AlpycaDevice - Python Alpaca Device Driver SDK

Version 1.0.2, February 17, 2025 (ASCOM Platform 7)

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This project is a lightweight Python framework for a device driver that supports the Alpaca protocol and ASCOM Standards as of Platform 7. It implements a basic Rotator device with a simple simulation for Conform tests. Templates for all ASCOM device types are provided. The "boiler plate" logic remains the same for any device.

AlpycaDevice SDK 1.0.2 Documentation

Quick Start

Open the Alpyca Device Quick Start section of the above documentation. This gives instructions on getting the sample to run and pass the ConformU checks (see below), as well as step-by-step detailed instructions on creating a skeleton Alpaca driver for any ASCOM device using the provided templates.

Status of this project

Production release includes ASCOM Platform 7 Interface Additions. For details see Release Notes for Interfaces as of ASCOM Platform 7

Templates for all ASCOM device types are included. While preserving simplicity as much as possible, it can easily be configured for multiple ASCOM device types and multiple instances of a given ASCOM device type within the Alpaca device/server. The sample Rotator simulator passes Conform Universal for Rotator device, as well as Conform Universal Alpaca Protocol tests.

Potential Applications

• Self-contained device (e.g. on Raspberry Pi etc) that can be used by native Alpaca speaking programs like Cartes du Ciel, Sky Safari 7 (pro or plus), as well as Windows apps like SGP, NINA, ACP, etc. that speak Windows ASCOM/COM
• Linux/Max/Windows driver for Windows apps like SGP, NINA, ACP, etc. that speak Windows ASCOM/COM
• Linux/Mac/Windows driver for native Alpaca-speaking apps like Sky Safari 7.
• Use this to make an Alpaca front end for an INDI device running on Linux or MacOS, and make that device usable from Windows programs as noted above.
• Use your imagination...

How to get Support

Use the ASCOM Driver and Application Development Support Forum.