> > > problem.  I have been working off and on this problem for several
> > > months.  No, I have not done these tests.  I am not very ASCOM-
> > > centric.  Could some one provide instructions on how to
> do this (or
> > > at least where they can be found)?
> > >
> > > Thanks,
> > > .
> > > .
> > > .
> > > Rod
> > >
> > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> Displays)"
> > > <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Hi,
> > > >
> > > > I may be jumping in late, but does the RCX ASCOM driver connect
> > > through
> > > > to the scope with POTH?  Also does TheSky work with the ASCOM
> scope
> > > > simulator?  If you are still working this issue, those tests
> could
> > > help
> > > > isolate things.
> > > >
> > > > Jon
> > > >
> > > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod
> Gallagher
> > > > > Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2006 11:38 AM
> > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> Sky
> > > > >
> > > > > Ajai,
> > > > >
> > > > > Nothing else is connected to the scope.  I can switch the
> > > driver in
> > > > > TheSky to LX200 GPS and the scope works well.
> > > > > However, it will not work with the Telescope API and RCX
> > > driver.  Is
> > > > > there something else that I need to set up in ASCOM or
> > > TheSky to get
> > > > > this to work?
> > > > > ..
> > > > > ..
> > > > > ..
> > > > > Rod
> > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@>
> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Rod,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > That is very strange.  The RCX driver works great with the
> 2.2G
> > > > > ROM.  I have
> > > > > > never tried connecting through The Sky but I will try this
> > > > > afternoon.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Are you sure that nothing else is connected to the RCX as
> well
> > > at
> > > > > the same
> > > > > > time?
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Ajai
> > > > > > (RCX Driver Author)
> > > > > >
> > > > > >   _____
> > > > > >
> > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > Talk@yahoogroups.com] On
> > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 11:31 PM
> > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> Sky
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hi Stef,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Thanks for your reply.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Yes I am selecting Telescope API in TheSky. I then select
> the
> > > RCX
> > > > > > ASCOM driver in the settings and then call up the dialog
> > > > > box to set up
> > > > > > the properties for the RCX driver. I select COM6 and select
> > > > > "OK". Then
> > > > > > when I attempt to connect I get the error.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Note: The scope works OK with all other drivers, it just
> > > > > will not work
> > > > > > with ASCOM.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I forgot to mention earlier that I am running 2.2G
> firmware in
> > > the
> > > > > > RCX. I've upgraded the firmware 3 times over the last
> > > > > several months
> > > > > > and ASCOM has not worked for any version that I have tried.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I'm stumped.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Rod
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > ups.com,
> > > > > > "Stef Cancelli" <scancelli@>
> > > > > > wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Hi Rod,
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Which telescope driver are you selecting in TheSky? Go
> to the
> > > > > setup
> > > > > > > telescope dialog in theSky and select Telescope API. Then
> > > press
> > > > > > the settings
> > > > > > > button and select the ASCOM driver you want - i.e. the
> RCX
> > > > > driver.
> > > > > > You setup
> > > > > > > the properties there.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Hope that helps
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Stef.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > _____
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > > Talk@yahoogroups. <mailto:Talk%40yahoogroups.com> com] On
> > > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 5:09 PM
> > > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > > Subject: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> Sky
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I am still having problems using the ASCOM RCX driver. I
> > > believe
> > > > > > > that I am running all of the latest versions of all
> > > applications
> > > > > > > including:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > ASCOM 4.1
> > > > > > > RCX Beta 6
> > > > > > > TheSky6 6.0.0.52
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Whenever I attempt to connect to the RCX driver in
> TheSky I
> > > > > > receive
> > > > > > > the following error,
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "ASCOM RCX Equipped Telescope Driver There doesn't
> appear to
> > > be
> > > > > > > anything connected to the COM port."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I have used other non-ASCOM drivers and the scope works
> > > great,
> > > > > > > however I have never been successful with the ASCOM
> driver. I
> > > > > have
> > > > > > > tried both connecting through the Meade USB connection
> (COM6)
> > > and
> > > > > > > the RCX direct serial port (COM1), but receive the same
> error.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I am not familiar with ASCOM and with the lack of
> cohesive
> > > > > > > documentation I suspect that I am missing something.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Here's the steps that I took to reach this point:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 1. Installed the latest version of ASCOM (ascom41.exe)
> that I
> > > > > > > downloaded from the ASCOM website.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 2. Updated the Updated TheSky Driver (4.1.3) to
> c:\Program
> > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\TheSky Driver.dll
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 3. Updated Helper Component (4.1.5) to c:\Program
> > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper.dll
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 4. Updated Helper2 Component (4.0.3) to c:\Program
> > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper2.dll
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 5. Installed RCX Beta 6 driver (MeadeRCXSetup.exe, dated
> > > > > > 06/13/2006)
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 6. Installed TheSky ASCOM Plugin using the directions in
> > > > > > C:\Program
> > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium Plug-
> > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 7. Performed the One-Time Telescope Setup using
> directions in
> > > > > > > C:\Program Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium
> > > Plug-
> > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 8. Attempted to Operate the scope by establishing the
> > > > > Telescope link
> > > > > > > in TheSky. This is where I receive the error.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > What could I be missing?
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > Rod
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
> > > > >
> > > > > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > > ACCOUNT YOU
> > > > > USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > > > > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Yahoo! Groups Links
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
> > >
> > > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> ACCOUNT YOU
> > > USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> > >
> > >
> > > Yahoo! Groups Links
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
> For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
>
> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> ACCOUNT YOU USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>

Hi Hilary,

So, it is not just me having a problem :-).  It is interesting that
programs other than TheSky are having similar difficulties.  Since
the driver is free & in beta, I don't expect perfection at this
point.  I hope that the author is reading some of the feedback
provided by the end users & finds this forum useful.
Jim

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Hilary Jones" <hilaryyahoo2@...>
wrote:
>
> Hi Jim,
>
> I have had similar problems with PemPro and Starry Night Pro.  The
> only way I know of to fix the problem is to uninstall the RCX
driver
> and reinstall it.  In my experience this has only been a temporary
> fix, and the problem has reoccurred often.  Unfortunately I
haven't
> figured out whether there's anything I can to do prevent it from
> happening in the first place.
>
> Hilary
>
>
> --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "jimcj1953" <jim_cj@> wrote:
> >
> > Hello,
> >
> > I'm new to the discussion but I'm experiencing a similar
> situation.
> > I have run some preliminary tests in my garage.  When I first
ran
> > the RCX beta driver V6 it seems to load without any difficulties
> in
> > TheSky6.  When I terminated the link and then re-established the
> > link, I got several error messages and now it won't accept the
> > Telescope API.  The error messages follow:
> > "Runtime error '13': Type mismatch"
> > "The ASCOM scope driver is missing the Connected property"
> > "Application-defined or object-defined error"
> >
> > The last menu box takes the Windows task manager to make it go
> away
> > along with TheSky.
> >
> > The CCDSoft plug-in for the RCX focuser seemed to work, but the
> > position information is in steps instead of mm.  The step
numbers
> go
> > beyond 17,000 when the normal range for steps I've read is 0-
> 7000.
> > These step numbers are also seen in the RCX control panel
Absolute
> > Focus box.  The sliders for focus speed disappear but I can see
> > focus postion in mm taken from the handbox status.  Also TheSky6
> > focus control doesn't work, but I would prefer to focus in
CCDSoft
> > anyway.
> >
> > When I connect to my SBIG camera in CCDSoft V5 the focuser
drives
> > all the way to the aft limit until the camera actualy connects.
> As
> > soon as the camera connects the focuser is driven back to the
last
> > known position.  I'm grateful for any movement but, until TheSky
> > accepts the driver nothing will happen for now!
> >
> > These are my observations so far and I would appreciate any news
> on
> > this issue.  Is anyone else having similar problems or maybe has
a
> > suggestion to offer?  Thanks.
> >
> > Jim
> >
>

Thank you, Jon. As you can see, this issue concerns several RCX
owners.

Phillip

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO - Displays)"
<jon.brewster@...> wrote:
>
> No Problem.  We'll post back here.  I've shared my phone number off
line
> and we're planning a live debug session this weekend.
>
> Jon
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Phillip Coker
> > Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2006 4:56 AM
> > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
> >
> > I, for one, would like to see the thread continue here. If it
> > doesn't, would you mind posting details of the ultimate
> > resolution here? Thanks.
> >
> > Phillip
> >
> > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> > Displays)" <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> > >
> > > How about we take it private, as the exchange will get pretty
> > specific?
> > > See on the next email exchange.
> > >
> > > Jon
> > >
> > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 5:02 PM
> > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
> > > >
> > > > Jon,
> > > >
> > > > Thanks for your suggestions.  I really would like to resolve
this
> > > > problem.  I have been working off and on this problem for
several
> > > > months.  No, I have not done these tests.  I am not very
ASCOM-
> > > > centric.  Could some one provide instructions on how to
> > do this (or
> > > > at least where they can be found)?
> > > >
> > > > Thanks,
> > > > .
> > > > .
> > > > .
> > > > Rod
> > > >
> > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> > Displays)"
> > > > <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > Hi,
> > > > >
> > > > > I may be jumping in late, but does the RCX ASCOM driver
connect
> > > > through
> > > > > to the scope with POTH?  Also does TheSky work with the
ASCOM
> > scope
> > > > > simulator?  If you are still working this issue, those tests
> > could
> > > > help
> > > > > isolate things.
> > > > >
> > > > > Jon
> > > > >
> > > > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod
> > Gallagher
> > > > > > Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2006 11:38 AM
> > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> > Sky
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Ajai,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Nothing else is connected to the scope.  I can switch the
> > > > driver in
> > > > > > TheSky to LX200 GPS and the scope works well.
> > > > > > However, it will not work with the Telescope API and RCX
> > > > driver.  Is
> > > > > > there something else that I need to set up in ASCOM or
> > > > TheSky to get
> > > > > > this to work?
> > > > > > ..
> > > > > > ..
> > > > > > ..
> > > > > > Rod
> > > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@>
> > wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Rod,
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > That is very strange.  The RCX driver works great with
the
> > 2.2G
> > > > > > ROM.  I have
> > > > > > > never tried connecting through The Sky but I will try
this
> > > > > > afternoon.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Are you sure that nothing else is connected to the RCX
as
> > well
> > > > at
> > > > > > the same
> > > > > > > time?
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Ajai
> > > > > > > (RCX Driver Author)
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >   _____
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > > Talk@yahoogroups.com] On
> > > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 11:31 PM
> > > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to
The
> > Sky
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Hi Stef,
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Thanks for your reply.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Yes I am selecting Telescope API in TheSky. I then
select
> > the
> > > > RCX
> > > > > > > ASCOM driver in the settings and then call up the dialog
> > > > > > box to set up
> > > > > > > the properties for the RCX driver. I select COM6 and
select
> > > > > > "OK". Then
> > > > > > > when I attempt to connect I get the error.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Note: The scope works OK with all other drivers, it just
> > > > > > will not work
> > > > > > > with ASCOM.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I forgot to mention earlier that I am running 2.2G
> > firmware in
> > > > the
> > > > > > > RCX. I've upgraded the firmware 3 times over the last
> > > > > > several months
> > > > > > > and ASCOM has not worked for any version that I have
tried.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I'm stumped.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Rod
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > > ups.com,
> > > > > > > "Stef Cancelli" <scancelli@>
> > > > > > > wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Hi Rod,
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Which telescope driver are you selecting in TheSky? Go
> > to the
> > > > > > setup
> > > > > > > > telescope dialog in theSky and select Telescope API.
Then
> > > > press
> > > > > > > the settings
> > > > > > > > button and select the ASCOM driver you want - i.e. the
> > RCX
> > > > > > driver.
> > > > > > > You setup
> > > > > > > > the properties there.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Hope that helps
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Stef.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > _____
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > > > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > > > Talk@yahoogroups. <mailto:Talk%40yahoogroups.com> com]
On
> > > > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 5:09 PM
> > > > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > > > Subject: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> > Sky
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > I am still having problems using the ASCOM RCX
driver. I
> > > > believe
> > > > > > > > that I am running all of the latest versions of all
> > > > applications
> > > > > > > > including:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > ASCOM 4.1
> > > > > > > > RCX Beta 6
> > > > > > > > TheSky6 6.0.0.52
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Whenever I attempt to connect to the RCX driver in
> > TheSky I
> > > > > > > receive
> > > > > > > > the following error,
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "ASCOM RCX Equipped Telescope Driver There doesn't
> > appear to
> > > > be
> > > > > > > > anything connected to the COM port."
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > I have used other non-ASCOM drivers and the scope
works
> > > > great,
> > > > > > > > however I have never been successful with the ASCOM
> > driver. I
> > > > > > have
> > > > > > > > tried both connecting through the Meade USB connection
> > (COM6)
> > > > and
> > > > > > > > the RCX direct serial port (COM1), but receive the
same
> > error.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > I am not familiar with ASCOM and with the lack of
> > cohesive
> > > > > > > > documentation I suspect that I am missing something.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Here's the steps that I took to reach this point:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 1. Installed the latest version of ASCOM (ascom41.exe)
> > that I
> > > > > > > > downloaded from the ASCOM website.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 2. Updated the Updated TheSky Driver (4.1.3) to
> > c:\Program
> > > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\TheSky Driver.dll
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 3. Updated Helper Component (4.1.5) to c:\Program
> > > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper.dll
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 4. Updated Helper2 Component (4.0.3) to c:\Program
> > > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper2.dll
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 5. Installed RCX Beta 6 driver (MeadeRCXSetup.exe,
dated
> > > > > > > 06/13/2006)
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 6. Installed TheSky ASCOM Plugin using the directions
in
> > > > > > > C:\Program
> > > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium Plug-
> > > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 7. Performed the One-Time Telescope Setup using
> > directions in
> > > > > > > > C:\Program Files\Common
Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium
> > > > Plug-
> > > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > 8. Attempted to Operate the scope by establishing the
> > > > > > Telescope link
> > > > > > > > in TheSky. This is where I receive the error.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > What could I be missing?
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > > Rod
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > > > ACCOUNT YOU
> > > > > > USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > > > > > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Yahoo! Groups Links
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
> > > >
> > > > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > ACCOUNT YOU
> > > > USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > > > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Yahoo! Groups Links
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > For more information see http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.
> >
> > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > ACCOUNT YOU USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> >
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>

You are welcome.  However, I think we're dealing with two different
issues.  Down at the bottom of this msg you'll see the problem is "ASCOM
RCX Equipped Telescope Driver There doesn't appear to be anything
connected to the COM port."  The other problem is "The ASCOM scope
driver is missing the Connected property".

BTW, I have seen the "The ASCOM scope driver is missing the Connected
property" on other drivers on occasion.  It was something to do with the
COM / DCOM settings that TheSky is real sensitive to.  Early in POTH
development (a couple of years ago?) it happened to me.  Also, just last
week while debugging a test driver.  In both cases I had to reinstall
ASCOM platform.  If we could figure this out it would be great.

Jon

> -----Original Message-----
> From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Phillip Coker
> Sent: Thursday, November 02, 2006 6:42 AM
> To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
>
>
> Thank you, Jon. As you can see, this issue concerns several
> RCX owners.
>
> Phillip
>
> --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO - Displays)"
> <jon.brewster@...> wrote:
> >
> > No Problem.  We'll post back here.  I've shared my phone number off
> line
> > and we're planning a live debug session this weekend.
> >
> > Jon
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Phillip Coker
> > > Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2006 4:56 AM
> > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
> > >
> > > I, for one, would like to see the thread continue here. If it
> > > doesn't, would you mind posting details of the ultimate
> resolution
> > > here? Thanks.
> > >
> > > Phillip
> > >
> > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> > > Displays)" <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > How about we take it private, as the exchange will get pretty
> > > specific?
> > > > See on the next email exchange.
> > > >
> > > > Jon
> > > >
> > > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 5:02 PM
> > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
> > > > >
> > > > > Jon,
> > > > >
> > > > > Thanks for your suggestions.  I really would like to resolve
> this
> > > > > problem.  I have been working off and on this problem for
> several
> > > > > months.  No, I have not done these tests.  I am not very
> ASCOM-
> > > > > centric.  Could some one provide instructions on how to
> > > do this (or
> > > > > at least where they can be found)?
> > > > >
> > > > > Thanks,
> > > > > .
> > > > > .
> > > > > .
> > > > > Rod
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> > > Displays)"
> > > > > <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hi,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I may be jumping in late, but does the RCX ASCOM driver
> connect
> > > > > through
> > > > > > to the scope with POTH?  Also does TheSky work with the
> ASCOM
> > > scope
> > > > > > simulator?  If you are still working this issue, those tests
> > > could
> > > > > help
> > > > > > isolate things.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Jon
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rod
> > > Gallagher
> > > > > > > Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2006 11:38 AM
> > > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> > > Sky
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Ajai,
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Nothing else is connected to the scope.  I can switch the
> > > > > driver in
> > > > > > > TheSky to LX200 GPS and the scope works well.
> > > > > > > However, it will not work with the Telescope API and RCX
> > > > > driver.  Is
> > > > > > > there something else that I need to set up in ASCOM or
> > > > > TheSky to get
> > > > > > > this to work?
> > > > > > > ..
> > > > > > > ..
> > > > > > > ..
> > > > > > > Rod
> > > > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@>
> > > wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Rod,
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > That is very strange.  The RCX driver works great with
> the
> > > 2.2G
> > > > > > > ROM.  I have
> > > > > > > > never tried connecting through The Sky but I will try
> this
> > > > > > > afternoon.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Are you sure that nothing else is connected to the RCX
> as
> > > well
> > > > > at
> > > > > > > the same
> > > > > > > > time?
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Ajai
> > > > > > > > (RCX Driver Author)
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >   _____
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > > > Talk@yahoogroups.com] On
> > > > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 11:31 PM
> > > > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to
> The
> > > Sky
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Hi Stef,
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Thanks for your reply.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Yes I am selecting Telescope API in TheSky. I then
> select
> > > the
> > > > > RCX
> > > > > > > > ASCOM driver in the settings and then call up the dialog
> > > > > > > box to set up
> > > > > > > > the properties for the RCX driver. I select COM6 and
> select
> > > > > > > "OK". Then
> > > > > > > > when I attempt to connect I get the error.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Note: The scope works OK with all other drivers, it just
> > > > > > > will not work
> > > > > > > > with ASCOM.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > I forgot to mention earlier that I am running 2.2G
> > > firmware in
> > > > > the
> > > > > > > > RCX. I've upgraded the firmware 3 times over the last
> > > > > > > several months
> > > > > > > > and ASCOM has not worked for any version that I have
> tried.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > I'm stumped.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Rod
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > > > ups.com,
> > > > > > > > "Stef Cancelli" <scancelli@>
> > > > > > > > wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Hi Rod,
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Which telescope driver are you selecting in TheSky? Go
> > > to the
> > > > > > > setup
> > > > > > > > > telescope dialog in theSky and select Telescope API.
> Then
> > > > > press
> > > > > > > > the settings
> > > > > > > > > button and select the ASCOM driver you want - i.e. the
> > > RCX
> > > > > > > driver.
> > > > > > > > You setup
> > > > > > > > > the properties there.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Hope that helps
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Stef.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > _____
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > > > > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > > > > Talk@yahoogroups. <mailto:Talk%40yahoogroups.com> com]
> On
> > > > > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 5:09 PM
> > > > > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > > > > Subject: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> > > Sky
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > I am still having problems using the ASCOM RCX
> driver. I
> > > > > believe
> > > > > > > > > that I am running all of the latest versions of all
> > > > > applications
> > > > > > > > > including:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > ASCOM 4.1
> > > > > > > > > RCX Beta 6
> > > > > > > > > TheSky6 6.0.0.52
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Whenever I attempt to connect to the RCX driver in
> > > TheSky I
> > > > > > > > receive
> > > > > > > > > the following error,
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "ASCOM RCX Equipped Telescope Driver There doesn't
> > > appear to
> > > > > be
> > > > > > > > > anything connected to the COM port."
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > I have used other non-ASCOM drivers and the scope
> works
> > > > > great,
> > > > > > > > > however I have never been successful with the ASCOM
> > > driver. I
> > > > > > > have
> > > > > > > > > tried both connecting through the Meade USB connection
> > > (COM6)
> > > > > and
> > > > > > > > > the RCX direct serial port (COM1), but receive the
> same
> > > error.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > I am not familiar with ASCOM and with the lack of
> > > cohesive
> > > > > > > > > documentation I suspect that I am missing something.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Here's the steps that I took to reach this point:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 1. Installed the latest version of ASCOM (ascom41.exe)
> > > that I
> > > > > > > > > downloaded from the ASCOM website.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 2. Updated the Updated TheSky Driver (4.1.3) to
> > > c:\Program
> > > > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\TheSky Driver.dll
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 3. Updated Helper Component (4.1.5) to c:\Program
> > > > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper.dll
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 4. Updated Helper2 Component (4.0.3) to c:\Program
> > > > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper2.dll
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 5. Installed RCX Beta 6 driver (MeadeRCXSetup.exe,
> dated
> > > > > > > > 06/13/2006)
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 6. Installed TheSky ASCOM Plugin using the directions
> in
> > > > > > > > C:\Program
> > > > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium Plug-
> > > > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 7. Performed the One-Time Telescope Setup using
> > > directions in
> > > > > > > > > C:\Program Files\Common
> Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium
> > > > > Plug-
> > > > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > 8. Attempted to Operate the scope by establishing the
> > > > > > > Telescope link
> > > > > > > > > in TheSky. This is where I receive the error.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > What could I be missing?

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO - Displays)"
<jon.brewster@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Folks,
>
> I've loaded a new version of the LX200GPS driver into the
> JonBrewster directory of the files area for this group.
>
> The big difference is in the handling of the parked state.  Now that
> park and unpark work within a single connected session, the question of
> what to do with the coordinate fetch requests while parked comes up.
> TheSky for example behaves badly if we just throw errors at it after
> parking and its still querying coordinates.
>
> The solution?  A parked behavior frame has been added to the setup
> dialog with the following options:
>
> No Coordinates - The driver will simply give an error to the
> controlling SW for coordinate fetches when parked.  This raw
> behavior is known to cause TheSky problems.  But purists may
> need it.
>
> Report Coordinates As -  Alt/Az fields contain the coordinates to be
> reported.  These fields should be manually set to the true parking
> coordinates.  These fields can not be sent to the scope.  The actual
> scope park position can only be set at the scope handset.  This is a
> good option for folks who slave domes.
>
> Last Good Position - The driver will continue to report the last
> position prior to the park request.  Default.  Good for most users.

I would think that a "last good position" (-before- the :hP#
was issued) would be very misleading.

I'll have to play with my scope to test approaches... but -maybe-
the :hF# command would let you slew to the Park position leaving
the scope still active... thus allowing a valid "last position"
readback before doing the ices-the-cake  :hP#

One could also request Meade to leave the :GA# :GZ# commands
active after PARKing.  (oh joy, -more- special-case code added
to what is already a teetering subsection of the firmware)

good work, nonetheless...
have fun
--dick

Ajai,

I really like the user interface you have created with RCX driver and
the focus plugin for CCDSoft.  If you need any feedback concerning
compatibility issues with TheSky6 or CCDSoft5, I would be glad to
report my findings.  Your efforts may be the only hope for us RCX
owners.  Jim

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@...> wrote:
>
> Yes reading ;-)
>
> There are 2 different issues here.   The "missing connected...."
issue is a
> DCOM Configuration issue that I have tried to fix with my
> FixTheSkyandRCXDriver untility.  It does not always work depending
on how
> every thing is installed.  The Sky is very touchy about this.
>
> The first issue is user specific.  Others have not seen it and I
cannot
> repro it.
>
> I am actively working on the driver.  There are still firmware
issues that
> need to be resolved and I am trying to come up with repro cases for
Meade.
>
> Ajai
>
>
>
>   _____
>
> From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-
Talk@yahoogroups.com] On
> Behalf Of jimcj1953
> Sent: Thursday, November 02, 2006 5:56 AM
> To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [ASCOM] Re: RCX-400 Driver Challenges with TheSky6
>
>
>
> Hi Hilary,
>
> So, it is not just me having a problem :-). It is interesting that
> programs other than TheSky are having similar difficulties. Since
> the driver is free & in beta, I don't expect perfection at this
> point. I hope that the author is reading some of the feedback
> provided by the end users & finds this forum useful.
> Jim
>
> --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%40yahoogroups.com>
ups.com,
> "Hilary Jones" <hilaryyahoo2@>
> wrote:
> >
> > Hi Jim,
> >
> > I have had similar problems with PemPro and Starry Night Pro. The
> > only way I know of to fix the problem is to uninstall the RCX
> driver
> > and reinstall it. In my experience this has only been a temporary
> > fix, and the problem has reoccurred often. Unfortunately I
> haven't
> > figured out whether there's anything I can to do prevent it from
> > happening in the first place.
> >
> > Hilary
> >
> >
> > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%40yahoogroups.com>
ups.com,
> "jimcj1953" <jim_cj@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hello,
> > >
> > > I'm new to the discussion but I'm experiencing a similar
> > situation.
> > > I have run some preliminary tests in my garage. When I first
> ran
> > > the RCX beta driver V6 it seems to load without any
difficulties
> > in
> > > TheSky6. When I terminated the link and then re-established the
> > > link, I got several error messages and now it won't accept the
> > > Telescope API. The error messages follow:
> > > "Runtime error '13': Type mismatch"
> > > "The ASCOM scope driver is missing the Connected property"
> > > "Application-defined or object-defined error"
> > >
> > > The last menu box takes the Windows task manager to make it go
> > away
> > > along with TheSky.
> > >
> > > The CCDSoft plug-in for the RCX focuser seemed to work, but the
> > > position information is in steps instead of mm. The step
> numbers
> > go
> > > beyond 17,000 when the normal range for steps I've read is 0-
> > 7000.
> > > These step numbers are also seen in the RCX control panel
> Absolute
> > > Focus box. The sliders for focus speed disappear but I can see
> > > focus postion in mm taken from the handbox status. Also TheSky6
> > > focus control doesn't work, but I would prefer to focus in
> CCDSoft
> > > anyway.
> > >
> > > When I connect to my SBIG camera in CCDSoft V5 the focuser
> drives
> > > all the way to the aft limit until the camera actualy connects.
> > As
> > > soon as the camera connects the focuser is driven back to the
> last
> > > known position. I'm grateful for any movement but, until TheSky
> > > accepts the driver nothing will happen for now!
> > >
> > > These are my observations so far and I would appreciate any
news
> > on
> > > this issue. Is anyone else having similar problems or maybe has
> a
> > > suggestion to offer? Thanks.
> > >
> > > Jim
> > >
> >
>

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "autostaretx" <rseymour@...> wrote:

> I'll have to play with my scope to test approaches... but -maybe-
> the :hF# command would let you ...

Baaaad idea... :hF# in an LX200gps seeks the HOME sensor,
(with perhaps a dash of magnetic north) not the PARK position...
  and makes quite a mess of alignment.

have fun
--dick

Ajai,

I'm not seeing this specific issue. When I see this type of error it
is always because I do not have the correct Com port selected. Also,
I do not have The Sky (probably should). However, I would like to see
how this is resolved, and I think a lot of others would also, because
there are still confusing issues associated with trying to couple
various programs through ASCOM to the RCX and I am trying to learn as
much as I can through the posted experience of others (primarily
here). I am not a programmer so I depend others to produce the
programs, commercial or otherwise, that I need to make my scope
perform.

Your driver is an extremely valuable part of my setup. Because of
your driver, I have changed my mind about selling the RCX and
switching to some other brand of telescope. But even with your driver
I still have some issues. Primarily, I cannot find a way to autofocus
or autocollimate the RCX. Until I do, I consider the RCX fairly
useless for the remote capability that I want. This is the reason
that I read and follow through every ASCOM issue posted here. Someday
some brilliant programmer/engineer such as yourself will post that
one magic bit of information that I need. And when it happens, my
guess is that it will probably happen here.

Phillip


  --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@...> wrote:
>
> Phillip,
>
> Are you seeing the same issue?  I have not been able to reproduce
it....
>
> Ajai
>
>   _____
>
> From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-
Talk@yahoogroups.com] On
> Behalf Of Phillip Coker
> Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2006 4:56 AM
> To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
>
>
>
> I, for one, would like to see the thread continue here. If it
> doesn't, would you mind posting details of the ultimate resolution
> here? Thanks.
>
> Phillip
>
> --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%40yahoogroups.com>
ups.com,
> "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> Displays)" <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> >
> > How about we take it private, as the exchange will get pretty
> specific?
> > See on the next email exchange.
> >
> > Jon
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%40yahoogroups.com>
ups.com
> > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com] On Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 5:02 PM
> > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%40yahoogroups.com>
ups.com
> > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The Sky
> > >
> > > Jon,
> > >
> > > Thanks for your suggestions. I really would like to resolve
> > > this problem. I have been working off and on this problem
> > > for several months. No, I have not done these tests. I am
> > > not very ASCOM- centric. Could some one provide instructions
> > > on how to do this (or at least where they can be found)?
> > >
> > > Thanks,
> > > .
> > > .
> > > .
> > > Rod
> > >
> > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO -
> Displays)"
> > > <jon.brewster@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Hi,
> > > >
> > > > I may be jumping in late, but does the RCX ASCOM driver
connect
> > > through
> > > > to the scope with POTH? Also does TheSky work with the ASCOM
> scope
> > > > simulator? If you are still working this issue, those tests
> could
> > > help
> > > > isolate things.
> > > >
> > > > Jon
> > > >
> > > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com
> > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com] On Behalf Of Rod
> Gallagher
> > > > > Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2006 11:38 AM
> > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com
> > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> Sky
> > > > >
> > > > > Ajai,
> > > > >
> > > > > Nothing else is connected to the scope. I can switch the
> > > driver in
> > > > > TheSky to LX200 GPS and the scope works well.
> > > > > However, it will not work with the Telescope API and RCX
> > > driver. Is
> > > > > there something else that I need to set up in ASCOM or
> > > TheSky to get
> > > > > this to work?
> > > > > ..
> > > > > ..
> > > > > ..
> > > > > Rod
> > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@>
> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Rod,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > That is very strange. The RCX driver works great with the
> 2.2G
> > > > > ROM. I have
> > > > > > never tried connecting through The Sky but I will try this
> > > > > afternoon.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Are you sure that nothing else is connected to the RCX as
> well
> > > at
> > > > > the same
> > > > > > time?
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Ajai
> > > > > > (RCX Driver Author)
> > > > > >
> > > > > > _____
> > > > > >
> > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > Talk@yahoogroups. <mailto:Talk%40yahoogroups.com> com] On
> > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 11:31 PM
> > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ups.com
> > > > > > Subject: Re: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to
The
> Sky
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hi Stef,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Thanks for your reply.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Yes I am selecting Telescope API in TheSky. I then select
> the
> > > RCX
> > > > > > ASCOM driver in the settings and then call up the dialog
> > > > > box to set up
> > > > > > the properties for the RCX driver. I select COM6 and
select
> > > > > "OK". Then
> > > > > > when I attempt to connect I get the error.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Note: The scope works OK with all other drivers, it just
> > > > > will not work
> > > > > > with ASCOM.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I forgot to mention earlier that I am running 2.2G
> firmware in
> > > the
> > > > > > RCX. I've upgraded the firmware 3 times over the last
> > > > > several months
> > > > > > and ASCOM has not worked for any version that I have
tried.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I'm stumped.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Rod
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > ups.com,
> > > > > > "Stef Cancelli" <scancelli@>
> > > > > > wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Hi Rod,
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Which telescope driver are you selecting in TheSky? Go
> to the
> > > > > setup
> > > > > > > telescope dialog in theSky and select Telescope API.
Then
> > > press
> > > > > > the settings
> > > > > > > button and select the ASCOM driver you want - i.e. the
> RCX
> > > > > driver.
> > > > > > You setup
> > > > > > > the properties there.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Hope that helps
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Stef.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > _____
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> > > 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > [mailto:ASCOM-
> > > > > > Talk@yahoogroups. <mailto:Talk%40yahoogroups.com> com] On
> > > > > > > Behalf Of Rod Gallagher
> > > > > > > Sent: Saturday, October 28, 2006 5:09 PM
> > > > > > > To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogro <mailto:ASCOM-Talk%
> 40yahoogroups.com>
> > > > > ups.com
> > > > > > > Subject: [ASCOM] Problems Connecting RCX Beta 6 to The
> Sky
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I am still having problems using the ASCOM RCX driver. I
> > > believe
> > > > > > > that I am running all of the latest versions of all
> > > applications
> > > > > > > including:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > ASCOM 4.1
> > > > > > > RCX Beta 6
> > > > > > > TheSky6 6.0.0.52
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Whenever I attempt to connect to the RCX driver in
> TheSky I
> > > > > > receive
> > > > > > > the following error,
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "ASCOM RCX Equipped Telescope Driver There doesn't
> appear to
> > > be
> > > > > > > anything connected to the COM port."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I have used other non-ASCOM drivers and the scope works
> > > great,
> > > > > > > however I have never been successful with the ASCOM
> driver. I
> > > > > have
> > > > > > > tried both connecting through the Meade USB connection
> (COM6)
> > > and
> > > > > > > the RCX direct serial port (COM1), but receive the same
> error.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > I am not familiar with ASCOM and with the lack of
> cohesive
> > > > > > > documentation I suspect that I am missing something.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Here's the steps that I took to reach this point:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 1. Installed the latest version of ASCOM (ascom41.exe)
> that I
> > > > > > > downloaded from the ASCOM website.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 2. Updated the Updated TheSky Driver (4.1.3) to
> c:\Program
> > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\TheSky Driver.dll
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 3. Updated Helper Component (4.1.5) to c:\Program
> > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper.dll
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 4. Updated Helper2 Component (4.0.3) to c:\Program
> > > Files\Common
> > > > > > > Files\ASCOM\helper2.dll
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 5. Installed RCX Beta 6 driver (MeadeRCXSetup.exe, dated
> > > > > > 06/13/2006)
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 6. Installed TheSky ASCOM Plugin using the directions in
> > > > > > C:\Program
> > > > > > > Files\Common Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium Plug-
> > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 7. Performed the One-Time Telescope Setup using
> directions in
> > > > > > > C:\Program Files\Common
Files\ASCOM\Telescope\Planetarium
> > > Plug-
> > > > > > > Ins\TheSky\install.txt
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > 8. Attempted to Operate the scope by establishing the
> > > > > Telescope link
> > > > > > > in TheSky. This is where I receive the error.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > What could I be missing?
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > .
> > > > > > > Rod
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > For more information see http://ASCOM-
> <http://ASCOM-Standards.org/.> Standards.org/.
> > > > >
> > > > > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > > ACCOUNT YOU
> > > > > USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > > > > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscr
> <mailto:ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe%40yahoogroups.com>
ibe@yahoogroups.com
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Yahoo! Groups Links
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > For more information see http://ASCOM- <http://ASCOM-
Standards.org/.>
> Standards.org/.
> > >
> > > To unsubscribe from this group, send an email FROM THE
> > > ACCOUNT YOU USED TO SUBSCRIBE(!) to:
> > > ASCOM-Talk-unsubscr <mailto:ASCOM-Talk-unsubscribe%
40yahoogroups.com>
> ibe@yahoogroups.com
> > >
> > >
> > > Yahoo! Groups Links
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
>

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Ajai Sehgal" <ajai@...> wrote:
>
>... The RCX is not yet ready to be used in a remote observatory.
>  The one that we have in Az has been out of commission for
> about 2 months because it got pointing wrong and there was
> no way to recover it (finding home just caused it to wrap up
> its cables).  I am beginning to really hate this scope.
>  I will keep at it and try to make
> the driver compensate for the shortcoming!

You could join the  Star Instruments and RC Optical Systems
suit against Meade... they claim it's not "RC", you could
claim that it's not remotely controllable (also "RC") either.

good luck
--dick
(if i were trying to run one of these totally remotely,
i'd add physical limit switches and a webcam feed of
the equipment room.  Perhaps have the limit switches
press the -other- directional slew key, but at least
power down the scope until remotely overridden by an
operator watching through the camera.
Due to the similarity of control electronics/firmware,
i'm surprised there aren't more similar tales from the LX200gps
crowd, since some of them -do- operate totally remotely)

Is Ajai's RCX400 beta driver file in the files section the latest
version?  Its labelled June.

Lawrence

---

From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ajai Sehgal
Sent: Thursday, November 02, 2006 1:45 PM
To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [ASCOM] LX200GPS beta II

Jon,

 

Keep me posted on the chosen solution.  I will add it to the RCX driver as well.  Now don't you wish that you had never taken this on ;-)

 

Ajai

---

From: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Brewster, Jon A (TDO - Displays)
Sent: Thursday, November 02, 2006 11:58 AM
To: ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ASCOM] LX200GPS beta II

Hi Folks,

 

I've loaded a new version of the LX200GPS driver into the JonBrewster directory of the files area for this group.

 

The big difference is in the handling of the parked state.  Now that park and unpark work within a single connected session, the question of what to do with the coordinate fetch requests while parked comes up.  TheSky for example behaves badly if we just throw errors at it after parking and its still querying coordinates. 

 

The solution?  A parked behavior frame has been added to the setup dialog with the following options:

 

No Coordinates - The driver will simply give an error to the controlling SW for coordinate fetches when parked.  This raw behavior is known to cause TheSky problems.  But purists may need it.

 

Report Coordinates As -  Alt/Az fields contain the coordinates to be reported.  These fields should be manually set to the true parking coordinates.  These fields can not be sent to the scope.  The actual scope park position can only be set at the scope handset.  This is a good option for folks who slave domes.

 

Last Good Position - The driver will continue to report the last position prior to the park request.  Default.  Good for most users.

 

Jon

Hi Dick,

I've combined a couple of your msgs in here...

> > The big difference is in the handling of the parked state.

> I would think that a "last good position" (-before- the :hP# was
issued) would be very misleading.

Could be, but we've seen some pretty funny behavior with SW that sits on
top of the old GPS driver approach.  When parked the coordinates just
start erroring out.  TheSky drops the connection completely but still
reports that its connected.  Things like that.  Of course its
exacerbated by unpark working since the park state is now useful.  I'd
be way up for another alternative :-)

> > I'll have to play with my scope to test approaches... but
> -maybe- the
> > :hF# command would let you ...
>
> Baaaad idea... :hF# in an LX200gps seeks the HOME sensor,
> (with perhaps a dash of magnetic north) not the PARK position...
>  and makes quite a mess of alignment.

Thanks tons for doing this test.  I always wondered what the hF command
would really do.  Knowing that it is not a park technique is very good.

Leave the user options in (error, user input coords, last good
position)?

Jon

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO - Displays)"
<jon.brewster@...> wrote:

> > > The big difference is in the handling of the parked state.
>
> > I would think that a "last good position" (-before- the
> > :hP# was issued) would be very misleading.
>
> Could be, but we've seen some pretty funny behavior with SW
> that sits on top of the old GPS driver approach.
> When parked the coordinates just start erroring out.

When Parked, the LX200gps, RCX400 and 497 Autostar current
firmwares all drop to responding to only three commands:
(a)  :ED#  will get an echo of the display screen's:
     "Scope Parked      Turn scope off.#"
(b)  :I#   will start an initialization (reboot)
(c)  control-D (x04) will kick the scope into "Download" mode
   (suitable for firmware installation).

-That's IT-... no "ack" response, no :GR#:GD# responses.
(and firmware versions prior to v4.0 had the bug that (a)
responded to :EC#, not :ED#)

> TheSky drops the connection completely but still
> reports that its connected.  Things like that.  Of course its
> exacerbated by unpark working since the park state is now useful.

You can map whatever 3rd party program against the above three
choices, and few will behave intelligently.

> I'd be way up for another alternative :-)

There's always the (ugly) belts-and-suspenders of conciously
slewing to where you want to PARK, issue a :hS# command
(which -sets- this position as the Autostar's PARK position)
and -then- issue the :hP#.   The scope won't move, or at
least will end up back "here" and ask to be powered down.
But you'll -know- where it's at, because you put it there.

> Thanks tons for doing this test.  I always wondered what
> the hF command would really do.  Knowing that it is not
> a park technique is very good.

I'm always happy to confuse my Autostar for the Good of the Order.

> Leave the user options in (error, user input coords, last good
> position)?

See "ugly", above, as a 4th.

have fun
--dick
p.s. in another puzzle i'm working on: is it true that TheSky
doesn't use a :D# to determine that an LX200-family scope has
not arrived at the GoTo target?  A captured serial stream makes
it look like they're just comparing target and current coordinates.
Meade's LX200gps (and Celestron, for that matter) can slew -past-
the final destination, since it goes out and homes back in using
a westward slew to avoid backlash reversals after arrival.  This
can make the controlling program assume completion of slew far too
early...

I have posted my latest attempt to compesate for the RCX firmware in
the files section.  This version REQUIRES V2.2g of the RCX firmware.  I
have not tested it with any other version.  I have not yet had the time
to write any documentation so if you have questions feel free to post
them to this group.

Before installing this version, please uninstall the old one from the
Add Remove Programs applet in the Control Panel.

I have tested this driver with: ACP, MaxImDL, The Sky V6.0, POTH,
Starry Night Pro Plus V5.8.2, FocusMax and various permutations and
combinations of the above.  Most of my testing has been IN THE LAB (the
weather really sucks here in Seattle right now).  I will be testing it
in AZ over the next few weeks.

There are issues.  Some of the issues may be driver related but many
are Meade firmware related.  This scope does strange things.  DO NOT
ATTEMPT TO SLEW THE SCOPE WHEN IT IS NOT ALIGNED! I have had it wrap
itself around until it jammed when doing this.  I know of one
individual who cannot connect to the RCX through the Beta driver. So
far we have not been able to determine why so if others experience the
same issue please let me know.

With V2.2g of the firmware the Meade Park routine and restart seems to
work fine and it remembers the alignment now. I have removed my
recommendation to not use the Meade Park.

For those connecting to the focuser, it is BY DESIGN that the focuser
racks all the way in first and then resets its position.  This is due
to the fact that despite having everything needed for an absolute
focuser, Meade decided to only give relative controls. The driver does
some voodoo to make the focuser absolute so that you can reliably
achieve the same focus with a paritcular digital number.  To accomplish
this I have rack the focuser in and set a reference 0 position, the
driver then restores the last focus position.  Currently this occurs on
every connect as I cannot tell whether or not he power was cycled on
the scope.  A new "feature" of this version of the driver is that the
Telescope MUST be connected BEFORE the focuser is. This is to permit
protecting the focuser driver against Meade's firmware going into limbo
land after a Park is commanded.

THIS IS A RELEASE CANDIDATE.  IT WILL NOT BE PERFECT.  IT WILL HAVE
BUGS.  IF THIS BOTHERS YOU DON'T DOWNLOAD IT.  I DO NOT WORK FOR NOR AM
I BEING PAID BY MEADE. THIS IS VOLUNTEER WORK.  I AM NOT POSTING IT TO
THE RCX or OTHER GROUPS MOSTLY BECAUSE MANY USERS DON'T KNOW THE
DIFFERENCE. Hopefully those on this group do....

Good luck!

Ajai

Hi Dick,

> When Parked, the LX200gps, RCX400 and 497 Autostar current
> firmwares all drop to responding to only three commands:
> (a)  :ED#  will get an echo of the display screen's:
>     "Scope Parked      Turn scope off.#"
> (b)  :I#   will start an initialization (reboot)
> (c)  control-D (x04) will kick the scope into "Download" mode
>   (suitable for firmware installation).
>
> -That's IT-... no "ack" response, no :GR#:GD# responses.
> (and firmware versions prior to v4.0 had the bug that (a)
> responded to :EC#, not :ED#)

Right-O.  We're in sync so far.

> > TheSky drops the connection completely but still reports that its
> > connected.  Things like that.  Of course its exacerbated by unpark
> > working since the park state is now useful.
>
> You can map whatever 3rd party program against the above
> three choices, and few will behave intelligently.

Which is the motivation for the driver to hide this behavior by
synthisizing some relevent coordinates.

> > I'd be way up for another alternative :-)
>
> There's always the (ugly) belts-and-suspenders of conciously
> slewing to where you want to PARK, issue a :hS# command
> (which -sets- this position as the Autostar's PARK position)
> and -then- issue the :hP#.   The scope won't move, or at
> least will end up back "here" and ask to be powered down.
> But you'll -know- where it's at, because you put it there.

Indeed.  A forth alternative.  Does the :hS# command work?

> p.s. in another puzzle i'm working on: is it true that TheSky
> doesn't use a :D# to determine that an LX200-family scope has
> not arrived at the GoTo target?  A captured serial stream
> makes it look like they're just comparing target and current
> coordinates.
> Meade's LX200gps (and Celestron, for that matter) can slew
> -past- the final destination, since it goes out and homes
> back in using a westward slew to avoid backlash reversals
> after arrival.  This can make the controlling program assume
> completion of slew far too early...

TheSky when connected through ASCOM will use :D#, but the native driver
built in to TheSky is a mystery.

Jon

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "Brewster, Jon A (TDO - Displays)"
<jon.brewster@...> wrote:
...
> > > I'd be way up for another alternative :-)
> >
> > There's always the (ugly) belts-and-suspenders of conciously
> > slewing to where you want to PARK, issue a :hS# command
> > (which -sets- this position as the Autostar's PARK position)
> > and -then- issue the :hP#.   The scope won't move, or at
> > least will end up back "here" and ask to be powered down.
> > But you'll -know- where it's at, because you put it there.
>
> Indeed.  A forth alternative.  Does the :hS# command work?

Yes... i just tried it:
(A) power up scope
(b) issued :Me# :Mn# commands to slew it to the side and up
(c) :Q# to stop it.
(d) :hS#  ... the handbox beeped and displayed "Set"
   (which is also what happens when you do a
   Setup/Telescope/ParkPosition/Use Current [enter] )
(e) i then issued :hP#
(f) the scope slewed -back- to the original 0/0 power-up
   position, then slewed back -out- to the position i'd just Set.
(g) it halted at the new position, and the handbox (and :ED#)
   is now telling me that it's PARKed and to turn it off.

The excursion to the 0/0 position bothered me... so i power-cycled,
and set the "Min Elevation" to +10 degrees.  I used the handbox
status display to see that the scope thought my PARK position
  (which it was still at) was +26 degrees.
I then slewed west and further up.  I then commanded :hP#
The handbox beeped (since 0/0 was beyond limits), but then
the scope merrily went to the new PARK position and asked
to be turned off.

"Forth"? i thought you were writing this in Visual Basic ;-)

have fun
--dick
p.s. thanks for the TheSky two possible drivers answer.. i -think-
he's using the Classic ASCOM driver, but i'll check.

Ajai,
I'm one of those who knows that you are volunteering your services.
I just hope that you are willing to continue where others have let us
down.  I followed your instructions below and tested the interface
with TheSky6 and found the same error messeges as before.

Run-time error 13: Type mismatch.
ASCOM scope driver is missing the Connected property.
Application-defined or object-defined error.

I have all the Meade (2.2g) & Software Bisque updates.  I only tested
connectivity in my garage (bad weather) and did not try to align,
slew, or park the scope.  All is well until I disconnect from TheSky
for the first time.  If I attempt to re-connect, I get error
messages.  Some good news, the CCDSoft focuser plug-in worked as you
described during my intial connection to TheSky.  Let me know if
there is anything you would like me to test.  Thanks, Jim

--- In ASCOM-Talk@yahoogroups.com, "ajaisehgal" <ajai@...> wrote:
>
> I have posted my latest attempt to compesate for the RCX firmware
in
> the files section.  This version REQUIRES V2.2g of the RCX
firmware.  I
> have not tested it with any other version.  I have not yet had the
time
> to write any documentation so if you have questions feel free to
post
> them to this group.
>
> Before installing this version, please uninstall the old one from
the
> Add Remove Programs applet in the Control Panel.
>
> I have tested this driver with: ACP, MaxImDL, The Sky V6.0, POTH,
> Starry Night Pro Plus V5.8.2, FocusMax and various permutations and
> combinations of the above.  Most of my testing has been IN THE LAB
(the
> weather really sucks here in Seattle right now).  I will be testing
it
> in AZ over the next few weeks.
>
> There are issues.  Some of the issues may be driver related but
many
> are Meade firmware related.  This scope does strange things.  DO
NOT
> ATTEMPT TO SLEW THE SCOPE WHEN IT IS NOT ALIGNED! I have had it
wrap
> itself around until it jammed when doing this.  I know of one
> individual who cannot connect to the RCX through the Beta driver.
So
> far we have not been able to determine why so if others experience
the
> same issue please let me know.
>
> With V2.2g of the firmware the Meade Park routine and restart seems
to
> work fine and it remembers the alignment now. I have removed my
> recommendation to not use the Meade Park.
>
> For those connecting to the focuser, it is BY DESIGN that the
focuser
> racks all the way in first and then resets its position.  This is
due
> to the fact that despite having everything needed for an absolute
> focuser, Meade decided to only give relative controls. The driver
does
> some voodoo to make the focuser absolute so that you can reliably
> achieve the same focus with a paritcular digital number.  To
accomplish
> this I have rack the focuser in and set a reference 0 position, the
> driver then restores the last focus position.  Currently this
occurs on
> every connect as I cannot tell whether or not he power was cycled
on
> the scope.  A new "feature" of this version of the driver is that
the
> Telescope MUST be connected BEFORE the focuser is. This is to
permit
> protecting the focuser driver against Meade's firmware going into
limbo
> land after a Park is commanded.
>
> THIS IS A RELEASE CANDIDATE.  IT WILL NOT BE PERFECT.  IT WILL HAVE
> BUGS.  IF THIS BOTHERS YOU DON'T DOWNLOAD IT.  I DO NOT WORK FOR
NOR AM
> I BEING PAID BY MEADE. THIS IS VOLUNTEER WORK.  I AM NOT POSTING IT
TO
> THE RCX or OTHER GROUPS MOSTLY BECAUSE MANY USERS DON'T KNOW THE
> DIFFERENCE. Hopefully those on this group do....
>
> Good luck!
>
> Ajai
>

Hi Dick,

> The excursion to the 0/0 position bothered me... so i
> power-cycled, and set the "Min Elevation" to +10 degrees.  I
> used the handbox status display to see that the scope thought
> my PARK position  (which it was still at) was +26 degrees.
> I then slewed west and further up.  I then commanded :hP# The
> handbox beeped (since 0/0 was beyond limits), but then the
> scope merrily went to the new PARK position and asked to be
> turned off.

I'm going to have to think on this...  But an added bonus is in the
ability to support the ASCOM setpark entry point.

> "Forth"? i thought you were writing this in Visual Basic ;-)

Funny you should say that, as I'm actually an old RPN hacker as my first
assignments at Hewlett-Packard were in the calculator division.  Enter
is greater than equal...

Popping stack,

Jon

Hi,

I am trying to download Peter's Ascom validator but it seems the page
is not available. Any other site or tool that i can use to validate
the driver ?

regards.

Mon