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, USB3 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 minicomputers, 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.

Features

• 4 x 12V DC Power outlets for your equipment – individual channels to switch ON/OFF each output).
• 1x12V DC always ON output.
• 14 Amps of total distributed current.
• One dedicated adjustable and switchable output (3-19V) / 3Amps
• Input volt-meter, amp-meter, and power statistics.
• 6 port USB hub: 4xUSB3 & 2xUSB2 Ports. (USB3 ports all backwards compatible with USB2).
• Surge and ESD protection to all USB ports
• 1 x USB power distribution (PD) port for supported devices
• Built-in stepper motor focus controller(1.5A per coil)
• EXT Port (RJ12) for ev sensor and external accessories
• External humidity and temperature sensor (included)
• Auto tune dew heater channels consulting env sensor
• 2 Channels PWM dew heaters – RCA outputs – adjust power levels from software
• Reverse polarity and over-voltage protection
• Wi-Fi controllable (external antenna for optimal reception)
• Web dashboard, accessible from any browser, to control the device.
• ASCOM 7 and ASCOM Alpaca compatible – switches, observing conditions, focuser
• USB – PC controlled or standalone operation out of the box
• Lightweight and compact aluminium enclosure

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

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.

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.