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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
Mike Hammer
Hi Wes, I was following Jerry Hubbels video instructions in episode 141. At around 38 minutes is where he starts to configure the firmware. The first thing he does is reboots the PMC-8. When he does this, the firmware automatically IDed his device as a G11. This did not work with my PMC-8. I suspect this may have had to do with Jerry having previously installed and configured the firmware on his device (In fact he doesn't do a "Set New Configuration until 44 minutes into the video, well after the software has already determined he has a G11). I took a chance and clicked on Set new configuration after making my desired selections and things sorted themselves out. Until I did that nothing worked, including the Get Config and Reboot/Show Splash buttons. I could not select the EXOS2 before I set a new configuration, it kept defaulting back to the iEXOS100 (P9.0) and giving the error message. This is somewhat counterintuitive and was not part of the video. One would think that the type of device would be discoverable by the software/firmware, but then this is "universal" firmware. One other thing. The very first time (eight months ago) that I tried to update the firmware, I did not realize that the PMC-8 has to be connected to both the USB port on the computer AND the power supply. As someone who tinkers with programming Arduino devices I was used to the 5V power from the USB being all that is needed to update the device code. This obviously (looking back) did not work, but applying power to the PMC-8 while connected to my computer struck me as potentially dangerous to my computer if that power found its way into the USB port. Others may not realize the need for the propellor chip to have two sources of power when updating the firmware and become frustrated. Just my 2 cents. Mike
On Wed, Apr 21, 2021 at 7:44 AM Wes Mcdonald <wesmcd6@...> wrote: Mike
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
Wes Mcdonald
Mike
Right You must have also selected the correct pmc8 box prior to setting. This is the correct procedure. Glad you are up and running. Yes the always on comms from both ends was one of those things that was needed. Wes -- Wes, Southport NC EXos2-GT PMC-8, iExos 100 ES ED 127, 10" LX200GPS+wedge, Astro-Tech 8" Newt, ETX-90, 60mm no-name guide scope ~ 260mm FL Polemaster, Orion ST-80 and SAG, ZWO 290MM, D5300 astro modified Nina, Bootcamped Mac Mini control computer, RDP to iMAC 110 amp hour lead acid deep discharge battery for field power Electrical Engineer, Retired
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Re: New PMC-Eight Firmware UPDATED STATUS
#ExploreScientific
#UniversalFirmware
Wes Mcdonald
Alan and mick If you are using the asi air I am not sure you should upgrade yet. Doesn’t it use the indi driver? If so wait at least until that is done. The present firmware run the mount well as you have noted. The bee firmware offers new features and some performance enhancements but if your needs are met with the old then what change? Mostly because there will come a day when ES does not support it anymore. But that is not near apparently based on Jerry’s note about that. The new firmware requires changes to the driver which the new ascom driver has. Member Karl has made similar changes to the Indi driver but I am not aware of the status of that. Wes
On Wed, Apr 21, 2021 at 4:37 AM Mick Whitaker <mwhitaker285@...> wrote:
--
Wes, Southport NC EXos2-GT PMC-8, iExos 100 ES ED 127, 10" LX200GPS+wedge, Astro-Tech 8" Newt, ETX-90, 60mm no-name guide scope ~ 260mm FL Polemaster, Orion ST-80 and SAG, ZWO 290MM, D5300 astro modified Nina, Bootcamped Mac Mini control computer, RDP to iMAC 110 amp hour lead acid deep discharge battery for field power Electrical Engineer, Retired
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
Wes Mcdonald
Paul
And everybody When you look at paul’s movie you see him choosing exos2 and pressing get configuration, the result being the same error message. This is correct! What one must do after changing anything in the UFCT panel is SET Configurstion. Nothing is written to the pmc8 until then. The UFCT get configuration shoe you how the pmc8 is configured. The set configuration changes this. Only after a set config are the pmc8 settings written. The thing everybody needs to know is that the pmc8 has its own view as to what kind of mount it is connected to. The default is iexos100. Now the pmc8 reports it’s hardware configuration to the UFCT when you do a get configuration. The UFCT compares the hardware to the mount type and if they are inconsistent prompts you to select the correct mount type given the hardware configuration. In paul’s case eithe a G11 or and exos2. So then select exos2 and save that configuration. My guess is this is the same procedure error everyone that has experienced this has had. Explains why I have not seen it🥴, never did it that way. Wes -- Wes, Southport NC EXos2-GT PMC-8, iExos 100 ES ED 127, 10" LX200GPS+wedge, Astro-Tech 8" Newt, ETX-90, 60mm no-name guide scope ~ 260mm FL Polemaster, Orion ST-80 and SAG, ZWO 290MM, D5300 astro modified Nina, Bootcamped Mac Mini control computer, RDP to iMAC 110 amp hour lead acid deep discharge battery for field power Electrical Engineer, Retired
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
Wes Mcdonald
Paul Sorry about the issue you are experiencing. I put out a note on chxanging P9 manually to get around this. Look on the firmware update thread. The northern/Southern Hemisphere is not exactly a default. The pmc8 has uninitialized data relative to this selection and it thus defaults to southern. But that bit of data is not the only uninitialized bit and thus we need to set the UFCT check boxes to the correct value for your situation and save the configuration. At that point the pmc8 is set up with proper default values. As for get current configuration not working out of the box others have experienced this also, and reboot as you did seems to get past it. This doesn’t happen on any of my test pmc8 boxes so go figure. On thing tho is that when you get configuration it sometimes will be the first connection of the pc to the pmc8. This first go usually results in a reboot of the pmc8 which takes awhile to load and get past its initial configuration checks and especially if you have an iexos as it has to configure the WiFi module. But your exos2 is quicker. But slow. Wes
On Wed, Apr 21, 2021 at 3:45 AM Paul Meesters <p.h.meesters@...> wrote: I installed the new firmware. in accompanying tool, the Get Current Configuration button seems to be not willing to cooperate :( --
Wes, Southport NC EXos2-GT PMC-8, iExos 100 ES ED 127, 10" LX200GPS+wedge, Astro-Tech 8" Newt, ETX-90, 60mm no-name guide scope ~ 260mm FL Polemaster, Orion ST-80 and SAG, ZWO 290MM, D5300 astro modified Nina, Bootcamped Mac Mini control computer, RDP to iMAC 110 amp hour lead acid deep discharge battery for field power Electrical Engineer, Retired
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
jrichard333 <jrichard333@hotmail.com>
Oh, ok. Good luck.
JR
From: MAIN@ESPMC-Eight.groups.io [mailto:MAIN@ESPMC-Eight.groups.io]
On Behalf Of Paul Meesters
Sent: Wednesday, April 21, 2021 3:37 AM To: MAIN@ESPMC-Eight.groups.io Subject: Re: [ESPMC-Eight] Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
On Wed, Apr 21, 2021 at 10:20 AM, jrichard333 <jrichard333@...> wrote: You need to change the WiFi connection in the Configuration manager to 1.03 I'm afraid you are talking about something quite different here.
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
Paul Meesters
On Wed, Apr 21, 2021 at 10:20 AM, jrichard333 <jrichard333@...> wrote:
You need to change the WiFi connection in the Configuration manager to 1.03I'm afraid you are talking about something quite different here. I use a serial connection and not WiFi, and this is about the Universal Firmware Configuration Tool, not the Configuration Manager. -- Greetz, Paul Mounts: ES Exos-II + PMC-Eight; Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro; Main scopes: ED APO 102mm f/7 FCD-100 CF; William Optics Redcat 51; Finder & Guiding scopes: Bresser Messier 8x50 finderscope; Astro Essentials 32mm F/4 mini (= 128mm) guide scope; Cameras: ZWO ASI 071 MC Pro Main camera; ZWO ASI 120mm mini guidecamera; Sony A7III (astromodified) Other: ZWO AsiAir Pro; iPad Software: PixInsight, Deep Sky Stacker; Siril; PHD2; SharpCap; Adobe Photoshop; Pipp; Registax 6; Autostakkert 3; ExploreStars; APT
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Re: New PMC-Eight Firmware UPDATED STATUS
#ExploreScientific
#UniversalFirmware
Alan.
toggle quoted messageShow quoted text
If your Exos 2 is working fine with the AAP I wouldn’t change a thing. I am in the same position as you and will not be risking the update.
On 21 Apr 2021, at 08:31, alandebrut <alan.bruce@...> wrote:
--
Michael Whitaker Wakefield, UK. MOUNTS. Exos-2 PMC Eight.. SCOPE: RVO Horizon 72ed. CAMERA: Not Applicable. SOFTWARE: Just iPad at moment.
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
jrichard333 <jrichard333@hotmail.com>
Howdy,
You need to change the WiFi connection in the Configuration manager to 1.03. This menu will pop up in Poth Scope Dome Setup under ASCOM. For the IEXOS-100, the correct WiFi module is the ESP-WROOM-02.
JR
From: MAIN@ESPMC-Eight.groups.io [mailto:MAIN@ESPMC-Eight.groups.io]
On Behalf Of Paul Meesters
Sent: Wednesday, April 21, 2021 2:45 AM To: MAIN@ESPMC-Eight.groups.io Subject: [ESPMC-Eight] Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
[Edited Message Follows] I installed the new firmware. in accompanying tool, the Get Current Configuration button seems to be not willing to cooperate :(
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Universal Firmware Configuration Tool - Get Current Config not working
I installed the new firmware. in accompanying tool, the Get Current Configuration button seems to be not willing to cooperate :(
See image below: So, first I select the correct com-port. There is only one listed, so no big issue there. Then I press the Get Current Configuration button, and the log-area shows a whole series of: BUSY messages. I cancel out and try again... same result BUSY BUSY BUSY I then try the other button, why not.. so I press the REBOOT Show Splash button, and hey presto - results as shown in the image above. I then retry the Get Current Configuration button, and get the errormessage shown in the image above. Even when I select the Mount TYPE myself (EXOS2) it ends up on the next line iEXOS100 (wrong!!) Edit: here's a screen capture video of the observed result on Microsoft Onedrive: UFCT - The movie And - hmm - why is the hemisphere set to SOUTH by default ? Weird, ES is a North American company is it not ? I guess there are still some bugs in this program ? -- Greetz, Paul Mounts: ES Exos-II + PMC-Eight; Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro; Main scopes: ED APO 102mm f/7 FCD-100 CF; William Optics Redcat 51; Finder & Guiding scopes: Bresser Messier 8x50 finderscope; Astro Essentials 32mm F/4 mini (= 128mm) guide scope; Cameras: ZWO ASI 071 MC Pro Main camera; ZWO ASI 120mm mini guidecamera; Sony A7III (astromodified) Other: ZWO AsiAir Pro; iPad Software: PixInsight, Deep Sky Stacker; Siril; PHD2; SharpCap; Adobe Photoshop; Pipp; Registax 6; Autostakkert 3; ExploreStars; APT
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Re: New PMC-Eight Firmware UPDATED STATUS
#ExploreScientific
#UniversalFirmware
alandebrut
Hi Wes,
You and a few others have always been very helpful to everyone on this forum and for that I thank you. However I have read the installation procedure for installing the new firmware twice, along with the threads in this forum it appears to be a rollercoaster ride. In fact I fear I now have Technical dyslexia, I don't believe I have the skills to perform this task and I am equally sure there will be others in a similar position. I am neither a technophobe nor tech savvy, I get by but I know my limitations. I have installed firmware on other Goto mounts and other pieces of equipment I have, such as keyboards, cameras printers etc. These have been simplistic to say the least so I don't understand why to me I need a degree in engineering science to complete this task from ES Is it essential I install this update in the manner described? I have my Exos2 PMC8 connected via serial to my ASIAirPro, it works brilliantly in that configuration. If I install this firmware what would be the benefit to me? Its taken me a few months to get my EXOS2 working in a way that suites me, I must praise ES for producing a fantastic piece of technology at such a competitive price, in addition this forum provides that extra piece in the jigsaw not easily found with other brands. I would recommend ES products to anyone interested in taking up the hobby. Regards Alan -- Warrington UK Explore Scientific: Telescope AR102, F6.5 Exos 2, PMC8 ZWO Electronic Auto-focuser ZWO ASI Air Pro ZWO ASI533 main camera ZWO ASI120mm guide QHY PoleMaster Altair 290C Celestron SE8 plus mount Starsense Sharpcap Pro, CDC Stellarium APT Firecapture Canon 80D
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Re: New PMC-Eight Firmware UPDATED STATUS
#ExploreScientific
#UniversalFirmware
Paul Meesters
I had to unplug - replug the RS232-USB cable several times before the configuration manager finally recognized the PMC-8,
The firmware is now installed at last :) -- Greetz, Paul Mounts: ES Exos-II + PMC-Eight; Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro; Main scopes: ED APO 102mm f/7 FCD-100 CF; William Optics Redcat 51; Finder & Guiding scopes: Bresser Messier 8x50 finderscope; Astro Essentials 32mm F/4 mini (= 128mm) guide scope; Cameras: ZWO ASI 071 MC Pro Main camera; ZWO ASI 120mm mini guidecamera; Sony A7III (astromodified) Other: ZWO AsiAir Pro; iPad Software: PixInsight, Deep Sky Stacker; Siril; PHD2; SharpCap; Adobe Photoshop; Pipp; Registax 6; Autostakkert 3; ExploreStars; APT
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Re: New PMC-Eight Firmware UPDATED STATUS
#ExploreScientific
#UniversalFirmware
When I try to update the firmware, I get a message that no Propeller chip is found on any serial port :(
I have the PMC-8 powered on, and connected to the laptop using the FTDI serial cable I normally use to connect the PMC-8 to the Asiair Pro. I read somewhere (can't remember exactly where) that any serial cable would do, inverted DTR# or not. (I reset this to not inverted, and had the same result). So what am I missing ? is there some place I need to configure a serial port beforehand ? -- Greetz, Paul Mounts: ES Exos-II + PMC-Eight; Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro; Main scopes: ED APO 102mm f/7 FCD-100 CF; William Optics Redcat 51; Finder & Guiding scopes: Bresser Messier 8x50 finderscope; Astro Essentials 32mm F/4 mini (= 128mm) guide scope; Cameras: ZWO ASI 071 MC Pro Main camera; ZWO ASI 120mm mini guidecamera; Sony A7III (astromodified) Other: ZWO AsiAir Pro; iPad Software: PixInsight, Deep Sky Stacker; Siril; PHD2; SharpCap; Adobe Photoshop; Pipp; Registax 6; Autostakkert 3; ExploreStars; APT
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
Mike Hammer
Hi Wes, This seems to be a problem with the Config software. I was going to report it, but actually changing the config parameters fixed it for me. This is what fixed the issue for me: First I set the com port (9 in my case). Then I selected Northern hemisphere Enabled, Track on loss of Comms and Run on Boot Enabled and clicked Set new Configuration. After the reconfiguration completed, the firmware showed the mount type as EXOS2 (P9.8), which was correct. Before it would only allow the iEXOS100 selection. Here is what I saw BEFORE I did this (see attached file): And thanks for all of your work on these improvements. I especially appreciate not having to reflash to switch between WiFi and Serial communications.
On Tue, Apr 20, 2021 at 9:01 PM Wes Mcdonald <wesmcd6@...> wrote:
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
Wes Mcdonald
Mike
"to what IK wanted" Who/what is IK? Wes. -- Wes, Southport NC EXos2-GT PMC-8, iExos 100 ES ED 127, 10" LX200GPS+wedge, Astro-Tech 8" Newt, ETX-90, 60mm no-name guide scope ~ 260mm FL Polemaster, Orion ST-80 and SAG, ZWO 290MM, D5300 astro modified Nina, Bootcamped Mac Mini control computer, RDP to iMAC 110 amp hour lead acid deep discharge battery for field power Electrical Engineer, Retired
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
Mike Hammer
I had the same problem. I changed the configuration to what IK wanted and that fixed the problem. It now sees the firmware as EXOS2
On Tue, Apr 20, 2021 at 6:50 PM wayne archard <warchard67@...> wrote: I just talked to Tyler and he had me click on the com port number to highlight it before clicking get configuration. When I did this I got the busy/wait msg and the moment the configuration populated the data the mount type changed to Exos 1 and I'd get a mount type error telling me to switch to Exos 2 but as soon as I did it jumped back to Exos 1. We even tried G11 and it jumped to Exos 1 with the erroe msg. I tried 2 chip set cords with the same result.
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
Wes Mcdonald
Wayne. The problem is for some systems getting P9 to set correctly.
Follow these steps Folks having issues with setting up their new firmware where the thing keeps insisting you must select either one mount or another, and even though you do it seems to still blow up. I have tried to duplicate this behavior but to no avail in both an iEXOS and an EXOS2/G11 PMC8. But I believe the issue is related to P9 in these machines.
If you are having this problem try this:
1. After loading the new firmware etc, I assume you are now running the UFCT.
2. In the command window at the top, after the system is booted, type %%% and Send to put the unit in debug mode.
3. Now type P9x in the command window and send it. The value of x should be:
0 == iExos
4 == G11
8 == Exos2
You should see P9x appear in the message area of the UFCT.
4. When the echo of the P9 command returns, type into the command line ### and send it. The message area will display a message indicating that Debug mode is exited and Command mode is enabled.
Now press the REBOOT Button. At this point when the unit boots up the correct unit type should be displayed and you can continue to set the other values along the left side as you wish them to be, followed by a SET CONFIGURATION.
This is simpler than what Bryan did, but should have the same effect.
-- Wes, Southport NC EXos2-GT PMC-8, iExos 100 ES ED 127, 10" LX200GPS+wedge, Astro-Tech 8" Newt, ETX-90, 60mm no-name guide scope ~ 260mm FL Polemaster, Orion ST-80 and SAG, ZWO 290MM, D5300 astro modified Nina, Bootcamped Mac Mini control computer, RDP to iMAC 110 amp hour lead acid deep discharge battery for field power Electrical Engineer, Retired
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Manager
wayne archard
Thanks Wes. It worked partially but with another error I posted to the group. Wayne
On Tue, Apr 20, 2021 at 6:12 PM Wes Mcdonald <wesmcd6@...> wrote: Wayne you have to highlight the comm port even though it shows up in the UFCT window, then click get configuration
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
wayne archard
Jerry to answer your question I've had the Exos 2 GT PMC 8 for a year connected serially for astrophotography with no problems. I just wanted to update for the new changes. Thanks.
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Re: Universal Firmware Configuration Tool (UFCT)
#UFCT
wayne archard
I just talked to Tyler and he had me click on the com port number to highlight it before clicking get configuration. When I did this I got the busy/wait msg and the moment the configuration populated the data the mount type changed to Exos 1 and I'd get a mount type error telling me to switch to Exos 2 but as soon as I did it jumped back to Exos 1. We even tried G11 and it jumped to Exos 1 with the erroe msg. I tried 2 chip set cords with the same result.
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