Appendix E

Fast

Medium

Moderate

Slow

Fig. 33: Electronic Controller. (1) Arrow Keys; (2) Indicator

Lights; (3) SPEED Key; (4) Coil Cord; (5) MODE Key; (6) OUT

Key; (7) IN Key.

Electronic Controller (DS-2000EC Users Only)

DS-2000 "EC" models come equipped with an Electronic Controller handbox, rather than the Autostar Handbox. The Electronic Controller provides you with the means to control the telescope motors from a compact handbox. The Electronic Controller (Fig. 33) has soft-touch keys designed to have a positive feel, even through gloves.

Functions of the Electronic Controller include:

■Slewing (moving) the telescope's optical tube assembly to an object.

■When used with the optional #1240 Electric Focuser, moves the focus of the eyepiece. See the #1240 Electric Focuser Instruction Sheet for more information.

Arrow Keys (1, Fig. 33): Press one of the four Arrow keys to slew the telescope (i.e., up, down, left, and right) at any one of four slew speeds (see SPEED KEY below).

Important Note: If you reverse directions while using the Arrow keys to slew to objects, there may be a slight pause as the telescope motors compensate for the reversal of the internal gears.

Indicator Lights (2, Fig. 33): The four red LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights indicate the current slew speed of the telescope.

SPEED Key (3, Fig. 33): Press the SPEED key to change the speed at which the telescope slews to an object. Each press of the SPEED key changes the slew speed to the next slower setting. If the controller is already on the slowest slew speed (light 4), pressing the SPEED key cycles back to the highest speed (light 1). Slew speeds are signified by the indicator lights (2, Fig. 33).

Coil Cord: Plug into the HBX connector of the Computer Control Panel.

MODE Key (5, Fig. 33): Not used with the DS-2000 telescopes.

OUT Key (6, Fig. 33): When using the optional #1240 Electric Focuser (see OPTIONAL ACCES- SORIES, page 29), press the OUT key to move the focus point outward.

IN Key (7, Fig. 33): When using the optional #1240 Electric Focuser (see OPTIONAL ACCES- SORIES, page 29), press the IN key to move the focus point inward.

Telescope Mounting

A mount allows a telescope to move on its axes. All DS-2000 telescopes use an Altazimuth mount- ing. The Electronic Controller is factory pre-set to the Alt/Az mode.

Altazimuth (Alt/Az) mounting permits movement of the telescope tube in vertical (altitude) and hor- izontal (azimuth) directions, and is ideal for terrestrial applications and for casual astronomical obser- vation. The Electronic Controller Arrow keys permit pushbutton movements (slewing) of the tele- scope. To manually track objects with the telescope in the Altazimuth configuration, press the Arrow keys of the Electronic Controller as necessary to keep an object centered.

DS-2000 specifications

The Meade DS-2000 is a versatile and user-friendly telescope that caters to both beginners and seasoned astronomers alike. Known for its exceptional performance and ease of use, the DS-2000 series has become a popular choice among amateur stargazers. This telescope features a robust design coupled with advanced technologies that enhance the overall observing experience.

One of the standout features of the Meade DS-2000 is its sturdy mount, which provides stability during observations. This stability is crucial for clearer and more detailed views of celestial objects, as it minimizes vibrations and shakes that can occur while tracking objects across the night sky. The telescope typically comes with an adjustable aluminum tripod to further enhance stability and can handle varying weights and instruments.

The DS-2000 series utilizes an electronically controlled altazimuth mount, allowing users to easily navigate the sky with its automatic tracking capabilities. This intuitive design ensures that even novice astronomers can locate and follow astronomical objects with minimal effort. The built-in computer control allows users to access a database of thousands of celestial bodies, making it easy to select targets for viewing.

In terms of optics, the Meade DS-2000 features high-quality glass optics with multi-coated lenses. This ensures superior light transmission and contrast, resulting in bright, clear images of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. The telescope typically offers a range of apertures, making it suitable for various observing preferences and conditions.

Furthermore, the Meade DS-2000 is often equipped with a 9mm or 25mm eyepiece, enabling users to achieve magnifications adequate for observing different types of celestial phenomena. The addition of a built-in red-dot finder makes it easier to aim and locate objects in the night sky.

Portability is another significant characteristic of the DS-2000 series. Its lightweight design allows astronomers to transport it easily to different observing locations, making spontaneous stargazing adventures possible, whether in the backyard or at a dark-sky site.

In summary, the Meade DS-2000 combines solid construction, user-friendly features, and advanced technology, making it an excellent choice for anyone interested in exploring the night sky. With its impressive optics, reliable tracking capabilities, and enhanced portability, the DS-2000 series provides an enjoyable and rewarding astronomical experience.