I currently have CCDsoft v5/Sky 6 and an STV autoguider. I see CCDsoft doesnt support the STV but Maxim DL does. I have seen in some earlier posts that the only option was to use another guider than the STV with CCD autopilot because of the lack of CCDsoft support, but based on the Maxim DL support for that camera and your interface with Maxim DL, could I use the STV? I also own the ST402 and could use this with the CCDsoft but really enjoy the STV functions. Thanks

Hi Robert,

The STV is designed as an autonomous, stand-alone guider and, as such, does not lend itself to integration with an automated imaging systyem. The Maxim interface is limited in capability and even that won't support integration with an automation program like CCDAP. For example, there is no way to program guide vectors into the STV - all you can do is start/stop the guider and manually calibrate it. This is insufficient flexibility for unattended imaging.

When I first got into automated imaging years ago, I had an STV and recognized its limitations in this regard. I eventually sold it for an SBIG ST-402 and have been very pleased with that.

Sorry I can't give you better news.