S C O P E B I T S
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APPSTAR demonstration video

This short demonstration video shows a brief overview of APPSTAR in action. Model shown is for the ETX, LX90 etc telescopes. There is a different APPSTAR for other makes, but the APP functionality is the same on all. View the main feature set in the information on this page. The handset mode works with the ScopeBits TOUCHSTAR only, but is compatible with all mounts that work with APPSTAR.

What can APPSTAR do?

Features

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Wifi AP (Access point)

Out in the field with no WiFi? No problem. APPSTAR can create its own wireless network, allowing iOS or Android devices to connect directly - even in the most remote dark sky locations.

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Wifi STA (Uses your own network)

Prefer to stay connected to your home or observatory network? APPSTAR can join your existing WiFi, letting you control your scope from your phone, tablet, or even a desktop PC or Mac on the same network.

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Bluetooth (Android, Desktop)

Android and desktop users can connect to APPSTAR via Bluetooth Low Energy for a fast and cable-free experience. Just make sure your computer has Bluetooth 4.0 or higher (a USB dongle works great).

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ScopeBits handset support

Make your ScopeBits TOUCHSTAR handset completely wireless with APPSTAR. Just power it with a USB power bank and enjoy full mobility while observing.

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iOS & Android

Control your MEADE telescope from both iOS and Android devices. Whether you're using a tablet or phone, APPSTAR puts the universe at your fingertips.

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OTA updates

APPSTAR can be updated over the air. No more having to use a program or app to update your device. Just enter the update mode and it will all happen automatically. Futreproof!

Get the FREE Apps for iOS and Android

Use the ScopeBits FREE app for Android & iPhone or take control directly from this web browser. Supporting both Bluetooth 4LE and WiFi, easy connection options for all users.

ETX, LX90 etc users. APPSTAR requires a working handset with RS232 ports (497 Autostar or Audiostar) It is not a handset replcement and uses the RS232 port on your existing handset to work. See here for details.

LX200GPS etc users, you can subsitute your controller for APPSTAR as it plugs into your existing HBX port.

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Below are QR codes to get the app onto your device (If on mobile click the QR code). If you would like to use the WEB based emulator, click the button below.

QR 1 QR 2 PLese see the info below regarding device compatibility.
Open the Web based handset emulator

How to use the apps

 

Android users, ensure you are using the Google Chrome browser, and your phone supports Bluetooth 4LE (Not classic bluetooth). See this guide You can also use the iOS specific app if you prefer a wifi connection. See this guide on the iOS app on Android


iOS Apple users, Safari is generally the core browser installed on your device, this is great to run the apps. See this guide Alternitivly you can use the Bluetooth 4LE capabilities provided by the Android version of the APP. To do this you will need to use the FREE Bluefy Web BLE Browser.


Desktop users, you can use the Web Based Handset emulator. For Bluetooth mode you will require Bluetooth 4/5LE (Not classic Bluetooth) which is either onboard or via a USB adapter. For the web mode you have 2 options, Wifi AP (Laptops etc), or Wifi STA where it will connect to APPSTAR via your existing wifi network. See this guide. We reccomend using the Use the Google Chrome browser.

All ScopeBits apps are designed as WebApps, which means they run right in your phone's browser-no need to visit an app store. For the best experience, we recommend adding them to your home screen so they behave just like regular apps. On Android, you'll usually see a prompt to install. On iOS, simply tap the Share icon and choose Add to Home Screen. Quick, easy, and always ready when you are!

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Wireless TOUCHSTAR with APPSTAR

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Already own a TOUCHSTAR?

Go wireless with APPSTAR.

To make your TOUCHSTAR handset wireless, simply connect a USB power bank to the top USB-C port. We recommend a slimline power bank attached to the back with Velcro or double-sided tape for a clean, portable setup. If there's enough interest, we may offer battery-powered versions of both Touchstar and Clickstar in the future.

Enter the handset mode by selecting this screen and pressing the M button for 2 seconds
Your APPSTAR and TOUCHSTAR will instantly connect, now your TOUCHSTAR is wireless!

Handset wireless mode used Bluetooth Low Energy. The range is approx 10m, similar to the Wireless AUTOSTAR handset from MEADE. TOUCHSTAR will show an APPSTAR icon on the screen to show it is connected. This is compatible with All MEADE scopes that have an APPSTAR unit.

Find out more about the features and functions...

Use the gudes and information pages below to find out more about this products features and connections etc.