The 497 works as normal in telescope control and setup. It will not communicate with the Com 1 line from the computer. I suspect the AM 232 IC, but have no way to successfully solder a surface mount IC in, if that is what the problem is. Is there other options I should check? The worst thing would be I am stuck with firmware 42E and not computer control. That would not be my first choice. Thanks
SOURCE: meade LX200GPS telescope
The front panel for the telescope has an internal fuse. Remove the screws and look at the circuit board for a fuse. Replace with the same type and rating. The telescope has a diode with the fuse that gives some protection against reverse polarity, and the telescope should function on this fix.
SOURCE: vista will not work with autostar 494
I did some research on meade 506 astrofinder software
Read this...
Customer Review:
Rating: 
Summary: outdated software
The software this kit comes with is old and outdated. It is not
supported by Windows XP nor Windows Vista. The latest supported version
of Windows is Windows 98.
It
also appears that the included software is a limited trial software. It
is limited to the included 3 catalogs (star maps). The complete set of
catalogs must be purchased additionally at quite some expense.
The
cable connection kit couldn't be reviewed because it was missing from
the package I received, but keep in mind when you order this kit, that
neither Windows XP nor Windows Vista support serial ports anymore. The
additional USB to serial adapter would be required.
That last line would suggest to me that if one had a USB to Serial adapter it might work? but I really do not know for sure. checking into some more stuff...
Found another article that states "It requires a PC running Windows 98SE through Windows XP. It will not
run under Windows 95 or earlier, nor will it run under Windows Vista."
OK I found this site, you might be able to make some sense of it. But I did read in there that they do make USB serial adapters that will work with Vista OS.
Good Luck and happy star gazing! If you find something new out there maybe you could name it after me if you get it working. lol
SOURCE: Autostar 497 freezes
When warm and indoors (!) connect Autostar to scope and by serial lead to a PC, allow Meade Autostar suite to update the Autostar Firmware to the latest version (2009!!)
Frome www.meade.com/support/auto.html :
How To Upgrade Your Handbox
To upgrade your Autostar first click on the link below to download the Autostar Update (ASU) Client Application for Windows. If your web browser allows you to open the installation file, you may choose that option when prompted. Otherwise, just save the install file to your local hard disk drive. When downloading is complete, double click on the saved file to start the installation. Follow the instructions provided to install Autostar Update (ASU) on your machine. When installation is complete, start ASU by selecting "Start Menu" -> "Programs" -> "Meade Inst" -> "ASU". If you have an active Internet connection and your telescope with Autostar is connected using the appropriate cable as listed above, ASU will detect and install the correct Autostar code directly from Meade's web site via the "Upgrade Autostar Software Now" button.
Autostar Update
Autostar Update is an application that functions to transfer the event files and software updates from your computer, through the serial port, USB or Connector Cable Set depending on your telescope model. The Autostar Update application is available as a stand-alone client application for Windows. The most recent versions of AutoStar Update automatically check for the newest versions of the AutoStar Updater and download it if necessary. It is critical that you use the most recent AutoStar Updater to ensure that you get the proper software updates for your system.
06/02/09
Autostar Update (ASU) Client Application for Windows, Version 5.6 (1,654 KB). This is the latest Autostar Update. Rev. 5.6 is compatible with the ETX-LS and #497EP Hand Controllers. This version is compatible with all versions of AutoStar II and #497 AutoStar computer controllers. This installation will automatically update the Update Client Application in AutoStar Suite™ Software. If you have previously installed the Autostar Update (ASU) Client Application for Windows, Uninstall the old version before installing this new version.
07/27/09
#497 AutoStar hand controller software update. Version 5BE2 (1,039 KB).
General update. Fixes many known bugs. Real time clock corrections. LXD75 polar alignment. Various LX90 pointing and tracking fixes. Adds new magnetic/true north alignment.
REQUIRES VERSION 5.6 AUTOSTAR UPDATER.
SOURCE: I have an older Meade
You may have Corrupted firmware in the hand controller- that's why they want you to do a RESET.
You might have to reload the correct firmware to fix this problem.
I believe if you hold down the ENTER KEY and the SCROLL DOWN arrow key and then turn on the scope you enter SAFE LOAD where you can reload the firmware.
SOURCE: Can I just swap out
It depends on which model Meade telescope you own-- you never said?
Yes you can swap a 494 for another 494-- but we need more information to be able to say a 497.
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