Pegasus Astro Ultimate Powerbox v3 (UPBv3)

• Top-class power distribution management
  • Up to 12V / 20A (240W)
  • 6 x 12V intelligent and individual outputs
    Each output can be configured as a constant 12V or pulse width modulated output (PWM).
  • 2 x 12V non-switchable outputs 
  • 1 x adjustable current output 3-12V - regulated output of 3A
  • 1 x adjustable current output 12-24V - regulated output of 4A
  • 1 x current relay switch 250V/10A ◦ 3 x RCA (dew heater) outputs
    (automatically adjustable with AutoDew function)
  • Current sensors & protection mechanisms: short circuit, overload, reverse polarity, overvoltage protection (>14. 5V)
• USB hub
  • 8 USB ports (6x USB 3.1 (downward compatible) + 2x USB 2.0)
  • Each port can be switched via software and delivers up to 2.5A
  • Protection against ESD and overcurrent - Focus control
  • Integrated stepper motor controller for quiet and precise focussing
  • Compatible with many motors (e.g. Pegasus, Roboflex, Roboflex) e.g. Pegasus, Robofocus, MoonLite)
• Connectivity & Control
  • External Wi-Fi antenna
  • Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) or USB operation
  • Web server for access via browser ("upbv3.local")
  • Compatible with at least. ASCOM 6, Alpaca, INDI, N.I.N.A. and "PegasusAstro Unity Platform" (Dashboard)
• Sensors & Automation
  • Temperature & humidity sensor
    Built-in sensor for ambient temperature and humidity - can also accept and prioritise an external sensor
  • Automatic control of dew cap outputs
  • Watchdog, scheduler and storable start configurations
  • Power measurement values (input voltage, current, current per connection)
• Housing
  • Sturdy aluminium housing
  • Housing with VESA-compatible size
• Scope of delivery
  • 4 x mains cable 5.5/2.1mm to 5.5/2.1mm
    (2x 1m, 2x 0.5m)
  • 1 x USB3 cable type B (1.8m)
  • 4x M4 hexagon socket screws

The Pegasus Astro UPBv3 is a powerful power and data distributor for astrophotography enthusiasts. It combines several functions in one compact device and ensures optimum organisation and control of your equipment. Cable clutter and power problems are now a thing of the past.

 USB 3.1 SuperSpeed hub with 8 x USB ports, switchable and powered A USB 3.1 hub controller guarantees the seamless functionality of this USB hub over a wide temperature range of -40°C to +80°C.

A notable feature of this hub is the ability to switch each USB port on and off individually via software. This function proves to be particularly beneficial in situations where a device stops responding and needs to be reconnected under unfavourable conditions, e.g. on a cold night.

In such cases, the problematic connection can be easily identified and a reset process can be initiated via the on/off switch in the PegasusAstro Unity Platform software interface. This optimised solution ensures optimum user-friendliness and simple operation.

Unrivalled connectivity:

• 6 x USB 3.1 super-speed ports: Experience lightning-fast data transfer speeds with these high-performance ports.
• 2 x USB 2 high-speed ports: These versatile and reliable ports are perfect for a wide range of devices.

Unrivalled performance:

• Each USB port on the UPBv3 delivers up to 2.5 amps of power, ensuring your devices are charged and ready to go in no time.

Comprehensive protection:

You can rest assured that your valuable devices are protected. The Pegasus Astro UPBv3 has electronic short-circuit protection, additional protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD) and electronic overload protection for all USB ports. Your devices are in safe hands.

6 x 12 V DC power connections for your devices:

Smart mosfet transistors: Six powerful smart mosfet transistors, each capable of delivering up to 6 amps of current, ensure a reliable power supply for your valuable devices.

Advanced port protection functions: The UPBv3 features advanced short circuit and overload protection per port. In the event of a problem, power is immediately cut off and reports of the incident are sent to the software so you don't have to worry.

High quality metal outlet sockets: The high quality metal outlet sockets are designed for strength and quality, holding your extension cords securely while delivering the power you need.

Built-in power sensors

Volt and ampere meters: The UPBv3 is equipped with a high-precision voltmeter and ampere meter that can measure currents up to 20A. These instruments enable real-time monitoring of the power supply and ensure that you can keep a close eye on the power consumption of your device.

Automatic overvoltage protection: To protect your valuable devices, the UPBv3 is equipped with automatic overvoltage protection. If the input voltage exceeds 14.5 V, the system reacts quickly by immediately interrupting the power supply, providing robust protection against potential damage.

Individual electricity meter per 12V smart output: With the UPBv3, each intelligent 12V output is equipped with an internal and independent digital electricity meter. This feature allows you to monitor the power consumption of each outlet with unrivalled precision.

Seamless software integration: The intuitive software interface provides you with a user-friendly platform that allows you to easily access and visualise the power consumption data of each outlet. Stay in control and make informed decisions about your power allocation.

3 x Chinch/RCA outputs for dew heaters/flat field boxes, fans, ...

The UPBv3 is equipped with three PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) outputs to efficiently supply power to important components such as dew heaters, flat panels or telescopic fans. This intelligent design allows you to effectively reduce moisture-related (dew) problems.

By setting these outlets remotely from your PC/laptop via the downloadable software, you gain precise control over the power distribution to your moisture-regulating devices. Eliminate the damaging effects of moisture on your equipment and ensure pristine viewing conditions for your celestial observations.

2 x variable voltage-regulated outputs

In the UPBv3 you will find two carefully regulated outputs, each capable of delivering up to 3 amps of current. These outputs offer remarkable versatility as you can precisely set one output to a voltage range from 3V to 12V and the other from 12V to 24V. The special feature of this function is the ability to save the desired voltage settings directly in the controller's memory.
With this innovative memory function, the ports automatically configure themselves to the stored voltage settings each time the UPBv3 is initialised, giving you a consistent and trouble-free power supply tailored to your specific requirements.

Constant 12V outputs

In addition to the intelligent/controllable 6 x 12V outputs of the UPBv3, you will find two additional unregulated 12V outputs that can supply up to 8 amps of current. These ports are a valuable addition, allowing you to connect additional devices and expand your power supply options.
It is important to note that these 12V outputs are always switched on to ensure the constant availability of power to the connected devices and to further increase the versatility and utility of the UPBv3 (e.g. to prevent a mount/mini PC from being unintentionally switched off).

Adjustable voltage boost output

Equipped with an adjustable voltage boost output, this function enables seamless regulation from 12 V to 24 V with a considerable output power of up to 4 amps.

Switching relay

The Pegasus Astro UPBv3 is equipped with a robust switching relay that enables effortless control and management of external devices with up to 250 volts and 10 amps.
!!!IMPORTANT!!! Please only connect suitable devices here and NO 12 volt devices, as these will be destroyed immediately. You should switch off the output via the software as long as you do not need it.

Ambient sensor

A sensor for the ambient temperature and relative humidity is integrated in the device. This sensor continuously monitors the ambient conditions, provides real-time information and automatically adjusts the heat intensity of your dew heater(s) to achieve optimum performance.

Built-in stepper motor controller

• low-noise and low-vibration stepper motor controller
  Focus with great precision and silence with the stepper motor controller. This innovative controller is designed for the challenging task of moving your drawtube with the utmost precision, all while operating quietly and minimising vibration.
• Compatibility without limits
  The controller connects seamlessly with a wide range of stepper motor options on the market and supports both unipolar and bipolar designs. Whether you are using a Pegasus motor focus kit, Rigel, Robofocus, Moonlight or Starlight motor, the in-built controller is your trusted companion for unrivalled focusing accuracy.

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

Supports

ASCOM & N.I.N.A.

The Ultimate Powerbox v3 offers comprehensive support for ASCOM 6 upwards. In conjunction with the "PegasusAstro Unity Platform" software, which acts as a server, you can utilise the power of the latest ASCOM drivers to:

• Precise stepper motor control (ASCOM Focuser):
  Achieve precise control of stepper motors for accurate focussing.
• Integration of environment settings:
  Seamless transfer of environmental data to compatible software such as Sequence Generator Pro, MaximDL or NINA (ASCOM ObservingConditions).
• Effortless device management:
  Use "ASCOM switches" in software such as N.I.N.A., SGPro or MaximDL to conveniently switch all 12 V outputs or USB ports on or off, simplifying device management. - The Ultimate Powerbox v3 is fully supported by N.I.N.A.

ASCOM Alpaca Native Support

ASCOM Alpaca surpasses the classic ASCOM drivers with its platform independence, modern web standards, easy installation, remote control capabilities, expandability and open source options. This ensures superior compatibility and user-friendly performance, making it the preferred choice for advanced astronomy applications.

The Pegasus Astro Ultimate Powerbox v3 is equipped with an integrated web server that communicates seamlessly and natively with Alpaca clients. This integration enhances the user experience by allowing easy access to telescope control via ASCOM Alpaca as well as monitoring from any device with a web browser, such as a smartphone.

INDI

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

Which power supply?

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

The PegasusAstro Ultimate Powerbox v3 (UPBv3) can deliver a total of up to 20 amps of current, but it can only do this if you also use a power supply unit with at least 20 amps. The power supply unit should also be voltage-stabilised, because if the voltage drops under load (i.e. when consumers are switched on), there will no longer be 12 volts at the outputs and one or other accessory will not work (if you can measure yourself, then please always measure under load).

Therefore, please refrain from using non-certified cheap power supply units and invest in a sensible and sufficiently dimensioned power supply unit (this has the advantage that you will also be perfectly set up in the future).

Incidentally, the best place to set up the power supply unit is on the tripod support plate or in a small, breathable carrying bag to protect the power supply unit and the plug connections from moisture/wetness!!!!

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 Ultimate Powerbox 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 Ultimate Powerbox v3 (UPBv3)
• 4 x Power Cords 5.5/2.1mm to 5.5/2.1mm
  (= 2x 1m, 2x 0.5m)
• 1 x USB3 Cable Type B (1.8m)
• Bag of mounting screws (4xM4)