Focus cube running to zero with out of focus camera issue

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Mossyback avatar

I’m using N.I.N.A./Skywatcher Esprit 120 ED/Pegasus Focus Cube and a ASI533 mm camera.

I’ve used this setup for a long time with good success. Last night when trying to focus I’m running to 0 and the focus program shows an error.

If I disconnect the Focuser Cube and manually move the focuser to a mid-point, the camera will be extremely out of focus.

How can I correct this problem?

Hank

Tony Gondola avatar

Disconnect the focus cube coupling, reset it to the middle of it’s range, reconnect the coupling. Do not change the position of the focuser.

andrea tasselli avatar
How's that? Does it have absolute encoders?
Mossyback avatar

Tony, I’m changing the focus cube not the focuser, correct?

Andrea, no encoders.

Hank

andrea tasselli avatar
Tony, I’m changing the focus cube not the focuser, correct?

Andrea, no encoders.

Hank

*So how does it know at what position it is? I mean physically. If it is anything like mine it is because the focuser is slipping or the joint isn't secured anymore so the shaft is rotating freely. So disconnect the said focuser (while the thing is in focus) from the coupling, run it to mid range and reconnect. Done.
Tony Gondola avatar

That’s right. It doesn’t have encoders but it does use a stepper. It’s pretty much the same as the ZWO unit from what I can see.

Well Written
Mossyback avatar

andrea tasselli · Sep 12, 2025 at 04:37 PM

Tony, I’m changing the focus cube not the focuser, correct?

Andrea, no encoders.

Hank


*So how does it know at what position it is? I mean physically. If it is anything like mine it is because the focuser is slipping or the joint isn't secured anymore so the shaft is rotating freely. So disconnect the said focuser (while the thing is in focus) from the coupling, run it to mid range and reconnect. Done.

Done. I disconnected the shaft and changed its position from 0 to 1500. Skies might be clear tonight so I can check it out.