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PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The AZ1000 HPS EP (Enhanced Performance) represents a sophisticated evolution in Alt-Azimuth mount technology, combining a refined, portable form factor with professional-grade performance. This "Go-to" system integrates 10Micron’s exclusive HPS technology, featuring absolute on-axis encoders and high-performance brushless motors to deliver elite tracking and pointing accuracy. Our sky modeling eliminates the need for autoguiding, reducing setup complexity, weight, and costs while enabling tracking where guide stars are critical or unavailable. The AZ1000 HPS EP design provides a rigid, stable platform while remaining exceptionally agile and easy to use.
Heritage and Vision
Born from the success of the GM1000 series, the AZ1000 HPS EP traces its roots back to 2018, drawing inspiration from the pioneering AZ2 project of 2007. Our original intent was to create a platform that prioritizes time-efficiency and Italian design quality. This "Enhanced Performance" iteration is the culmination of a dedicated R&D process, incorporating years of worldwide field-testing data to push the mechanical and electronic boundaries of the original AZ1000 design.
Applications and Targets
The AZ1000 HPS EP is purpose-built for scientific and educational applications, and it is the ideal choice for satellite tracking, photometric measurements, astrometry, and atmospheric monitoring. While its primary design serves the needs of universities and research facilities, its ease of use also makes it a powerful asset for advanced educational outreach programs. For long-exposure imaging, the system is designed to integrate seamlessly with external de-rotators.
Payload and Setup
Despite its compact weight, the mount supports a substantial 30 kg (66 lb) payload capacity. It maintains exceptional stability under heavy loads, providing the necessary stiffness for high-speed tracking and precision data acquisition.
Designed for efficiency, the system does not require exact counterbalancing; using counterweights equivalent to approximately 50% of the payload ensures a safe and optimal configuration. This approach simplifies setup and maximizes performance.
Motion and Mechanical Engineering
Movement is driven by our exclusive HPS technology, which utilizes a traditional, high-precision worm-gear system paired with high-performance motor drives and absolute encoders mounted directly on the axes. This closed-loop system provides instantaneous feedback and correction, resulting in exceptional pointing accuracy and tracking fluidity.
Mechanically, the EP version features significant reinforcements, including redesigned axes with increased thickness and a larger diameter for the primary axis. These are supported by new, larger pre-loaded tapered roller bearings that provide smoother movement and superior management of increased loads.
Advanced Control and Connectivity
The system is powered by the Control Box, featuring a new high-end processor and industrial-grade Binder connectors for extreme environmental resilience. It includes a specialized GPS interface with a PPS signal for ultra-precise timekeeping, essential for satellite work. Users can operate the mount via the ergonomic, heated keypad or through an integrated web interface that allows for comprehensive remote control and firmware updates via LAN or Wi-Fi.
The software ecosystem completes the package with advanced firmware capable of 100-star sky modeling, which corrects for mechanical flexure and atmospheric refraction. This allows for full remote control and automated workflows, ensuring the mount functions as a truly intelligent node in any research environment.
Explore our comprehensive range of included features and products in detail. Here, you will find a selection of dedicated articles covering different aspects of our mounts.
AVAILABLE OPTIONS
Silver Version: This option shares all standard technical specifications. Its silver color anodization creates a more reflective surface, making it particularly suitable for outdoor exposure such as dedicated solar observations.
INCLUDED ITEMS
Note: This product does not include counterweights. You can find them sold separately in our catalog.
MOUNT ACCESSORIES
Unlock the full potential of your 10Micron mount. Our specialized accessories are chosen for seamless integration, ensuring maximum performance and reliability of your precision setup.
For comprehensive technical planning, download the Full Accessories Diagram from the Downloads Page.
FIND YOUR DEALER
If you would like to Make a Purchase, you can find and contact your nearest retailer by visiting our Global Presence Page.
Alternatively, if you would like to require More Detailed Information regarding compatibility and integration, please do not hesitate to Contact us directly.