Meade RCX400TM instruction manual Focusing the Telescope, How to Hot Swap the Autostar II Handbox

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Focusing the Telescope

As you look over your new RCX telescope, one of the first things you will notice is that it has no Focus Knob!

Because this design is of key importance, we are presenting this information on how to focus your telescope on the inside front cover so that it is immediately accessible.

The Focus Key

All focusing of the RCX400 is performed digitally, using AutoStar II’s Focus key (number key 4).

The Focus key functions as a toggle key:

JPress the Focus key the first time to focus the telescope and to control the speed at which you focus.

JPress the Focus key again to set and adjust up to nine focus presets.

To change the focus speed:

1.Press the Focus key once. “Focuser: Fast (or the current speed)” displays for two seconds. Use one of the Scroll keys to

scroll through the list of 4 available focus speeds: Fast, Medium, Slow, Fine. Scroll through the list until the speed you desire displays. Choose a focus speed with which you feel comfortable.

To focus the telescope:

1.Press the Focus key once. “Focuser: Fast (or the current speed)” displays. After two seconds, “Focuser: Position = XX” dis- plays. “XX” stands for a number value in decimal millimeters.

2.Point the telescope at a distant object. Look in the eyepiece and use the Arrow keys until the image in the eyepiece is in focus.

To exit the focus operation at any time:

1.Press MODE.

If you wish learn how to set focus presets, see page 19.

How to Hot Swap the Autostar II Handbox

You may move the Autostar II handbox from one computer control panel to another, without turning off the RCX control panel. This is called “hot swapping.”

To hot swap the handbox:

1.Unplug the handbox connector and plug Autostar II into the HBX port of the other computer control panel.

2.Press and hold the “?” key for two seconds to refresh the display.

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Contents MEADE.COM Focusing the Telescope How to Hot Swap the Autostar II HandboxContents Rotate the leg Tighten the adjustment lockAttach the legs of the tripod to the base Hook the Release PinSecure the mount with the T-handle Install the batteriesPosition the mount over the tripod Move the optical tube from its shipping positionPlug in the AutoStar II handbox Attach the visual back and diagonal mirrorInsert the eyepiece and remove dust cover Turn on AutoStarTo exit the focus operation 1. Press Mode Point and Observe Tighten the R.A. and Dec. LocksTelescope Features FanViewfinder close up RCX400 Your Personal Window to the Universe Base Computer Control Panel see jDefinitions Viewfinder Library # of Objects Autostar II FeaturesTour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button About changing slew RCX400 Tips How to Assemble Your Telescope Parts ListingHow to Assemble the Tripod Getting StartedTo attach AutoStar II and connect the handbox holder To attach the diagonal mirror and the eyepieceMounting and Focusing the Viewfinder for the First Time Aligning the ViewfinderChoosing an Eyepiece PresetsObserving To focus the telescope eyepieceTo sync on a focus preset To define a presetTo select a previously defined focus preset Observing by Moving the Telescope ManuallySlew Speeds Observing Using Autostar IIs Arrow KeysTerrestrial Observing To Track an Object Automatically Observe the MoonAstronomical Observing Moving Through Autostar II’s MenusWhich One’s the Alignment Star? Go To Saturn Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking FeatureUsing the Guided Tour RCX400 Info To Calculate Sunset time Basic AutostarAutostar II Navigation Exercise Example of Locating a menu Navigating AutostarAutostar Select Item ObjectObject Menu To slew the telescope to catalog objectsEvent Menu DefinitionGlossary Menu Utilities MenuSetup Menu Look into the FuturePage Adding and editing sites? Setup Menu Daylight SAVING, Hot Button Menus To Edit a Site Adding Observing SitesTo Add a Site to the user-defined site list Creating User Objects To GO to a user-entered objectTo Add a landmark to the database Observing SatellitesLandmarks To perform a Landmark Survey IdentifyTo Select a landmark from the database To check on the available amount of memory in AutostarBrowse Displayed information ExampleInitialize Autostar How to perform the Easy Align ProcedureAlternate Alt/Az Alignments Easy Two-Star AlignmentTo Set the Home Position Manually One-Star Alt/Az AlignmentTo Download the Latest Version of Autostar II Software Train Menu Option Periodic Error CorrectionUpdate Menu Option Erase Menu OptionPhotography Few tips on photography with the RCX400 telescopesPhotography with a Digital Camera Photography with Meade’s AutoStar SuiteImage of M13 captured with the Deep Sky Imager Optional Accessories Meade Series 4000 EyepiecesSeries 4000 8 24mm Zoom Eyepiece Star Charts Test your Collimation MaintenanceCollimation Follow these steps for collimation of the optical system Defocused star images. Misaligned 1, 2, AlignedGauging the Movement of the Telescope Meade Customer ServiceInspecting the Optics 10 f/8 RCX400 Specifications 12 f/8 RCX400 Specifications14 f/8 RCX400 Specifications Advanced Autostar II System Specifications Autostar II Handbox SpecificationsCelestial Coordinates Setting CirclesEquatorial Alignment Declination Setting Circle Equatorial WedgeLining Up with the Celestial Pole Locating PolarisPrecise Polar Alignment RCX400 mounted on an equatorial wedgeOne-Star Polar Alignment Autostar II Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment Two-Star Polar AlignmentCity State/Prov./Country Latitude Appendix B Latitude ChartLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World City Country LatitudeTour Modes Command LineWhat you will need Comment LineWriting a Tour TitlePick ONE / Pick END Pick END Auto Slew on / Auto Slew OFF Downloading ToursAppendix D Training the Drive Further StudyTo observe the Apollo 15 landing site using the Moon option Appendix E the Moon MenuOperation Appendix FIntroduction TrainingOther Menus Options Save As and Load UpdatePermanently Mounted Scopes OffObjects in Space Basic AstronomyAutostar II Glossary MoonPlanets Deep-Sky ObjectsPage Meade Limited Warranty

RCX400TM specifications

The Meade RCX400TM is a sophisticated telescope designed for serious astronomers and astrophotographers seeking exceptional performance and innovative features. Combining advanced optics with user-friendly technology, the RCX400TM stands out as a powerful tool for both amateur and experienced stargazers.

At the heart of the RCX400TM is its revolutionary Ritchey-Chrétien optical design. This design minimizes optical aberrations, resulting in sharp, high-contrast images across the field of view. The telescope features a large aperture, typically around 10 inches, which allows for the observation of faint celestial objects, including distant galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae. The high-quality optics ensure that users can capture stunning details and nuances of their targets.

One of the standout characteristics of the RCX400TM is its advanced AutoAlign technology. This feature simplifies the setup process by automatically aligning the telescope to the night sky, enabling users to start observing in a matter of minutes. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free experience when setting up for observations.

Additionally, the telescope is equipped with the Meade Smart Drive system, which enhances tracking accuracy and allows for long exposure astrophotography without the worry of trailing or blurring. This system compensates for periodic errors and undergoes continuous monitoring, ensuring that the telescope maintains precise alignment while tracking celestial objects.

The RCX400TM also incorporates an intuitive user interface with a large, easy-to-read LCD display. This interface allows users to access a comprehensive database of celestial objects, making it simple to locate and observe a wide range of astronomical phenomena. With its compatibility with various Meade accessories, such as cameras and filters, the RCX400TM provides flexibility for users looking to expand their astrophotography capabilities.

Durability is another significant aspect of the RCX400TM. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand various outdoor conditions, making it suitable for both backyard observations and expeditions to remote dark sites.

In summary, the Meade RCX400TM is designed for those who demand high-performance optics, advanced technology, and ease of use. With features like the Ritchey-Chrétien optical design, AutoAlign technology, and the Smart Drive system, it offers a remarkable viewing experience that brings the wonders of the universe closer to all who gaze through its eyepiece. Whether for casual observation or serious astrophotography, the RCX400TM is poised to satisfy the needs of astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.
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