Arduino ASCOM Focuser Pro DIY

myFocuserPro is an ASCOM and Moonlite compatible stepper motor telescope focus controller (DIY) based on Arduino Nano/Uno. A popular DIY ASCOM focuser with more than 121,000+ downloads.

(c) Copyright Robert Brown 2014-2024. All Rights reserved.
Permission is granted for personal and Academic use only.

Spreadsheet to calculate what stepper motor to use.
https://sourceforge.net/projects/arduinoascomfocuserpro2diy/files/Documentation/Nema-Stepper-Motors.xlsx/download

Features

ASCOM driver tested with FocusMax, Nebulosity 4.1.1, APT v3.13 and ScopeFocus
Supported Driver Boards - A4998, ULN2003, L293D, L298N, DRV8825, EasyDriver, ST6128, RAPS128, TMC2225/2209
Software - Windows Application, ASCOM driver, INDI moonlite driver
Create using stripboard layout or using PCB design
Tested with INDI moonlite driver under Ubuntu and Ekos
Tested on MacBook with TheSky and Moonlite driver
Manual or full automated remote control (eg focusmax)
Manual control by Push Buttons, Infra-red controller, rotary encoder
Manual zero position (hold down both push buttons for 2 seconds) or via application/ASCOM driver
Arduino code, ASCOM driver and Windows Application support for all build options
Multiple Language support
LED indications for IN, OUT (optional) and external PWR
LCD1602/I2C display (optional) for positional information (Current and Target positions)
Temperature probe support (optional - DS18B20 accurate to 0.5 degree)
Reverse voltage protection on 12VDC input
Option1: 28BYJ-48 Stepper Motor and ULN2003 driver board using Arduino Nano
Option2: NEMA17HS15-0404S-PG5 Stepper Motor and L293D Motor Shield using Arduino Uno
Option3: NEMA17 and DRV8825 driver board - up to 6400 steps per revolution!
Option4: NEMA17 and EASYDRIVER board - up to 1600 steps per revolution
Specify Reverse Direction, Coil Power, Stepping mode in either ASCOM or Windows application
Important focuser parameters stored in controller EEPROM and retrieved when driver/application connects
Full build instructions, diagrams, test scripts, comprehensive manual, bracket design and more
Detailed instructions on initial setup, operation and selection of stepper motors
Full parts list with suppliers, costs and build options
Bluetooth Wireless adapter HC05 option

Project Samples

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packetnarc Posted 2021-10-27

Fantastic work and a joy to build this. Not so much a cost exercise, but yes, the commercial alternatives are all at least 200+. This was fun. Would love to work with someone to test this on a Teensy.
jongarrod Posted 2019-03-10

If you have any level of electronics knowledge (can hold a soldering iron) and can handle a little DIY this is a great project. A fraction of the cost of a commercial solution and you can make whatever you need. I am hanging some pretty heavy camera gear on my scope so I could choose a high torque motor to handle the load. The community here has been great too with a special shout out to Rob.
robomort Posted 2018-10-10

If you were thinking of buying an aftermarket focus controller but scared off by the silly prices then look no further, this project and it's V2 version simply can not be beaten on cost or functionality. The developer is very responsive to help and feature requests.
mike1491 Posted 2018-09-09

This is one of the easiest and most cost effective astronomy projects you can build. Works well with the Moonlight driver. Saves hundreds.
jmlagares Edited 2016-05-04

Great project. Full professional focuser with many different options. The author maintains the project updated and he is always ready to answer any suggestions or queries. Thank you very much for sharing this project.