Foster Systems
Serving astronomers and observatories worldwide
ASCOM Standards
Copyright © 2007-2009 Foster Systems, LLC All Rights Reserved.

Download Center
Note: The AstroMC Dashboard Version 1.9.4 RC1 is now available. This is the Wndows 7 compatible version. We are keeping Version
1.9.3 posted on the Download Center for 3 months in case you have difficulty with 1.9.4. In that regard, we have set up a special email
(Win7@FosterSystems.com) for your comments and bug reports.


Product Series

AstroMC Dashboard Version 1.9.3
(Interfaces with the AMC-100 Hub)
AstroMC Dashboard Setup.zip

This is the full version of AstroMC Dashboard software that operates only in concert with the AMC-100, AMC-100s or AMC-100b. Like the
WeatherSentry companion, the Dashboard also integrates Boltwood I/II (both direct connect and networked), the AMC-101 AstroAlert
weather monitor, and Extech RH401. It provides monitoring of sky conditions and trends, setting the Weather Safe flag to (Unsafe), when
conditions have sufficiently deteriorated to be of concern, and to (Safe) once Clear conditions have returned continuously for a user
specified time. This complete version also controls observatory power either directly, through the RoboFocus power accessory, and up to 3
AMC-102a CPS power controllers/strips (US and international voltages).

The Dashboard controls 3 varieties of Roll-off-Roof and 4 separate switches for controlling low voltage master power (e.g. 6 VDC, 12
VDC, 24 VDC). Integrated support for the Pier-Tech motorized pier is included. When ambient temperature and humidity data is available,
it will control your dew management equipment to prevent fogging. It has a "safety loop" that expects a normally closed wire loop for roof
movement. The Dashboard integrates the AMC-103 Prime Power monitor and up to 6 AMC-105 AtPark monitors

And we've included the ability to send text message and email alerts for up to 12 user selected observatory and weather conditions.


AstroMC Dashboard Version 1.9.4 RC2 Windows 7 Compatible Version
(Interfaces with the AMC-100 Hub)
AstroMC Dashboard RC2 Setup.zip


This is a Release Candidate (RC) of the AstroMC Dashboard that includes Wndows 7 compatibility. It should also work well for Windows
XP and Windows Vista. This release has a few moew cosmetic changes for our new Dome Rotation and Shutter controller as well as our
new Version 2 Roll off Roof controller. A fix for Boltwood II has been added. It also includes a reformulation of the Weather Unsafe condition
logic.

In using this release, if you observe any issues, please email us at: Win7@FosterSystems.com


Latest Firmware for (V)2 Dome and Roof hardware... 18 August 2010
(Installs on AMC100(V)2 hardware)
Latest (V)2 Firmware.zip

This folder contains the latest release of firmware for the new Version 2 Dome and Roll off Roof hardware. Updating the board firmware is
now easier than ever using your in place serial communications with the PC. It is important to keep your firmware and software up to date
so that we can address any issues that may arise.


Drivers

AstroAlert Driver Version 1.1.3
AstroMC AstroAlert Driver Setup.zip

This is the driver for the AMC-101 AstroAlert weather monitor when integrated in standalone mode using our AMC-100M mini-Hub. The
AMC-101 can be configured as a Rain Detector with Ambient Light only. Options include: Sky Temperature, Ambient Temperature and
Humidity, and Wind Conditions. This Driver supports the standalone method of integration which requires an AMC-100M. For users of our
AMC-100, AMC-100s and AMC-100b series hardware, the AMC-101 plugs directly into those hubs, so this driver is not required.

- Addition of sky temperature smoothing
- Update to address occasional high CPU
- Maintenance Release MR4


AtPark Monitor Standalone Driver Version 1.0.0
AtPark SD Setup.zip

This is the driver for the AMC-105 AtPark monitor when integrated in standalone mode using our AMC-100M. The AtPark Driver allows
you to set correct at park readings for up to 6 monitors. For users of our AMC-100, AMC-100s and AMC-100b series hardware, the
AMC-101 plugs directly into those hubs, so this driver is not required.

- Initial Release


Extech RH401 Driver Version 1.7.0
RH401 Setup.zip

The AstroMC Extech RH401 offers Ambient Temperature, Relative Humidity and Sky Temperature. The Driver allows you to set thresholds
on Sky Temperature and it will trigger an ASCOM Unsafe condition for your telescope control program. The driver also produces the
one-line Boltwood IIDriver is used in connection with AstroMC and AstroMC WeatherSentry products.

The Extech RH401 hardware requires a special interface cable which is available from us (Item #1208) or from your Extech dealer. It is a
modified RS-232 serial cable that expects a DB-9 type connector on your PC.

A USB to RS-232 adapter is available from Foster Systems on this website.

- Direct integration with ACP, CCD Commander, and CCD Autopilot

Integration Toolbox


FTP Server
FTP Setup.zip

This is a free server for private use. FTP servers are useful in remote observation to upload your images safely and securely. Please
conform to the requirements of this server's licensing. One caution.... Web enabled robot software scanners constantly attempt to invade
your server for nefarious purposes. ALWAYS use a long userid and password, and DO NOT allow anonymous logins.


Windows USB converter driver
USB Driver Setup.zip

This is the latest driver for our USB converters. It also supports Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7.


CPS Power Control Driver
CPS Driver Setup.zip

The CPS Power Control is integrated with the Dashboard via its own USB interface. This driver allows the CPS series of power controls
and power strips to be integrated with your PC and therefore with the Dashboard. This driver is a product of CPS, Inc. (CPScom.com) and
is provided as a courtesy.


Graph Front End
Graph FrontEnd.zip

This handy front end software reads Boltwood one-line format (locally or over the local network) and provides a suitable interface for the
Croman Graphing Program.
Copyright © 2007-2010 Foster Systems, LLC All Rights Reserved.
Foster Systems
Serving astronomers and observatories worldwide