SKOTIQ 8.1 · GUIDE
Install on Windows
Portable installation, drivers, checksums and updates.
On this page
Requirements
Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit; 8 GB RAM minimum, 16 GB recommended; a DirectX 11-capable GPU. Allow space for the app, catalogs and image data. Integration and drizzle need substantially more working space than the download itself.
Install the app
- Get the Windows x64 ZIP from the download center, along with its checksum.
- Compare its SHA-256 with the value shown there. In PowerShell:
Get-FileHash .\skotiq-8.1.0-windows-x64.zip -Algorithm SHA256
- Extract the entire archive into a writable folder. Keep its DLLs and data folders together. Do not launch from inside the ZIP.
- Run
skotiq.exe.
The Windows executable is not code-signed. If SmartScreen warns, verify the download and its checksum before choosing More info → Run anyway.
Connect your drivers
For local ASCOM devices, install the ASCOM Platform and the manufacturer’s device drivers first. The Skotiq archive includes its bridge and required runtime components, but not vendor camera or mount SDKs. A native camera connection may therefore require a separate vendor installation.
Open Equipment, choose the connection method, connect a camera and check its temperature and sensor information. Continue with equipment connections.
Updating an existing installation
Use Settings → Backup & Restore before updating. Download and verify the new bundle, keep the previous portable folder, and launch the new version. Confirm your profiles and saved sequences before connecting devices. Read the update and migration guide.
If the app does not start
Check that the archive was completely extracted and that security software did not quarantine a file. Preserve the error text and consult troubleshooting. Replacing application files should not require deleting your settings or image library.