This section describes how to use StarGPS-NX. You may also wish to download a copy of the "StarGPS-NX Quick Start Instructions" which are in PDF format.

General Information

StarGPS-NX includes a high-performance 16-channel GPS-NX01 receiver that has many features. The GPS-NX01 can be used with Celestron NexStar, Meade Autostar, LX200 Classic, Losmandy Gemini, Astro-Physics GTO and Synta (Orion Atlas/Sirius, Sky-Watcher SynScan) by connecting the GPS using the included adapter cable (different cables are available).

1. The GPS-NX01 receiver status LED indicates:
1. Solid on: power turned on.
2. Short-off blink every second: determined telescope type.
3. Rapid sustained blinking: detected old NexStar firmware (requires update) or detected Vixen StarBook in non-INIT state (requires power on/off reset).
4. Rapid blinking for 5 seconds: no telescope found, switching to 4800* baud NMEA output.
5. Short-on blink every second: determined date, time, latitude and longitude. This may not work indoors and normally takes about one minute outdoors.
6. Short-on blink every two seconds: telescope has accepted GPS data.
2. After the telescope has accepted the GPS data it is your choice whether to leave the GPS connected (it only uses 35 milliamps). Leaving the GPS connected will allow it to download the latest satellite information and result in improved performance. It is recommended to leave the GPS connected for at least twenty minutes following its first use.
3. Note that the local time and date are set to UTC (Coordinated Universal Time).

* GPS-NX01 units shipped prior to April, 2007 specify 9600 baud NMEA.

StarGPS-NX uses the Meade LX200 Command Set to send GPS data to the GTO.

Note: For the most efficient use of StarGPS with your Astro-Physics GTO system, we recommend that you change the way you have your keypad set up. Since the GPS uses Universal Time, and the keypad starts from local time, there is the potential for timing issues that affect precise calculation of the meridian (overhead hour angle) and the horizons. While these issues will not affect normal go to operation during a night of observing, they can affect syncs done very close to the meridian, and they will affect park position calculations adversely. Either of these situations can result in the scope being driven into the mount, so it is important that you follow these instructions.

To easily solve this potential problem, ALWAYS keep your keypad set to Universal Time or GMT if you will be using StarGPS. When you enter time into the GTO keypad, simply input the GMT as your local time, and keep the Daylight Savings setting at "0." Be sure that you put the correct UT date into the keypad as well! For example, for those of us in the US who might be setting up in the evening, UT may already be into "tomorrow," so tomorrow's date could be the correct entry. Likewise, an Australian setting up his or her keypad in the morning might need to remember that it is still "yesterday" in UT.

You can still have locations entered into the keypad, for quick setup at home without using StarGPS, but your time zone for ALL of your entered locations in the keypad must be set to "00" since the entered local time is UT. You will also need to remember that the keypad will now only show UT as the local time. This should not really pose a problem for astronomers, since we are quite used to converting local time to UT and vice versa. Accurate local time is not necessary in the keypad as long as the keypad can correctly calculate UT, which it does with StarGPS.

The instructions below will have you set your Auto-Connect to EXT. This means that StarGPS will be initializing your mount, not the keypad. You should be aware that there are additional parts of the initialization sequence that StarGPS cannot perform. Fortunately, the keypad supplies these parameters even in the External Startup Mode. These parameters include the tracking, guiding and slew rates; the backlash compensation settings for both RA and Dec; reticle brightness and focus speed; and the PEM state. Also, if you are not using StarGPS, you can still proceed through the start-up by pressing the menu button as instructed on the keypad's display, and then proceeding to enter a location number and resuming from park or polar aligning.

Finally, a word of caution if you are using planetarium software along with StarGPS and the GTO Keypad. DO NOT re-initialize the mount from any program on your PC, once you have initialized with the StarGPS / GTO Keypad combination. You can certainly use your favorite software, just like you normally would. You can change individual parameters that are part of the initialization, like backlash compensation or tracking rate, but DO NOT send time and location data from the computer, and do not do a full initialization. Doing so will overwrite the StarGPS data and may cause the same timing issues that were mentioned above. It also spoils the whole point of having a StarGPS in the first place.

1. Turn the GTO on.
2. Configure the GTO for use with StarGPS - instructions are for keypad firmware v.4.xx:
1. From the Main Menu select #2=Setup and press #3=KeyPad Options Menu.
2. Press #1 to toggle to AUTO-CONNECT=EXT (external startup sequence).
3. Press the Menu button to go back to the Setup menu.
4. From the Setup Menu, press #1=Locations & Time.
5. Press 1=Site Location Data.
6. Enter a location number for which you have previously entered data
   (starting with location 1), and then press GO TO.
7. Press the <PREV button to "back up" to the Time Zone line and change the time zone to zero. Press GO TO. The keypad will beep to confirm that it has been saved.
8. Repeat steps d - g for ALL of your saved locations.
9. From the Setup Menu, press #2=Set Date & Time.
10. Enter the Universal Time (UT or GMT) in 24-hour format as your local time.
11. Enter the correct UT date, keeping in mind that it may not necessarily be the same as the date in local time (see http://www.timeanddate.com).
12. Set Daylight Savings to 0=Winter.
13. Press GO TO to save.
14. Press Menu to back out to the main menu.
3. Turn off the power to the GTO for 10 to 15 seconds. You only need to do the above steps once before using StarGPS. The GTO will remember these settings for future use.
4. Insert the included AA Alkaline battery into the AA power cell (positive end first) and tightly secure the end cap (do not remove the battery except to replace it with a new one).
5. Connect the GPS receiver to the supplied cable (you can leave these connected).
6. Attach the DB9 connector to an RS232 port on the GTO.
7. Turn on the GTO. The keypad should display the following message:
             External Startup
             Press MENU to cancel
             external startup.
   DO NOT PRESS MENU (unless you will not be using StarGPS).
8. Connect the AA power cell to the 2.5mm plug on the supplied cable. The power cell LED should turn on to indicate that it is supplying power to the GPS.
9. Wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds. The GTO will display the Main Menu once it receives the date, time, latitude and longitude from the GPS.
10. Disconnect the AA power cell.
11. Proceed as usual with the alignment process.

NOTE: You can disconnect the AA power cell at any time following step 6) but you should leave it connected for 20 minutes during the first use. The power cell uses a voltage pump to deliver +5V to the GPS. A single Alkaline AA can supply over 10 hours of continuous power and should last several months (unless you forget to unplug it). For maximum battery life and cold weather operation we recommend using an Energizer AA Lithium battery.

Celestron NexStar (SLT, SE, AS-GT, CGE, GT, StarSeeker, iSeries)

StarGPS-NX requires a NexStar hand control with firmware version 2.3, 104.0 or 4.0+ as displayed using the hand control "Utilities: Version" menu item. If you have a CGE Series mount you must use the "Utilities: RTC" menu item to disable use of the real time clock. This *must* be set to OFF, otherwise the CGE may get the time from the RTC instead of the GPS.

1. Make sure the telescope is turned off.
2. Connect the GPS receiver to the hand control and telescope using the supplied cable. The long lead connects to the RS232 port on the bottom of the hand control and can be routed up the center of the coiled cable if desired (it takes a few minutes to wind the coil around the long lead). The short lead plugs into an AUX port on the telescope to supply power to the GPS. If you do not have an AUX port (GT, AS-GT, CG5 mount) you can plug the included 6p6c splitter into the Hand Control jack on the mount and then plug the short lead and hand control cable into the splitter.
3. Turn on the telescope.
4. The GPS LED will flash rapidly if your hand control does not have the required firmware (in this case the best option is to purchase a new user-upgradeable NexStar hand control).
5. Wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds.
6. Proceed with setup/alignment as usual.
7. You can use the "View Time-Site" menu item to see the UTC date, time, latitude and longitude.

NOTE: Mounts that support the CN16 GPS Accessory Kit (CGE, AS-GT, SLT, SE, iSeries) have a "Utilities: GPS" menu item that allows the CN16 GPS to be turned on or off. This menu item is not applicable to StarGPS-NX and will return "No GPS detected" (it looks for a CN16).

Gemini Level 1 or 2

StarGPS-NX works with Gemini Level 1 or 2 by sending LX200 commands to the Gemini. This requires a power off/on cycle to reset the Gemini pointing model. Gemini Level 3 and 4 have the ability to detect a GPS receiver and don't require a power cycle, so we recommend upgrading your Gemini software.

1. Make sure the Gemini is turned off.
2. Connect the GPS receiver to the supplied cable (you can leave these connected).
3. Plug one end of the cable into the Gemini RS232 port.
4. Turn on the Gemini.
5. Plug the other end of the cable into the Gemini power output.
6. The GPS LED should turn on at this point.
7. Wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds.
8. Disconnect the GPS from the Gemini.
9. Turn off the Gemini, wait 5 seconds and then turn it back on.
10. Select "Cold Start" if your observing location has moved by more than 500 km, if you changed the internal battery or did a "Reset Default".
11. Proceed with setup/alignment as usual.

Gemini Level 3 or 4

StarGPS-NX works with Gemini Level 3, V1.10 or newer firmware by sending standard GPS NMEA data to the Gemini at a rate of 4800 baud.

1. Make sure the Gemini is turned off.
2. Connect the GPS receiver to the supplied cable (you can leave these connected).
3. Plug one end of the cable into the Gemini RS232 port.
4. Plug the other end of the cable into the Gemini power output.
5. The GPS LED should turn on at this point.
6. Wait 30 seconds until the LED flashes rapidly for 5 seconds (indicating that the GPS is switching to regular NMEA output mode).
7. Wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds.
8. Turn on the Gemini, you will see a welcome message and then the Gemini will look for a GPS receiver.
9. The Gemini displays "SRAM/RTC Updated" if it was successful. Note that the GPS can also be queried after startup using the Setup->Geographic Location->Query GPS receiver menu item.
10. Proceed with setup/alignment as usual.

StarGPS-NX requires a Meade #506 Cable Connector Kit (not included) to communicate with the 494 Autostar. The #506 is a special adapter cable normally used to connect the telescope to a computer.

1. Use the Autostar MODE key and scroll arrows to select "Setup: Daylight Saving > NO" (the Autostar will remember this setting).
2. Turn the telescope off.
3. Insert the included AA Alkaline battery into the AA power cell (positive end first) and tightly secure the end cap (do not remove the battery except to replace it with a new one).
4. Plug the Meade #506 cable into the AUX port on the telescope.
5. Connect the GPS receiver to the #506 using the supplied cable.
6. Turn on the telescope.
7. Use the Autostar keypad to skip past any messages or date/time prompts and reach the normal "Align:" prompt (make sure to select NO for Daylight Savings if prompted).
8. Connect the AA power cell to the 2.5mm plug on the supplied cable. The power cell LED should turn on to indicate that it is supplying power to the GPS.
9. Wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds.
10. Disconnect the AA power cell.
11. Proceed with setup/alignment as usual.
12. You can press and hold the MODE key for two seconds and then use the up/down scroll keys to view the UTC date, time, latitude and longitude.

NOTE: You can disconnect the AA power cell at any time following step 9) but you should leave it connected for 20 minutes during the first use. The power cell uses a voltage pump to deliver +5V to the GPS. A single Alkaline AA can supply over 10 hours of continuous power and should last several months (unless you forget to unplug it). For maximum battery life and cold weather operation we recommend using an Energizer AA Lithium battery.

1. Use the Autostar MODE key and scroll arrows to select "Setup: Daylight Saving > NO" (the Autostar will remember this setting).
2. Turn the telescope off.
3. Connect the GPS receiver to the Autostar and telescope using the supplied cable. The long lead connects to the RS232 port on the bottom of the Autostar and can be routed up the center of the coiled handset cable (it takes a few minutes to wind the coil around the long lead). The short lead plugs into an AUX port on the telescope to supply power to the GPS.
   WARNING: DO NOT REVERSE THE CABLE CONNECTIONS since this can cause damage to the telescope or Autostar.
4. Turn on the telescope and complete these steps within 30 seconds.
1. If you are asked to "Press 0 to Align or MODE for Menu" then press the MODE key.
2. If you see "Align: Automatic" proceed to step 5, otherwise:
3. Use the Autostar keypad to skip past any messages or date/time prompts and reach the "Align: Easy" prompt (make sure to select NO for Daylight Savings if prompted).
5. Wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds.
6. Press the ENTER key to continue with alignment.
7. You can press and hold the MODE key for two seconds and then use the up/down scroll keys to view the UTC date, time, latitude and longitude.

IMPORTANT: Meade 497 Autostar software versions 27, 30, 35, 40, 41 and 42 have known problems with at least one LX200 command. If your Autostar displays any of these version numbers (eg. [40E]) you should update your Autostar using the Meade ASU or StarPatch. With the free trial version of StarPatch you must uncheck the "GPS Setup" option before doing an "Update Autostar".

Meade 497EP Autostars with firmware versions up to and including 5CE2 also have known problems and should be updated using the Meade ASU and the BuildEP_5Ce1_Patched.rom file. This ROM file was generated using the default settings of the 5EC1 patch written by Andrew Johansen as described at http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Meade_Autostar/message/2767

Meade LX200 Classic

1. Turn the telescope off.
2. Connect the GPS receiver to the supplied cable (you can leave these connected).
3. Plug the other end of the cable into the RS232 port on the LX200 control panel.
4. Turn on the telescope and wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds.
5. Proceed with setup/alignment as usual.

StarGPS-NX requires a hand control with firmware version 3.10+ or AZ 3.03+

1. Make sure the telescope is turned off.
2. Connect the GPS receiver to the supplied cable (you can leave these connected).
3. Plug the other end of the cable into the RS232 port on the hand control.
4. Turn on the telescope.
5. Use the ENTER key to skip ahead until the hand control displays "Initializing…".
6. Once the GPS is recognized you are prompted for time zone and daylight saving (these are only used to calculate the local time display).
7. The display shows "GPS Fixing…" until a satellite fix is obtained. The hand control then bypasses the normal location, time zone, date, time and daylight saving prompts.
8. Proceed with setup/alignment as usual.
9. You can use the "Utility Func. > GPS" menu item to view detailed GPS information.

A StarBook controller with firmware version 1.2 build 31 or newer is required (you can check this using the "About StarBook" menu item and then update the firmware if necessary).

1. Make sure that the GPS-StarBook adapter (black box) is turned off, then remove the screw and battery cover and install two AA batteries with correct polarity. When replacing the battery cover do not over tighten the screw.
2. Make sure that the StarBook is turned off.
3. Plug one end of the blue crossover cable into the StarBook Ethernet port (you may wish to leave this permanently connected since a flat screwdriver or knife is required to depress the modular tab when unplugging this cable from the StarBook). Alternatively you can remove the modular tab from one end of the cable and plug that end into the StarBook (this allows the cable to be easily unplugged).
4. Plug the other end of the blue crossover cable into the GPS-StarBook adapter.
5. Connect the GPS receiver to the GPS-StarBook adapter.
6. Turn on the StarBook (this must be done before step #7).
7. Turn on the GPS-StarBook adapter. The green LED indicates a successful Ethernet connection (solid on) while the amber LED indicates Ethernet activity (flashing). The GPS receiver LED indicates the receiver status (see General Information)
8. Wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds. Rapid sustained blinking indicates that the StarBook is in a non-INIT state (turn off the StarBook and the GPS-StarBook adapter and then proceed to step #6, do not use the StarBook until step #8 is complete).
9. Turn off the GPS-StarBook adapter and if desired, disconnect it from the StarBook.
10. Proceed with setup/alignment as usual.
11. You can use the "Location" menu item to view the latitude and longitude. These settings can be permanently saved by using the "Save Setting" menu item.

NOTE: the GPS-StarBook adapter is rated for the same temperature range as the StarBook, ie. from 32 to 104°F (0 to 40°C). Do not expose it to any environment that exceeds these limits (such as might occur with exposure to direct sunlight).

USB (PC connected)

If your telescope is connected to a Windows PC you may choose to connect the GPS-NX01 receiver to the PC and have it forward data from the GPS to your telescope as described below. This has the advantage of using your existing PC-to-Telescope serial cable (or LAN cable for Vixen StarBook). This procedure will not work with a Synta handset, eg. SynScan.

1. Download the Redirect utility program from http://www.stargps.ca/pub/redirect.exe
2. Make sure the telescope is turned off.
3. Connect the telescope to the PC (using your existing PC-to-Telescope cable).
4. Plug the GPS-USB cable into the PC (without the GPS attached).
5. Run redirect.exe
6. Select the GPS COM port and a baud rate of 4800 (Gemini Level 3+) or 9600 (all others).
7. Select the Telescope COM port and the same baud rate as above.
8. If using a Vixen StarBook, select the "IP" checkbox and enter the IP address of the StarBook (this can be found using the "About StarBook" menu item).
9. With Gemini Level 3+, plug the GPS-NX01 into the GPS-USB cable, wait until the GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds, press "Connect", turn on the Gemini and go to step 13).
10. Turn on the telescope.
11. Press "Connect" to establish the connection between the telescope and GPS.
12. Plug the GPS-NX01 into the GPS-USB cable.
13. Follow the normal StarGPS-NX instructions subsequent to "Turn on the telescope".
14. Press "Exit" to disconnect and exit from redirect.exe
15. Continue as usual with your PC and planetarium software.

Troubleshooting StarGPS-NX

Meade Autostar says "GPS not found".
This occurs if you have updated the Autostar using an unregistered (free trial) version of StarPatch. To correct the problem you must uncheck the "GPS Setup" patch and then do an "Update Autostar". Otherwise, a registered copy StarPatch is required to use "GPS Setup" with the GPS-NX01 receiver.

GPS LED does not light up.
Turn the telescope off. Check the GPS cable connections and try again. This problem indicates a faulty GPS receiver or connecting cable (assuming that the telescope power supply is working).

GPS LED lights up but does not blink within 30 seconds, then rapidly blinks for 5 seconds.
Turn the telescope off. Check the GPS cable connections and try again. This problem indicates a faulty connecting cable. The GPS is not receiving a response from the telescope/controller. The rapid blinking indicates that the GPS is switching to NMEA output - this is the normal operating mode for use with a Losmandy Gemini Level 3 or 4.

GPS LED lights up but does not blink or blinks "short-off" once per second.
This indicates that the GPS is unable to get a satellite location fix. This can happen indoors and can also occur outdoors if you do not have a fairly open view of the sky (e.g. too many obstructions). Try leaving the GPS turned on for at least twenty minutes or move to a better location.

GPS LED flashes once every 2 seconds but the telescope settings are wrong.
This problem can occur when using a Meade 495/497/497EP Autostar with no LNT. You must complete steps 5 to 7 quickly or the GPS will finish setting the telescope before you skip past the date, time and daylight savings prompts. In this case the GPS results get overridden by the default date and time.

Autostar display goes blank when the GPS blinks once every two seconds.
Press the "0" key to turn the display back on (any key will do but "0" is the safest). This problem only occurs if the GPS time (UTC) exceeds the Autostar time. This happens because the Autostar automatically turns the display OFF if the keypad is not used for 10 minutes. When the GPS sets the time to anything more than 10 minutes ahead, the Autostar mistakenly thinks that the keypad has not been used so it turns the display OFF - a minor annoyance.

Autostar latitude is not being set.
This problem is due to a bug in Meade software versions 27 and 30. The software version is displayed by the Autostar just after you turn on the power. To correct this problem you will need to update the Autostar software by using the free trial version of StarPatch or the Meade ASU.

Autostar alignment fails (motor stops or extended slewing).
This problem is due to a bug in Meade software versions 35, 40, 41 and 42. The software version is displayed by the Autostar just after you turn on the power. To correct this problem you will need to update the Autostar software by using the free trial version of StarPatch or the Meade ASU.

This section describes how to use StarGPS and its components. You may also wish to download a copy of the "StarGPS Quick Start Instructions" which are in PDF format.

1. Download and run the installation program from http://www.stargps.ca/pub/setupSP.exe
   NOTE: Windows XP SP2 will indicate "Unknown Publisher" when you attempt to run the installation program since it is not digitally signed. Please disregard this message.
2. Once StarPatch is installed on your PC you can click on the Windows "Start" button, go to the "Programs" menu and select "StarPatch".
3. If desired, use the "Options: Handset type" menu (default is Autostar 495/497).
4. If desired, use the "Options: Language" menu (default is English).
5. Use the "File: Get Updates…" menu to download the latest Autostar software and patches (based on the language and handset selections in step 3 and 4).
6. Make sure the telescope is turned off.
7. Connect your PC to the Autostar using the PC-ASTAR cable (or Meade cable #505) as shown below. Plug the 9-pin connector into the serial port on your computer. Plug the 4-pin handset connector into the base of the Autostar.

8. Turn the telescope on and wait until the Autostar is ready (you will hear a beep).
9. If you have a StarPatch software registration key, use the "File: Register..." menu to enter the key. Each key allows one 495/497 to be registered for use with a GPS receiver. An unregistered version of StarPatch will install a trial version of the GPS Setup patch. The StarPatch window title will indicate the registration status as follows:

1. Trial - not registered (free for use with Autostar and Autostar II).
2. Registered - successfully registered: will allow one 495/497 to be GPS enabled.
3. Registered Handset - one 495/497 was successfully registered and GPS enabled (this is done in step #12 if the GPS Setup patch is selected).

10. Press the "Update Autostar" button. This will guide you through the update process. StarPatch will select the latest patch file if none has been chosen. Advanced users can pre-select the software version and features they want. The update process performs several steps to confirm:

1. The PC can communicate with the Autostar (the cable connection is working).
2. A valid StarPatch File (SPF) has been selected (the latest file will be selected if none is specified). Each SPF file contains additional software features such as the GPS Setup capability. These features are known as software "patches" because they get "patched" or added into the Autostar software (ROM file).
3. The corresponding ROM file is present. Each ROM file contains the original Autostar software supplied by Meade (with no patches) as described at http://www.meade.com/support/auto.html

11. Press the "Yes" button in response to "Do you want to continue with the update?"
12. If you are updating a 495/497 with a new registration key and have selected the GPS Setup patch then you will be asked if you want this connected Autostar to be registered for use with a GPS receiver. Press the "Yes" button if you want to register this Autostar.
13. Wait for the update to complete ("Update completed" message) and press the "OK" button. If you selected "Yes" in step #12 then a successful update will change the StarPatch window title to read "Registered Handset" as described in step #9c.
14. Press the "Exit" button to exit from StarPatch.

Menu Items

File

Get Updates...
Connects to the StarGPS web site and lists the latest patch and ROM files that are available (based on the current language and handset type). Determines which files you need (if any) and downloads them.

Create ROM
Creates a ROM file based on the current patch file settings. The file is named according to the patch version number and is placed in the StarPatch folder (see installation notes).

Print...
Prints the current patch file documentation to StarPatchFile.txt and opens this file which can then be printed.

Register...
Connects to the StarGPS web site to register your copy of StarPatch (requires a software registration key). This enables all the program features and allows the GPS Setup patch to be installed to one Autostar 495/497. Additional handset registration keys can be entered here if you need to install the GPS Setup patch to a second or third Autostar.

Exit
Exits the StarPatch program.

Options

COM port...
Allows you to select which COM port the Autostar is connected to (otherwise this will automatically be determined when you use the "Update Autostar" button).

Baud rate >
Allows you to select the COM port baud rate to be used by "Update Autostar". The maximum rate is 115200 (Autostar 495/497) or 57600 (Autostar II).

Handset type >
Allows you to select your handset type (default is Autostar).

Language >
Allows you to select English or German language patches (default is English).

SmartLoad
Allows you to enable or disable the SmartLoad feature (default is enabled). SmartLoad can achieve faster updates by just sending data that has changed since the previous update. You can disable SmartLoad if you want to force a complete update.

Help

Instructions
Displays basic help information.

User Manual
Opens this installed copy of the User Manual.

StarPatch Home Page
Opens http://www.stargps.ca

Meade Home Page
Opens http://www.meade.com

Weasner's ETX Site
Opens http://www.weasner.com/etx

About StarPatch...
Displays the StarPatch version number and copyright information.

Installation Notes

All program related files are placed in the StarPatch folder which defaults to
C:\Program Files\PixSoft\StarPatch.  The distribution files include:

1. StarPatch.exe - the program
2. StarPatch.ini - default program settings
3. License.txt - the software license agreement
4. Readme.txt - additional information
5. manual.htm - a copy of this manual

Use the StarPatch "File: Get Updates" menu item to copy the latest SPF (StarPatch files) and ROM files (Meade Autostar software) to the StarPatch folder. The filenames indicate the handset type and software version as in:

1. Patch34CA.spf - patch file version 34CA for Autostar 495/497 (English)
2. PatchG32HA.spf - patch file version 32HA for Autostar 495/497 (German)
3. PatchLX30IC.spf - patch file version 30IC for Autostar II (English)
4. Build34Ec.rom - Autostar 495/497 software version 34Ec
5. BuildLX3.0i.rom - Autostar II software version 3.0i

StarPatch will also look for ROM files that have already been downloaded using the Meade ASU.  If you need older patch or ROM files you can find them here:

GPS Setup and Use

These steps assume that you have already used StarPatch to update the Autostar software so that GPS data will be recognized. You can confirm this by turning on the Autostar and using the keypad to skip the sun "WARNING" and the "Getting Started" message. At this point you would normally see the "Enter Date:" prompt. If the GPS Setup patch has been installed you will instead see the "Checking for GPS" message. This message will appear for 3 seconds and then revert to the "Enter Date:" prompt if there is no GPS connected.

Creating a GPS Site

This step is not required but is recommended (it looks better). It describes how to setup a "GPS Site" name rather than using a fixed "city name".

The GPS Setup patch uses GPS data to automatically update the Autostar time, date and current site latitude and longitude. For example, if the you had previously chosen "Seattle" as the current site then the GPS Setup patch would update the latitude and longitude of "Seattle". This is probably fine since you are likely to do most of your observing in that area. However, you might want to change the site name to something more generic like "GPS Site". You can do this as follows:

1. Use the MODE key to position to the "Setup:" menu
2. Select "Site" and press ENTER
3. Select "Edit" and press ENTER
4. Select "Name" and press ENTER
5. Enter "GPS Site" and press ENTER

Setting the Time Zone

GPS receivers measure time in UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). The Autostar converts UTC to local time by looking at the time zone offset for the current site and the DST (daylight savings time) setting. The conversion formula is:

local time = UTC + time zone offset + DST

where DST = 0 (standard time) or DST = 1 (daylight savings time). For example, if you selected "Seattle" as the current site then the Autostar would set the time zone offset to -8.0 for Pacific Standard Time (PST). If you selected Daylight Savings = Yes then it would add an hour and use an offset of -7.0 for Pacific Daylight Time (PDT). So 10:00 UTC converts to 02:00 PST or 03:00 PDT.

The Autostar will work properly even if the time zone offset and DST settings are incorrect. However, it will display the incorrect local time. In order for the Autostar to convert the GPS time from UTC to local time you need to set the time zone offset and DST. This can be done as follows:

1. Turn on the telescope (with no GPS) and press the proper keys to skip ahead until you see the "Daylight Savings>" prompt.
2. Select "Yes" or "No" (answer Yes if you are -currently- in your "Summer Time" advanced-clock situation, answer No otherwise) and then press "Enter".
3. Use the MODE key to position to the "Setup:" menu
4. Select "Site" and press ENTER
5. Select "Edit" and press ENTER
6. Select "Time Zone" and press ENTER
7. Enter the standard time zone offset for your location (see below links)

NOTE: If you prefer to have the Autostar display UTC as the "local time" you can simply set the time zone offset to 0.0 and Daylight Savings to "No". The advantage of doing this is that you will never need to change these settings, no matter what time zone you move to.

For more information on UTC and time zones, you can visit:

Using the GPS Receiver

The GPS Setup patch allows the Autostar to accept NMEA-0183 v2.0+ GPS data. The GPS date, time, latitude and longitude are used to initialize the Autostar. To use the GPS receiver do the following:

1. Make sure the telescope is turned off.
2. Connect the GPS-ASTAR cable as shown below:

1. Plug the short cable (5 cm, 2") into an AUX port on the telescope. This will provide power to the GPS receiver.
2. Plug the round PS/2 connector into the GPS receiver cable. The GPS can then be placed anywhere with a good view of the sky. Make sure the receiver is fairly level and facing upward. You may wish to use the included velcro tape to attach the GPS on top of the telescope (as shown).
3. Plug the long cable (60 cm, 24") into the Autostar Handset. This will route data from the GPS receiver to the Autostar. You may wish to permanently route this cable up the center of the coiled handset cord (see above photo). Simply wind the coiled cord around the cable (it takes a couple minutes to do this).
   WARNING: DO NOT REVERSE THE CABLE CONNECTIONS since this can cause damage to the telescope or Autostar.

3. Turn on the telescope. This will supply power to the GPS and Autostar.
4. Following the "Welcome to AUTOSTAR" message, the display will show:

   

   If this message is not displayed please refer to "StarPatch Setup and Use".
   
    

5. When the Autostar recognizes GPS data it will display the following:

   
    

6. Take note of the UTC time and how it compares to your local time. This step will later help you to confirm that your time zone offset is properly set.
7. When the GPS obtains a fix (determines the location based on at least 3 satellites) the Autostar will beep and display the date, latitude and longitude for 5 seconds as in:

   

   If you have a registered handset then the Autostar time, date and current site latitude and longitude will be set. It usually takes under 45 seconds to obtain a fix but this can vary depending on how many satellites are in view and their signal strengths. In general a more open sky gives better results. If there are too many obstructions it may not be possible to get a fix. For more information about the Global Positioning System and how it works you can visit http://www.garmin.com/aboutGPS/. 
    

8. Unplug the GPS receiver since it is no longer needed (plus this saves power).  You can begin by pulling the AUX plug or disconnecting the PS/2 connector (either of these will cut the power).
9. Press the ENTER key to proceed from the "Align:" prompt.
10. You can confirm that the time zone offset is correct by checking the local time computed by the Autostar as follows:

1. Press and hold the MODE key for at least 2 seconds.
2. Press the up or down scroll key next to the "?" until the "Time:" is displayed.
3. If the local time is incorrect then you might want to adjust the time zone offset and return to step #1 (also refer to "Setting the Timezone").

 

1. StarPatch software registration key (to install the GPS Setup patch).
2. PC-ASTAR cable or Meade #505 cable (for use with StarPatch).
3. GPS adapter cable (or equivalent) to connect your GPS output to the Autostar RS232 serial port. Please be sure that you order the correct cable for your GPS receiver (if it is listed).

The GPS Setup patch allows the Autostar to use NMEA-0183 version 2.0+ GPS data to set the date, time, latitude and longitude. The GPS receiver must be connected to the Autostar serial port and must output NMEA $GPRMC data. Satellite information and signal strength are displayed by the Autostar if NMEA $GPGSV data is available. In order for your GPS receiver to work it must output $GPRMC data.

If you have a Garmin or Magellan GPS receiver you may be able to use a GPS adapter cable which allows you to directly connect your GPS to the Autostar. Otherwise you will need a serial data cable. Many GPS receivers include such a cable or list it as an optional item. These cables normally have a female DB9 connector which is designed to plug into the serial port on a PC. You can extend this cable to connect to the Autostar instead of the PC as follows:

1. Make sure your GPS receiver is properly configured to output NMEA $GPRMC and $GPGSV data at a rate of 4800 or 9600 baud with no parity, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit. Refer to your GPS User’s Manual to configure the NMEA output settings. If your GPS receiver is not configured properly it may output data that switches the Autostar into download mode - if this happens you will need to reprogram the Autostar using StarPatch.
2. Connect the GPS serial cable to the GPS receiver.
3. Connect a DB9 male-to-male "Null Modem" adapter to the GPS serial data cable.
4. Connect a PC-ASTAR cable or Meade #505 cable to the adapter.
5. Connect the PC-ASTAR or Meade #505 cable to the Autostar.

NOTE: Most handheld GPS receivers such as the eTrex do not output $GPRMC data until they obtain a valid fix. In this case the Autostar will display "00:00:00 UTC" until a valid fix is obtained.

SPECS
· Size: 59 x 50 x 20 mm (2.3" x 2.0" x 0.8")
· Weight: 95 g (3.3 oz)
· Tracks up to 12 satellites (-142 dBm sensitivity)
· Warm start in 38 seconds, cold start in 45 seconds
· Update rate: 1 second (default), adjustable*
· Position accuracy: 25 meters (95%) without SA, 5 meters (95%) with WAAS
· Velocity: 0.1 meters/second, without SA
· Time: 1 microsecond synchronized GPS time
· Altitude: 18,000 meters (60,000 feet) max
· Velocity: 515 meters / second (1000 knots) max
· Acceleration: 4 G, max
· Interface: RS-232 with 2 m (78") cable (PS/2 Female)
· Baud rate: 9600 (default), 4800, 19200, 38400*
· NMEA-0183 Version 2.2 ASCII output (GPS-6010 default): GPGGA, GPGSA, GPGSV, GPRMC, GPVTG
· LX200 ASCII output (GPS-6010-LX default, with user selectable NMEA output*)
· User selectable NMEA sentences also include: GPGLL*
· Power: 4.75 to 5.5 V @ 80 ma
· Backup power: 3V rechargeable lithium cell (1000 hours)
· Operating temperature: -40 to +85°C (-40 to +185°F)

COMPATIBLE WITH MOST MAPPING SOFTWARE:
(Software not included, requires GPS-DB9, GPS-USB or GPS-PDA cable)
· MS Street & Trips (requires 4800 baud output setting)*
· Delorme Street Atlas
· Fugawi
· OziExplorer
· any software that supports the NMEA-0183 protocol

CHANGING GPS-6010/LX OUTPUT SETTINGS:
* A GPS-DB9 or GPS-USB cable is required to adjust the output settings.

IMPORTANT: SiRFdemo allows you to change many of the GPS-6010/LX configuration settings but we recommend that you only touch the output settings as described below. Changing other settings may result in poor performance or may cause the GPS to stop communicating properly.

1. If you are using a GPS-USB cable, begin by downloading and installing the Windows USB driver from http://www.stargps.ca/pub/pl2303.zip. This allows the USB port to operate as a virtual COM port.
2. Make sure the GPS-6010/LX is attached to your PC (using a GPS-DB9 or GPS-USB cable).
3. Verify that the GPS LED is turned on (it should be getting power from the PC).
4. Download and run the SiRFDemo program from http://www.stargps.ca/pub/SiRFDemo.exe.
5. From the Data Source dialog select the Serial Port COM port and 9600 baud, click OK.
6. Click on the "connect" icon in the toolbar (5th icon from the left).
7. If you have a GPS-6010 you will see NMEA output in the "Debug View" and can proceed to step 12.
8. If you have a GPS-6010-LX then by default there will be no output since LX200 commands are not display. However, if you unplug the GPS-6010-LX PS/2 connector and plug it back in, you will see startup messages in the "Debug View". These messages include the GPS-6010-LX version and copyright information.
9. Select the "Action" menu and click on "Transmit Serial Message".
10. Click in the area below "Specify in Hex" and type "11111" (five ones without the quotes).
11. Select the NMEA Protocol Wrapper (near the bottom left) and then click Send.
12. Select the "Action" menu and click on "Synchronize Protocol and Baud Rate". This will attempt to switch the GPS-6010/LX to the SiRF Binary Protocol with a baud rate of 38400.
13. Watch the SiRFDemo window title and wait until it stops cycling thru different baud rate settings. You may see some output in the Debug View or Error View windows (which can be ignored).
14. Select the "Action" menu and click on "Switch to NMEA Protocol". If this menu item is disabled then you will need to repeat steps 12 and 13.
15. Choose the output settings that you want and then click Send.
16. You will see NMEA messages being output to the Debug View window (excluding LX200 commands).
17. The GPS-6010/LX is now configured and will maintain these settings as long as the internal battery is charged. Once the battery is discharged the output settings will revert to the default update rates listed below.