Mini Computer

[JeffBevan]

What mini computer are you using, I'm not asking about ASAIR etc. but what fullfledged mini computer are you using? I'm not really willing to go the distance with a Primaluce but they are certainly intriguing.

[AstroBee]

Jeff, I'm running an i3 NUC that I purchased about 4 years ago. I don't remember the exact specs and it's packed up right now for the eclipse trip.
A couple of things to consider. Get an i3 model if you plan on powering this little guy in a field off a battery. It's still going to require a step up transformer because most of the intel NUC's require 19v power. Not really that big a deal, it's just another little attachment to the rig.
I've heard very good things about the tiny fanless PC's like the MeLE Quieter 3C Fanless Mini PC N5105. https://store.mele.cn/collections/mini- ... 2909489330
It probably doesn't have the power to run SharpCap if you are doing lucky imaging but I'm not sure.
If power is not an issue, like just using it at home or in an observatory, I would recommend an I7 NUC.

The advantage of the devices like the ASIair and the Primaluce models are that they have integrated 12v power outputs for cameras and other gear plus usually variable output ports for dew heaters.
Going with a NUC you are going to need something like the Pegasus Powerbox to provide 12v power to your other devices. Also, A WiFi travel router to create a hotspot so you can remote into it from a tablet or your phone.
https://pegasusastro.com/products-power ... tribution/
https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Wireless ... 896&sr=8-6
That's what I do.

You can see all of these devices in this photo of my rig.

All of those devices are mounted on a vixen plate that I screw into the side of my tripier so it's just one bolt and off it goes into its carrying case.

[Gordon]

I purchased a couple of them (one for each of my mounts). Both are the cheap Amazon purchased mini's. But I've used them for over 4 years with no problems.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QY ... UTF8&psc=1

[DEnc]

My MeLE Quieter 3Q is a champ.

[yobbo89]

i'm using a nuc clone (Kogan Atlas C300 Mini PC 2.3GHz Celeron) with ram and m.2 sd upgrade ,runs good no hicups for a few years now, fit's inside my pier ,runs on 12 volts , you could probably get away adding a small touch screen to it