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ZWO ASIAIR Mini - User Manual

ZWO ASIAIR Mini
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ASIAIR Mini
User Manual
2022.07
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Icon Usage
Symbols
Forbid Attention Tips Further Reading
Supporting Material
ZWO Provides instructional videos and the following supporting documents for ASIAIR Mini users:
1. Quick Start Guide
2. User Manual (including disclaimer and safety summary)
It is recommended that users watch the instructional video first, and then read the “Quick Start Guide” to
understand the installation and basic setup.
For detailed product information, please read the User Manual.
YouTube Videos
To watch some very useful videos: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=asiair
Download the ASIAIR App
Scan the QR code to download the app, iOS users can search and download the app in the App Store,
Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the ZWO ASIAIR Mini and is the answer not in the manual?

Summary

Icon Usage

Symbols

Describes icon meanings for Forbid, Attention, Tips, and Further Reading.

Supporting Material

Quick Start Guide

Recommends watching video then reading this for installation and basic setup.

User Manual

Recommends reading for detailed product information.

YouTube Videos

Download the ASIAIR App

System Requirements

First Stage

Minimum system requirements before October 1, 2022.

Second Stage

Minimum system requirements from October 1, 2022.

Product Description

Introduction

Describes ASIAIR Mini as a smart Wi-Fi device with rich features.

Features

Details the physical construction, design, and mounting options of ASIAIR Mini.

Preparation

Outlines initial setup steps and pre-installed components before first use.

ASIAIR App

Homepage

Introduces the app's main screen and initial interface.

Basic Configuration

Overview of essential configuration options for the ASIAIR app.

Guiding

Section detailing the guiding functionality within the app.

Mount Control Panel

Describes the controls for managing the telescope mount via the app.

Additional Tools

Lists extra utilities and features available within the ASIAIR app.

Quick Start Guide to Imaging

A guide to help users begin astrophotography with ASIAIR.

Live Stacking

Explains the feature for real-time stacking of multiple images.

Autorun

Details the feature for automated shooting sequences.

Appendix

Export Image File

Instructions on how to transfer images from ASIAIR to a PC.

Software Updates

Process for updating ASIAIR firmware and the mobile application.

ASIAIR OS Restore

Steps to restore the ASIAIR operating system on the SD card.

Security Essentials

Important safety guidelines and operational requirements for ASIAIR.

Disclaimer

Legal notices, usage warnings, and limitations of liability.

After Sale Support

Information regarding warranty service and maintenance.

Device Component

Ports and Indicators Diagram

Visual representation of ASIAIR Mini ports and their functions.

LED Indications

LED Status Descriptions

Explains the function and states of the Power, System, and Wi-Fi LEDs.

Initial Setup

Data Cable Connections

Illustrates connecting cameras and accessories via USB ports.

Power Cable Connections

Details how to connect the power supply to ASIAIR Mini.

Network Connection

Connecting the ASIAIR

Initial Connection Steps

Steps to connect your mobile device to the ASIAIR Wi-Fi network.

Mount Connection via Cables

Connecting RS-232

Using RS232-USB adapters for connecting various equatorial mounts.

Direct USB Connection to Mount

Connecting equatorial mounts directly to ASIAIR via USB.

EQMod Mount Connection

EQMod with EQDir Cable

Using an EQDir cable for connecting EQMod compatible mounts.

Mount Connection via Network

DSLR Camera Connection

ASIAIR App Interface

Phone Info Screen

Displays device status, network, and connection details.

Top Menu Bar

Icons for accessing various settings like ASIAIR, Camera, and Telescope settings.

Right Side Controls

Buttons for switching between main functions like Preview, Focus, and Guiding.

Bottom Information Bar

Displays current working status, camera info, resolution, and temperature.

Left Side Tools

Shows available tools like Histogram, Guiding, and Crosshair for current mode.

Base Configuration

Network Settings

Customizing Wi-Fi hotspot name, password, and network modes.

Device Operation

Switching between connected devices and safe shutdown procedures.

Station Mode

Connecting ASIAIR to a home area network for remote control.

Info Display

Details shown in the ASIAIR box, including serial number and CPU temperature.

Main Camera Settings

Camera Selection and Focal Length

Setting up the main camera and inputting the scope's focal length.

Gain and Cooling Settings

Adjusting camera gain and managing cooling functions.

Guide Camera Settings

Guide Camera Selection

Connecting and configuring the guide camera.

Guiding Parameters

Setting guide scope focal length, gain, and calibration step.

Mount Settings

Mount Model and Connection

Selecting the mount model and connection method.

GPS and Time Synchronization

Synchronizing geographic location and time with the mount.

Filter Wheel Settings

Filter Wheel Configuration

Selecting and configuring the filter wheel and its positions.

Calibrating Filter Wheel

Process to recalibrate the filter wheel positions.

Focuser Settings

Focuser Configuration

Adjusting focuser parameters like steps, backlash, and position.

Storage Settings

Storage Space Overview

Shows internal eMMC and external storage usage.

Image Management

Preview, export, and delete captured images.

About ASIAIR Mini

Software Version and Feedback

Displays software version and provides an option for submitting feedback.

Experimental Features and Firmware

Access to experimental options and firmware reset functionality.

Guiding Controls

Entering Guiding Page

How to access the guiding interface from other modes.

Guiding Graph and Settings

Controls for the guiding graph display and camera settings.

Guiding Operation

Guider Calibration Data

Understanding the star movement graph during calibration.

Refreshing Captured Image

How to update the real-time image during guiding.

Starting Calibration

Process to start mount calibration for guiding.

Stopping Guiding

Button to end the guiding process.

Adjusting Guiding Graph

Fine-tuning RA/DEC aggregation for guiding graph stability.

Mount Control Panel (MCP)

Target Selection

Using the celestial library to select shooting targets.

GoTo Functionality

Commanding the mount to move to a selected celestial target.

Direction and Speed Controls

Adjusting mount direction and speed for composition.

Additional Tools

Histogram Analysis

Displays image statistics and allows automated stretch operations.

Guiding Activation

Enabling the guiding floating window for monitoring.

Plate Solve Function

Analyzes images to determine mount pointing position and for Polar Alignment.

Crosshair Overlay

Creates a crosshair for accurate image centering.

Annotate and Detect Star

Annotates stars and shows their sizes after capturing an image.

Focus Control

Accessing the ZWO EAF focuser controls.

Quick Start Guide to Imaging

General Shooting Process

Overview of the deep space field shooting process.

Focusing Procedure

Steps to focus the main camera and guidescopes.

Polar Alignment

Camera and Mount Connection

Ensuring the main camera and mount are correctly connected.

Focus Check and Preview

Taking test images to ensure focus and correct downloading.

Alignment Calibration

Completing calibration using onscreen prompts for polar alignment.

GoTo and Preview

Target Selection and GoTo

Selecting a target and initiating the GoTo command.

Automatic Centering

How GoTo automatically centers the image using plate solve.

Live Stacking

Target Selection and Composition

Selecting a target and adjusting image composition for stacking.

Light Frame Settings

Choosing exposure length and optionally saving individual frames.

Autorun and Shooting Schedule

Shooting Schedule Creation

Creating a shooting plan with exposure times and calibration frames.

Starting and Modifying Schedule

Initiating the shooting plan and options for modification.

Appendix - Image Export and Updates

Export Image File

Process for transferring images from TF card or USB disk.

Software Updates

Procedure for updating ASIAIR firmware and app.

ASIAIR OS Restore

Steps to restore the ASIAIR OS if it becomes unresponsive.

Security Essentials

Environmental Conditions

Operating temperature and weather conditions.

Operations and Power

Ensuring correct power supply and SD card insertion.

Disclaimer and Support

Product Usage Warnings

Warnings regarding product suitability, operation, and safety.

Service Agreement

Details on warranty service, maintenance, and liability.

FCC and IC Statements

FCC Compliance

Device compliance with FCC rules for digital devices.

IC Compliance

Device compliance with Industry Canada's license-exempt RSSs.

Summary

Icon Usage

Symbols

Describes icon meanings for Forbid, Attention, Tips, and Further Reading.

Supporting Material

Quick Start Guide

Recommends watching video then reading this for installation and basic setup.

User Manual

Recommends reading for detailed product information.

YouTube Videos

Download the ASIAIR App

System Requirements

First Stage

Minimum system requirements before October 1, 2022.

Second Stage

Minimum system requirements from October 1, 2022.

Product Description

Introduction

Describes ASIAIR Mini as a smart Wi-Fi device with rich features.

Features

Details the physical construction, design, and mounting options of ASIAIR Mini.

Preparation

Outlines initial setup steps and pre-installed components before first use.

ASIAIR App

Homepage

Introduces the app's main screen and initial interface.

Basic Configuration

Overview of essential configuration options for the ASIAIR app.

Guiding

Section detailing the guiding functionality within the app.

Mount Control Panel

Describes the controls for managing the telescope mount via the app.

Additional Tools

Lists extra utilities and features available within the ASIAIR app.

Quick Start Guide to Imaging

A guide to help users begin astrophotography with ASIAIR.

Live Stacking

Explains the feature for real-time stacking of multiple images.

Autorun

Details the feature for automated shooting sequences.

Appendix

Export Image File

Instructions on how to transfer images from ASIAIR to a PC.

Software Updates

Process for updating ASIAIR firmware and the mobile application.

ASIAIR OS Restore

Steps to restore the ASIAIR operating system on the SD card.

Security Essentials

Important safety guidelines and operational requirements for ASIAIR.

Disclaimer

Legal notices, usage warnings, and limitations of liability.

After Sale Support

Information regarding warranty service and maintenance.

Device Component

Ports and Indicators Diagram

Visual representation of ASIAIR Mini ports and their functions.

LED Indications

LED Status Descriptions

Explains the function and states of the Power, System, and Wi-Fi LEDs.

Initial Setup

Data Cable Connections

Illustrates connecting cameras and accessories via USB ports.

Power Cable Connections

Details how to connect the power supply to ASIAIR Mini.

Network Connection

Connecting the ASIAIR

Initial Connection Steps

Steps to connect your mobile device to the ASIAIR Wi-Fi network.

Mount Connection via Cables

Connecting RS-232

Using RS232-USB adapters for connecting various equatorial mounts.

Direct USB Connection to Mount

Connecting equatorial mounts directly to ASIAIR via USB.

EQMod Mount Connection

EQMod with EQDir Cable

Using an EQDir cable for connecting EQMod compatible mounts.

Mount Connection via Network

DSLR Camera Connection

ASIAIR App Interface

Phone Info Screen

Displays device status, network, and connection details.

Top Menu Bar

Icons for accessing various settings like ASIAIR, Camera, and Telescope settings.

Right Side Controls

Buttons for switching between main functions like Preview, Focus, and Guiding.

Bottom Information Bar

Displays current working status, camera info, resolution, and temperature.

Left Side Tools

Shows available tools like Histogram, Guiding, and Crosshair for current mode.

Base Configuration

Network Settings

Customizing Wi-Fi hotspot name, password, and network modes.

Device Operation

Switching between connected devices and safe shutdown procedures.

Station Mode

Connecting ASIAIR to a home area network for remote control.

Info Display

Details shown in the ASIAIR box, including serial number and CPU temperature.

Main Camera Settings

Camera Selection and Focal Length

Setting up the main camera and inputting the scope's focal length.

Gain and Cooling Settings

Adjusting camera gain and managing cooling functions.

Guide Camera Settings

Guide Camera Selection

Connecting and configuring the guide camera.

Guiding Parameters

Setting guide scope focal length, gain, and calibration step.

Mount Settings

Mount Model and Connection

Selecting the mount model and connection method.

GPS and Time Synchronization

Synchronizing geographic location and time with the mount.

Filter Wheel Settings

Filter Wheel Configuration

Selecting and configuring the filter wheel and its positions.

Calibrating Filter Wheel

Process to recalibrate the filter wheel positions.

Focuser Settings

Focuser Configuration

Adjusting focuser parameters like steps, backlash, and position.

Storage Settings

Storage Space Overview

Shows internal eMMC and external storage usage.

Image Management

Preview, export, and delete captured images.

About ASIAIR Mini

Software Version and Feedback

Displays software version and provides an option for submitting feedback.

Experimental Features and Firmware

Access to experimental options and firmware reset functionality.

Guiding Controls

Entering Guiding Page

How to access the guiding interface from other modes.

Guiding Graph and Settings

Controls for the guiding graph display and camera settings.

Guiding Operation

Guider Calibration Data

Understanding the star movement graph during calibration.

Refreshing Captured Image

How to update the real-time image during guiding.

Starting Calibration

Process to start mount calibration for guiding.

Stopping Guiding

Button to end the guiding process.

Adjusting Guiding Graph

Fine-tuning RA/DEC aggregation for guiding graph stability.

Mount Control Panel (MCP)

Target Selection

Using the celestial library to select shooting targets.

GoTo Functionality

Commanding the mount to move to a selected celestial target.

Direction and Speed Controls

Adjusting mount direction and speed for composition.

Additional Tools

Histogram Analysis

Displays image statistics and allows automated stretch operations.

Guiding Activation

Enabling the guiding floating window for monitoring.

Plate Solve Function

Analyzes images to determine mount pointing position and for Polar Alignment.

Crosshair Overlay

Creates a crosshair for accurate image centering.

Annotate and Detect Star

Annotates stars and shows their sizes after capturing an image.

Focus Control

Accessing the ZWO EAF focuser controls.

Quick Start Guide to Imaging

General Shooting Process

Overview of the deep space field shooting process.

Focusing Procedure

Steps to focus the main camera and guidescopes.

Polar Alignment

Camera and Mount Connection

Ensuring the main camera and mount are correctly connected.

Focus Check and Preview

Taking test images to ensure focus and correct downloading.

Alignment Calibration

Completing calibration using onscreen prompts for polar alignment.

GoTo and Preview

Target Selection and GoTo

Selecting a target and initiating the GoTo command.

Automatic Centering

How GoTo automatically centers the image using plate solve.

Live Stacking

Target Selection and Composition

Selecting a target and adjusting image composition for stacking.

Light Frame Settings

Choosing exposure length and optionally saving individual frames.

Autorun and Shooting Schedule

Shooting Schedule Creation

Creating a shooting plan with exposure times and calibration frames.

Starting and Modifying Schedule

Initiating the shooting plan and options for modification.

Appendix - Image Export and Updates

Export Image File

Process for transferring images from TF card or USB disk.

Software Updates

Procedure for updating ASIAIR firmware and app.

ASIAIR OS Restore

Steps to restore the ASIAIR OS if it becomes unresponsive.

Security Essentials

Environmental Conditions

Operating temperature and weather conditions.

Operations and Power

Ensuring correct power supply and SD card insertion.

Disclaimer and Support

Product Usage Warnings

Warnings regarding product suitability, operation, and safety.

Service Agreement

Details on warranty service, maintenance, and liability.

FCC and IC Statements

FCC Compliance

Device compliance with FCC rules for digital devices.

IC Compliance

Device compliance with Industry Canada's license-exempt RSSs.

Overview

The ASIAIR Mini is a smart Wi-Fi device designed to simplify astrophotography. It integrates a power management module, extensive USB connectivity, and a telescope mounting foot, all controlled via the ASIAIR App. This third-generation ASIAIR device, first released in July 2018, aims to provide a seamless and user-friendly experience for both beginners and experienced astrophotographers.

Function Description

The ASIAIR Mini serves as a central hub for controlling various astronomical equipment, including cameras, mounts, filter wheels, and focusers. It enables users to perform a wide range of astrophotography tasks directly from a mobile device (iOS or Android) via the ASIAIR App. Key functions include:

  • Device Control: The ASIAIR Mini allows for the connection and control of DSLR cameras, guide cameras, main cameras, equatorial mounts, filter wheels (EFW), and electronic automatic focusers (EAF). It supports various connection methods, including USB for cameras and mounts, and network connections (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) for compatible mounts.
  • Imaging Management: Users can capture images, manage image files, and perform basic image processing tasks. The device supports RAW image format and allows for the storage of images on eMMC storage or an SD card. External USB disks (FAT32, exFat, NTFS) up to 512GB are also supported for expanded storage, provided the device has a connected power supply.
  • Astrophotography Workflow: The ASIAIR Mini streamlines the astrophotography workflow through features like:
    • Focusing: The app provides a "Focus" mode with real-time image refreshing to assist in achieving sharp focus, often by aiming for a smaller HFD (Half-Flux Diameter) value.
    • Polar Alignment: A dedicated Polar Alignment mode guides users through the calibration process to achieve accurate polar alignment, aiming for an error of 2 arc minutes or better.
    • GoTo and Preview: Users can select celestial targets from a comprehensive library (including NGC, IC, M catalogs, solar system objects, and well-known stars) and command the mount to automatically slew to and center the target. The preview mode allows for composition adjustments.
    • Guiding: The ASIAIR Mini offers guiding capabilities to ensure precise tracking of celestial objects, minimizing star trails during long exposures. It displays a guiding graph showing RA and Dec guide star rates and allows for calibration and adjustments to guiding parameters.
    • Live Stacking: This feature enables automated on-screen stacking of multiple images in real-time, useful for visualizing faint objects or sharing with others. It supports the addition of calibration files (Flats, Darks, Bias frames) for improved image quality.
    • Autorun (Shooting Schedule): Users can create detailed shooting plans, specifying exposure times, number of images, calibration frames, and binning sizes. The schedule can include delays between frames, automatic movement to the home position, and automatic shutdown upon completion.
  • Network Connectivity: The device creates a Wi-Fi hotspot (2.4GHz and 5GHz dual-band) for connecting mobile devices. It also supports Wi-Fi STA mode, allowing the ASIAIR Mini to connect to a home network, extending control range. Ethernet cable network connection is also available for specific mount control systems.

Usage Features

The ASIAIR Mini is designed for ease of use and portability, with several features enhancing its operational experience:

  • Compact and Durable Design: The case is constructed from CNC milled aviation aluminum with a rugged anodized finish, measuring 100x70x26.5mm. This makes it lightweight and easy to mount on various telescopes using M4 and 1/4-inch threads and a supplied dovetail plate.
  • Intuitive App Interface: The ASIAIR App provides a clear and organized interface with a top menu bar for settings, a right side for switching main function modes (focus, polar alignment, multi-targets, live stacking, plan mode, video mode), a left side for tools (histogram, guiding, crosshair, annotate), and a bottom information bar for status and camera details.
  • Power Management: A built-in power management module simplifies cable management, offering multiple DC 12V outputs for connected equipment. It also includes a shutter release port for SLR cameras, supporting exposures over 30s.
  • Status Indicators: LED lights (Wi-Fi, System, Power) provide visual feedback on the device's operational status, making it easy to monitor.
  • Flexible Mount Connection: Supports various equatorial mounts via RS-232, direct USB, EQDir cable for EQMOD systems, Wi-Fi, and RJ45 Ethernet cable. The app allows users to select the mount model and connection method.
  • DSLR Camera Compatibility: The ASIAIR Mini supports a wide range of Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras, allowing them to be used as the main camera for preview, autorun, and live stacking. Users are advised to set the camera to Manual mode, Bulb shutter, RAW image format (maximum size), and disable power-saving or long exposure noise reduction features.
  • Customization: Users can customize the Wi-Fi hotspot name and password, switch Wi-Fi bands, and personalize filter wheel positions. File naming can also be customized to include camera model, gain, date, and temperature.
  • Safety Features: The app provides a shutdown option for safe power-off. It also includes warnings about undervoltage operation and advises against using excessive force when tightening dovetail bolts.

Maintenance Features

The ASIAIR Mini includes features and recommendations to ensure its longevity and optimal performance:

  • Software Updates: ZWO provides regular software updates for the ASIAIR Mini and its app. The app checks for updates upon startup, and new firmware versions are distributed with app updates. Users are prompted to confirm and install updates when available.
  • OS Restore Process: In case of operator errors corrupting the ASIAIR OS system on the SD card, ZWO provides an easy-to-follow restore process, detailed on their official website. It is highly recommended to back up files before first use.
  • Reset Functionality: A physical RESET button allows users to correct Wi-Fi issues by resetting the Wi-Fi hotspot, password, and station mode details after 5 seconds. This is also a first troubleshooting step if the ASIAIR becomes unresponsive or its Wi-Fi hotspot is not found.
  • Environmental Guidelines: The device is designed for use in temperatures between 0°C and 40°C, in good weather conditions (no rain, snow, fog, lightning, wind, or extreme weather). Proper ventilation of the surrounding area during operation is also recommended.
  • Power Supply Requirements: Users must ensure the power supply voltage is within 12V-15V with a minimum current of 2A, and the total system power consumption does not exceed 6A.
  • SD Card Handling: It is crucial to ensure the SD card is correctly inserted before powering on the device. If exporting images directly from the TF card with a card reader, the ASIAIR Mini must be fully de-energized before removal.
  • Cable Management: Users are advised to pay attention to connection cables to prevent snagging or tangling, especially during mount slewing operations.
  • Documentation and Support: ZWO provides a Quick Start Guide and a comprehensive User Manual, along with instructional videos and YouTube resources. After-sales support includes a 2-year warranty for free maintenance services, with paid services for parts after this period. The latest manual version is available on the ZWO website.

ZWO ASIAIR Mini Specifications

General IconGeneral
Power Consumption5W
Operating SystemLinux
ProcessorQuad-core ARM Cortex-A53
RAM1 GB
Supported ProtocolsASCOM, INDI
Wi-Fi802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz/5GHz
StorageMicroSD card slot, supports up to 256 GB
NetworkWi-Fi and Ethernet
SoftwareASIAIR app
Power Input5 V / 2 A
USB Ports1 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0

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