Replacing the GEMINI System EPROM Chip
The Gemini System provided with our Losmandy Mounts includes an evolution of the mount operating functions described on the main Gemini system description page. The operating instruction set is written into a socketed computer chip (or "operating ROM") housed in the Gemini Console illustrated at right.
Losmandy "Gemini" control system Console. This houses the control circuitry of the Gemini system, the interface to external components, power supply, and motors.
By the year 2006, Rene Goerlich had developed the Gemini system to provide four distinct levels (Level 1, Level 2, etc.) each of these provided an increased selection of functions and capabilities over time. These Levels have evolved as bugs were worked out of the Gemini and as some new features are added, and these changes are referred to as "version" updates. So a chip that is "Level 1, Version 1" is not probably not as capable as "Level 1, Version 1.1". To change from one Level to another or to upgrade from one Version to a more refined Version simply requires one to acquire that instruction set EPROM chip, then replace the older EPROM into the Gemini Console with the newer EPROM.
The upgrade chips (Level 3 to Level 4 for example) are available for a relatively modest fee. We also make the code available in our Losmandy Notes & Interesting Articles section of our Library for those who can create their own ROM chips.
Hints for replacing the EPROM
- Disconnect all cables (including power) from the Gemini.
- Remove the cover (1/16" Allen wrench needed),
- I've never experienced or heard of an EPROM dying because of statical discharges.
Nevertheless, touch the water pipe or something metallic
connected to the ground before replacing the EPROM.
- The EPROM is socketed in the Gemini, you need a screw driver
(around 5 mm) to insert it between the socket and the EPROM
(NOT between socket and board!) and gently lever it up from
the left and right side by turning the screw driver slowly. It comes out easily.
- Save the old chip, it can be erased with UV light and reprogrammed
many times.
- Unpack the new EPROM and plug it into the socket.
The direction is MOST important! Look at the notch at the small
side, there is also a notch printed at the silk screen of the
printed circuit board, to the left side. They must correspond to each other.
The pins of the Level 2 EPROM are already adjusted by me with a special tool, don't use force if
they do not fit into the holes immediately, use your finger nail sliding along the pins
to get all of them into the socket.
- Once all pins are in their respective holes, press the EPROM
with both thumbs into the socket. Again, not much force is needed!
- Check again if the notches of EPROM and silk screen print are
on the same (left) side!!
- Close the cover.
- Check if the Gemini boots up by connecting the power cord (and the
DeLuxe HC if no display is onboard) and switching the unit on.
All EPROMs are tested to boot up the Gemini prior to shipping!
- Look at the startup message. The EPROM Level/Version/Serial Number
is displayed. Depending upon your previous software version,
"CMOS resetted" may be appended. If not, please use the Gemini's
Setup->Restore Defaults to change the setting to their default
values and initialize the internal pointers of the User Catalog
and the log.
- Input your setup values. You can use the Gemini Control program
to do this.
- If you are not using the Losmandy G11, set up your mount
and teach in the Safety Limits.
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Last modified by Rene Goerlich: Nov 12, 2001
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