Q: What is the difference between AstroLink 4 mini and 4 mini S?
A: Only enclosure has been changed. It is now 3D printed and is available in three different colour versions. All connections and functions remain the same.
Q: AstroLink 4 mini is not detected in the computer Device Manager
A: It may happen, that Windows does not fetch drivers from the Internet automatically, or this option is disabled. In this case you need to disconnect AstroLink from the computer, download and install FTDI drivers ( https://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm ), restart computer and connect AstroLink again.
Q: AstroLink panel software does not start.
A: When you play with AstroLink settings and connect AstroLink device to different computers it may happen and you need to delete local computer AstroLink settings folder. You need to 1) uninstall AstroLink panel software, 2) find c:\Users\<your username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft folder, 3) remove AstroLink4.exe_different_characters_here folder, 4) install AstroLink panel back
Q: What about AstroLink 5?
A: The roadmap for the next year or two is:
– focuser controller integrated with focusing motor
– AstroLink 4 mini with integrated USB hub
Q: AstroLink 4 does not work as expected, what should I do?
A: Check Troubleshooting guide in the manual https://astrojolo.com/astrolink4mini/doc/Troubleshooting.html . Check device with different computer, different cables and different power supply. If the problem remains, contact with us using Contact page.
Q: Why AstroLink 4 does not support microstepping?
A: Microstepping seems to be tempting solution with regards to precision. However it carries its own problems like constant power drain, heating and incremental torque (see more at https://astrojolo.com/astrolink-4-0-mini/focusing-stepper-motor-solutions/ page). Future units (EZ Focuser and AstroLink 5) will natively support microstepping, so you will be able to check this solution by yourselves.
Q: What about INDI support?
A: AstroLink 4 mini and 4 mini S have now dedicated INDI driver. It can be downloaded at https://github.com/astrojolo/astrolink4 page.
Q: Why don’t you 3D print with PLA?
A: PLA is an excellent material for many purposes, and also easy to print. However it gets softer at temperatures 50°C and above. And the temperature at this range is easily reached inside amateur observatories during hot summer days. That’s why currently printed elements are made with PETG and Impact PLA materials, but we also test other ones.
