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ASCOM Platform 7 - Update 2

Please see Changes in Platform 7.0 Update 2 for details of changes and fixes in this release.

Please see Major Changes in Platform 7.0 for a complete list of changes and fixes in the initial Platform 7.0 release.

Every ASCOM Platform release aims for 100% backward compatibility with current drivers and applications, providing an easy upgrade path and new capabilities that developers and enthusiasts can exploit.

Key changes in the Platform 7 initial release for Everyone
  • Simplified Start menu.
  • The default log file location can be customised.
  • Updated user guide that includes Alpaca.
  • ASCOM Remote and the ASCOM Omni-simulators are now installed as part of the Platform.
  • The Omni-Simulators are now the default Platform simulators.
  • The Platform now includes the "JustAHub" hub application to host 32bit in-process (DLL based) drivers and enable them to be used by 64bit applications.
  • An alert will be generated when a new Platform version is released.

Significant changes for developers are described in the Help for ASCOM Platform Developers and a comprehensive list of changes and fixes is given here: Version 7.0.

Master Interface Definitions

The ASCOM interface definitions have been re-drafted in a platform neutral form that no longer relies on the COM implementation within the Platform. The interface technical definitions remain the same and additional context is provided regarding expected behaviour. ASCOM Master Interface Definitions

Operating System Compatibility

Platform 7 requires Windows 10 1809 (October 2018 Update) or later.

Platform 7 is not compatible with the following operating systems:

  • Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and Windows 10 1507 to 1803 - PCs with these operating systems should use Platform 6.6 Service Pack 2.
  • Windows XP - PCs with this operating system should use Platform 6.4 Service Pack 1.
Platform Prerequisites

Platform 7.0 requires the following .NET framework versions:

  • .NET Framework 3.5
  • .NET Framework 4.8 Runtime

The installer will offer to install .NET 3.5 for you and it can also be installed manually through the Control Panel / Programs and Features / Turn Windows Features On and Off dialogue.

If not already installed, .NET Framework 4.8 can be downloaded from the Microsoft .NET 4.8 Download Page.

Validating Correct Platform Installation

If you would like to confirm the integrity of the installed Platform, the Diagnostics Tool will provide a wide ranging report through a comprehensive test suite that exercises every aspect of Platform functionality.

Issues and Enhancement Requests

Please use the ASCOM Groups.io forum: ASCOM Talk Forum at https://ascomtalk.groups.io/g/Help to report and discuss issues that you come across when using the ASCOM Platform. You will find the Diagnostics Tool located in Start Menu / ASCOM Platform 6 / Tools; it will help greatly if you run it before reporting an issue as it provides concrete evidence to help diagnose and resolve the problem.

Notes
  • See the section titled Version 6.0 for a summary of Platform 6 updates and new functionality.
  • See the section titled Version 5.5 for a summary of Platform 5.5 updates and new functionality.
  • This platform appears as ASCOM Platform 7 in the Apps and add/remove programs dialogues
  • The Platform has been tested in 32bit Windows 10 and 64bit Windows 10 and Windows 11.
See Also