Meade RCX400TM instruction manual

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Smart Mount: See page 69 for detailed information.

GPS-UTC Offset: Universal Time (UTC) adds leap seconds to its time calculations, GPS does not. The offset is the number of leap seconds added since the establish- ment of GPS.

Telescope: Accesses several options, including:

JMount: Set this option to "Alt/Az" if using alt/az alignment and to "Polar" if using polar alignment. "Alt/Az" is the default value.

JModel: Allows you to select the telescope model connected to Autostar II.

JFocal Length: Displays the focal length of the selected telescope.

JMax Slew Rate: Sets the upper limit for the slew rate. 8 degrees per second is the fastest setting.

JFocuser: Allows you to recalibrate your focuser. Normally, not used. Recalibrates focuser and focuser backlash.

JCollimate: Allows you use the Arrow keys to collimate the telescope. See pages 51 and 52 for more details.

JMount Upper Limit: Allows you enter a number from 0 to 90 that sets an upper limit as to how far the optical tube can swing upward during a programmed slew. (Note that it does not prevent you from performing a manual slew past this limit.) This is useful when you have a camera or other peripheral attached to the tele- scope—you can prevent it from striking the telescope base. 90 (straight up) is the maximum value that can be entered.

JMount Lower Limit: Allows you enter a number from 0 to 90 that sets a lower limit as to how far the optical tube can swing downward during a programmed slew. (Note that it does not prevent you from performing a manual slew past this limit.) This is useful when you have a large optical tube (12" model) or have a dewshield attached to the telescope—you can prevent it from striking the tele- scope base. -90 (straight down) is the maximum value that can be entered.

JPark Position: For permanently mounted telescopes only. After aligning your tel- escope, select this menu and power down the telescope. The alignment set- tings—level, North, time, alignment stars—are stored in Autostar II's memory and are remembered after you power off the telescope. When you power on the tele- scope, "Automatic Alignment" displays after the start up routine. Press MODE (do not press ENTER). The telescope remembers its alignment and you can contin- ue viewing or performing other operations without aligning the telescope again.

Park Position provides two options. Use Current Position uses the last position set by the user. Use Default Position levels telescope and points it North.

JCalibrate Home: For permanently mounted telescopes only. After aligning your telescope, select this menu and the alignment settings—level, North, time, align- ment stars—are stored in Autostar II's memory and are remembered after you power off the telescope. You can enable Autostar II to retrieve and automatically align your telescope using these settings the next time you power up by choos- ing the Align on Home menu. See ALIGN ON HOME, page 32, for more informa- tion. Note: This method is not as precise as PARK POSITION (see above).

JAnti-Backlash:This option allows you to change the backlash along either the R.A. and the Dec. axes by entering a number from 0% to 199%. This sets the back- lash in the way the Arrow keys move the telescope along an axis. If you enter a value near 199%, telescope responds more quickly as you hold down an Arrow key. If you enter a value near 0%, it takes longer for the tube to respond as you hold down an Arrow key. Experiment with this option: Try changing the values until the motion of the telescope (while holding down an Arrow key) feels comfortable to you.

JTrain Drive: All telescopes have a certain amount of "backlash" (looseness in the interplay of gears). This menu allows you to compensate for the backlash in the the Altitude and Azimuth motors—which helps locate objects with more precision.

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Contents MEADE.COM How to Hot Swap the Autostar II Handbox Focusing the TelescopeContents Attach the legs of the tripod to the base Tighten the adjustment lockRotate the leg Hook the Release PinPosition the mount over the tripod Install the batteriesSecure the mount with the T-handle Move the optical tube from its shipping positionInsert the eyepiece and remove dust cover Attach the visual back and diagonal mirrorPlug in the AutoStar II handbox Turn on AutoStarTighten the R.A. and Dec. Locks To exit the focus operation 1. Press Mode Point and ObserveFan Telescope FeaturesViewfinder close up Base Computer Control Panel see j RCX400 Your Personal Window to the UniverseDefinitions Viewfinder Autostar II Features Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a ButtonLibrary # of Objects About changing slew RCX400 Tips How to Assemble the Tripod Parts ListingHow to Assemble Your Telescope Getting StartedTo attach the diagonal mirror and the eyepiece To attach AutoStar II and connect the handbox holderAligning the Viewfinder Mounting and Focusing the Viewfinder for the First TimeObserving PresetsChoosing an Eyepiece To focus the telescope eyepieceTo select a previously defined focus preset To define a presetTo sync on a focus preset Observing by Moving the Telescope ManuallyObserving Using Autostar IIs Arrow Keys Terrestrial ObservingSlew Speeds Astronomical Observing Observe the MoonTo Track an Object Automatically Moving Through Autostar II’s MenusWhich One’s the Alignment Star? Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking Feature Using the Guided TourGo To Saturn RCX400 Info Basic Autostar Autostar II Navigation ExerciseTo Calculate Sunset time Navigating Autostar Example of Locating a menuSelect Item Object AutostarTo slew the telescope to catalog objects Object MenuDefinition Event MenuUtilities Menu Glossary MenuLook into the Future Setup MenuPage Adding and editing sites? Setup Menu Daylight SAVING, Hot Button Menus Adding Observing Sites To Add a Site to the user-defined site listTo Edit a Site To GO to a user-entered object Creating User ObjectsObserving Satellites LandmarksTo Add a landmark to the database To Select a landmark from the database IdentifyTo perform a Landmark Survey To check on the available amount of memory in AutostarDisplayed information Example BrowseAlternate Alt/Az Alignments How to perform the Easy Align ProcedureInitialize Autostar Easy Two-Star AlignmentOne-Star Alt/Az Alignment To Download the Latest Version of Autostar II SoftwareTo Set the Home Position Manually Update Menu Option Periodic Error CorrectionTrain Menu Option Erase Menu OptionFew tips on photography with the RCX400 telescopes PhotographyPhotography with Meade’s AutoStar Suite Photography with a Digital CameraImage of M13 captured with the Deep Sky Imager Meade Series 4000 Eyepieces Optional AccessoriesSeries 4000 8 24mm Zoom Eyepiece Star Charts Maintenance CollimationTest your Collimation Defocused star images. Misaligned 1, 2, Aligned Follow these steps for collimation of the optical systemMeade Customer Service Inspecting the OpticsGauging the Movement of the Telescope 12 f/8 RCX400 Specifications 10 f/8 RCX400 Specifications14 f/8 RCX400 Specifications Autostar II Handbox Specifications Advanced Autostar II System SpecificationsSetting Circles Equatorial AlignmentCelestial Coordinates Equatorial Wedge Declination Setting CircleLocating Polaris Lining Up with the Celestial PoleRCX400 mounted on an equatorial wedge Precise Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment Autostar II Polar AlignmentOne-Star Polar Alignment Two-Star Polar AlignmentLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World Appendix B Latitude ChartCity State/Prov./Country Latitude City Country LatitudeWhat you will need Command LineTour Modes Comment LineTitle Writing a TourPick ONE / Pick END Downloading Tours Pick END Auto Slew on / Auto Slew OFFFurther Study Appendix D Training the DriveAppendix E the Moon Menu To observe the Apollo 15 landing site using the Moon optionIntroduction Appendix FOperation TrainingPermanently Mounted Scopes UpdateOther Menus Options Save As and Load OffAutostar II Glossary Basic AstronomyObjects in Space MoonDeep-Sky Objects PlanetsPage 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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