The open architecture of the Meade Autostar permits the update of operating software, the loading of events such as comets, satellites, and minor planets, and allows you to share or "clone" this information with other Autostars. Depending on the type of Autostar Handbox and Telescope, you will need to use one of three different optional Cable Connector Sets:

#505 Connector Cable Kit — for use with

Handbox	Telescope
#497 ETX Autostar	All DS Models All DS2000 Models All ETX Models All LX90 Models All LXD55 Models All LXD75 Models All LT Models

Handbox	Telescope
Autostar II	All LX400-ACF Models
Autostar III	All LS Models

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.

	Important note about #497 Autostars. The classic #497, and the newer #497EP, utilize different firmware that is not interchangeable. However, the #497EP Autostar is backward compatible with prior generation telescope that used AutoStar technology. If you have an older version of the #497, it will continue to work with your existing telescope. AutoStar Updater 5.9 or greater can detect either version and load the appropriate firmware.
7/30/10	Envisage Version 7.08x Envisage Version 7.08x is Meade's DSI camera control software. This latest version supports the DSI line of cameras on the following platforms: OS Compatibility: • Windows 7 (64-bit) • Windows Vista (32-bit only) • Windows XP (32-bit only) Important Notice: 1. Not compatible with 64-bit Windows XP/Vista Operating Systems. 2. Envisage 7.08x does not support the LPI device in 64-bit mode. 3. Some 32-bit Windows users may receive a "GLJ3C.tmp - Bad Image" warning message after installation. If this message appears, press the OK button. The software will function normally. Click here to download **** Before installing Envisage 7.08x, disconnect any DSI/LPI cameras. ****
01/18/13	NEW AUTOSTAR UPDATER SOFTWARE NOW AVAILABLE. VERSION 6.0.0 This version of Autostar Updater adds support for the new Meade LX850 and LX600 telescopes. AutoStar Updater 6.0 also fixes bugs discovered in the previous release. Bug fixes include: Fixes issue of retrieving and loading user data and guided tours into the 497EP/AudioStar hand controllers. Correctly accesses the Ephemerides directory when installing into a non-default location. Click Here to download AutoStar Updater 6.0
08/06/11	AUTOSTAR UPDATER SOFTWARE VERSION 5.9.3 AutoStar Updater version 5.9.3 adds support for the new AudioStar hand controller. Several Autostar updater bugs were also resolved with this update. Click to download Autostar Updater 5.9.3.
09/14/10	NEW LIGHTSWITCH FIRMWARE VERSION 1.6a NOW AVAILABLE. This update includes improved selection criteria of the alignment stars, camera assisted high-precision pointing, and several bug fixes. To download and install the new firmware, run the AutoStar Updater (ASU.EXE) version 5.9 or higher and follow the instructions. If you have an older version of the Updater, click here to download the latest version.
10/07/09	#497EP AutoStar hand controller software update. Version 5CE2 (1,040 KB).General update, from v5BE2. Introduces LT telescope. Updated true and magnetic north alignment. Fixes site selection and clock bugs. REQUIRES THE LATEST VERSION OF AUTOSTAR UPDATER.
4/13/07	#497 AutoStar hand controller software update. Version 43Eg (479 KB) is available. To get this new version, use either the 43Eg link to download and unzip the file to the Ephemerides directory of the Autostar Update (ASU) installation directory; or use ASU and press "Upgrade Autostar Software Now" and ASU will download and upgrade the handbox. If you don't already have ASU use the link on this page to download and install it on your PC. New Initialization instructions for Autostar
4/13/07	Autostar II version 2.2i ( 2,171 KB) is available for all LX400-ACF telescopes. To get this version, use either the 2.2i link to download and unzip the file to the Ephemerides directory under the Autostar Update (ASU) installation directory or use ASU and press “Upgrade Autostar Software Now” and ASU will download the file and upgrade the handbox. If you don’t already have ASU use the link on this page to download and install it on your PC. This version is to be used by all LX400-ACF telescopes. New Initialization instructions for Autostar
9/27/06	Autostar II version 4.2g ( 1,804 KB ) is available for LX200GPS and later model telescopes. To get the new version, use either the 4.2g link and download and unzip the file to the Ephemerides directory under the Autostar Update (ASU) installation directory or use ASU and press "Upgrade Autostar Software Now" and ASU will download the file and upgrade the handbox. If you don't already have ASU use the link on this page to download and install it on your PC. This version is to be used by all LX200 GPS and later model telescopes. It will not affect your Smart Mount status. If you have Smart Mount, you will still have Smart Mount with this version. If you have not paid for Smart Mount, you can still use this version, but it will not have the Smart Mount function. New Initialization instructions for Autostar NOTE: Only the RS232 port next to the HBX port can be used for upgrading the handbox.

To transfer event files and software updates, follow the instructions in the manual for your Connector Cable Set.

Orbital Elements
The elements can be saved to your local machine by using your browser's "Save As" facility, ensuring that you select "Plain text" as the format for the saved document. Or you may use the "File" - "Get Object Data from WWW" menu option from within the Autostar Update application.

To enter an individual element into the Autostar, follow the instructions in the online Autostar Manual .