SkySwitch PRO

SkySwitch PRO

Remote switching and integrated support functions for 10Micron mounts with V3 controllers

SkySwitch PRO is designed primarily to enable remote switching of 10Micron mounts equipped with the V3 controller. In the PRO version, this core function is extended with integrated environmental sensing and high-sensitivity GPS with PPS support — all in one compact device

Designed for 10Micron mounts with V3 controllers

Made for remote observatories

Remote control solution for 10Micron V3 mounts

SkySwitch PRO was created primarily to enable remote switching of 10Micron mounts equipped with the V3 controller. For remote operation, 10Micron provides an AUX interface intended for this type of functionality and leaves room for dedicated third-party solutions. SkySwitch PRO is designed specifically to answer that need. The PRO version goes beyond remote power switching by integrating additional functions that are highly relevant in real observatory use. It combines environmental sensing and high-sensitivity GPS with PPS support in one compact device, reducing the need for separate external modules

Remote switching for 10Micron V3 Controller

With the V3 controller, a 10Micron mount can be switched on or off either manually by pressing and holding the physical power button for two seconds, or remotely by generating a control pulse through the AUX interface. SkySwitch PRO is designed specifically to make use of this remote-control capability in a reliable and practical way.

In addition to generating the switching pulse, SkySwitch PRO also monitors the operating state of the mount through the same AUX connection. This allows the user to see in real time whether the mount is currently ON or OFF, providing full remote awareness of the system state rather than just blind pulse triggering. In practice, this means that SkySwitch PRO is not only a remote switching device, but also a real-time status interface for remote or semi-remote mount operation.

Environmental data for atmospheric refraction

SkySwitch PRO is equipped with a high-sensitivity environmental sensor that measures temperature, pressure, and humidity, and calculates dew point based on the acquired readings. These environmental parameters are used as a technical input for the mount. If enabled by the user, SkySwitch PRO writes the data in Boltwood format to a file that is continuously read by the mount and used for internal atmospheric refraction correction calculations.

In addition to this primary function, SkySwitch PRO also makes the same environmental data available to the user in practical ways. The readings are displayed live in the software interface, and the software includes configurable offsets that allow the user to correct sensor values if calibration adjustments are needed. The data can also be saved to a CSV file for the user’s own analysis, record keeping, or observatory monitoring workflow.

Integrated GPS with PPS signal

SkySwitch PRO features a built-in high-sensitivity GPS receiver that provides both precise location data and PPS timing support for the 10Micron V3 controller. This means the mount receives the type of GPS input expected by the new controller generation without the need for a separate external GPS module, giving the user a cleaner installation, fewer connections, and fully integrated timing and positioning support in one device.

All-in-one advantage

SkySwitch PRO combines remote mount switching, environmental sensing, and high-sensitivity GPS with PPS support in one compact enclosure designed specifically for 10Micron V3 operation. Instead of buying, powering, and wiring multiple separate devices, the user gets one integrated solution that reduces cost, simplifies installation, minimizes cable clutter, and makes the complete observatory setup cleaner and easier to manage.

Software Interface

The SkySwitch PRO software interface provides clear access to mount status, sensor readings, GPS data, and device configuration in one compact control panel.

STATUS – Displays the live connection status of the key system components, including the mount, weather station, and GPS receiver. The panel also shows geolocation data and current environmental readings such as temperature, pressure, humidity, and calculated dew point.

CONFIG – Provides access to the main configuration functions of SkySwitch PRO. The user can select communication ports using a handshake-based connection method, apply weather-data offsets when a more reliable reference source is available, and decide whether environmental data should be logged for 10Micron technical use, personal statistics, or both. The interface also includes a Dark Mode option for more comfortable use in low-light observatory conditions.

ABOUT – Contains general device and software information, including software version, firmware version, and SkySwitch model details. It also includes a built-in quick guide that helps the user understand the main functions of the interface.

Technical Specification