After replacing the battery inside the Astro-physics keypad, the next step was to restore the database of objects. I tried to do that, but was foiled because the version of the keypad OS (3.09) was too old. The instructions stated that I should first update to the newest version of the firmware (4.13).
So, I started to do that. The first step was to erase all the current information in the keypad's memory -- done. Next, download the new version. But that's where the problem occurred. The control-box for our Astro-physics GTO 1200 mount has two serial ports, located at the left-hand side of the unit. You can see them at bottom-left of the picture below, each labelled "RS-232".
The issue was this:
After trying (and failing) to install the firmware via the lower port several times, on two different days, I called Astro-physics and asked for tech support. In very short order, I was connected to an expert who walked me through some diagnosis.
First, I unscrewed the 5 small set-screws which held the exterior protective plate of the control box, and removed it. This exposed the interior of the control box.
I noted the information printed on the ROM chip: version D, dated 08/13/01 (for Aug 13, 2001).
This chip should be able to handle the latest firmware, though it's not the newest chip one can install. After some discussion, we concluded that there is likely some sort of hardware problem with the upper serial port. I haven't used that port in a decade, at least, so there very well could be some unknown problem.
The solution is to remove the control box and mail it, together with the keypad, back to Astro-physics. They can examine it in detail and fix any problems.
So, to remove the control box, one must loosen, but NOT REMOVE, the two set-screws on the mount, just below the control box.
When loosened like so, one can simply pull the control box up and out of the mount.
I'll pack up the control box and keypad tomorrow, and send them back to Astro-physics for repair.
Last modified 5/25/2022 by MWR.