Quote:
Originally Posted by Buck
Hello Ed,
Unfortunately I don't live close enough to meet your testing requirements, but I do own the iOptron AZ Mount Pro, and can offer this advice. I believe you are correct in assuming that it is the length of refractor OTA's that pose an issue with stability on AZ mounts. I use a heavy 6 inch Maksutov Cassegrain on the AZ Mount Pro, with two counter weights, and there are no issues at all in GoTo, slewing, tracking, focusing vibrations etc. The weight of this OTA with diagonal, finder, heavy eyepiece etc is over 9.5kg. The iOptron AZ Mount Pro comes with a heavier duty tripod than previous models. I have also increased stability by adding an after market lower tripod tray/spreaders.
I also own the venerable Vixen FL-102s APO refractor, and this only weighs in at about 5.5kg with accessories, but at f8.8 the physical length is 1003mm with diagonal and dew-shield. It required the mini pier attachment to the AZ Mount Pro to avoid hitting the tripod legs at zenith, but this attachment is very solid and stable. However, I found that there is considerably more vibration with this scope - it settles quickly - but without the micro 10-1 focus control, it would be a nuisance. It is also prone to vibration from wind, - in fact this is the main source of vibration, - but I'm talking a considerable breeze that also puts dobs etc out of action. I also have a Takahashi FC-76 that is f7.9 and shorter and lighter - 4kg - than the Vixen, and posed no issues with vibration - but still needs the mini pier on top of the AZ Mount Pro. By the way, this latest version of AZ mount from iOptron looks very similar to earlier versions, but is considerably different internally. Belt driven (very quiet), internal Lithium Ion re-chargeable battery (10 hrs use), wifi with dedicated app for sky safari (works brilliantly), built in GPS. I love this mount for visual use, and portability. I owned a Skywatcher HEQ5Pro, but the iOptron is far more versatile for my needs. Set up is less than 10 minutes, and the mount finds itself and tests its orientation automatically, then goes to an object. Just needs initial levelling, and balancing the OTA - as do most mounts!
In summary, I believe you will experience some initial vibration, not because of the weight, but more likely the length - although it is slightly shorter than my Vixen. Actually the heavier weight may dampen or resist any wind caused vibrations. Good luck with your decision.
Buck (Paul)
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Hi Paul.
Glad to hear you are getting a good run from your AZ mount pro and spreaders.
I've just finished building my own custom tripod and have done some re-designing of the spreaders and tripod extender for this project.. the full system is amazing in how well it carries my Equinox 120ED and compares favourably with my much modified mini tower. Changing over to Teflon clutch also helps with stability I have found .
With alignment I just do a straight manual one and don't bother with the auto dancing stuff, much quicker and very reliable.
As you mentioned with the stepper motors belt driving the worm it results in a very quiet operation indeed. All in all a great little mount and probably one of the best out there for visual viewing.
Unfortunately because it's software does not support EQ mode I do not have any use for my wedge on this mount so that's left for my mini tower for that mode.
Cheers
Graham.