Why Does My DSI Pro II Show a Black or Grey Screen?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around troubleshooting issues with the DSI Pro II camera, specifically regarding the display of a black or grey screen during live view. Participants explore various technical aspects, potential causes, and solutions related to the camera's performance in astrophotography (AP) settings.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions experiencing a black or grey screen and acknowledges the possibility of operator error.
  • Another participant shares their experience of the camera "locking up" when the live view exposure time exceeds 2 seconds, suggesting adjustments to exposure settings and ensuring contrast and brightness are set to "auto."
  • It is proposed that the pepper dots seen on the screen may indicate the need for "dark" frames and that the automatic histogram function could help with brightness adjustments.
  • A participant identifies issues with multiple USB repeater cables affecting camera functionality, noting that the camera works with a single 5-meter cable but becomes unresponsive with additional cables.
  • One participant expresses their intent to use multiple repeater cables for astrophotography from their living room, while another shares concerns about equipment security when outside.
  • There are reflections on the challenges and costs associated with astrophotography, with one participant indicating they are deeply invested in the project despite ongoing difficulties.
  • Another participant advises ensuring that USB cables are labeled "active" to prevent signal attenuation over distance.
  • An update reveals that connecting the DSI to a powered hub resolved the functionality issue, suggesting that power draw from the DSI exceeded what the repeater cables could provide.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the root cause of the black or grey screen issue, as multiple potential explanations and solutions are discussed. The conversation includes varying experiences and suggestions, indicating that the problem remains unresolved for some.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential dependencies on specific equipment setups, such as the type of USB cables used and the power requirements of the DSI camera. The discussion also reflects individual experiences that may not generalize across all users.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in astrophotography, particularly those using the DSI Pro II camera or similar equipment, may find the troubleshooting insights and shared experiences relevant.

Chronos
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I can't get my dsi pro II to produce a live view image. I either get a black screen or a grey screen with pepper dots. I concede the possibility of operator ignorance.
 
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I had an issue with mine where it would "lock up" and not actually download images if I set the live view exposure time to more than about 2 seconds. Does your DSI do it when you set the exposure to different durations or only one or what? Also, make sure you set the contrast and brightness and all that to "auto" or you have to constantly adjust it. If it is set to manual you may be getting good data but it will look like a black screen if the range is too high.
 
Those probably are images. Do you have the automatic histogram function turned on? It will set the brightness for you. Point the scope at something bright and work the focuser - it may need to move far to get in focus.

The pepper dots are why you need "dark" frames, btw.
 
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It appears multiple USB repeater cables are the problem. The camera appears functional with 1 5 meter cable, but, is unresponsive with more than 1 cable. I am going to try adding a powered usb hub. I have no problem running my dslr with 3 repeater cables, but, it is battery powered.
 
Just for the record I'm trying to do AP from the comfort of my living room, which is why I am using multiple repeater cables.
 
Chronos said:
Just for the record I'm trying to do AP from the comfort of my living room, which is why I am using multiple repeater cables.

I would love to do that. I have to babysit my stuff in my front yard only because I'm afraid someone is going to steal my laptop. Otherwise I'm not too terribly worried someone is going to come by and screw with my telescope. And I would use my backyard, but there is a gigantic tree that takes up about 75% of the sky.
 
I've been milking this cow for about a year. It has thrown new tricks at every turn. It looks like a decent finder scope is next in the que - assuming the dsi issue is resolved. With any luck I may realize success for less than 3x the cost I anticipated. I'm so dang deep into this project now I can't afford to quit.
 
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It can definitely be a horribly expensive hobby...
 
Drakkith said:
I would love to do that. I have to babysit my stuff in my front yard only because I'm afraid someone is going to steal my laptop.
That's just it: the laptop is on his lap, in his living room. For me, the distance is a bit shorter, about 20' and the scope is on a 2nd story deck with no access from below. It is 20' from the scope to my couch, easily reachable by a 15' USB cable and a single 15' extension.

Chronos: make sure the cable says "active" on it, otherwise it is just letting the signal attenuate with distance.
 
  • #10
russ_watters said:
That's just it: the laptop is on his lap, in his living room. For me, the distance is a bit shorter, about 20' and the scope is on a 2nd story deck with no access from below. It is 20' from the scope to my couch, easily reachable by a 15' USB cable and a single 15' extension.

Chronos: make sure the cable says "active" on it, otherwise it is just letting the signal attenuate with distance.

If I had an automatic focuser I'd probably try to make it all work, but I'm on a "about to not have a paycheck" budget, so can't do it at the moment lol.
 
  • #11
Update. I strung 3 repeater cables to a powered hub and attached the dsi to the hub. The camera now appears functional. Evidently the power draw of the dsi was more than the repeater cables could deliver over more than one cable.
 

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