MiniPC - Considerations for image aquisition - Forums

Topic starter

Sep 21, 2021 · Edited: Sep 21, 2021

Hi,

so I am thinking about demoting my field Laptop to TeamViewer client and run my rig off a mini pc. The options seem to differ widely, with many no-name entry models offering USB3, ~256GB SSD and 4K output + Celeron CPUs for around 200€. Then there are the Intel NUCs, which cost about twice that, but offer more desktop grade CPUs (i.e. i5) and on-board GPUs.

My question is therefore:

Would I run into issues with a Celeron and something like ‎Intel UHD Graphics 600 in terms of download speeds and live viewing? As far as software is concerned, I would be running PHD and NINA.

Hardware-wise, I am using a QHY 268M, so 24MP images via USB3.

Thanks for any feedback. And if there are other considerations I should be aware of, feel free to add them.

Cheers,
Marc

Well Written Respectful Engaging

Christian Großmann

Sep 21, 2021 · Edited: Sep 21, 2021

Hi Marc,

I am using an Asus PN40 Mini PC with a Celeron for deep sky. I bought a 16GB Version, because I ran some other tools in the background. Personally I had no issues with that PC. I put it in a waterproof case and installed it permanently on a fence. Then I just plug the cables of the Rig into it. It was a bit of a pain to get all the connectors waterproof, but it works.

I use the PC without a monitor. I just use a remotedesktop connection for it. I installed TeamViewer as second option to connect to it, if Windows does something weired to my settings.

If you don't want to process your images with it, it will work. Otherwise it may be a bit weak. I used an old Lenovo ThinkPad X240 (it is still my mobile option) for image capturing and never had issues.
I hope, this may help…

Clear Skies

Christian

Helpful Supportive

Sean van Drogen

Sep 21, 2021

Run the same softwarefrom a cheap fanless PC from a store that shall not be named in China.
Its an i5 7200U dual core with 8GB ram and 512GB SSD and WiFi. It came WIN10 pro so remote desktop included. It runs like a dream for me and i can remote in from the nice warm living room to see how things progress.
For living viewing it is limited as i look at it through a small mini ipad screen but its more to check guiding is going well and no errors are thrown.
I use ASI183MM so 21MP.
All in all cost me a little under 300 euro before the new import taxes where put in place.

If i RDP from my desktop the view is also not the greatest but think mostly a limitation on the WiFI speed, i could run a cable out there but i dont liveview that much.

Cheers,
Sean

Helpful

D. Jung

Sep 21, 2021 · Edited: Sep 21, 2021

I'm using this one. Works perfect. I attached it to the scope and it runs the guide camera, main camera, focuser and telescope controls without any problems.

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001291708574.html

Matthew Russell

Sep 21, 2021 · Edited: Sep 22, 2021

Hi Marc,

I'm using an Intel NUC i7, 1gb SSD & 32gb RAM on one of my setups. It's a rocket and have been very pleased with it. It is mounted directly on top of the telescope. Obviously, no monitor is used, but I did install a cheap accessory called a display emulator so you don't run into problems sometimes using RDP or other programs.

Matt

Helpful

John

Sep 22, 2021

i use a Zbox Nano,does the job well and no issues with cold or getting wet from the dawn.

you should add enough memory,8 or 16 gig is good enough.

Marc

Topic starter

Sep 22, 2021 · Edited: Sep 22, 2021

Thanks for the feedback. I think my biggest concern here is actually the cost, just bought a ton of new gear and want to at least safe a few measily bucks on the PC

Michel Makhlouta

Sep 22, 2021

I got a minipc from amazon, branded as hunsn, Core I5 8250U, 8GB, 128GB drive. I got this specific one for two reasons: it runs off a 12V input (very convenient and powered through my pegasus powerbox) and it has passive cooling, no fans, no vibrations. And since the case itself acts as a heatsink, no dew

It has an external antenna for wifi, comes with win10 pro (so rdp is there, which I rely on) and it runs sharpcap/sgp/phd2/stargo/pegasus flawlessly, even platesolving is quick. And it comes with 4 usb3 and 4 usb2 ports.

Helpful

Marc

Topic starter

Sep 22, 2021

Oh that one looks excellent, a bit more "industrial" than those smooth hipster boxes

Never showed up when I searched for mini pcs on Amazon.. only when entering the brand name. Thanks, might actually go for that one…

Michel Makhlouta

Sep 22, 2021

this is the one I got to be specific, there are many hunsn mini pc's it gets confusing:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GPR4DYR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

there are versions with serial ports and whatnot, i don't see any use for them though

autonm

Sep 22, 2021

Michel Makhlouta:
this is the one I got to be specific, there are many hunsn mini pc's it gets confusing:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GPR4DYR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

there are versions with serial ports and whatnot, i don't see any use for them though

@Michel Makhlouta
Are you able to post a image of how this sits / attaches to your scope?
I also have a pegasus powerbox - so with this having a 12v option its attractive.

Many thanks if you can post an image.

Michel Makhlouta

Sep 22, 2021

@Michel Makhlouta
Are you able to post a image of how this sits / attaches to your scope?
I also have a pegasus powerbox - so with this having a 12v option its attractive.

Many thanks if you can post an image.

it's big and heavy to sit on a the scope, disadvantage of being fanless I guess. and I have 3 scopes that I switch in between, so my minipc sits on the "thing" connecting the 3 tripod legs, and my pegasus powerbox sits on one of the tripod legs. It's not what most people aim for, but this works for me as it is very easy and quick to switch telescopes.

Here's an older photo, my cable management got a bit better

Jonny Bravo

Sep 22, 2021

I use a Beelink, which runs off of 12V power. It is J4125 Celeron based with 8G RAM, 256GB SSD. I have had no issues whatsoever running NINA, PHD2, SharpCap on it. It was around $200 USD. It sips power, too. My entire rig is powered off a Jackery 500. That's my mount, my 294MM Pro, mini PC, 2 dew heater straps, guide cam, EFW, Pegasus FocusCube2, etc. All of it driven by a Pegasus Pocket Powerbox Advance, so I've got a single cable running from my mount to the battery.

The hottest I've ever seen it run was with the camera's cooler at 100% and the dew heater straps also at 100% and it was around 45W. Normally, I'm around 30W give or take.

I think you'll be fine with something like a Beelink. I have found mine to be more than good enough for image acquisition. However, if you're running off of mains power and don't care about the usage because it's unlimited, there's definitely nothing wrong with an i5-based NUC if you can stomach the price

Well Written Helpful Insightful Engaging Supportive

autonm

Sep 22, 2021

I use a Beelink, which runs off of 12V power. It is J4125 Celeron based with 8G RAM, 256GB SSD. I have had no issues whatsoever running NINA, PHD2, SharpCap on it. It was around $200 USD. It sips power, too. My entire rig is powered off a Jackery 500. That's my mount, my 294MM Pro, mini PC, 2 dew heater straps, guide cam, EFW, Pegasus FocusCube2, etc. All of it driven by a Pegasus Pocket Powerbox Advance, so I've got a single cable running from my mount to the battery.

The hottest I've ever seen it run was with the camera's cooler at 100% and the dew heater straps also at 100% and it was around 45W. Normally, I'm around 30W give or take.

I think you'll be fine with something like a Beelink. I have found mine to be more than good enough for image acquisition. However, if you're running off of mains power and don't care about the usage because it's unlimited, there's definitely nothing wrong with an i5-based NUC if you can stomach the price ;).

.with your setup - how many hours are you getting off the Jackery 500? I was thinking of buying one... thanks

Jonny Bravo

Sep 22, 2021

.with your setup - how many hours are you getting off the Jackery 500? I was thinking of buying one... thanks

My setup typically runs at about 30W. I also don't image from dusk to dawn simply because I can't leave my rig unattended. The Jackery 500 provides more than enough juice for my needs. As an example, earlier this month I setup around 8:30pm and imaged until around 3:00am. When I brought things back inside, the Jackery reported 62% battery life remaining.

However, don't take my experiences as any indication of how it will behave for you. Your best bet is to get a Kill-A-Watt or something similar to measure the actual power draw of your own system. Then, base your battery on the average draw by how many hours you want it to run. Throw in a bit of a buffer because conditions can change the effectiveness of the battery (i.e. very cold weather might have an impact).

Well Written Helpful

autonm

Sep 22, 2021

.with your setup - how many hours are you getting off the Jackery 500? I was thinking of buying one... thanks

My setup typically runs at about 30W. I also don't image from dusk to dawn simply because I can't leave my rig unattended. The Jackery 500 provides more than enough juice for my needs. As an example, earlier this month I setup around 8:30pm and imaged until around 3:00am. When I brought things back inside, the Jackery reported 62% battery life remaining.

However, don't take my experiences as any indication of how it will behave for you. Your best bet is to get a Kill-A-Watt or something similar to measure the actual power draw of your own system. Then, base your battery on the average draw by how many hours you want it to run. Throw in a bit of a buffer because conditions can change the effectiveness of the battery (i.e. very cold weather might have an impact).

Thanks .. just priced a Kill-A-Watt .. £70 / $95 found a cheaper one via Amazon for £14 ... probably just use it the one off. But thanks will look into it.
My hours would be similar - if I image in my garden i have power via a house socket... however this is to cover me as 50 minuts drive I'm in Bortle 4 zone - which is what I am trying to get myself towards.

Thanks

John Sim

Sep 23, 2021

Hi Marc,
I use a Celeron based Intel NUC mounted on the OTA to control my imaging. In my case it is a series 6 NUC with a Celeron J3455 and has Intel graphics. I use it only for this purpose and remote in to it (via VNC in my case), I've never had any performance issues. I do have 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD which give plenty of headroom. It runs SGP, PHD2, CdC, EQMOD and PegasusAstro PPB monitor. In fact I have 3 rigs each with a similar spec NUC, never had any issues - except perhaps with some of the bigger Windows 10 updates which would certainly complete quicker with a faster CPU. However I use a dedicated wi-fi network for the rigs and internet access is disabled - except when I specifically want to run updates which I do during the day.
I chose Intel because I trusted the brand and believed they would honour any warranty claim (I haven't had to make any claim) and thought these Celeron NUCs are really quite good value. If you do go for a NUC, you can also check out the availability of "NUC lids": these are custom lids made by 3rd parties for Intel NUCs which bring out ports on the NUC's motherboard: e.g. the boxy Celeron NUCs have 4 USB ports on the casing but there are headers for another 2 USB ports on the motherboard and you can get a lid which presents these additional 2 ports.

cheers
John

Helpful Engaging Supportive

gordoabc

Sep 29, 2021

I just upgraded from a Raspberry Pi4 to an Asus pn51 mini pc. It’s a ryzen 8 core which I equipped with an Samsung EvoPlus 1 TB SSD and 64GB RAM. It’s overkill just for imaging but I can also do processing using Astropixelprocessor on it. I am running Ubuntu 20.04 and kstars/ekos, firecapture, planetarysystemstacker, and astropixelprocessor.

Helpful

Paolo

Sep 29, 2021

I use a Beelink GK-Mini (Intel J4125, 8GB ram, 128GB ssd). Paid something around 220 Eur, works perfectly with Linux+Kstars/PHD2/PI (for live stacking)/etc

Maciej

Sep 29, 2021 · Edited: Sep 29, 2021

Michel Makhlouta:
I got a minipc from amazon, branded as hunsn, Core I5 8250U, 8GB, 128GB drive. I got this specific one for two reasons: it runs off a 12V input (very convenient and powered through my pegasus powerbox) and it has passive cooling, no fans, no vibrations. And since the case itself acts as a heatsink, no dew

It has an external antenna for wifi, comes with win10 pro (so rdp is there, which I rely on) and it runs sharpcap/sgp/phd2/stargo/pegasus flawlessly, even platesolving is quick. And it comes with 4 usb3 and 4 usb2 ports.

I will recommend the same. Cheap PC , but configuration is fitting to our needs. Native COM port for mounts, four USB 3.0 port is more than enough for most of users. Maxim DL, FocusMax, ASA DDM Autoslew, Sequence, ASCOM - running smoothy and efectively. WIN 10 Pro installed - so you can use Remote Desktop- free tool. Team Viewer sometimes sending messages " You are using this pc for commercial purposes " (or something like this) and breaking connection.

Damien Finlayson

Sep 29, 2021

Hi Marc

I've got a little Beelink T45 mimi PC sitting on my rig (about US$250). It's fanless and runs off 12V so is powered through my Pocket Powerbox with USB ports for all my connections and is Wifi enabled so I run it using Remote Desktop from inside the house. Comes Windows 10 installed and I have all my aquisition programs on it (NINA, APT, PHD2, Polemaster) on it - no problems. Data is saved to the internal drive by my programs and I transfer files across to an SD card so I just need to pull that out at the end of a session and transfer files to my processong computer back in the house. Easy. Now of course there are stick PCs available as another option.

Cheers
Damien

Helpful Engaging

Steve Clark

Oct 3, 2021 · Edited: Oct 3, 2021

I bought this for the wife but thought I'd try it on the telescope platform to see how it would perform. It worked so well I'm now using it instead of the bigger mini I had. It's running all my gear remotely without any hiccups. I've used it for five full nights so far. I do use the micro SD as it is convenient to just take that into the office to download the images. It's running wireless, RDT, NINA, PHD2, Cameras (ASI1600 with EFW, ASI2600MC & a ASI174 as a OAG guider) and focuser also Stellarum and GS.Point3D
...MeLE Fanless 4K Mini PC Intel Celeron J4125 Quad Core 8GB 128GB Windows 10 Desktop Computer Dual HDMI 2.4G/5G Dual-band WiFi SSDI....
Make sure it's the J4125 Quad Core before buying. I hear the earlier Celerons were not up to the task.

bought it here, a fast delivery...only about a week to get it.

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002487769084.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.1c0c4c4drFMszh

Helpful

Marc

Topic starter

Oct 25, 2021

Just an update - I ended up getting the pc recommended by Michel (Hunsn). A couple of considerations that tipped the scale for me:

- CNC machined aluminium (no brittle plastics)
- passive cooling (totally quiet, less points of failure)
- external WiFi antennas (leaves options to put in a box and feed antennas through a hole - but wasn't needed in the end, i.e. gets a good signal from inside of a plastic box)

It's an i5 with 8GB Ram, 256GB SSD storage and Windows 10 Pro. Last night I was able, for the first time, to sit in the study and operate my setup from the comfort of a warm chair using Remote Desktop

It's truly a game changer for me…no more freezing my butt off

Helpful Engaging Supportive

John O'Mahony

Oct 25, 2021

Hi Marc

I have started using a Mele Quieter 2 fanless mini PC with a quad core Celeron J series chip. It comes with 128gb of storage an 8GB of memory as standard. It has an SD card reader and a free M2 slot which I upgraded with a 500GB M2 card for storage. It has four USB3 slots and Windows Pro. Combined with a wireless keyboard and a 1080p USB monitor it uses about 10 Watts of power in the field. No issues running APT and PhD. It doubles as a streaming PC for 4K video when not on the mount or when it clouds over. I paid about $350 Aussie from Amazon. There are cheaper ones available.

John

Helpful

Tristan Campbell

Oct 25, 2021

About 6 months ago I bought a really cheap Beelink GK55 Mini PC with J4125 processor and 8gb ram/windows 10 pro. It works a treat and is much better than the 20 meter USB cables I had been using. It runs SGP/PHD2 perfectly but it's not quite fast enough for high speed planetary so I only use it for deep space.

Helpful