For what it's worth, I have the same exact behavior with my setup as Bob. It always takes three tries to get the connection...

Jeremy
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Jeremy Parker - North/West of Boston, MA
Scope: StellarVue SV102T  & Optimus Eyepieces
Mount:  Explore Scientific PMC-Eight G11, Spring-loaded OPWB on DEC, O-Vision Worm on RA
Cameras: Nikon D5300 H-alpha mod
Guiding & Alignment: StellarVue F50 GuideScope & ZWO ASI290MM Mini Guide Cam, QHY Polemaster
Computer & Software: Surface Pro Windows 10, ExploreStars, ASCOM POTH, CdC, PHD2, SGP, Backyard Nikon
Accessories: Williams Optics clear Bahtinov Mask, 1000 Oaks Dew Heater Controller, Astrozap Dew Heaters, Celestron Lithium / Lithium-Pro Powertanks