Altazimuth mount, exclusive 10Micron HPS technology with absolute axis-encoders and high performances motor drives; payload capacity of 100 +55 Kg (220+ 143 lbs) in dual telescope configuration optional
The new AZ3000 HPS is an altazimuth mount based on the mechanics of the GM3000. The AZ3000 HPS is a very versatile research mount, perfect for scientific activities such as satellite tracking, photometric and astrometric measurements, LiDaR laser applications and so on. Due to its altazimuthal design, it’s necessary an optional field de-rotator (ASCOM compatible) in order to get long exposures without field rotation.
The electronics is housed in an independent control box (new version V3), easily removable. The connections of motors, encoders and hand pad feature security lock screws. The mount can be controlled using the included hand pad, without connecting an external PC. The keypad is built in order to maintain the maximum readability in all lighting conditions. Both the display and the ergonomic keys, allowing for the use of gloves, feature a red backlight. An heater keeps the display warm for usage below freezing temperatures.
Main features of the new Controlbox V3:
• Advanced Mainboard: New ARM based processor for enhanced performance and future-proofing.
• High-Quality Industrial Connectors: All power and data connections feature high-quality Binder connectors from Germany, ensuring superior protection against moisture, dust, and environmental hazards.
• Enhanced Connectivity: A dedicated port for an external WiFi antenna improves wireless communication capabilities.
• Optimized Data Interfaces: New RJ ports for LAN, Autoguide, and GPS ensure reliable signal transmission.
• Precision GPS Integration: The GPS module connects via a PS2 interface (instead of RJ), featuring a built-in PPS signal for ultra-precise timekeeping, ideal for satellite tracking applications.
• Professional Power Connector: The previous connector is replaced with a two-pin Binder plug for 24V DC power. A new power cable is included.
• Expanded AUX Interface: A 6-pin AUX port (DIN EN 61076-2-106) enhances remote switch control and power-on feedback
The standard version allows to assembly the optics to only a side of the mount and is supplied with a short counterweight bar. It’s not necessary to exactly counterbalance the weight of the telescope: using counterweigths for about 50% of your payload to get a sufficient stable configuration.
An option is available for a dual telescope configuration, as shown on the pictueres above (see options for further details).
Learn more about the exclusive 10Micron HPS technology
| Type | Altazimuth German Mount |
| Weight (mount) | 65 kg – 143 lbs, without accessories |
| Instrument payload capacity | 100 kg (220 lbs) for standard single telescope configuration 100 + 65 kg (220 +143 lbs) for optional dual telescope configuration |
| Azimuth fine adjustment range (for initial orientation) | +/− 10° |
| Counterweight shaft | 50 mm diameter, stainless steel |
| Axes | 80/50 mm diameter, alloy steel |
| Bearings | Pre-loaded tapered roller bearing |
| Worm wheels | 315 teeth, 247 mm diameter, B14 bronze (AZ) 255 teeth, 192 mm diameter, B14 bronze (Dec) |
| Worm screw | 32mm and 24mm, tempered alloy steel, grinded and lapped |
| Transmission system | Backlash-free system with timing belt and automatic backlash recov |
| Motors | 2 axes servo brushless |
| Power supply | 24 V DC |
| Power consumption | ~ 1 A while tracking ~ 3.5 A at maximum speed ~ 5 A peak |
| Go-to speed | Adjustable from 2°/s to 12°/s. |
| Pointing accuracy | < 20” with internal multiple-stars software mapping |
| Average tracking accuracy | < +/− 1" typical for 15 minutes (< 0.7" RMS) with internal multiple-stars software mapping and compensation of flexure and polar alignment errors |
| Security stops | +/− 150° in AZ (software) +/− 155° in AZ (mechanical) +/− 95° in Alt (software) +/− 100° in Alt (mechanical) |
| Operational temperature range (standard) | - 15° C to + 35° C + 05° F to + 95° F |
| Storage temperature range | - 40° C to + 50° C - 40° F to +122° F |
| Special operational temperature range | Optional, for very low temperature operations: contact us for more details |
| Communication ports | RS–232 port; GPS port; autoguide ST-4 protocol port; Ethernet port |
| Database | Stars: by name, Bayer designation, Flamsteed designation, Bright Star Catalogue, SAO, HIP, HD, PPM, ADS, GCVS. Deep-sky: M, NGC, IC, PGC ,UGC limited up to mV = 16. Solar system: Sun, Moon, planets, asteroids, comets, artificial satellites. Equatorial and altazimuth coordinates. User defined objects, fast slewing positions. |
| Firmware features | User defined mount parking position, 2-stars and 3-stars alignment function, up to 100 alignment stars for modeling, correction of polar alignment and orthogonality errors, estimate of average pointing error, storage of multiple pointing models, sidereal, solar and lunar tracking speed adjustable on both axes, declination-based autoguide speed correction, adjustable horizon height limit, pointing and tracking past meridian,, assisted balance adjustment, manual or GPS based time and coordinates setting, dome control via RS-232, configurable atmospheric refraction, network settings, comets and asteroids filter, multi-language interface. Remote Assist via Internet connection. |
| PC control | Remote control via RS-232 or Ethernet; proprietary ASCOM driver or Meade compatible protocol; update of firmware and orbital elements of comets, asteroids and artificial satellites via RS-232 or Ethernet; virtual control panel via RS-232 or Ethernet. Wi-Fi included. |
The AZ3000 HPS Mount is available in a special version for very low temperature operations (item # 10M3000AZF)
10M300DAZ – This optional accessory allows a double telescope configuration as shown on the pictures above
The Standard version allows a single telescope assembly and is supplied with counterweight bar.
SKU: 10M300DAZ
SKU: 10M3230
SKU: 10M2060
SKU: 10M3199
SKU: 10M3545
SKU: 10M2185
