Thread: VC200L question
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Old 16-05-2010, 07:00 PM
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leinad (Dan)
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Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Perth, WA
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Having a an older white tube,dark green base vixen and newer all white Vixen; there aren't too many differences, except for the newer vixen has used a black ring around the edge of the primary mirror which I'm told improves contrast but I cannot confirm whether this does actually do that.
The newer Vixen also has a plastic focuser knobs; and thats really only the difference.

The only warning with the older Vixens VC200L's would be the condition of the primary itself. The coating that Vixen Japan use can only be redone in their factory; and over 5-10yrs the coating of course if not looked after(cleaned/storage conditions) will be affected by fungi and damage the coating. This may not be obvious until the mirror has been cleaned.

I'm using a Feathertouch 2.5" focuser with automated focuser(focusmax automated) and milled spider vane to 2mm as Brendan(reps) mentioned.

Collimation is a simple process one you've done it a few times.

As a buyer I would be very cautious of the primary mirror condition and thats about it. I would even consider a brand new purchase from Aus(check with Steve at MyAstroShop), considering that if you do get one with a bad primary mirror coating, it's going to cost you $800 or thereabouts to ship it to Japan and back for recoating.
Brand new they should be around ~ $2200.

Hope that helps.
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