DIY Dome automation?

[JBevan]

Jeff, thank you. I am picking up alot just by exploring the various names and terms that are being thrown around. I am by no means looking at an automation end all. It occurs to me I can physically move the dome as needed during short sessions. All night long forays aren't what I am trying to achieve at this point. Certainly do see where the advantages of more precise automation plays well. It seems to me that just getting the dome to turn at the appropriate speed would be a big first step.

[KathyNS]

Kathy in your case are you using a bipolar or unipolar stepper? If I grasp what I've been reading you are essentially writing the Arduino script to meet your ends (?)

I posted a link to the motor in the other thread. I'm not sure off the top of my head if it is bipolar or unipolar. I'd have to check the specs. As long as the driver module matches the motor, it doesn't matter much.

Yes, I am writing my own Arduino software. I found a nice formula to calculate step timing to produce a uniform acceleration, something that is non-trivial. I also incorporated an automatic rain detection function into the software, something that is important to me for unattended operation. In the event of rain, the dome will park and the shutter will close regardless of any other commands in progress.