10 Micron AZ2000 HPS Combi
- Stock: 3-4 Months
- Model: 10M2000AZC
This mount is the last version of the AZ2000, an altazimuth mount based on the mechanics of the GM2000. The AZ2000 HPS Combi 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 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.
The body of the AZ2000 HPS C is “splittable” in two parts for a better transportability.
An option is available for a dual telescope configuration, as shown on the pictueres above (see options for further details)
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 original AZ2000 was also produced in the special “Antarctica” version, which was able to work at the extreme low temperature of -84°C (-119F). Special mechanical and electronic considerations were necessary in order to design and produce this peculiar mount: from the correct choice of material and sizes to the use of special and very expensive lubricants, wiring and connectors. A special housing was also designed to protect against temperature and ice crystals formation and which needed different levels of seals depending on the effective operational temperature.
| Type | Altazimuth German Mount |
| Weight (mount) | 30 kg – 66 lbs without accessories |
| Instrument payload capacity | 50 kg (110 lbs) for standard single telescope configuration 50 + 35 kg (110 +77 lbs) for optional dual telescope configuration |
| Azimuth fine adjustment range (for initial orientation) | +/− 10° |
| Counterweight shaft | 40 mm diameter, stainless steel, weight 4 kg – 9 lbs |
| Axes | 50 mm diameter, alloy steel |
| Bearings | Pre-loaded tapered roller bearing |
| Worm wheels | 215 teeth, 172 mm diameter, B14 bronze |
| Worm screw | 24mm, tempered alloy steel, grinded and lapped |
| Transmission system | Backlash-free system with timing belt and automatic backlash recovery |
| Motors | 2 axes servo brushless |
| Power supply | 24 V DC |
| Power consumption | ~ 0,7 A while tracking ~ 3 A at maximum speed ~ 5 A peak |
| Go-to speed | Adjustable from 2°/s to 20°/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. |
AZ2000 HPS Mount – with precision absolute axis-encoders, control box with onboard-intelligence (Linux-processor),V. 2 – HPS version firmware, stand alone system ( no PC required ), professional handcontrol unit with graphic display and temperature control, cables, counterweight bar and strong transport carton-box with shaped foam.
