Introducing the MKS 4000 Control System for the Paramount ME

What's in the MKS 4000?

In addition to having virtually every feature of the earlier model MKS 3000 control system, the MKS 4000 boasts the following new features.

• USB and/or serial port communication interface (special USB driver maps as the next logical serial port). This means that no USB-to-serial adaptor is required for USB-exclusive computers.

• Temperature compensated oscillator with better than 10 parts per million to ensure accurate tracking over a wide temperature range.

• Built-in thermistor for automatic slew speed adjustment through TheSky6 based on ambient temperature.

• Soft "reboot" capability. This means that the control system can be restarted through software and does not have to be manually turned off, then on.

• Faster, more capable internal processor provides room for future enhancements and mount capabilities.

• The total number of electronic components has been reduced by over thirty percent (compared to the earlier MKS 3000 control system) for a more reliable (that is, less prone to component failure) system.

• The internal flash RAM can be upgraded without the need to set DIP switches. This makes future firmware upgrades simpler.

• New DB9 expansion connector with 2 generic purpose input/output ports for open-ended applications. These pins can either be inputs or outputs and used for user-specific purposes. Software Bisque is soliciting feedback from our Paramount ME customers for the "best use" of these features. Some possible applications include:

• • A 'panic button' input to stop the mount.

  • A slew-complete signal.

  • A timed pulse for camera shutter control.

  • Four general-purpose, high powered driver outputs, which can either be used to drive a DC or stepper focus motor or other astronomical device.

MKS 4000 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MKS 4000? A. MKS 4000 is the name of the dual-axis, DC servomotor controller that is included in the Paramount ME Robotic Telescope System, and in Software Bisque's TheSky Telescope Control System product.

What new features are included in the MKS 4000? A. See the What's New in the MKS 4000 at the top of this page for a list of the new features.

Can a Paramount ME using the MKS 3000 be upgraded to the MKS 4000? A. Yes. Read the remaining FAQs below for details.

What hardware comes with the MKS 4000 upgrade? A. The MKS 4000 upgrade includes a new base panel (adaptor panel) electronic board and a new internal controller board. See the MKS 4000 Photographs to view the new electronics. See the
Paramount ME Electronics Upgrade Instructions document for additional details.

What does the MKS 4000 upgrade cost for existing Paramount ME owners? A. 1,295.00 plus shipping.

How do I order the MKS 4000 upgrade? A. You can purchase the MKS 4000 control system upgrade from the Software Bisque Store

What is the availability of the new MKS 4000 control system upgrade for existing Paramount ME owners? A. Delivery times are approximately 3-4 weeks for the MKS 4000 control system.

Can I install the MKS 4000 electronics? A. Yes. Detailed, step-by-step installation instructions are included in the Paramount ME Electronics Upgrade Instructions document.
There's no need to send the whole mount back to Software Bisque.

Will the telescope have to be removed when replacing the electronics? A. No. However, the elevation of the mount must be adjusted to remove the side panels, so polar alignment will be compromised.

Why should I upgrade to the new control system? A.  Good question! This may be a tough decision.

The earlier model MKS 3000 control system is a very reliable, accurate and powerful control system that should provide years of use. The new MKS 4000 control system gives you even more features (USB port, thermistor, etc.), with fewer electronic components.

In the end, you'll need to decide whether these new features are worth the upgrade cost!

Are there features in MKS 3000 that are not included in the MKS 4000 system? Here are the following differences between the MKS 3000 and the MKS 4000:

1. The 3-line serial “through the mount cabling connector” is no longer available. Because this connector had limited utility (using only 3 lines) it was annexed for access to the two new digital i/o lines and for other future additions. If a 3-conductor connection is needed, a separate serial cable can readily be passed “through-the-mount.”

2. TheSky6 Professional Edition is required to take advantage of the new features in the MKS 4000. That is, TheSky Version 5 Level IV is not backward-compatible with the MKS 4000.

Can my Paramount GT-1100S be upgraded to use the MKS 4000 control system? A. At this time, the MKS 4000 is not compatible with the older model Paramount GT-1100 or the GT-1100S.

Can my Paramount GT-1100 be upgraded to use the MKS 4000 control system? A. At this time, the MKS 4000 is not compatible with the older model Paramount GT-1100 or the GT-1100S.

First Time Paramount ME Customers

Customers who purchase the Paramount ME after May 1, 2004 automatically receive the new MKS 4000 control system with the Paramount ME.  

Existing Paramount ME Owners

If you own a Paramount ME that uses the MKS 3000 control system, you can purchase the MKS 4000 control system upgrade from the Software Bisque Store.  Delivery time is typically 3-4 weeks.

Existing Paramount GT-1100S and GT-1100 Owners

The MKS 4000 control system is not compatible with the Paramount GT-1100S or the GT-1100 model mounts.