Thousand Oaks Digital Dew Heater Four Channel/Four Output Control Unit

Thousand Oaks Digital Dew Heater Control Unit – Four Channel / Four Output

Advanced Dew Prevention with Full Digital Control and Battery-Saving Efficiency

Built for serious observers and imagers, the Thousand Oaks Digital Dew Heater Control Unit offers precise, reliable dew control for up to four optical components at once. Whether you’re powering dew strips on your eyepiece, corrector plate, finder scope, or guide scope, this compact, rugged control box keeps your system running dry all night long—with full digital precision and efficient battery management.

Each of the four RCA-style outputs is independently adjustable from 0–100% using advanced pulse width modulation (PWM). Instead of reducing voltage, the microprocessor varies the width of each power pulse, delivering smooth, energy-saving performance and helping to eliminate tube currents, image degradation, and heater overrun. Unlike competitive models limited to 40–100%, this controller gives you true fine-tuned control—especially useful on cold nights or when running multiple heaters.

Designed with long observing sessions and field use in mind, the control unit includes a built-in 12V cigarette-style power cord (12 feet long), Velcro mounting tabs, and a digital display that’s easy to read without affecting your night vision. It even includes a fifth RCA output with constant 12V for running an accessory like a fan or camera cooler.

Key Features:

• Four Independently Controlled RCA Outputs: Power up to four heater strips with fully variable digital control

• True 0–100% Adjustability: Fine-tune each channel for precise dew control with no unnecessary power draw

• Pulse Width Modulation (PWM): Microprocessor-controlled output preserves battery life and maintains stable performance

• Constant 12V Output Port: Fifth RCA jack provides uninterrupted power for accessories

• Battery Saver Mode: Protects your car battery by cutting power at 11.1V; flashing green LED alerts you at 11.25V

• Power Status Indicators: Green LED indicates power input; red LEDs show active heater output on each channel

• Compact and Lightweight: Measures 5" × 2.5" × 1", easy to mount with included Velcro tabs

• Built-In Protection: Fuse in the plug and diode-protected circuit guard against surges and reverse polarity

• Made in the USA: Designed and manufactured by Thousand Oaks Optical for long-term durability

Power Requirements:
Requires 12V DC input (not a transformer). The attached 12-foot cord ends in a cigarette lighter-style plug for use with a car outlet, portable field battery, or optional AC adapter. A minimum 12 amp-hour battery is recommended. The control unit has a maximum total output of 10 amps—always check the amp draw of each heater strip to stay within safe limits.

Compatibility:
Compatible with all Thousand Oaks dew heater strips, and works with most other brands that use standard RCA connectors. Add an RCA splitter to power up to 5–6 heater strips if needed.

Usage Tip:
Turn on your dew heater system at the start of your observing session at a low setting. This preventative approach maximizes battery life and avoids the need for mid-session cleanups. Use higher settings only for active dew removal on colder nights.

Tech Details: