KEYSTAR

KEYSTAR - Tactile Control, Total Compatibility Classic buttons, modern brains. KEYSTAR is a powerful replacement for your LX200 Classic keypad, with responsive tactile buttons, optional joystick control, and full app integration. Pair it with the FREE ScopeBits app for Android or iOS and enjoy wireless slewing, focus, and more - whether you're hands-on or hands-off.
 

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KEYSTAR unit overview

KEYSTAR simply plugs into your mount's Keypad port. Use the original lead, or the optional supplied one. It replicates your original MEADE LX200 Classic keypad.

Features

LX200 Classic Compatible

    Built-In GoTo Catalog: 64,359 Objects
    15,928 SAO (Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory) Catalog of Stars: All stars brighter than 7th magnitude.
    12,921 UGC (Uppsala General Catalog) Galaxies: Complete catalog.
    7,840 NGC (New General Catalog) objects: Complete Catalog.
    5,386 IC (Index Catalog) objects: Complete catalog.
    21,815 GCVS (General Catalog of Variable Stars) objects: Complete catalog.
    351 Alignment Stars: LX200 alignment stars.
    110 M (Messier) objects: Complete catalog.
    8 major planets from Mercury to Pluto.
    Display: 2-Line Backlit LCD

KEYSTAR also features joystick control, wireless operation and APPSTAR phone handset capability!

KEYSTAR & REMOTESTAR or APPSTAR

If you prefer you can make your KEYSTAR 100% wireless from your mount. This feature is similar to Meade's own wireless Autostar controller. If you already own an APPSTAR unit, use the handset mode and KEYSTAR will instantly connect to it and you are now wireless. There is also the REMOTESTAR unit available to also get you wireless easily. Simply plug REMOTESTAR into your mount's HBX port. Insert the required 14500 3.7v style batteries into KEYSTAR. Turn it on and the units will sync and you are now wireless! KEYSTAR communicates to REMOTESTAR using Bluetooh LE, the range in open air is approx 10 meters.

Using the APPSTAR APPS

Here are the guides to using the APPSTAR mobile app with your KEYSTAR. Select the device platform you require.

Router setup

Below is a quick guide for connecting CONNECTSTAR to your router.

Reset your stored WiFi

If you have already configured a WiFi network, but wish to change it to another, then use this option.

How to update the firmware

There are 2 ways to update your CLICKSTAR, one via the device using Wifi, or via this website USB updater. Below are guides for each method.

Joystick motions

If you have the optional joystick with your unit, here are the guides on how it works

Adjusting the screen contrast

On the back of your KEYSTAR, there's a small hole at the top. Use a mini Phillips (star) screwdriver to gently fine-tune the contrast of the LCD.

Reset KEYSTAR

On the back of your KEYSTAR, there's a small hole on the back near the USB-C input. Use a paper clip or similar mall object to reset and restart your KEYSTAR.

KEYSTAR battery power

This only applies if you have the REMOTESTAR or APPSTAR requred for wireless operation.


The KEYSTAR uses 2 14500 3.7v battery cells (Not included). These are available in re-chargeable and non re-chargeable versions. Both will work just fine. Do not use AA batteries, as these do not have sufficent power to operate KEYSTAR.

KEYSTAR does not charge the batteries when inserted. You will need a suitable charger, or choose the newer batteries that can be recharged using USB-C.
Always recharge the batteries out of the KEYSTAR unit.


You can use your KEYSTAR plugged in while the batteries are inserted. Just ensure the power switch is off when doing so, else KEYSTAR will be running on battery power, and not mount power.

FAQ

Here are some of the frequently asked questions.

Check these as they may answer any support questions
Yes KEYSTAR is a 100% plug in replcement for your Keypad handset. See this guide.
KEYSTAR simply plugs into the existing Keypad port on your mount.
This is a purely personal choice. The support was added because it makes slewing effortless compared to trying to find handset buttons in the dark. Some mounts also allow focus control from the joystick. See this guide.
Yes there is an option to use KEYSTAR wirelessly without being tethered to your mout via the hbx lead. You will need to use the optional REMOTESTAR unit and the required batteries in your KEYSTAR for this to work. See this guide.
No, even though they will fit into the battery compartment, they are 1.5v. KEYSTAR needs 3.7v 14500 batteries to run. You only need batteries is you are using it in wireless mode and with a REMOTESTAR unit. See this guide.
KEYSTAR has 2 main Wifi modes. 1), WIfi AP (Access Point). This is where it will create it's own Wifi network you can connect to. 2). Wifi STA (Station). CONNECTSTAR can join your exisitng Wifi inftrastructure so APPSTAR on your network can find it. See this guide.
KEYSTAR has a fairly low power Wifi antenna. Therefore the range is limited to about 10m in AP mode. Considering you will probably be close to your scope when using other apps this is not so much of an issue. When using station mode and for example you have the scope outside, but you are inside, it does depend on your exisiting Wifi setup and it's range.
KEYSTAR uses legacy Wifi so is desgned to be as compatible as possible. Modern routers with advanced beam steering, packet slicing etc may not see KEYSTAR, but this is rare. Consider changing the router settings to accomodate legacy devices.
In the event that you accidentally entered incorrect info when connecrting to a router, or if CONENCTSTAR can't join a pre-existing network it may appear to hang. It will eventually timeout and return to normal operation. However you can always do a speedy reset. Disconnect any power and then hold down the star key and apply power. The screen will tell you it has reset.
Yes. KEYSTAR supports APPSTAR functionality, allowing you to control your telescope through the APPSTAR handset replacement app. See this guide.
Yes but you will need to use a diffrent browser, the BlueFy app is free and will allow you to easily connect to APPSTAR. See this guide (Select Apple iOS APP Blueooth).
No additional power supply is required. KEYSTAR is powered through the telescope handset connection. Ensure if running on batteries that they are fresh. Low batteries can cause the KEYSTAR to not start.
Yes. Firmware updates can be installed through the ScopeBits firmware update tools available on the support website. Updating firmware ensures the latest features and compatibility improvements. KEYSTAR also has OTA (Over The Air) updates if connected to a Wifi router. Make sure you're using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge on desktop. Mobile browsers and Safari are not supported for WebUSB/WebSerial updates. See this guide.
Check that all cables are securely connected and that your telescope is powered up and switched on. If the issue continues, restart the telescope and reconnect the device.

3D print files

Listed here are the 3D print files available for this product.

If you have the facility to 3D print them here they are.

Right click and "Save As"

3D printable STL for the rear hook

Use a high quality PLA, ABS or PetG. 100% infill.

Customer reviews

Here are some reviews from customers about their KEYSTAR.

Also check out the gallery to see customer images of ScopeBits gear in action.

So new there are no reviews just yet!

I am sure there will be some here soon!

COMING SOON!

It's in stages of final development, and will be released soon!

Copyright 2026 ScopeBits.