PrimeTCS DSP firmware release notes

Astrometric's PrimeTCS controllers include Digital Signal Processor (DSP) chip motion controllers. PrimeTCS has two "drive units": one for RA/Az and one for Dec/Alt. This document provides instructions on upgrading the DSP chip firmware and provides release notes on the associated firmware version.

Upgrade instructions

Follow these instructions to upgrade PrimeTCS DSP firmware to the latest version...
  1. Upgrade PrimeTCS' main ATCS firmware to the latest version. It is important to do this *first* so that so that when the DSP firmware is upgrade there is not a firmware version mismatch and associated error. To do this upgrade to the latest verion of Maestro 3 and then connect to PrimeTCS. If an upgrade is necessary you will be asked if you want to upgrade the ATCS firmware. Select "yes".
  2. Power-cycle PrimeTCS
    Note: the following must be done for both PrimeTCS drive units...
  3. Assure that the PrimeTCS drive unit is attached via USB to the Windows PC.
  4. Using the Device Manager on the Windows PC, determine the COM port number for the PrimeTCS drive unit connection.
  5. Depending on use of absolute or incremental encoders...
    1. For PrimeTCS systems using the HRAM (High Resolution Absolute Encoder) module run the PTCS_DSP_UpgradeHRAM_N.exe file. 'N' is the firmware version number.
    2. For PrimeTCS systems using incremental encoders, or equipped with the DD_TCS (Direct Drive interface) units, run the PTCS_DSP_Upgrade_N.exe file. 'N' is the firmware version number.
  6. When prompted, enter the COM port number for the attached drive unit. The upgrade will commence and status on progress will be provided.
  7. When the upgrade is complete, upgrade the PrimeTCS DSP firmware on the other drive unit (if not already done).
  8. Power-cycle PrimeTCS and it should now boot into using the new firmware and connect to Maestro.
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