Meade ETX-90EC instruction manual Guide, Slew Speed

Page 4

4

QUICK-

1

 

START

A

GUIDE

 

B

 

 

Remove the ETX from its packaging and place it on a sturdy surface. Place the eyepiece (A) and viewfinder

(B)into their appropriate positions on the telescope and tighten the appropriate attachment screws to a firm feel only.

2

C

D

Securely place the ETX on its side and remove the battery compartment cover (C) from the underside of the drive base. Insert eight (user-supplied) AA-size batteries into the battery compartment (D) in the proper orientation. Replace the cover and return the telescope to an upright position.

3

NOTE:The

 

telescope has

 

rotational hard

 

stops in the

F

horizontal and

 

vertical axes to

 

prevent damage to

 

the telescope. See

 

Quick Tips, page 6,

G

for more

E

information.

 

 

Verify that the computer control panel power switch (E) is in the OFF position. Remove the Electronic Controller (F) from the packing materials and plug it into the HBX port (G). Tighten the vertical and horizontal locks (6 and 10, Fig. 1), then remove the dust cover from the end of the telescope tube.

4

G E

Flip the Power Switch (E) on the computer control panel to the ON position. The lights flicker on the Electronic Controller. Press any key and the motors briefly move the telescope. The Electronic Controller is now operational.

5

H

Slew Speed:

Fast

Medium

Moderate

Slow

I

Use the arrow keys (H) of the Electronic Controller to move the telescope up and down and/or left and right. To change the telescope’s slew speed, press the SPEED key (I). The indicator lights signify the speed, with the upper light showing the highest speed. Each press slows the speed down one level, then cycles back to the highest speed.

NOTE: Before

6observing, verify that the flip-mirror control (16, Fig. 1) is in the “up” position. See Flip-Mirror Control, page 6, for more information.

Sight along the side of the telescope’s main tube to locate an object. Practice using the arrow keys on the Electronic Controller to center an object in the telescope’s field of view. Use the telescope’s focus knob (9, Fig. 1) to bring the object into focus.

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Eyepiece Viewfinder Eyepiece holder thumbscrewCONTENTSz3 Guide Slew SpeedAssembly Instructions Parts ListGetting Started IntroductionTelescope Features Quick TipsTelescope Controls Computer Control PanelFirst Observations Getting STARTEDzObserving with the Electronic Controller Focusing the Viewfinder Using the ViewfinderViewfinder Aligning the ViewfinderTelescope Fundamentals Choosing an EyepieceUnderstanding Magnification Telescope MountingsTerrestrial Observing Astronomical ObservingSidereal Rate Slew SpeedsUsing the Mode Screws Telescope FUNDAMENTALSzElectronic Controller Modes of OperationCelestial Coordinates Polar Alignment ProcedureLocating the Celestial Pole Latitude Balance Weight is recommended if Standard Tripod Leg ETX-90ECHigh-Latitude Tripod Leg ETX-90EC Standard Tripod Leg ETX-125ECChapterz4 Observing Objects in SpaceMoon PlanetsPhotography with Both ETX Models OBSERVINGzFew tips on photography with both ETX models Optional Accessories 2X Barlow PowerAstro Software/Cable Connector Kit ETX-125ECOptional Accessories OPTIONALz Accessories #1244 and #1247 Electric FocusersMAINTENANCEz and Servicing General MaintenanceTroubleshooting Storage and TransportMaintenance and Servicing Meade Customer ServiceSpecifications ETX-90EC Astro Telescope Specifications ETX-125EC Astro TelescopeNorthern Hemisphere Polar Indicator Light Key Appendix Atracking Motor SpeedLight Light OffAppendix B Helpful Charts Latitude Chart for Major Cities of the WorldStar Locator City State LatitudeSetting Circles 24Appendix C Precise POLARz Alignment Setting CirclesAppendix Precise Polar Alignment Appendix D ROADMAPzTO the Stars Road Map to the StarsDistances between the planets Appendix E YOU and the UniverseMeade Limited Warranty Meade Instruments Corporation

ETX-90EC specifications

The Meade ETX-90EC is a compact, portable telescope that has garnered significant attention among amateur astronomers for its exceptional optical performance and user-friendly design. Launched as part of Meade's popular ETX series, this telescope blends advanced technology with accessibility, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced users.

One of the standout features of the ETX-90EC is its Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design. This design incorporates a spherical primary mirror and a corrector lens which contributes to sharp images with minimal optical aberrations. The 90mm aperture allows users to observe a variety of celestial objects, from the craters on the Moon to distant galaxies, while maintaining a compact form factor. The telescope's focal length of 1250mm provides a substantial level of magnification, enabling users to enjoy detailed views of planets and other astronomical phenomena.

The ETX-90EC boasts a robust computerized system, powered by Meade's Audio Star technology. This feature not only assists users in locating over 30,000 celestial objects with just a few simple commands, but it also provides educational audio information about these objects, enhancing the observational experience. The telescope's GoTo capabilities allow it to automatically point to selected objects, transforming the stargazing process into an interactive and informative experience.

Another significant aspect of the ETX-90EC is its portability. Weighing in at under 10 pounds and featuring a foldable design, this telescope is easy to transport and set up in various locations. This makes it ideal for both backyard astronomy and travel to darker skies where light pollution is minimal.

The ETX-90EC also incorporates an electronic drive system that ensures smooth and precise tracking of celestial objects, which is invaluable for astrophotography enthusiasts. With optional accessories, users can attach cameras and other devices to capture stunning images of deep-sky phenomena.

Overall, the Meade ETX-90EC combines advanced optics, user-friendly technology, and portability, making it a versatile and powerful tool for exploring the night sky. Whether you are a novice looking to kickstart your journey into astronomy or a seasoned observer seeking a reliable companion, the ETX-90EC offers a unique blend of performance and convenience that appeals to a wide range of stargazers.
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