|
David,
The DDM85 is a great mount. Not only does it have negligible PE, but it does not need guiding - at least for 30min subs - provided that the imaging train is very stiff and temperature stable. I have a fair bit of experience with it, and wouldn't dream of changing it, BUT......
But there are some serious caveats:
1. The way this mount operates is very different from any other, and its required software suite is limited: for example, to make the best of its capability you MUST use MaximDL - it is just the way ASA have built the software.
2. This mount is extraordinarily sensitive to balance, even though it has good load carrying ability. Balance must be super-precise, not only about the usual RA and Dec axes, but radially about Dec axis as well. This means that you have to be very careful to ensure there is no asymmetric loading about the Dec axis - certainly difficult to achieve (but not impossible) if you want to mount multiple scopes. And rotating a heavy camera for framing the shot is may throw performance off.
3. It is HEAVY: RA axis 23kg, Dec axis 20kg. It needs very sturdy and stable mounting.
3. It is very expensive. Unless one is prepared to invest heavily in the rest of the imaging train, it is unlikely that its potential will be realised.
Hope this helps. If you want any more info, let me know.
Mark
|