1. Introduction
The Terrans Industry Onstep SHC Smart Hand Controller V2 is designed to provide intuitive and precise control for Onstep-compatible astronomical mounts. Featuring an ergonomic design, a clear OLED display, and robust construction, this controller enhances your astronomical photography and observation experience.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your retailer.
- SHC Smart Hand Controller V2
- RJ11 Control Cable
- USB Upgrade Cable
- Quick Start Guide / Button Functions Card
- Metal Hook (may be pre-attached or included separately)
Image: SHC Smart Hand Controller V2 and its accessories, including cables and quick start guide, shown in packaging.
Image: Contents of the SHC Smart Hand Controller V2 package laid out, including the controller, RJ11 cable, USB cable, and quick start guide.
3. Product Overview
3.1 Features
- Ergonomic Design: Length 94mm, Width 50mm, Thickness 20mm for comfortable grip.
- Durable Construction: Metal body ensures longevity.
- Intuitive Interface: Silicone buttons for tactile feedback.
- Clear Display: 1.54-inch OLED screen, designed with a red filter for optimal nighttime use.
- Auxiliary LED: For additional illumination.
- Versatile Connectivity: Universal RJ11 port compatible with Onstep systems (ensure line sequence and program match original open-source version).
- Firmware Upgradable: Dedicated USB port for convenient firmware updates.
- Portable: Equipped with a metal hook for easy attachment and storage.
Image: Front view of the SHC Smart Hand Controller V2, highlighting its metal body, auxiliary LED, silicone buttons, and 1.54-inch OLED display.
Image: The SHC Smart Hand Controller V2 held in a hand, demonstrating its ergonomic size and comfortable grip.
Image: The SHC Smart Hand Controller V2 hanging from a tripod mount, showcasing its integrated metal hook for convenient storage and access.
3.2 Components and Controls
Image: Two angled views of the SHC Smart Hand Controller V2, showing the front panel with display and buttons, and the side profile.
Image: A detailed view of the SHC Smart Hand Controller V2, with labels indicating the functions of each button and port, including the OLED display, LED, directional pad, F1/F2 buttons, Upgrade port, and Control/ONSTEP port.
- OLED Display: Shows tracking speed (e.g., "20x 1/2x"), Right Ascension (RA), Declination (Dec), and other status information.
- LED Indicator: Red LED for auxiliary light or status.
- Directional Pad: N (North), E (East), S (South), W (West) for movement, and a central button for selection/confirmation.
- F1 Button: Function button 1.
- F2 Button: Function button 2.
- Upgrade Port (USB): Located on the bottom, connects to a computer for firmware upgrades.
- Control/ONSTEP Port (RJ11): Located on the bottom, connects to the Onstep control box.
- Metal Hook: Located on the top, for hanging the controller.
Image: Bottom view of the SHC Smart Hand Controller V2, clearly showing the USB Upgrade port and the RJ11 Control/ONSTEP port.
4. Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the SHC Smart Hand Controller V2 and all accessories from its packaging.
- Connecting to Mount:
- Locate the RJ11 Control/ONSTEP Port on the bottom of the SHC controller.
- Connect one end of the provided RJ11 cable to this port.
- Connect the other end of the RJ11 cable to the corresponding ONSTEP control box port on your astronomical mount.
- Important: Do not connect the USB Upgrade Port and the RJ11 Control Port simultaneously during normal operation.
- Powering On: The controller typically draws power from the Onstep control box once connected. The OLED display should illuminate.
- Initial Check: Verify that the display shows relevant information (RA, Dec, tracking speed) and that the directional buttons respond to input.
5. Operating Instructions
- Power On/Off: The controller powers on automatically when connected to a powered Onstep control box. To power off, disconnect from the control box.
- Navigation and Movement:
- Use the Directional Pad (N, E, S, W) to move the telescope mount in the respective directions.
- The Center Button within the directional pad typically acts as a selection or confirmation button.
- Speed Control: The display shows the current tracking or slewing speed (e.g., "20x 1/2x"). Speed adjustments are usually made through the F1/F2 buttons or menu options.
- Auxiliary LED: Press the LED button (red button) to activate or deactivate the auxiliary light. This is useful for low-light conditions.
- Function Buttons (F1, F2): These buttons are typically programmable or context-sensitive. Refer to your Onstep mount's specific firmware documentation for their exact functions (e.g., changing speed, accessing menus, GOTO commands).
- Firmware Upgrade:
- Disconnect the RJ11 control cable from the controller.
- Connect the USB Upgrade Cable to the USB port on the bottom of the controller and to your computer.
- Follow the instructions provided by Terrans Industry or the Onstep open-source community for firmware upgrade procedures.
- Caution: Ensure only the USB cable is connected during firmware upgrades.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the controller with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the controller in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use.
- Cable Care: Handle cables carefully to prevent damage to connectors or wires.
7. Troubleshooting
- Controller Not Powering On:
- Ensure the RJ11 cable is securely connected to both the controller and the Onstep control box.
- Verify that your Onstep control box is powered on and functioning correctly.
- Check the RJ11 cable for any visible damage.
- No Response from Mount:
- Confirm the controller is powered on.
- Ensure the RJ11 cable is properly connected.
- Check the Onstep control box for error indicators or status lights.
- Verify that the Onstep firmware is compatible with the SHC controller.
- Display Issues:
- If the display is dim or flickering, check power connections.
- If the display shows incorrect information, it might indicate a communication issue with the mount or a need for firmware update/recalibration.
8. Specifications
| Model | SHC Smart Hand Controller V2 |
| Brand | Terrans Industry |
| Dimensions | 94mm (Length) x 50mm (Width) x 20mm (Thickness) |
| Display | 1.54-inch OLED with Red Filter |
| Buttons | Silicone directional pad, F1, F2, LED button |
| Ports | 1 x RJ11 (Control/ONSTEP), 1 x USB (Upgrade) |
| Body Material | Metal |
| Compatibility | Onstep open-source systems (requires matching line sequence and program) |
9. User Tips
- Night Vision: The red-filtered OLED display is specifically designed to preserve your night vision during astronomical observations.
- Customization: Explore the Onstep open-source community resources for potential customizations or advanced functions for the F1/F2 buttons.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check the Terrans Industry or Onstep community websites for new firmware versions to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please contact your retailer or Terrans Industry directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.