Version 5.009 for Astro-Physics GTO Keypad

The program software of the Astro-Physics GTO Keypad can be updated to the new version 5.xxx from this page by following the procedures below. This software contains all program logic for the functions, menus, entry screens and all other aspects concerned with the operation of the keypad. It also includes the calculated values of the solar system objects and calibration stars. The keypad version number displays when you start your keypad.

* * Requirements * *

Keypads with serial number 1565GTO or earlier cannot be used with the v5.xx firmware, as they lack the memory capacity. If you have a keypad with a lower serial number that has been repaired and starts with the letter “R”, it may have the required memory. Call Astro-Physics for assistance.

If you have a keypad shipped prior to October 2019, please refer to Upgrading Older Keypads to Version 5.

GTOCP5 and GTOCP4 control boxes must have version P02-08 or later for this keypad software.

The Keypad loader program can be used on most computers with JAVA installed. The v5 Keypad loader can be used on any operating system that can run Java. At AP, we have tested Windows 10, Windows 7, Ubuntu 20, and Mac 10. To use it, you must first install the latest version of Java, and any USB-serial adapter drivers your computer needs.

USB or Straight-thru serial cable is required. Ethernet and WiFi downloads are not supported at this time for the Keypad updates.

Control box, keypad, power cable and power supply (or battery) are required for the upload. The upload procedure to the keypad requires that the program be routed through the ROM chip in the GTO control box. In order to accomplish this, your control box must be set up with power near your PC. The mount and motor cables are not required.

User name and password are required to access the download area of our website. This information was provided in the cover letter shipped with your mount. If you do not have the user name and password, contact Astro-Physics. If your name is not already registered in our GTO database, we will ask for your mount or keypad serial number to assure that you are authorized to access this area of our website. We suggest that you fill out and submit the Mount Registration Form.

Keypad Version History
Keypad Version History V5 - PDF document

Print the instructions at the link below:
Upgrading Your Keypad to V5.009 from ANY and ALL prior versions including v5.xxx or v4.xx.x and earlier versions. The database has been corrected, so this is a full load including the code and database.

Download Program to Your Computer
Click on the link below to initiate the download. Make note of the location that the file was stored on your computer. Follow the instructions that you have printed.

Keypad 5.009 Program and Loader. This includes both the JAVA Keypad Loader Tool and Keypad Flash Update version 5.1xx.x as one download file.

Keypad Manual
GTO Keypad Manual, V5.009 - PDF document. Please read the manual even if you have experience with previous versions of the keypad. There are some important significant differences that you should know about. For instance, you must press the RECAL and NEXT> buttons simultaneously in order to easily recalibrate on an object. The keypad will beep to confirm. This is the only command that uses two button presses and was done to prevent accidental recals. In prior versions, the command was buried in a menu.

Using Keypad v5.xxx with the GTOCP5 vs. GTOCP4 Control Boxes
There are a few important differences when using with a GTOCP4 as oulined below. Please refer to the appropriate sections of the manual for additional information. .

Mach2GTO with GTOCP5 control box (GTOCP5 is only used with Mach2GTO)

The Autoconnect:NO startup routine is simplified since the mount always knows its position even when the clutches have been loosened.
All modeling features are enabled: pointing, tracking and orthogonality.
The Slew Home & Sync function allows you to recover from incorrect sync or slew commands
The power setting feature is available to optimize power usage.
PEM is not shown since it is not needed

Mounts with GTOCP4 control box

The Autoconnect:NO startup routine requires that you resume from current position or place the mount in one of the park positions.
PEM (Periodic Error Memory) is an available feature for mounts WITHOUT Absolute Encoders. Mounts with these encoders do not need this feature.
Mounts with Absolute Encoders: Find Home feature is available, but should be used only when clutches have not been released..
Mounts without Absolute Encoders: Home feature is not available
The power setting feature is not available since it is not appropriate for the GTOCP4.

Astro-Physics, Inc.
11250 Forest Hills Road, Machesney Park, IL 61115, U.S.A.
Phone: 815-282-1513 Fax: 815-282-9847