AZEQ AC/DC adapter

[Hazza777]

Hey folks,
So I've picked up an AZEQ6 and while I'll be sourcing a portable power pack for it for use in the field I was wondering what people are using to power them off mains? I've found this item (12vDC 7.5A Switchmode Power supply - Mains to cigarette lighter socket) at Jaycar which is their recommended converter for 'more sensitive electronics'

https://www.jaycar.com.au/12vdc-7-5a-switchmode-power-supply-mains-to-cigarette-lighter-socket/p/MP3575

Was just wondering if it would be safe to use with the skywatcher mount as far as I can tell it meets the requirements set out by skywatcher for external power supplies but its a bit beyond my knowledge level so I thought I'd check. For reference sky watcher requires:
Output voltage DC 11v (minimum) 16v (max)
Output current 4a for 11v 2.5a for 16v
Must be regulated adapter and preferably switching.

Any help is appreciated - Thanks.

[UniPol]

It should be fine, I use the one supplied by MyAstroShop which looks the same and has the same specs as Jaycar's. See http://www.myastroshop.com.au/products/details.asp?id=MAS-096F

[Hazza777]

Thanks that looks identical, surprised it never came up in my google searches! Thanks.

[The Mekon]

I have to say this, but why is this question asked so often? IMHO the only situation that warrants a 240v power adaptor is in an observatory wired to the mains. I use the field source (battery) in my backyard all the time. In fact the telescope fans have been on the battery for the past two hours right now. I will be outside soon observing for a few hours, the battery will power the scope + heaters+ argo etc. In the morning I will put the battery back on the charger. I have a 240V source (came with the scope) but to use it would mean running an extension lead out on the wet grass - no thanks.

Anyway - it is nice and clear outside and I'm off outside.

[Hazza777]

Hey John,
Not sure why or where it gets asked so much. I did use the forum search tool (as well as multiple google searches) about azeq mount ac adapters but scant info came up bar peoples home made DIY power supplies (neat, but no thanks!).
As for using a power pack in the back yard I have power in my shed and besides being more convenient to just plug the mount in than lugging a battery pack out as well, eventually I hope to build a more permanent observatory structure for remote use and mains power is a necessity for this.

[MrT]

Hi - would you mind expanding a bit on exactly what your setup is? Is it just a battery, and if so, what have you attached to it to make power distribution to your various devices a bit more 'user friendly'? I've recently purchased the mount, and for now am using the jaycar option above, but not sure it is long term solution. Any advice/photos appreciated. Thanks.

[casstony]

I use a 38Ah deep cycle battery to power the mount and a 17Ah Jumpstarter to power the dew heaters and guider. The battery in the Jumpstart pack lasts for about 3 years but can be replaced without throwing the whole thing away. The 38Ah battery could go into a battery box with multiple outlets but I haven't got around to that - it works fine as it is.

[Dealy]

Harry, the Jaycar power supply works fine on mine.

Kev

[The Mekon]

The 18" SDM is all self contained in its electrics. One plug in sends power to all the other equipment including fans, heaters, motors and the Argo Navis.

No need for any other adaptors. I use a battery for this and can get two nights viewing no problems. Not sure what the total current drain would be, but I mainly use push to rather than the motors.

[fsphotography]

I've been using that exact same Jaycar ac/dc adapter for years Harry, the only weak point is the cigarette lighter plug, nothing but trouble. Ditch it and replace with a small Anderson plug.
Frank.