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FocusLock Software

Fast, Continuous Focus for any ASCOM Focuser

Special Note for Windows 10 Patch - KB4056892

Developed in partnership with Innovations Foresight, Optec's new FocusLock software integrates patent pending SharpLock Technology to provide an easy-to-use focusing application that functions whenever guiding is active.  When using the ONAG On-Axis Guider a cold-mirror passes infrared light to the guide camera while reflectiing visible wavelengths on to the imaging camera.  The cold-mirror introduces a slight astigmatism to the guide image allowing FocusLock to quickly determine on which side of focus the camera is currently positioned.  Using the proprietary SharpLock software, a single system gain constant, Ks can be used to quickly drive the focuser to the optimal focus position and maintain focus.

FocusLock is designed to maintain focus whenever the guide camera is operating.  Guiding can be accomplished through Maxim D/L, TheSky X, and PHD2 Guide or any other guiding program using the Optec ASCOM Server.  Focuser control and filter focus offsets are supported for any ASCOM filter wheel.

Auto Calibration wizard is included with manual calibration overides.  Scripting for external program control and focus verification is now included for observatory automation. 

How Does SharpLock Work?

Dr. Gaston Baudat of Innovations Foresight describes the ONAG and SharpLock in detail in this excellent Astronomy Technology Today article.  Download for a full explanation and description of the technology that FocusLock is based upon.  (PDF courtesy Dr. Gaston Baudat and Astronomy Technology Today.)

System Requirements:

  • Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5 (available from Microsoft)
  • ASCOM Platform 6.1 or higher (available from the ASCOM website)

For guide camera control, you may use any of these programs:

FocusLock Software Installer:

FocusLockOptecFocusLock(1.1.1).zip
Windows operating systems  (release date:  2017/03/09)

ASCOM StandardsWindows Installer program for Optec's FocusLock ASCOM focuserapplication. Based on patented SharpLock Technology©, FocusLock works with Maxim D/L© and TheSky X©&  and now with PhD Guide 2.0 support.

 Download Optec FocusLock Software


SharpLock patent pending by Innovations Foresight, LLC.
FocusLock requires ASCOM Platform 6.1,
Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5,
ASCOM 32-bit or 64-bit device drivers.

Maxim D/L© - copyright Diffraction Ltd.
TheSky X© - copyright Software Bisque

FocusLock Software copyright 2015, 2016 - Optec, Inc.
SharpLock Technology is patent pending and licensed through Innovations Foresight, LLC.

 		 

FocusLock Help:

View the FocusLock Help Document online.
Download the FocusLock Help Document in pdf format.

FocusLock License:

Review the FocusLock Software License Agreement.