PrimaLuceLab ALTO-1 – Lid Motor for GIOTTO 120, 150, 185, and 220

PrimaLuceLab ALTO-1 – Lid Motor for GIOTTO 120, 150, 185, and 220

The ALTO-1 motor converts a compatible GIOTTO 120, 150, 185, or 220 panel into a motorized cover. It allows you to open the telescope for observation and then replace the panel in front of the optics to acquire flat-field images without having to approach the instrument.

This part number corresponds to the ALTO-1 motor, not to a set that includes the GIOTTO light panel. Size compatibility must be observed: The ALTO-1 is designed for the GIOTTO 120, 150, 185, and 220 models, and not for larger panels.

The motor operates on a 12 V power source. The USB-C connection allows control from an EAGLE or a Windows computer. PLAY supports adjustment of the open and closed positions; an ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver also makes the motor accessible to compatible third-party software. When setting up software limits, you must take into account the panel’s position and the clearance around the front of the tube.

A Wi-Fi connection provides access to the built-in Virtual HandPad from a smartphone or tablet. This interface allows you to open and close the motor without a computer, save settings, and recall them. This is simply another way to control the same motor; it is not a photometric measurement function for the panel.

The USB and 12 V pass-through connections simplify the wiring between GIOTTO and ALTO. The system minimizes the number of cables running back to the control station while keeping the two devices listed as separate entries in Device Manager. CLC clips hold the cables in place so they follow the arm’s movement.

For mounting, an optional PLUS PLLMORVLP clamp allows you to attach the ALTO-1 to a Vixen or Losmandy rod. M6 holes on the bottom of the body also allow for mounting tailored to your instrument. A sufficiently long rod may be necessary to position the panel in front of the tube.

The GIOTTO and ALTO assembly does not seal the telescope against light. The manufacturer therefore advises against using it to capture dark frames and recommends a separate set of dark frames. The panel’s primary purpose remains the acquisition of flat frames, in addition to its function as a motorized cover.

The included items are the ALTO-1 motor, a 65-cm USB-B-to-USB-C cable for connecting to GIOTTO, a 65-cm 12-V cable, and the quick start guide. CLC clips are also listed as included. The motor weighs 0.7 kg.

Technical specifications

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