Pegasus Astro Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 (PPBADV3)

• Power distribution management for ambitious astrophotographers
• Compact all-in-one control unit for mobile and stationary astrophotography
• Four individually switchable 12 V outputs plus one permanently active 12 V output
• Adjustable direct current (DC) output (3–19 V, up to 3 A) for mini-PCs, cameras or accessories
• Integrated 6-port USB hub (4× USB 3.0, 2× USB 2.0) with overvoltage and ESD protection
• USB-C power delivery port (“PD” up to 3 A)
• Two PWM defrosting channels with automatic humidity control (AutoDew)
• External temperature/humidity sensor included
• Control via Wi-Fi and web dashboard
• Compatible with ASCOM 7, Alpaca and INDI
• Robust aluminium housing, compact dimensions and low weight
• Total current capacity up to 14 A
• Comprehensive protection functions: reverse polarity, overvoltage, current spikes
• Focus control
  - Integrated stepper motor controller for quiet and precise focusing• Compatible with many motors (e.g. Pegasus, Robofocus, MoonLite)• Housing• Sturdy aluminium housing
• Scope of delivery
  • 4 x mains cable 2.1mm to 2.1mm
    (2x 1m, 2x 0.5m)
  • 1 x USB3 cable type B (1.8m)
  • 1x Temperature and Humidity Sensor

The Pegasus Astro Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 (PPBADV3) is the all-in-one power and connectivity solution for portable astrophotography setups. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Gen3 introduces a powerful combination of intelligent power distribution, USB3 connectivity, and integrated device control in an ultra-compact aluminum enclosure.

It features four individually switchable 12V DC outputs, a dedicated always-on 12V output, and a 3–19V adjustable DC output capable of delivering up to 3A for powering mini computers, mirrorless cameras, or other electronic devices.

A built-in 6-port USB hub (4×USB3 + 2×USB2), USB Power Delivery (PD) support, and an integrated stepper motor focuser controller eliminate cable clutter while providing reliable connectivity.

This powerbox also includes dual PWM dew heater outputs with AutDew technology, an external temperature and humidity sensor, comprehensive voltage, current and power monitoring, Wi-Fi connectivity with a built-in web dashboard, and full ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca compatibility.

Designed with reverse polarity, over-voltage, surge, and ESD protection, the PPBADV Gen3 delivers the performance, flexibility, and reliability required for today’s advanced astrophotography systems.

Built for the harshest conditions. Trusted in the Arctic.

For several years, the Pegasus Astro Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen2 has supported operations in Greenland’s extreme Arctic environment—performing reliably in temperatures as low as –35 °C.

When every connection matters, dependable power management helps keep critical astronomy and field equipment running, even when the cold is at its most demanding.The Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 continues this dependable operating standard, with specifications designed for reliable performance in temperatures down to –40 °C.

We’re proud that Pegasus Astro Powerbox products are trusted in real-world environments where reliability is not optional.

Below feedback shared with permission and credited to the Technical University of Denmark, DTU Space—Division of Geomagnetism and Geospace.

“We have used your Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen2 for the last couple of years in the Arctic (Greenland) and have been very happy with the product, as it has worked well even in -35C”

Feature List

• 4 x 12V DC Power outlets for your equipment

individual channels to switch ON/OFF each output).

• 1x12V DC always ON output.
• 14 Amps of total distributed current.
• One dedicated adjustable and switchable output (3-19V) / 3Amps
• Input volt-meter, amp-meter, and power statistics.
• 6 port USB hub: 4xUSB3 & 2xUSB2 Ports.

(USB3 ports all backwards compatible with USB2).

• Surge and ESD protection to all USB ports
• 1 x USB power distrubutrion (PD) port for supported devices
• Built-in stepper motor focus controller(1.5A per coil)
• EXT Port (RJ12) for ev sensor and external accessories
• External humidity and temperature sensor (included)
• Auto tune dew heater channels consulting env sensor
• 2 Channels PWM dew heaters – RCA outputs

Adjust power levels from software

• Reverse polarity and over-voltage protection
• Wi-Fi controllable (external antenna for optimal reception)
• Web dashboard, accessible from any browser, to control the device.
• ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca compatible

switches, observing conditions, focuser

• USB – PC controlled or standalone operation out of the box
• Lightweight and compact aluminium enclosure

6 x Power Outputs

Four independently switchable 12V DC power outputs let you control your entire astrophotography setup through Pegasus Astro software, ASCOM, Alpaca, or the built-in web interface. Each output features reverse polarity and over-current protection for reliable operation. An always-on 12V output and a software-adjustable 3–19V output bring the total number of power ports to six.

Power Sensors

Includes a built-in volt, current, and power meter that continuously monitors your power input and overall system consumption in real time. Instantly view the input voltage, total current draw, and power usage through the Pegasus Astro software, ASCOM/Alpaca drivers, or the built-in web dashboard. This allows you to monitor your equipment’s power requirements, quickly identify abnormal consumption, and ensure stable operation throughout your imaging sessions.

Env Sensors

The PPB ADV Gen3 includes an external temperature, humidity, and dew point sensor in the box, providing accurate real-time environmental monitoring. When used with the integrated dew heater outputs, the device can automatically regulate heater power based on ambient conditions, preventing dew and moisture from forming on your telescope optics while minimizing unnecessary power consumption.

Built-in 6 port USB Hub

• Each USB port can be independently enabled or disabled through software.
• One USB-C provides PD output (up to 3Amps) to supported devices.

A powered USB3 Hub at the back of the device provides:

• 4 x USB3 (Type-A) SuperSpeed Ports
• 2 x USB2 (Type-C) High-Speed Ports.

The new SuperSpeed hubs operate in parallel with the USB 2.0 controller, so 5 Gbps SuperSpeed data transfers are not affected by slower USB 2.0 traffic.

USB Ports provide up to 3Amp of current and all ports include surge and ESD protection.

Included Stepper Motor Controller

The PPB ADV Gen3 features a built-in stepper motor focus controller, eliminating the need for a separate external focusing controller and reducing cable clutter.

Compatible with most bipolar stepper motors (we recommend our Motor Focus Kit Universal or Motor Focus Kit Zero for SCT telescopes. it delivers smooth, precise, and repeatable electronic focusing with up to 1.5A per coil. By requiring only an external motor, it offers a significantly lower-cost focusing solution while allowing you to control both power distribution and focusing through the same Pegasus Astro software interface.

Fully integrated with the Pegasus Astro software ecosystem, ASCOM, and ASCOM Alpaca, it supports automated focusing routines in popular astrophotography applications, helping you achieve and maintain critical focus throughout your imaging session.

Supported stepper motors

We know that every manufacturer has its own pin assignment for motors, as there is unfortunately no standard. The most important connection cables for your specific motor can be found in this list (if your motor is not listed, please contact us):

• Pegasus Motor Focus Kit (v1/v2)
  Requires an RJ45 to RJ45 (1:1) cable
• Robofocus
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-RJ45DB9
• MoonLite
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-RJ45DB9
• Lakeside
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-RJ45DB9
• Starlight HSM 20,30,35
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-HSM
• Starlight MSM 20,30,35
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-RJ45DB9
• Starlight HSM 20,30,35
  Required order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-HSM
• Starlight MSM 20,30,35
  Required order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-MSM
• Starlight DirectSync motors
  Required order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-HSM
• Starlight MSM 20,30,35
  Required order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-MSM
• Starlight DirectSync motors
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-HSM
• Starizona Microtouch
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-MSM
• Optec DirectSync or Quicksync motors
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-HSM
• Rigel nStep motor
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-MSM
• Starlight POSI Drive motor
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-HSM
• Lacerta motor
  Requires order no.: PA#PEG-CMOT-LCRT

Standalone Operation
“out of the box”

Pocket Powerbox Advance can work “out of the box” as a standalone device. Just plug the cables, setup the “autodew” functionality and every time you boot the device, it will retrieve your settings. So, If you don’t like to connect to a PC every time, you don’t have to. Simple as that!

Two channel duty cycle
PWM outputs

The Pocket Powerbox Advance boasts two Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) outlets, specially designed to supply power to your demanding Dew Heaters. This means an end to the woes of moisture interfering with your equipment and spoiling those precious clear nights. What’s more, you can conveniently control these outlets remotely from your laptop using the provided software.

More than 14A of

total power

The controller has been meticulously engineered to accommodate a total current capacity of up to 14 Amps.

Adjustable port configurable [3-19V]

One adjustable DC output (3–19 V, up to 3 A) configurable through software. The configured voltage is retained across power cycles and is perfect for powering Mini PCs, Intel® NUCs, and other external devices.

Reverse Polarity and Overvoltage Protection

Built-in reverse polarity and overvoltage protection safeguards your equipment against incorrect power connections and input voltages up to 50 V.

Wi-Fi controllable via ASCOM Alpaca

Stay connected with built-in Wi-Fi and a browser-based dashboard. The PPBADV Gen3 is fully compatible with ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca, enabling seamless remote control of switches, focuser, and observing conditions.

Upgradable Firmware via USB or Web

The device is equipped with firmware upgradability, allowing for seamless updates to support forthcoming features and address any potential bug fixes, ensuring it remains at the cutting edge of functionality and performance.

Aluminium Enclosure

The electronics of the Pocket Powerbox Advance are securely nestled within a sturdy, high-quality enclosure crafted from durable blue anodized aluminum.

Built-in M3 blind mounting holes for easy installation of third-party accessories.

Size is 115mm x 75mm x 27.5mm. Weighs 350 grams.

Supports

ASCOM 7 & Alpaca

Fully supports the latest ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca standards, enabling seamless network control over Wi-Fi without the need for USB connectivity.

It implements ASCOM drivers for Switches, Observing Conditions, and the Focuser, allowing effortless integration with your favorite astronomy software and remote observatory setup.

INDI

Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 fully supports INDI framework.

The Ultimate Powerbox v3 is fully supported by INDI and INDIGO.

Web Dashboard and ASCOM Alpaca

Control the Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 from any device using a modern web browser – no dedicated software required. For astronomy applications, built-in ASCOM Alpaca support enables direct connectivity with NINA and any other Alpaca-compatible software, providing seamless remote control and automation.

Which power supply?

Most sources of error that reach us are due to an incorrect voltage and power supply.

We recommend that you use the power supply unit linked below.

Unity Platform Support

Pegasus Astro Unity Platform is the new all around application. Their goal is to provide a robust and modern application that is going to support current and future products under one roof.

A modern frontend allows the full control of all Pegasus Astro devices.

Moreover, a REST JSON api helps developers from 3rd party software to interact with Pegasus Astro products.

As Pegasus Astro continuously develop their applications, based on customer feedback, lots of innovative features are going to be added in upcoming releases.

Download it directly from the Pegasu Astro Website: PegasusAstro Unity Plattform (PegasusAstroUnityPlatform.exe)

Conclusion

The Pegasus Astro Pocket Powerbox Advance v3 is one of the most powerful power management systems we know. Whether in the amateur or university observatory sector, it works reliably everywhere.
Tip(p): Use high-quality power supplies, cold-resistant and shielded cables to get the best out of the box.

Technical Data

Scope of Delivery

• Pegasus Astro Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 (PPBADV3)
• 4 x Power Cords 2.1mm to 2.1mm
  (= 2x 1m, 2x 0.5m)
• 1 x USB3 Cable Type B (1.8m)
• Temperature and Humidity Sensor