Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3
The Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 (SKU: PPBADV3) is the all-in-one power and connectivity solution for portable astrophotography setups. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Gen3 introduces a powerful combination of intelligent power distribution, high-speed USB connectivity, and integrated device control in an ultra-compact aluminum enclosure.
It features four individually switchable 12V DC outputs, a dedicated always-on 12V output, and a 3–19V adjustable DC output capable of delivering up to 3A for powering mini computers, mirrorless cameras, or other electronic devices.
A built-in 6-port USB hub (4×USB3 + 2×USB2), USB Power Delivery (PD) support, and an integrated stepper motor focuser controller eliminate cable clutter while providing reliable connectivity.
This powerbox also includes dual PWM dew heater outputs with AutDew technology, an external temperature and humidity sensor, comprehensive voltage, current and power monitoring, Wi-Fi connectivity with a built-in web dashboard, and full ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca compatibility.
Designed with reverse polarity, over-voltage, surge, and ESD protection, the PPBADV Gen3 delivers the performance, flexibility, and reliability required for today’s advanced astrophotography systems.
> Expected: Mid Sept 2026
Feature List
Shoe holder accessory in above image is optional (PEG-SHOE)
6 x Power Outputs
Four independently switchable 12V DC power outputs let you control your entire astrophotography setup through Pegasus Astro software, ASCOM, Alpaca, or the built-in web interface. Each output features reverse polarity and over-current protection for reliable operation. An always-on 12V output and a software-adjustable 3–19V output bring the total number of power ports to six.
Power Sensors
Includes a built-in volt, current, and power meter that continuously monitors your power input and overall system consumption in real time. Instantly view the input voltage, total current draw, and power usage through the Pegasus Astro software, ASCOM/Alpaca drivers, or the built-in web dashboard. This allows you to monitor your equipment’s power requirements, quickly identify abnormal consumption, and ensure stable operation throughout your imaging sessions.
Env Sensors
The PPB ADV Gen3 includes an external temperature, humidity, and dew point sensor in the box, providing accurate real-time environmental monitoring. When used with the integrated dew heater outputs, the device can automatically regulate heater power based on ambient conditions, preventing dew and moisture from forming on your telescope optics while minimizing unnecessary power consumption.
Built-in 6 port USB Hub
- Each USB port can be independently enabled or disabled through software.
- One USB-C provides PD output (up to 3Amps) to supported devices.
A powered USB3 Hub at the back of the device provides:
- 4 x USB3 (Type-A) SuperSpeed Ports
- 2 x USB2 (Type-C) High-Speed Ports.
The new SuperSpeed hubs operate in parallel with the USB 2.0 controller, so 5 Gbps SuperSpeed data transfers are not affected by slower USB 2.0 traffic.
USB Ports provide up to 3Amp of current and all ports include surge and ESD protection.
Included Stepper Motor Controller
Note: Motor Focus Kit is optional
The PPB ADV Gen3 features a built-in stepper motor focus controller, eliminating the need for a separate external focusing controller and reducing cable clutter.
Compatible with most bipolar stepper motors (we recommend our Motor Focus Kit Universal or Motor Focus Kit Zero for SCT telescopes. it delivers smooth, precise, and repeatable electronic focusing with up to 1.5A per coil. By requiring only an external motor, it offers a significantly lower-cost focusing solution while allowing you to control both power distribution and focusing through the same Pegasus Astro software interface.
Fully integrated with the Pegasus Astro software ecosystem, ASCOM, and ASCOM Alpaca, it supports automated focusing routines in popular astrophotography applications, helping you achieve and maintain critical focus throughout your imaging session.
Important Key Features
Standalone Operation
“out of the box”
Pocket Powerbox Advance can work “out of the box” as a standalone device. Just plug the cables, setup the “autodew” functionality and every time you boot the device, it will retrieve your settings. So, If you don’t like to connect to a PC every time, you don’t have to. Simple as that!
Two channel duty cycle
PWM outputs
The Pocket Powerbox Advance boasts two Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) outlets, specially designed to supply power to your demanding Dew Heaters. This means an end to the woes of moisture interfering with your equipment and spoiling those precious clear nights. What’s more, you can conveniently control these outlets remotely from your laptop using the provided software.
Auto Adjustment of
PWM (Dew Outputs)
The controller is equipped with an intelligent feature that allows it to autonomously adjust the power levels of your heaters by analyzing data from the environmental sensor, specifically the Dew Point reading. With a simple click on the “Auto” function, you can entrust the Pocket Powerbox Advance to determine the optimal time to activate and precisely fine-tune your dew heaters.
More than 14A of
total power
The controller has been meticulously engineered to accommodate a total current capacity of up to 14 Amps.
Adjustable port configurable [3-19V]
One adjustable DC output (3–19 V, up to 3 A) configurable through software. The configured voltage is retained across power cycles and is perfect for powering Mini PCs, Intel® NUCs, and other external devices.
Reverse Polarity and Overvoltage Protection
Built-in reverse polarity and overvoltage protection safeguards your equipment against incorrect power connections and input voltages up to 50 V.
Wi-Fi controllable via ASCOM Alpaca
Stay connected with built-in Wi-Fi and a browser-based dashboard. The PPBADV Gen3 is fully compatible with ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca, enabling seamless remote control of switches, focuser, and observing conditions.
Upgradable Firmware via USB or Web
The device is equipped with firmware upgradability, allowing for seamless updates to support forthcoming features and address any potential bug fixes, ensuring it remains at the cutting edge of functionality and performance.
Aluminium Enclosure
The electronics of the Pocket Powerbox Advance are securely nestled within a sturdy, high-quality enclosure crafted from durable blue anodized aluminum.
Built-in M3 blind mounting holes for easy installation of third-party accessories.
Size is 115mm x 75mm x 27.5mm. Weighs 350 grams.
Supported By
ASCOM 7 and Alpaca supported
Fully supports the latest ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca standards, enabling seamless network control over Wi-Fi without the need for USB connectivity.
It implements ASCOM drivers for Switches, Observing Conditions, and the Focuser, allowing effortless integration with your favorite astronomy software and remote observatory setup.
INDI supported
Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 fully supports INDI framework.
Web Dashboard and ASCOM Alpaca
Control the Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen3 from any device using a modern web browser – no dedicated software required. For astronomy applications, built-in ASCOM Alpaca support enables direct connectivity with NINA and any other Alpaca-compatible software, providing seamless remote control and automation.
In the Box
Technical Specification
|
Supply Voltage |
Unregulated 12V DC (up to 15V) |
| Power Input Connector | DC 2.1mm (center positive Can provide up to 14Amp (168W) |
| Connectivity | USB3 Type B Connector |
| USB Hub | 4 x USB3 (Type-A connector) 2 x USB2 (Type-C connector) 3A of power per port. Individual Enable/Disable per USB port. Surge and ESD protection to all USB ports |
| Motor Controller | Supports Bipolar Stepper Motors, 1.5A per coil |
| 4 x 12 Outputs | Can output 6A per port 2.1mm (center positive) Individual ON/OFF per port |
| 2 Channel PWM Outputs | Maximum Current 5A, RCA Connector, Pulse Width Modulated (Suitable for Dew Heaters or Flatbox)
Software controllable: Duty Cycle % / OFF |
| 1x Sensor Input | RJ12 Socket, Connectivity with Environmental Sensor
0-100% humidity readings with 2-5% accuracy |
| Adjustable Output | 3-19V up to 3Amps
Can turn ON/OFF and voltage tuned via software |
| Voltmeter | Measures input voltage |
| Dimensions | 115mm x 75mm x 27.5mm. |
| Weight | 350 grams |
