PrimaLuceLab EAGLE6 XTM Computer for Telescopes and Astrophotography

EAGLE6 XTM Computer for Telescopes and Astrophotography

The PrimaLuceLab EAGLE6 XTM combines a Windows computer, a USB hub, and a power distribution unit in a PLUS enclosure designed to be mounted on the telescope.

The XTM model features a 13th-generation Core i7 processor, 32 GB of memory, and a 2 TB NVMe SSD. The two USB-C ports support Thunderbolt 4, with a claimed data transfer rate of up to 40 Gbit/s. These features make it particularly well-suited for setups running multiple software applications or transferring data to compatible external storage devices. The memory and SSD are industrial-grade.

The computer remains a Windows platform: data acquisition software and peripherals are selected based on their compatibility with this system and their drivers. EAGLE Manager X consolidates the functions specific to the enclosure. Placing the computer near the instruments allows you to concentrate the USB and power connections on the enclosure rather than running them all down to a separate computer.

Accessory Connections and Power Supply

The ten USB ports allow you to connect various devices for shooting, guidance, and focusing. Four USB 2.0 ports can be remotely disabled or re-enabled, a useful feature for managing a device without physical intervention. The four fixed 12-volt outputs are individually controllable, and three additional variable-voltage outputs are dedicated to heating elements.

Electrical monitoring includes the input voltage and the power consumption of devices connected to the 12 V outputs. Cables must be selected based on each device: the presence of outputs on the enclosure does not mean that all specific cables or external power supplies are included. The PLUS enclosure is designed to accommodate cable ties, busbars, or clamps appropriate for the chosen mounting method.

Remote Administration and Monitoring

Lights-Out Management, or LOM, uses a dedicated Ethernet port to monitor system status, manage ports, and control power on independently of Windows, even when the computer is turned off. This feature is not a standalone mode without power; rather, it provides a management channel separate from the operating system.

Observatory Actions adds the CTRL IN and CTRL OUT ports. These ports allow you to associate EAGLE actions or commands for compatible equipment with an external contact input. The connection depends on the specific device; this feature does not make all mounts and domes directly compatible without an appropriate interface.

The GPS provides location and time. The EYE sensor measures sky brightness within a five-degree field of view, while the inclinometer tracks elevation and the motion detector signals unexpected movements. This data is used to monitor the installation, without replacing the safety features specific to the mount or the dome.

DARK mode turns off the indicator lights. GHOST mode replaces certain USB connections on compatible PrimaLuceLab hardware with a wireless connection. Wi-Fi 6E provides additional network connectivity. The final choice should take into account the software, drivers, power requirements, and mechanical layout of the system.

Technical specifications

PrimaLuceLab Official Fact Sheet