New HEQ5 - Synscan or EQMOD ?

[DarkKnight (Kev)]

Hi all,

I've just committed to buy a Saxon/Star Watcher HEQ5 mount (haven't got it yet) which is supposedly upgradeable to Goto with only a handset change.

Any thoughts on the EQMOD system plus a laptop (what specs are the minimum) v the Synscan handset upgrade.

My main interest at this stage is Nightscapes so I'd like some input on the best way to mount my Nikon D800. From my Googlings it seems like attaching my ball-head to a dovetail plate is the way to go.

Thanks in advance.

[Shiraz (Ray)]

great mount Kev.

If you do not have goto, might not be worth bothering with a new handset - EQMOD works very well if you follow the web tutorials. However, the advantage of the Synscan is that it gives you a fully standalone system - might be significant, depending on how you will use the mount.

to use EQMOD, you will need a computer (almost anything with a USB port - check the website), gamepad and USB translation cable.

[glend (Glen)]

If your starting out I would suggest you go with the Synscan hand contoller. EQMOD involves more equipment and software on a laptop connected with a special cable. Learn to use the mount first.

[DarkKnight (Kev)]

Thanks Ray and Glen.

And you are right Glen in saying that I should learn to use the mount first.

Portability is a priority so the less baggage I have, the better.

Gawd, don't you just hate it when you decide to buy something and then have to wait till it arrives.