Warning: Only the Homeyer filter wheel is designed to connect directly to a PC serial port. All other filter wheels may be damaged if they are connected directly to a PC serial port.
For a Homeyer filter wheel, the connector on the wheel may have to be modified to connect to the PC. The connector is normally configured for direct connection to an SBIG camera; the connections required for a serial port are different.
Here are the required connections:
|
Signal |
PC Serial Port |
Filter Wheel |
|
Pulse |
Pin 3 |
Pin 2 or White wire |
|
Ground |
Pin 5 |
Pin 5 or Black wire |
Connecting non-Homeyer filter wheels to the PC serial port
The following circuit will limit voltages from the serial port to levels acceptable to an SBIG CFW-8 or compatible filter wheel. These parts are readily available from suppliers such as http://www.digikey.com
Warning: Use this circuit at your own risk. Incorrect connection could damage the filter wheel. Damage to the wheel may also occur if the ground connection to the circuit below is unconnected. Assembly by qualified personnel is highly recommended.