iOptron iMate Astronomy Control Box

The iOptron iMate is a compact, dedicated astronomy control computer designed to run your entire astrophotography session—without needing a separate laptop or tablet. Preloaded with an open-source Linux operating system, astronomy control software, and INDI device drivers, the iMate takes the complexity out of automation. You can slew, focus, guide, image, and even plate solve—all directly through this compact, mount-friendly control box.

Whether you’re managing a backyard observatory or building a portable imaging rig, the iMate puts powerful automation and control tools right where you need them—on the mount.

Centralized Imaging Control in a Compact Box

At the heart of the iMate is a 64-bit quad-core processor with onboard RAM and flash storage, giving you the speed and reliability to run capture software and device control tools efficiently. The unit comes preconfigured with:

• Planetarium software (KStars)

• Imaging automation platform (Ekos)

• INDI device drivers for most mounts, cameras, focusers, filter wheels, and more

Everything is already installed—just connect your gear and start imaging.

Multiple Ports and Power Outputs

The iMate gives you the connectivity needed to support a full imaging setup:

• One USB 3.0 port and two USB 2.0 ports for cameras, filter wheels, focusers, and accessories

• Three 12V DC power outputs (two programmable) to help reduce clutter and eliminate extra power bricks

• MicroSD slot to expand onboard storage up to 64GB

• Ethernet and Wi-Fi for local or remote access from your computer, smartphone, or tablet

You can run your session from across the yard—or across the planet.

Built to Mount with Your Equipment

Unlike a laptop or external PC, the iMate is designed to integrate directly into your telescope setup. Mounting options include:

• A 31mm mini dovetail base for easy saddle integration

• 1/4"-20 center-threaded hole

• Two M3 threaded holes for custom or plate-mounted solutions

This lets you install the iMate directly on your scope, accessory rail, or saddle clamp—keeping your rig tight and your cables short.

Ideal Applications

• Remote imaging setups

• Automated observatories

• Portable rigs where you want fewer devices and less complexity

• Imagers using INDI-based ecosystems (like StellarMate or Ekos)

If you're tired of hauling a laptop into the field or want to consolidate your entire imaging system onto your mount, the iMate is a clean, capable solution.

Observing Tip:
Before your imaging session, make sure all your connected devices are recognized and configured in Ekos or your control interface. Save time by setting up device profiles ahead of time—especially helpful for remote or automated runs.