Update Celestron NexStar* hand controller (for old HC with version 4.x)

The NexStar* hand controller from Celestron (not to be confused with NexStar+)
is the hand controller for older Celestron telescopes.

If these controllers suddenly experience problems or display error messages, a firmware update often helps.
Since the GPS "week number rollover," Celestron telescopes with GPS and in combination with the older hand controller version (4.x) also require a new firmware update. More information can be found here.

Make sure you are using an older version of the NexStar* controller. In the controller menu, under "Version," the version number for "HC" should begin with a 4 (e.g., 4.03 or 4.13...).
These models require a separate update program. You cannot use the program for the NexStar+ series.

Installation on the PC:
Download the firmware software from the Celestron website: http://www.celestron.com/support/manuals-software/files/hand-control-firmware-updates-v1112
Save the program and launch it from your PC.
A small pop-up window will open and describe the next steps.
The most important thing when connecting the PC and hand controller is the cable. You will definitely need an RS-232 port cable. You may also need an adapter from this cable to USB to connect it to your computer.
Then connect the hand controller to the (turned off) Celestron telescope mount as usual.
Tip: Make sure you use the correct COM port and check it in the device manager if necessary.
Then select the required version for your hand controller or download it using the update program.

Installing the update:
Note: All firmware versions > 4.13 set the hand controller language to English and no longer allow any other language.

After all connections are correctly configured, click "Next" in the update program. The program will prompt you to press a specific key combination (usually "UNDO" & "INFO") on the hand controller and power on the mount. If the initial steps were successful, the hand controller will display "Transmit Data...", and the update program will display the current firmware version on the controller in a small window in the middle right corner. The version you downloaded is displayed above it to the right. The "Type" must be identical for both!

Then start the update by clicking "Begin Programming" in the update program on your PC.

After a while, the update program will notify you that the process is complete and that you should turn the mount off and on again.
After a brief "Verify Packaging" click, the hand controller will display the familiar start menu, in English.

Now check the hand controller menu to see if the new version has been installed.

If that's too complicated for you, feel free to contact us to install/update it (for a small fee).