OPTEC 3inTCF-Si Focuser

TCF-Si Focuser

The TCF-S and TCF-Si side by side.

While the control box that comes standard with every TCF-S focuser is a useful compromise between remote computer control and telescope-side hand control, this system may not be for everyone.

Therefore, Optec has created integrated variants of our main line of focusers: the TCF-Si and TCF-S3i. Unlike their predecessors, these focusers feature an integrated control board that allows direct connection between computer and focuser, thus eliminating the necessity of the external TCF-S/S3 control box.

TCF-Si Focuser with TCF-S hand control.

Transitioning to these integrated focusers from a TCF-S or TCF-S3 is incredibly easy. The focusing and temperature compensation controls are displayed within Optec’s computer control software as a virtual control box, allowing any TCF-S/S3 owner familiar with the external control box to transition seamlessly to the computer-based integrated controls. Additionally, since the external control scheme of the TCF-S/S3 is replicated in the computer control software, new users of Optec focusers will have no more trouble learning to use the integrated focusers than their non-integrated counterparts.

For the TCF-S owner that favors the remote keypad over the control box, Optec has ensured that the TCF-Si/S3i are compatible with these controllers.

The TCF-S3i Integrated Focuser

Finally, owners of non-integrated Optec focusers should know that the TCF-Si does not suffer any lack of functionality or precision due to the transition to an integrated control system. Similarly, the TCF-S3i retains the strength of the TCF-S3 while adding the integrated capabilities of the TCF-Si for a more streamlined focusing system.