Celestron dew zapper

[matt]

Can any Celestron SCT owners, or anyone else for that matter, recommend a good electric dew zapper. Preferably with adjustable temperature.

Would it be worthwhile getting EP warmer as well, maybe as part of a kit?

Thanks very much:)

[[1ponders]]

Maybe have a chat to beren Matt http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=6067

[Dennis]

Hi Matt

I use the Kendrick standard dew heater system which consists of a controller and 4 sockets for heater strips. I have found it to be completely effective and reliable in the 5 years I have been using it.

I have heaters for a C9.25, Vixen 30x125 bino's, Vixen 4" refractor and a number of 2" and 1.25" strips for eyepieces and camera lenses.

The controller is powered by 12V from a mains adapter although you can use a 12V battery. I have the Mk IV controller which was designed not to affect ccd imaging via EMI/EMC and it has worked so far with my ST7E ccd camera.

The controller has a continuously adjustable rotary knob from off through Min to Max and operates on a 40% duty cycle. The lens / mirror needs only to be 0.5 deg C above ambient to prevent dew build up so I have never (yet) experienced seeing problems.

It is an expensive system but so is my gear and I chose it because I wanted a reliable system that would not let me down at remote astro-camps.

I would be happy to answer any further questions you may have.

Cheers

Dennis

PS Here is the link to the Kendrick site
http://www.kendrickastro.com/astro/dewremover.html

[matt]

Thanks Dennis and Paul

Getting everything ready for the arrival of my new 9.25.

It should be here next week. Can't wait.

[rumples riot]

I'd have to say that Kendrick has the best rap of the lot. Peter has one and it seems to do a great job. Am considering getting one of these myself.

[matt]

That's the way I'm leaning Paul.

Just the Standard Model VI with variable output and 4 outlets.

Looks good for $85US.

Combine it with an Astrostrap for the corrector and EP holder and away you go!

[Robert_T]

Hi Matt, I've got one of the Kendrick Standard controllers on order along with an Astrozap combined dewheater and flexible dewshield (these area bit pricey so hope it's worth it) for the C9.25. I'm hoping with this I can get by with just the dewshield when conditions aren't too dewy thus saving power and avoiding adding potential image distorting heat except when really necessary.

I'll let you know how I go once they arrive.

cheers,

[matt]

Rob

That would be really great. I'd be keen to hear what you think.

I think I'll also invest in a shield so I've got the option when there's not too much moisture.

Thanks mate

[Rodstar]

I have the Orion Dew Zapper. I would not get it again. It works great, it is just that it sucks the juice from my power packs. Mine sucks up all the juice from a 17 amp hour power pack in 2 hours. I am looking at getting a marine battery to keep up with its voracious appetite for power.

[matt]

Rob

How's that Kendrick dew control system working out?

Thinking of ordering the Model VI Standard Dew Controller. That's the same as yours?