Product Details
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PlaneWave L-600 Direct-Drive Mount
Combines versatility, simplicity, and affordability by combining all the technology of our observatory class telescopes into a compact stand-alone mount. In its Alt/Az configuration, it is considerably more compact than its equatorial counterpart, allowing a larger telescope to fit in a smaller enclosure. Unlike traditional German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with, and no large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed. Besides, it is the way the pros do it! For added flexibility, the L-Series mounts can be installed in either Alt/Az or equatorial mode with the optional wedge accessory.
L-600 Mount Features:
- Load capacity of 300 lbs (135 kg)
- Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
- Slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second
- High-resolution encoders on each axis for precise positioning
- Zero backlash
- Zero periodic error
- PointXP mount modeling software
- Enclosed electronics
- Through the mount cabling
Direct-drive motors and encoders |
Direct-drive motors and on-axis encoders eliminate the need for gears, thereby eliminating backlash and periodic error. With high-resolution encoders providing the feedback for the direct-drive motors, not only will the telescope track without periodic error and backlash, but the mount will also counter wind gusts with precise servo feedback. | |
Incredible Slew Speed |
The direct-drive motors can move the telescope at speeds up to 50 degrees per second for tracking satellites or just to minimize target acquisition time. | |
Dual mounting bracket |
PlaneWave style mounting bracket to hold CDK17/20 onto inside of fork arm with additional option of mounting a scope on the outside of the fork arm. Optional dovetail clamp required. | |
Azimuth dovetail balance system |
For precise center of gravity balance whether in Alt-Az or Equatorial configuration | |
Through the mount cabling |
Access panels in the fork arm and azimuth axis allow for camera equipment cabling through the inside of the mount. | |
Proven CDK700/PW1000 Technology |
The L-Series uses the same proven technology as the CDK700 and PW1000 which are being used in Universities around the world. |
Technical Specifications
Mount System
| Type | Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial Direct Drive Mount |
| Weight | 338 lbs (153 kg) |
| Max. Load Capacity | 300 lbs (136 kg) |
| Latitude Range | 0 to 90 degrees, Northern and Southern hemispheres |
| Cable Management | Equipment cables can be wired through mount |
| Swing-Through Length (From Altitude Axis) | 35.1″ |
Control System
| Control Electronics | PlaneWave Interface dual axis telescope control |
| User Interface | PlaneWave Interface 4 (PWI4) Control Software with integrated PointXP mount modeling software |
| Homing Sensors | Home position sensors are included allowing the mount can find its home position on power up. |
| Slew Rate | 20 degrees per second (standard); 50 degrees per second (maximum), both axes |
| Power Requirement | Accepts 120 to 240 VAC. Supplied with 120 VAC 15A IEC Type B Regulated Power Adapter. |
Motion Control
| Motor Control | Industrial grade brushless motor control system and built in electronics |
| Motor – Azimuth and Altitude | Direct Drive 3 Phase Axial-Flux Torque Motors |
| Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude | 152mm stainless steel encoder ring with reader built into the azimuth and altitude axes. 18,880,000 counts per revolution (0.069 arcsecond resolution). |
| Motor Torque | Approximately 20 ft-lbs continuous; 50 ft-lbs peak |
| Drive Electronics | Industrial grade, off-the-shelf brushless motor drives for each axis with custom designed interface card |
| Telescope Control Software |
Uses PWI4. Incorporates PointXP mount modeling software by Dave Rowe. |
System Performance
| Pointing Accuracy | <10 arcsecond RMS with PointXP Model |
| Pointing Precision |
2 arcseconds at sidereal velocity |
| Tracking Accuracy |
0.3 arcseconds over a 5-minute period at sidereal velocity |
| System Natural Frequency | 10 Hz or greater |
In the Box
PlaneWave L-600 Direct-Drive Mount
| Hardware |
|
| One 16′ USB cable | To connect the mount to the observatory control computer |
| One 120VAC power cable | To provide power to the mount |
| Standard Allen Key set | For tightening bolts used on the mount |
| Flash drive | Contains PWI4 software for mount control and instructions for installation |
| 3/8 Socket | Used for operating the RA balance leadscrew on the mount |
| Gamepad | Used for control of the mount tracking speeds for visual observing |
| To mount OTA |
Manuals & Warranty
