Sky-Watcher SynLink astrophotography controller (Sky-Watcher, SKU: SW-4324) is a compact control center for an astrophotography setup, combining the operation of the mount, cameras and accessories with a USB hub, data storage and power distribution system. Dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity enables session management from a smartphone, tablet or computer, reducing the need to position a laptop directly beside the telescope. The software automates functions including polar alignment, plate solving, target centering, focusing and imaging sequences. SynLink works with supported devices from different manufacturers, allowing it to serve as the central component of both portable and permanently installed astrophotography setups.
• integrated control of the mount, cameras and astrophotography accessories
• built-in USB hub and power distribution system reducing cable clutter
• dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
• control applications for Android, iOS, Windows and macOS
• automatic detection of supported devices
• Guided Polar Alignment function assisting with mount polar alignment
• Plate Solving function with GoTo and automatic target centering
• Focusing Wizard function for assisted and automatic focusing
• single exposure, mosaic, simple and advanced sequence, and video modes
• compatibility with supported astronomy equipment from multiple manufacturers
• hub comprising 4 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports and a USB-C port
• four 12 V DC power outputs and two dedicated dew heater outputs
• reverse-polarity protection for the power input
• 64 GB internal storage with support for external USB storage devices
• dedicated UART/RJ45 port for direct connection to compatible Sky-Watcher mounts
• Sky-Watcher SynLink astrophotography controller
• manufacturer: Sky-Watcher
• model: SynLink
• SKU: SW-4324
• device type: all-in-one astrophotography controller
• application: deep-sky imaging, planetary imaging and session automation
• control method: application on a smartphone, tablet or computer
• supported platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
• wireless connectivity: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
• internal storage: 64 GB
• external storage: USB storage device support
• network expansion: USB–Ethernet adapter support
• USB 3.0 ports: 4
• USB 2.0 ports: 2
• USB-C port: 1
• mount port: UART/RJ45 for compatible Sky-Watcher mounts
• shutter release control port: 1
• power input: 12 V DC, up to 14 A
• power protection: reverse-polarity protection
• power outputs: 4 × 12 V DC
• maximum current per DC output: 7 A
• maximum total output current: 14 A
• dew heater outputs: 2
• automatic functions: device detection, Guided Polar Alignment, Plate Solving, GoTo and target centering
• focusing: Focusing Wizard and support for compatible electronic focusers
• acquisition modes: single exposure, mosaic, simple sequence, advanced sequence, video
• supported device types: selected astronomy cameras, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, mounts, focusers, filter wheels, rotators and Flat panels
• installation method: compact construction designed for installation on an equatorial mount or optical tube
The combination of device control, acquisition automation, wireless connectivity and an integrated USB and power hub helps organize the setup and reduce the number of operations requiring manual intervention during an imaging session.
