Wanted: Filter Wheel and RGB Filters

[netwolf]

Hi All,

I am looking for a filter wheel, a motorized one at the right price would be nice.
Else a manual one like the ATIK or similar. Also need Filters.

Regards
Fahim

[Merlin66 (Ken)]

I got a great 1 1/4" Apogee manual filter wheel complete with filters from Bill Vorce at the telescopewarehouse for $65. If you can't find him through his ebay site drop me a PM.

[netwolf]

Merlin, thanks for that I will look into it. Though from reviews i have read the Apogee is cheaper for good reason. It seems to be more exposed to the elements, the others have smaller portions exposed and can easily be sealed with foam. But I have not talked to anyone with hands on expereince, I would appreciate your feedback on the quality of your unit. Do you find dust getting into it? Stray light getting in via the gap? What is the vibration dampening time when you change filters?

Regards
Fahim

[Dennis]

Hi Fahim

When I purchased my SBIG CFW8A filter wheel, I made sure it had IR coated filters and that they were specified as parfocal; that is, you shouldn't have to refocus for each filter as it rotates into position.

Also, I understand that some brands of filters transmit light more efficiently than others, so careful you don't throw away too much light, lost in a less efficient filter.

The CFW8A is a “sealed” motorized unit and I still get dust bunnies.

Cheers

Dennis

[netwolf]

Well i am hopping to fund this out of the Tax return, but i still dont think i could afford the CFW8 unless it was at a bargain price. I am eyeing the Homeyer wheel that seems to be the cheapest motorized option. But the next batch is a b it delayed with a bug to be worked out.

Regards
Fahim

[Merlin66 (Ken)]

The Apogee is definately a budget unit. I've only used for visual so it works well.
Dust could be an issue, but consider bang per buck.......