Losmandy Gemini 2 Level 6

 

Overview

Level 6 is a new firmware release for the Gemini 2 astronomical computer from Losmandy. It the most significant firmware release since the Gemini 2 was released in 2012. The new firmware includes enhanced performance, new features and improved stability, and is joined by updates to drivers and other companion software.

New Features, Enhancements, and Fixes

  • New 4x high resolution mode, refines tracking resolution to 0.14” precision, 4x more resolution than Level 5
  • Enhanced Lunar and Solar tracking for longer and more accurate object tracking
  • New meridian Flip Points feature for easier meridian flip configurations when doing automated imaging
  • New continuous tracking of satellites comets and other small objects via variable MoveAxis rate. Great for applications like Sky Track
  • Gemini Telescope.net) New terminal mode for typing commands directly to the Gemini (auto calculates and appends command checksum)
  • Improved DHCP support (good for travel routers and faster network changes)
  •   New troubleshooting log generation (collects and zips all relevant logs and settings)
  • New dual system control: Control 2 Gemini units from one computer
  • Updated GFU (Gemini Firmware Updater) with new features for easier incremental firmware updates to Gemini and hand controller
  • Syncing date/time with computer now supports UTC only (removes need for updating timezone/daylight savings)
  • New JPL Horizons integration for accurate GoTo and tracking of planets, solar, lunar, comets, satellites, and other NEOs
  • Option to use Hour Angle for GoTo (Gemini Telescope.net)
  • Enhanced serial command set
  • Many bug fixes and minor enhancements to improve reliability and ease of use

 

Frequently Asked Questions

When will it be available?

L6 has been in limited customer beta since 2022 and is expected to be available in May 2023

You mentioned companion applications. What else has been updated?

This update includes a number of new firmware and software updates, including:

  • Gemini L6 firmware
  • Hand controller firmware
  • Servo firmware
  • Gemini Telescope.net ASCOM/virtual hand controller software (developed and maintained by Paul Kanevsky and supported by Losmandy)
  • Indi driver (Indi is not directly supported by Losmandy, but Losmandy owner Jamie Amendolagine has done a super job updating the driver to be compatible with Level 6)
  • Gemini Firmware Updater (GFU) utility

What is the servo firmware and why does it require a special programmer? Can I upgrade to Level 6 without updating the servos?

The servo chips directly run the motors, and are responsible for things like tracking, slewing, etc. In order to support increased resolution, the servo motor control software (i.e., the servo firmware) had to be updated. In order to update the servo chips, a special type of software uploader (“pic programmer”) is needed. It’s a one-time update and is required to use Level 6 firmware.

 

What is the price of the firmware upgrade?

The firmware is free. Depending on how you want to upgrade, you may choose to purchase tools or services to help with your upgrade, but those are optional

 

What options do I have to upgrade?

You have three options for upgrading to the new firmware.
First is DIY: you can access the firmware and instructions, and use your own pic programmer to update your Gemini 2 with community support.

Second is a kit we offer for purchase that includes a pic programmer, SD card pre-installed with L6 firmware, and technical support for any questions.

Third is a paid factory service you can send in your Gemini 2 with Hand Controller and have it be updated and tested and returned to you.

 

I have more than one Losmandy mount with Gemini 2. Do I need more than one Upgrade kit?

You only need one Upgrade Kit to update the servo firmware in each of your mounts. The kit only comes with one SD card, so you can either order additional cards or duplicate the card for your other mounts.

 

What about ASCOM support?

The Gemini ASCOM driver and soft controller application (aka “Gemini Telescope.net”) has been significantly upgraded with L6 support and a host of new features.

 

What about Indi support?

The Losmandy Indi driver has also been updated to support L6 as well. Although Indi is a community authored and supported driver, Losmandy has assisted with the revision process.

 

Which Gemini units does L6 work with?

Level 6 has been tested to be backwards compatible with virtually all Gemini 2 units, including Gemini 2 mini and the original Gemini 2 “tall boy”. It is not compatible with the Gemini 1. Any mount the works with the Gemini 2 will be compatible (e.g, GM8, GM811, G11, G11T, Titan)

 

I ordered a new mount and it has not yet shipped. Will the new unit contain Level 5 or Level 6 firmware?

Mount orders that are pending will ship with Level 5. You can change this and have it ship with Level 6, but please be aware there will be an additional $200 charge (the price of the mount is increasing when level 6 is released) and it will likely delay shipment of your order until Level 6 is released. If you prefer to have your mount ship with Level 6, please contact Losmandy either via email (tanyak@losmandy.com) or call the shop during business hours (M-F 9-5 pacific time 747-283-1075)

Hollywood General Machining, Inc.
416 N. Varney St.
Burbank, CA 91502
(747)283-1075 FAX (747)283-1078