What about the new baby Paramount MX coming out in (I think first half of 2011) expected to be around US $8,500
http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL144.../393239251.jpg
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthrea.../1#Post4176047
The estimated introductory price for the Paramount MX will be approximately $8,500.
Software Bisque is not officially announcing a shipping date for the Paramount MX at this time.
Paramount MX Specifications and Features
- Equipment capacity (not including the counterweights): 90 lbs. (41 kg)
- Weight of the mount: is about 50 lbs. (23 kg). This may vary slightly with the addiion of the final bearings/electronic components/polar alignment telescope, etc.).
- The next generation control system (called the MKS 5000) that employs virtually all of the features of the Paramount ME's MKS 4000 control system, with improvements, such as USB 2.0 communication interface, upgraded processors, smaller physical footprint, redesigned hand paddle. The exact power requirements are not currently available.
- Ingenious three way "switch" on both the RA and Dec axis that engages the worm during normal operation, disengage the worm from the gear when balancing the payload, or lock gear in place for during transit.
- Optional and removable polar alignment telescope for rapid alignment with the pole. A study cover protects the polar alignment scope during transport.
- GEM design allows the right ascension axis to tracks past the meridian for up to 2 hours (time).
- All internal harnesses (cables) and motors are encapsulated inside the body of the mount, just like the Paramount ME.
- Optional through the mount cabling.
- Polar alignment adjustments that are virtually identical to the Paramount ME.
- Paramount ME-like homing, tracking and pointing performance.
- Includes Versa-Plate and power supply.
- 8-inch right ascension and declination gears.
- 6-inch contact ball bearings in both right ascension and declination.
- Precision brass worms and aluminum gears that have extremely low periodic error.
- Periodic error correction curve fitting included with TheSkyX Professional Edition