(meteorobs) Heat required to prevent dew in a box for allsky camera

[HEADLIGHTS Studio]

Using Line Voltage and Resistors like those in the Sandia rig is expensive
and dangerous, it is not advisable; besides the resistors are difficult to
obtain. Relate to the fact that those Sandia rigs were designed in the 1990s
by highly experienced Engineers with large budgets. Running Line voltage to
something on your roof or outside your observatory is fraught with problems
and dangers (Lightning, Sunlight, Animals).Inside my pedestal, I use a 12VDC
Windshield Heater (has a fan) from Wal-Mart, switched by a Car Horn Relay
from an auto parts store, and a cheap electronic thermostat from Lowes.
Total cost, about $35. I run it on 2, 5 Volt USB Chargers connected with
Malibu Lighting Wire (Lowes) which is Sunlight resistant. The problem with
internal Moisture is caused by an inadequately sealed Pedestal. It is
advisable to use a large number of desiccant bags inside the Pedestal.
Moisture will eventually destroy the Lens and Camera. I use 6 inch PVC Sewer
Stand Pipe and Joiners with modified screw-on end caps; on the bottom for
connections and mounting and on the top, the dome. This makes it large and
heavy, but is very durable, inexpensive, easy to service and maintain.

-----Original Message-----
From: meteorobs-bounces at meteorobs.org
[mailto:meteorobs-bounces at meteorobs.org] On Behalf Of Jim Wooddell
Sent: Friday, November 07, 2014 7:38 AM
To: meteorobs at meteorobs.org
Subject: Re: (meteorobs) Heat required to prevent dew in a box for allsky
camera



Hi Mark,

The Sandia Allsky cams use two resistors on a metal plate, a thermostat and
a fan to keep everything toasty in the winter.  Works fine.

Jim Wooddell



On 11/6/2014 11:59 PM, Mark Bowling wrote:
> What do you guys do in the summer?  I get a lot of moisture build up 
> inside. I've been using desiccants, but that gets to be a pain.
>
> Mark Bowling
> Vail, AZ

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