The USB filter wheel introduces many new features to a useful imaging accessory. It is unique in that it does not require a separate power supply when used with USB control - the high performance DC gearmotor runs entirely from the USB supply and consumes less than 100mA. It is also capable of operation from a serial input, or from a switched hand controller, both of which power the wheel from a small dry battery.
The wheel is light and slim, with an easy change system of thumbscrews to swap filter disks without tools. The wheel is available in the following configurations:
- 5 times 2" mounted filters, SCT-thread (input), T2-thread (output)
- 5 times 2" mounted filters, T2-thread (input), T2-thread (output)
- 5 times 50,8mm unmounted filters, SCT-thread (input), M72-thread (output)
- 5 times 50,8mm unmounted filters, SCT-thread (input), T2-thread (output)
- 7 times 1,25" mounted filters, T2-thread (input), T2-thread (output)
- 7 times 1,25" mounted filters, SCT-thread (input), T2-thread (output)
- 7 times 36mm unmounted filters, SCT-thread (input), T2-thread (output)
- 7 times 36mm unmounted filters, T2-thread (input), T2-thread (output)
The input threads are female and oriented towards the telescope. Output threads are male and oriented towards the camera.
Additionally, a variety of threaded adaptors is available - T2, SCT, M48, M54, M56 and M72. The adaptors can be swapped by using a small screwdriver to release three stainless screws and lifting off the adaptor flange. Each flange can be rotated to any angle before locking down, so that you can orient the wheel and camera into the optimum position.
