How to connect several different switch boxes at the same time?

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AstroBernd
Posts: 65
Joined: 17 Mar 2019, 16:23

How to connect several different switch boxes at the same time?

Post by AstroBernd » 09 Sep 2024, 13:18

I am working on the automation of my backyard observatory.
I have used the "Switches" in AstroArt to control my Pegasus Advanced Powerbox (PPBADV) with success. Now, I am going to add an additional switch box (a Lunatico "Dragonfly") to control the observatory itself (It is kind of a roll-off observatory) and to switch on and off the PC and other peripherals in the observatory.
Both boxes come with their own ASCOM driver, which work well on their own or if I select one or the other in AstroArt.

How can I control both boxes in Astro Art? Am I missing something?
I may even add a third box (MGPB) to switch the mount on and off.
Any clever idea is highly appreciated
Thanks in advance
Bernd

fabdev
Posts: 495
Joined: 03 Dec 2018, 21:43

Re: How to connect several different switch boxes at the same time?

Post by fabdev » 11 Sep 2024, 14:06

Hi, supporting two ASCOM switches is an interesting feature which will be added later this year.
However three switches will not be supported. I suggest to purchase a second switch which has sufficient outputs (6+) to control all the equipment.
For the moment, if automation is not required, you could control the second switch with two Astroart installations, as explained here:
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=856&p=3335&hilit=config#p3335
Fabio.

AstroBernd
Posts: 65
Joined: 17 Mar 2019, 16:23

Re: How to connect several different switch boxes at the same time?

Post by AstroBernd » 11 Sep 2024, 15:10

Hello Fabio,
Appreciate your quick Reply. Thanks for picking this up in a future release. I'll be happy to do the beta testing once available.
And yes, I could spare the third switchbox by using an outlet on the Dragonfly, as an example, or use a second AstroArt instance. Not sure yet which way I'll end up with.
Sincerely
Bernd

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