FLI PDF or Optec TCF-S3 for TeleVue NP101is

[floastro]

Hi All,

I would like to have your advice.

Since May, i've got one Moravian G4-16000 and its Moravian G1-301 CCD guiding camera + one SkyMeca SkyTrack 3" Off-Axis Guider + TeleVue Large Field Corrector + TeleVue adapters.

All this imaging train weights between 3.7 (8.1 lbs) and 3.8 kgs (8.37 lbs) .

In a near future, i would like to change all the TeleVue NP101is focuser system. The special piece will be made by SkyMeca (the french company who realized and made my SLIM Off-Axis Guider).

But i hesitate for the choice of the focuser for my imaging train :

The FLI PDF (4.5kg max of photographic load/ it weights 1.1kg) or the Optec TCF-S3 (9kg max of photographic load/ it weights 2.3kg).

The FLI ATLAS is Great but too expensive.

Do you have an idea ? Is there anyone who has changed a complete TeleVue NP101is focuser ?

Thank you.

Best Regards,

Florent :)

[gregbradley]

I have had a FLI PDF and currently use a FLI Atlas. I have not used the Optec. Is this the Optec model that includes a rotator?

The FLI PDF was a very nice and reliable focuser. With imaging you want the strongest focuser possible as flex can ruin your images.

I used the PDF with a FLI Microline and also an Apogee U16M and Proline 16803. It handled them both well.

Are they the same price?

Greg.

[floastro]

Hi Greg,

Thank you for your message.

FLI PDF is sold US$1,450
OPTEC TCF-S3 is sold US$1,795

Difficult choice !

http://img110.xooimage.com/files/e/4/c/20160708_213950_hdr3-50085fc.jpg

Florent

[gregbradley]

The Optec unit looks like a refractor focuser unit. The PDF is quite flat. The PDF has around 10mm of travel and the Optec 12.5mm.

FLI is a premium products company. Their gear is usually the best in class.

I am not familiar with Optec, perhaps they are in the same league but if it were my choice I would chose FLI as I have had only great experiences using FLI products so far. Also very good customer service and backup.

Greg.