PrimaLuceLab ALTO-3, cover motor for large GIOTTO models

ALTO-3, lid motor for large GIOTTO units

ALTO-3 transforms a GIOTTO panel measuring more than 320 mm into a motorized, remote-controlled cover. It allows you to close the front of the telescope to take flat-field images, and then open the front panel before taking images.

Motorize the opening and the flats

The integration with GIOTTO automates a step that is often done manually: placing the light panel in front of the instrument and then removing it. ALTO-3 is the version designed for large panels; the manufacturer specifies the GIOTTO430 and GIOTTO CUSTOM models, and excludes smaller sizes that require the ALTO-1 or ALTO-2. The motor model must therefore be selected based on the actual panel being used, and not solely on the telescope’s diameter.

Software Control and Positions

Via USB-C, ALTO connects to EAGLE or a Windows computer. PLAY provides a wizard to calibrate the open and closed positions once the system is installed. Third-party software can control it using the ASCOM CoverCalibrator driver. The Wi-Fi connection and Virtual HandPad also allow you to open, close, and recall settings from a phone or tablet, without needing a computer for this direct control.

Cable Management

ALTO features USB and 12 V through-connections for connecting GIOTTO locally. The computer recognizes the two devices separately, which allows them to be controlled individually even though the cables are bundled together. The CLC clips follow the rotation of the arm and panel while holding the cables in place. ALTO operates directly on 12 V, eliminating the need for a separate power supply, though this does not mean that a power source is built into the motor.

Attach the motor to the telescope

The PLUS PLLMORVLP clamp is available as an option for mounting ALTO on a Vixen or Losmandy rod. A longer rod may be necessary to position the motor near the front of a short tube. The M6 holes under the housing offer another mounting option; when designing the setup, be sure to check for the clearance needed for rotation. The clamp, the rod, and GIOTTO are not included with this motor, which is sold separately.

Shut-off limit and allocation

PrimaLuceLab notes that using GIOTTO with ALTO does not make the telescope aperture light-tight and does not recommend this setup for capturing dark frames. A separate library of dark frames is recommended. The published package contents include the ALTO-3, USB-B-to-USB-C cables and a 120-cm 12-V cable, a quick start guide, and the mounting clips described in the specifications. The through-cables connect the devices; they do not constitute a power supply.

Technical specifications

PrimaLuceLab Official Fact Sheet

Manufacturer's illustration