iOptron instruction manual ZEQ25GT Overview, Features

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1. ZEQ25GT Overview

Welcome to a new type of EQ mount! The iOptron “Z” design mount puts the payload weight at the center of gravity allowing for greater natural stability. This also means the mount is extremely light compared to its payload—a nice benefit when setting up at a remote site. Other features include an adjustable counterweight bar to prevent obstruction with the tripod. And Polar aligning is quick and accessible all the time since the Polar scope is not blocked by the DEC shaft.

The ZEQ25 is equipped with the most advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO technology, making it one of the most powerful and accurate GOTO mounts available. It comes with over 59,000 objects in its database. Plus, the Go2Nova® Hand Controller is intuitive to use with a large 4-line LCD screen to easily set up your telescope and select where you want to go. The ZEQ25 – a new category of viewing and astrophotography.

Please read the instruction before operation the mount.

Features:

•A new design “balanced” equatorial mount for maximum payload and minimum mount weight

•Specialized astrophotography mount ideal for entry-level and intermediate Astro-photographers

•Payload of 27 lbs (12.3 kg) with the mount-only weight of 10.4 lbs (4.7 kg)

•Spring loaded gear system with customer adjustable loading force

•Gear switches on both R.A. and DEC axes for easy balancing when disengaged

•Adjustable counterweight shaft for 0º latitude operation

•Dual-axis servomotor with enhanced optical encoder for precise GOTO and accurate tracking

•iOptron AccuAligningTM calibrated polar scope with dark-field illumination and easy polar alignment procedure, allowing for fast and accurate polar alignment (model #7100 and 7200)

•Polar alignment routine for those who can’t see the Pole Star

•Go2Nova® 8408 controller with Advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO Technology

•Periodic error correction (PEC)

•Integrated autoguiding port

•Built-in 32-channel Global Positioning System (GPS)

•Serial port for firmware upgrade and computer control

•Spring loaded Vixen-style saddle

•Standard 1.5 inch heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (5kg), optional 2 inch tripod (8kg)

•Die-cast metal tripod spreader with accessory tray

•Optional PowerWeightTM rechargeable battery pack

DO NOT rock the counterweight shaft rigorously. You’ll degrade the performance of the spring loaded gear meshing system, or even damage it.

The Tension Adjusters are used as the last step to lock, and the first step to release the gears. When disengaging the gear system, release the Tension Adjuster first. Then turn the Gear Switch to OPEN position. When engaging the gear system, turn the Gear Switch to LOCK position first. Then tighten the Tension Adjuster.

Never fully tighten the Tension Adjusters during operations. Fully screw in the Tension Adjuster and then back out by about 2 turns. The optimum spot varies with actual conditions, but is mostly within 1-3 turns from the fully tightened position. Ideally, it should be at a position just deep enough to rid any free movements (plays), while force on the worm assembly is kept at a minimum.

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Contents IOptron ZEQ25GT Balanced GoTo Equatorial Mount Table of Content Ioptron TWO Year TELESCOPE, MOUNT, and Controller Warranty Features ZEQ25GT OverviewParts List1 ZEQ25 TermsAssembly Terms ZEQ25 assembly terms mount and tripodZEQ25 Ports Go2Nova 8408 Hand ControllerKey Description LCD ScreenSlew Speed Current Time ZEQ25 Mount Assembly ZEQ25GT Mount AssemblyIntroduction Tripod Setup Select Mount Latitude RangeInstall Counterweight CW Shaft Adjust LatitudeAttach the ZEQ25 Mount Install Counterweight Attach and Balance an OTA on the Mount Connect CablesSetup Hand Controller Important Notes on Tension AdjustersConnect Cables Set Local Time Set Observation Site Coordinate Polar AlignmentQuick Polar Alignment BrightStar Polar Alignment Return Mount to Zero PositionZero position Setup the Mount and Polar Alignment Getting StartedManual Operation of the Mount Initial Star AlignmentStar Identifying Function Gear Tension AdjustmentTurn Off the Mount Complete Functions of Go2Nova 8408 Hand Controller Slew to an ObjectSet Up Controller Sync to TargetMeridian Treatment Track Below HorizonSet Polar Light Firmware InformationAlign PEC Option Set User ObjectsPole Star Position PEC PlaybackSet Guide Rate To Zero PositionMaintenance and Servicing MaintenanceIOptron Customer Service Battery Replacement and Disposal InstructionsAppendix A. Technical Specifications GPSAppendix B. Go2Nova 8408 HC Menu Structure MenuPage Appendix C. Firmware Upgrade Appendix D. Computer Control an ZEQ25GT Mount Appendix E. Go2Nova Star List Messier CatalogNamed Star List Modern Constellations Deep Sky Object List Double Star List SAO Atik Ioptron TWO Year TELESCOPE, MOUNT, and Controller Warranty
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ZEQ25GT specifications

The iOptron ZEQ25GT is a highly regarded telescope mount that integrates advanced technologies and user-friendly features, making it a top choice for both amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers. Its design focuses on portability, versatility, and precision, which are essential for anyone looking to explore the night sky.

One of the standout characteristics of the ZEQ25GT is its exceptionally lightweight and compact design. Weighing just 27 pounds, it is one of the lightest mounts in its class, allowing for easy transport and setup at various observing locations. Despite its lightweight form, the mount supports a significant payload capacity of up to 28 pounds, allowing users to attach a variety of telescopes and imaging equipment.

The mount's innovative design incorporates a unique "Hybrid" mount architecture, which combines features of both German and fork mounts. This enables a more streamlined setup and better balance during observation sessions. Additionally, the ZEQ25GT employs a patented design where the counterweight shaft is positioned above the mount. This design eliminates the need for a long counterweight bar, further enhancing portability and reducing setup time.

In terms of technology, the ZEQ25GT features iOptron’s renowned GoTo system, which provides users with access to a database of over 200,000 celestial objects. The system is equipped with dual-axis tracking and ultra-quiet servo motors, ensuring smooth and precise movement when tracking celestial objects. The built-in GPS allows for quick and accurate location setup, making it easy for users to begin their astronomical adventures with minimal delay.

Moreover, the ZEQ25GT includes an innovative SmartStar technology, enabling automatic alignment and calibration. This feature is particularly beneficial for newcomers, as it simplifies the setup process and reduces the learning curve associated with equatorial mounts. Users can control the mount via a hand controller or through a computer interface using iOptron's iControl app for smart devices, offering additional flexibility and convenience.

Durability is another important aspect of the ZEQ25GT, constructed from high-quality materials that ensure longevity and reliability. Its solid aluminum body not only contributes to its lightweight nature but also assures stability during use, which is crucial for astrophotography and high-magnification observations.

In conclusion, the iOptron ZEQ25GT is a cutting-edge telescope mount that combines portability, advanced technology, and user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for astronomers at all levels. Its innovative design, robust performance, and ease of use truly set it apart in the competitive landscape of astronomical equipment.
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