Camera disconnecting issues ZWO ASI2600MC Pro · Menelaos · ... · 52 · 1169 · 3

johnschnupp 0.90
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Charles Bradshaw:
John Schnupp:
Charles Bradshaw:
Peter Shah (Roboscopes):
Yes I and have experienced this on several ZWO cameras we have at the observatory...  I found they are very sensitive to voltage and don't like to be over or under volts...Our power supplies were running 12.9 -13.6v.... We have  swapped them to a variable supply and turn them down and now we run them at a precisely 12v.
I am not saying this is your problem but worth checking

I am powering the camera from a pegasus power box so i assumed it should have a stable power supply. But i will look into it anyway. Thanks

I used the powerbox and had similar problems.  I now us the power cable provided and don' have issues.  My powerbox is rated at 10A, but it does not seem to supply that.

@Charles  The UPB is rated at 10A but that does not mean it will supply 10A.  If you are connected to a power supply that only supplies 5A then the the UPB can only supply up to the rated current of the supply.

It's connected to a 30A power supply.

Also, don't forget, the 10A rating is combined across all the 12v outputs.   I run my CGEM, ASI2600MC pro, ASI120MM mini, dew heater and focuser (filter is manual change filter drawer) and rarely exceed 5A of total current draw.  If your total current draw across all the devices is less than 10A but the UPB still can't supply that then it might be time to contact Pegasus. =ydpec6ce8fcsignature=ydp84b3e214signatureJohn Schnupp, N3CNL
2007 R1200RT +81,200
1995 XLH 1200 106,495 (retired)
Georgia, VT44.7675°N, 73.1592
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cfbradshaw9373 0.90
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The total current being used, reported by the box, was a total of 4.7A.  This leads me to think that: either the software is incorrectly reporting the current draw or that there is a connector problem adding resistance. In either case, because of the frequent disconnects, I directly connect the camera using its AC to 12VDC power supplied with the camera.  This solves my problem, so far.

Charlie
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Wjdrijfhout 6.78
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Be aware that the outputs of any of the Pegasus Powerboxes as far as I know are not regulated outputs. This means that whatever voltage goes into the powerbox is what comes out of the powerbox (more likely ~0.1V lower). Have you checked the voltage of the power as it comes into the powerbox? What power supply do you use to power the powerbox, does that have a regulated output? And if so, is that adjustable?
If so, the best is to set that output to for example 12.3V or so. By the time it gets to the camera it will be very close to 12V.

I've had very similar problems and it was indeed a voltage-issue (not current). It turned out that the 12V output of my power station was not stabilised and with aging batteries in the power station, at charge levels of 80% and below, voltage levels barely touched 11.6V. Add a few cables and a powerbox, and the camera just did not have enough voltage to work on.

The way I solved it was by including a Buck boost converter between the power station and the powerbox. This regulates the voltage of your signal up or down to the exact voltage level specified (12V in this case). Added benefit it protects against overloads, short circuits etc. It's easier to adjust the output level of your power supply, but if that is not possible, this could be an alternative.
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Marcelof 6.20
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Make sure that the windows ability to disconnect usb ports to save power is turned off.
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AlejoNavarro 1.81
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I have troubles with my 2600MM, but I think is the same problem. The USB 3.0 port.
The camera starts, the fan works, but is not recognized.
Now I changed the cable, and it works, but still with some connection problems. It start, but then goes down. I have to plug it again, and it works fine.
Now i'm taking pictures, but I don't know for how much time.
I'll buy a new cable tomorrow. 
I'll let you know
best regards
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rveregin 8.47
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A lot of good advice here.  I have a few other thoughts to add.

I rarely now have problems with my 2600 MC Pro connection. Here are my solutions so far.

I have trouble with USB3 to my laptop, even if it is a powered cable from a hub, if it is more than 6 ft long, it rarely works at all. I now use an active powered USB2 cable even up to 25 feet with no issues at all–except for a very occassional need to power cycle the camera, very rare though. There is no need to use a USB3 cable unless you are doing planetary imaging, even over 25 feet my downloads from the camera take less than 2 s. USB2 seems to me so much more robust. For planetary get the very best and shortest USB3 that you can use for fast and reliable downloads.

I don't find the USB connection point is robust on my camera, I have it well tied down so it can't easily wiggle out of alignment. Note I stressed the connection at some point with a cable snag, so I've learned how to live with it.

Heat is the enemy of USB cables–again get the best USB cable you can find and as short as possible. Note short exposures are a real stress in the heat, the cable needs time to cool between exposures when it is hot out, otherwise it will cut out.

Is this only a NINA problem?  I use SharpCap (there is a free version), not to suggest you change, but check if other capture software works–so you know where the issue is.
Hope this helps
Rick
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Retrograde 0.00
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Similar to Rick's situation above, My ZWO 2600mc pro doesn't seem to like USB3 cables.

It worked fine with them for a couple of years but now fails to download images at regular intervals when attached to an active 5m USB3 cable - whether direct connected from the laptop to the camera, or via a hub. (I've tried 3 different USB3 cables).

It currently seems to be working flawlessly when connected via a USB2 cable from the laptop to the same hub.
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ojaigsguy 2.41
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All good information.  I had a problem recently and still trying to figure it out.  I too used a pegasus power supply (for cable management).  Ive decided to go back to the supplied ZWO power supply for my 2600MM Pro, despite the cable issues.
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cfbradshaw9373 0.90
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Jeff Bennett:
All good information.  I had a problem recently and still trying to figure it out.  I too used a pegasus power supply (for cable management).  Ive decided to go back to the supplied ZWO power supply for my 2600MM Pro, despite the cable issues.

I know, but the cable issues are easier to handle than power problems.
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jimw85044 3.91
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I haven't looked through all the posts but here's my inputs.

Download / disconnects issues can be caused by:
  • Poor quality USB 2 or 3 cables - ALSO - Using ZWO supplied cables.
  • Cables that are too long.  Cables should be no longer than 1 meter.
  • Not using a powered USB Hub.
  • Incorrect USB Limit - 40 is ideal.
  • MS Windows 11 turning Off USB ports to save power.


Also, the Pegasus Power Box really doesn't like power (voltage) below 12 VDC.  Even 12 volts can cause issues sometimes.  I use 12.8 to 13.4 VDC.
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Menelaos 0.90
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Thank you all for your helpful comments this post has been truly constructive and informative! 
From my side:

- I am using the pegasus power box with their power supply which is supposed to give 12v 10Amps power. According to the power charts provided in the pegasus application it provides around 13V but only around 2-3amps could this be the issue? I have other power supplies that i will put to test and i will try powering that camera directly as well. 

-Also i use the dedicated ZWO cable that came with the camera its not more than 1 meter long so i guess its fine but i will try the USB2 because i only image deep-sky. 

-When using the ASI AIR in general i find the system to be very reliable, but unfortunately it is far less customisable than a mini pc with NINA.

-My camera has coated electronics so no corrosion as far as i can see. I opened it up and checked although i am no expert in electronics.

-I have to make something clear though. When the error appears the camera is still connected i just cannot communicate with it. The pc still recognises that a camera is connected. So i can rule out com port disconnection for power saving or the camera being completely turned off.


Thank you all again for your comments i have a lot of information now to conduct my own experiments and find out the problem.
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Supro 4.37
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I've had this issue on both the 6200 and 2600 models. It turned out to be under volt off my pegasus powerbox. (the advance2 and ultimate v2 both showed this issue). I switched over to a regulated 12v output directly for the camera and the problem hasn't reappeared in a few months.
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ojaigsguy 2.41
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All good now.  I went back to the supplied ZWO original power supply and it works perfectly , although I hate the big power supply so close to my image train.  Is there a way to ensure the pegasus power box maintains the right voltage so I can use it again?  Thanks for the help
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ojaigsguy 2.41
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Nick Grundy:
I've had this issue on both the 6200 and 2600 models. It turned out to be under volt off my pegasus powerbox. (the advance2 and ultimate v2 both showed this issue). I switched over to a regulated 12v output directly for the camera and the problem hasn't reappeared in a few months.

Any suggestions on a "regulated power supply" other than the short cabled ZWO power supply?  Thanks
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Gondola 8.11
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Jeff Bennett:
All good now.  I went back to the supplied ZWO original power supply and it works perfectly , although I hate the big power supply so close to my image train.  Is there a way to ensure the pegasus power box maintains the right voltage so I can use it again?  Thanks for the help

Not sure why that is a problem but as an alternative, I leave my camera power brick attached to the PA axis of my eq6-pro. with Velco straps. At least in my case, the power cable is long enough to follow the scope through all positions without pulling or snagging. If it didn't it could be easily extended. The AC cord is long enough to reach a power strip on the ground underneath the mount tripod. I'm not sure why so many insist on things like this riding on the OTA where it's just adding weight and balance issues.
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cfbradshaw9373 0.90
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Tony Gondola:
Jeff Bennett:
All good now.  I went back to the supplied ZWO original power supply and it works perfectly , although I hate the big power supply so close to my image train.  Is there a way to ensure the pegasus power box maintains the right voltage so I can use it again?  Thanks for the help

Not sure why that is a problem but as an alternative, I leave my camera power brick attached to the PA axis of my eq6-pro. with Velco straps. At least in my case, the power cable is long enough to follow the scope through all positions without pulling or snagging. If it didn't it could be easily extended. The AC cord is long enough to reach a power strip on the ground underneath the mount tripod. I'm not sure why so many insist on things like this riding on the OTA where it's just adding weight and balance issues.

This chain has given me an idea to avoid the power brick.  I have a 12V 30A power supply attached to a Powerwerx connector strip.  I just ordered this: https://powerwerx.com/21mm-straight-coaxial-powerpole-adapter?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=409396682&gbraid=0AAAAAD_u17c1gR01M6JrqCqwYp-zG9_u5 to connect to the ZWO camera from one of the strip output connectors.  The strip is attached to my mount by velcro.
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cfbradshaw9373 0.90
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Charles Bradshaw:
Tony Gondola:
Jeff Bennett:
All good now.  I went back to the supplied ZWO original power supply and it works perfectly , although I hate the big power supply so close to my image train.  Is there a way to ensure the pegasus power box maintains the right voltage so I can use it again?  Thanks for the help

Not sure why that is a problem but as an alternative, I leave my camera power brick attached to the PA axis of my eq6-pro. with Velco straps. At least in my case, the power cable is long enough to follow the scope through all positions without pulling or snagging. If it didn't it could be easily extended. The AC cord is long enough to reach a power strip on the ground underneath the mount tripod. I'm not sure why so many insist on things like this riding on the OTA where it's just adding weight and balance issues.

This chain has given me an idea to avoid the power brick.  I have a 12V 30A power supply attached to a Powerwerx connector strip.  I just ordered this: https://powerwerx.com/21mm-straight-coaxial-powerpole-adapter?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=409396682&gbraid=0AAAAAD_u17c1gR01M6JrqCqwYp-zG9_u5 to connect to the ZWO camera from one of the strip output connectors.  The strip is attached to my mount by velcro.

As a follow up, I found out that Pegasus Astro recommends cables of less than 18 AWG for 5A draws.  However, the cables supplied appear to be 22 AWG, which could be our problem.  The connector I ordered is 18 AWG, which may be marginal.
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hotrabbitsoup 0.00
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Jeff Bennett:
Nick Grundy:
I've had this issue on both the 6200 and 2600 models. It turned out to be under volt off my pegasus powerbox. (the advance2 and ultimate v2 both showed this issue). I switched over to a regulated 12v output directly for the camera and the problem hasn't reappeared in a few months.

Any suggestions on a "regulated power supply" other than the short cabled ZWO power supply?  Thanks

I use two of these,  https://www.amazon.com/HitLights-Adapter-UL-Listed-Transformer-Charger/dp/B00STTOS8Y.   I try to maintain two imaging trains simultaneously when the conditions are good, one with 2600 color the other 2600 mono.  The power supply has a short output cable but I send the output to a distribution box and from there use the single supply to power the camera, mount, focuser, etc.   I sometimes try and run two imaging trains when the conditions are good and use a single 8A supply for each of them. 

I also use 15' USB 3 cables for both setups and I don't have any problems.  These are the cables I'm using: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00821FO5U

I think you could have power or USB cable problems that cause camera disconnects.  In my case the issues only appeared after meridian flips.  I started off each night with good performance and then after the flip would get the disconnect issue on one of cameras.  The physical connection between the power cable and the ZWO camera, the barrel plug or whatever its called, was the source.  As the mount tracked through the night the power cable for the camera got pulled along and when it reached a certain position the power connection got disturbed.  I tested the continuity of the cable a few times in trying to chase the problem down and it was fine every time but when attached to the camera it would momentarily disconnect at certain angles.   I replaced the power cable I was using and have not had disconnect issues since:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7KSGC4K  
Edited ...
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Gondola 8.11
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Himanshu Pandey:
Jeff Bennett:
Nick Grundy:
I've had this issue on both the 6200 and 2600 models. It turned out to be under volt off my pegasus powerbox. (the advance2 and ultimate v2 both showed this issue). I switched over to a regulated 12v output directly for the camera and the problem hasn't reappeared in a few months.

Any suggestions on a "regulated power supply" other than the short cabled ZWO power supply?  Thanks

I use two of these,  https://www.amazon.com/HitLights-Adapter-UL-Listed-Transformer-Charger/dp/B00STTOS8Y.   I try to maintain two imaging trains simultaneously when the conditions are good, one with 2600 color the other 2600 mono.  The power supply has a short output cable but I send the output to a distribution box and from there use the single supply to power the camera, mount, focuser, etc.   I sometimes try and run two imaging trains when the conditions are good and use a single 8A supply for each of them. 

I also use 15' USB 3 cables for both setups and I don't have any problems.  These are the cables I'm using: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00821FO5U

I think you could have power or USB cable problems that cause camera disconnects.  In my case the issues only appeared after meridian flips.  I started off each night with good performance and then after the flip would get the disconnect issue on one of cameras.  The physical connection between the power cable and the ZWO camera, the barrel plug or whatever its called, was the source.  As the mount tracked through the night the power cable for the camera got pulled along and when it reached a certain position the power connection got disturbed.  I tested the continuity of the cable a few times in trying to chase the problem down and it was fine every time but when attached to the camera it would momentarily disconnect at certain angles.   I replaced the power cable I was using and have not had disconnect issues since:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7KSGC4K  

Strapping your cables to the camera body will avoid that problem as it will prevent changing force angles on the plugs through the night. I was amazed at how sensitive those barrel plugs are to that. They feel secure but really aren't.
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sgthebert 2.81
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Tony Gondola:
I was amazed at how sensitive those barrel plugs are to that. They feel secure but really aren't.


I'm surprised screwed/locked cable like on QHY camera aren't more common. If only we could get those for every other cable too.
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cfbradshaw9373 0.90
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Himanshu Pandey:
Jeff Bennett:
Nick Grundy:
I've had this issue on both the 6200 and 2600 models. It turned out to be under volt off my pegasus powerbox. (the advance2 and ultimate v2 both showed this issue). I switched over to a regulated 12v output directly for the camera and the problem hasn't reappeared in a few months.

Any suggestions on a "regulated power supply" other than the short cabled ZWO power supply?  Thanks

I use two of these,  https://www.amazon.com/HitLights-Adapter-UL-Listed-Transformer-Charger/dp/B00STTOS8Y.   I try to maintain two imaging trains simultaneously when the conditions are good, one with 2600 color the other 2600 mono.  The power supply has a short output cable but I send the output to a distribution box and from there use the single supply to power the camera, mount, focuser, etc.   I sometimes try and run two imaging trains when the conditions are good and use a single 8A supply for each of them. 

I also use 15' USB 3 cables for both setups and I don't have any problems.  These are the cables I'm using: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00821FO5U

I think you could have power or USB cable problems that cause camera disconnects.  In my case the issues only appeared after meridian flips.  I started off each night with good performance and then after the flip would get the disconnect issue on one of cameras.  The physical connection between the power cable and the ZWO camera, the barrel plug or whatever its called, was the source.  As the mount tracked through the night the power cable for the camera got pulled along and when it reached a certain position the power connection got disturbed.  I tested the continuity of the cable a few times in trying to chase the problem down and it was fine every time but when attached to the camera it would momentarily disconnect at certain angles.   I replaced the power cable I was using and have not had disconnect issues since:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7KSGC4K  

My suggestion is to use the ZWO camera power supply with a cable extension like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D44ZN666?ref_=pe_125775000_1044873430_t_fed_asin_title

This cable is 14 AWG and should not drop any voltage.
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jimw85044 3.91
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I disagree with "use the ZWO camera power supply".  Testing has shown that these supplies don't deliver a consistent voltage under load, its varies and will drop below 12 volts.  Sometime as low as 11.2 volts.  Yes, the ZWO spec for their equipment states 11 to I think 15 volts but these supplies WILL cause issues...  Another post states that the Pegasus Power Box will operate below 12 volts.  From actual use this isn't correct.  I have shown that the Power Box will lock up at times, deliver erratic USB connections ...etc.  I have 2.

In relation to using ZWO supplied USB2/3 cables, Don't...!
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Gondola 8.11
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Médéric Hébert:
Tony Gondola:
I was amazed at how sensitive those barrel plugs are to that. They feel secure but really aren't.


I'm surprised screwed/locked cable like on QHY camera aren't more common. If only we could get those for every other cable too.

If only, that would be great. My mount has a power connection like that and has never been an issue but the USB connector right next to it has.
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hotrabbitsoup 0.00
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Charles Bradshaw:
This cable is 14 AWG and should not drop any voltage.


14 AWG is a little overkill and heavy.  20 AWG will not drop voltage at 5amps.  We can get away with using 22 AWG cable as well at the typical 3-5amp load on smaller telescope setups.
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cfbradshaw9373 0.90
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I would agree except I'm having problems with 22 AWG and Pegasus Astro recommends not less than 17 AWG for 5A.
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