nullThe MaxDome II dome controller provides flexible, fully integrated observatory dome control. Features include: ASCOM-Standard dome and telescope interfaces Support for Automadome Slave dome rotation to your telescope Rotation-only and full shutter-and-rotation systems available Single or dual shutter operation, with sequencing Wireless shutter control – no unreliable sliding contacts Direct confirmation of shutter open/closed state Safety interlocks automatically close dome upon loss of data from PC Park-before-close option to avoid mechanical interferences Manual override controls for shutter and rotation control Auxiliary auto-close inputs for Boltwood Cloud Sensor or other observatory protection hardware Easily adapted to custom or commercial observatory domes Directly compatible with Sirius Observatories Directly drives 12VDC motors up to 5A. Can operate other motor types through external relays. Field-upgradable firmware A full MaxDome installation includes two identical controller boards. The main board, which controls dome rotation, connects to the controlling PC. A second identical board, riding on the rotating dome and powered by a solar-charged battery (not included), operates the shutters. A wireless inductive link provides constant communications between the two boards, allowing for full control and status monitoring. This eliminates the need for clumsy and trouble-prone electrical contacts. MaxDome Block Diagram MaxDome II Software/Drivers MaxDome II Software/Drivers and user manual are distributed on a USB stick included with the product. They are also available by download via the Downloads tab on this page. Downloads User’s Manual Installation and operation instructions for the MaxDome II Dome Control System. Link MaxDome II Drivers version 2.80 The latest driver release for the MaxDome II Dome Control System. Note: requires firmware version 2.60 or later. DownloadMaxDome II Firmware version 2.60 The latest firmware release for the MaxDome II Dome Control System. Note: Please see the user manual for instructions on how to update your firmware! DownloadMaxDome II INDI Drivers Linux drivers for the MaxDome II Dome Control System. Link MaxDome II TheSkyX drivers Windows, OS X, RPI-3, and Linux Ubuntu drivers for the MaxDome II Dome Control System. Source code is available. Link MaxDome I Drivers Drivers for the original MaxDome I system DownloadAdditional Resources Suggested circuit for using external relays to control an AC powered motor. Installation should be performed by a qualified electrician only. DownloadSuggested circuit for using external relays to control a DC motor requiring current over 5A, or one that does not work with 12V. Download
