Lunt PC-USB Pressure Tuner Controller

Remote Pressure Tuning Control — Anywhere, Anytime

The Lunt Pressure Tuner Controller (PC-USB) brings precise, remote control to Lunt’s pressure-tuned solar systems, allowing you to adjust etalon pressure from anywhere using a USB connection and compatible control software. It is a microprocessor-driven system designed for accuracy, reliability, and convenience, and it can be retrofitted to existing Lunt pressure tuner telescopes without returning the instrument to the factory.

Connection to the telescope is handled through a simple 1/8" airline, which can be installed at virtually any length to suit your observing or imaging setup. This makes the PC-USB especially useful for remote observatories, imaging rigs, and observers who want fine tuning without physically touching the telescope.

Operation is intentionally straightforward. Two buttons control the system — one to increase pressure and one to decrease it — while digital readouts and indicator lights provide clear, real-time feedback on system status and tuning adjustments.

The PC-USB is capable of running continuously for more than 12 hours on its internal rechargeable battery, making it well suited for extended observing or imaging sessions. An external power input accepts 12–15 VDC, allowing the unit to operate while simultaneously charging its internal batteries using a standard AC-to-DC power adapter.

Existing Lunt pressure tuning systems can be retrofitted using an adapter that interfaces directly with the original pressure tuner knob. For new or future installations, pressure tuner assemblies can be specified with a quick-disconnect fitting, eliminating the manual tuning knob entirely for a cleaner, fully remote-ready configuration.

When powered on, the controller automatically vents the system and establishes ambient pressure before moving to its operating state. The center wavelength setpoint can be programmed at the factory or adjusted by the user. Because the pressure system is sealed, the selected wavelength remains stable regardless of observing altitude, provided the pressure setpoint is unchanged.

With tuning accuracy to within 0.3 PSI, the PC-USB delivers exceptionally fine control over etalon pressure. The system continuously compensates for internal pressure variations caused by temperature changes, maintaining consistent performance throughout the session. Closed-loop feedback allows advanced users to directly correlate pressure adjustments with Doppler-shifted solar events — a powerful capability for serious solar observers and imagers.