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Meade DS-2102AT-TC, DS-2090AT-TC instruction manual

Models: DS-2090AT-TC DS-2102AT-TC

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Note: The time and date information is kept by a high precision internal clock, which is set at the factory and held by a long-life lithium battery.

Replace the internal clock’s battery with a CR2023 lithium battery. This battery is located in the battery compartment.

The battery is avail- able from Meade, photographic supply houses or any place lithium batteries are sold.

4.Point the telescope North. Use a compass or the North Star, Polaris as a guide to locating North.

During EASY TWO-STAR ALIGN, AutoStar automatically chooses two bright stars from its data- base. The user is then requested to center the stars in the eyepiece and press ENTER.

Two-Star Alignment requires some knowledge of the night sky. AutoStar displays a database of bright stars and two stars are chosen by the observer from the database for alignment. It is recommended that you choose stars with which you are familiar the first trying out this method.

One-Star Alignment also requires some knowledge of the night sky. One-Star Alignment is identical to Easy: Align (see EASY (TWO-STAR) ALIGN, above), except AutoStar displays a data- base of bright stars and only one star is chosen by the observer. The accuracy of One-Star Alt/Az Alignment, unlike the Two-Star Alignment procedures, depends on how well the observ- er levels the telescope and how close to North the telescope is pointed when setting the Home Position (Fig. 16). Because the Two-Star Alignment methods use two stars to align upon, they are more precise than One-Star Alignment.

Date changes the date used by AutoStar. This function is useful to check events in the past or future. For example, set the Date menu for a day three months in the future. Then check the "Select Item: Event" menu for the Sunset time on that date. See EVENT MENU, page 24.

Time changes the time entered into AutoStar. Setting the correct time is critical for AutoStar to properly calculate locations and events. Time may be set to 24-hour mode (military time) by selecting the "blank" option which follows the "AM" and "PM" options.

Daylight Saving is used to enable or disable Daylight Savings time.

NOTE: Daylight Savings Time may be referred to by different names in various areas of the world. Check local time to verify.

Telescope accesses the several options, including:

NModel: Allows you to select the telescope model connected to AutoStar.

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

NAz Ratio and Alt Ratio: The Az (Azimuth) ratio and Alt (Altitude) ratio refers to the gears of the telescope's motors. Do not alter these numbers.

NAz Percent: The Az (Azimuth) Percent allows you to change the azimuth backlash, i.e., the way the Arrow keys move the telescope along the azimuth (horizontal) axis. If you enter a value near 100, the telescope tube responds more quickly (it responds immediately at 100%) as you hold down an Arrow key and also slews (moves) the tube more quickly. If you enter a value near 0, it takes longer for the tube to respond as you hold down an Arrow key and also slews the tube more slowly. Experiment with this option. Try changing the per- cent value until you get a "feel" for the Arrow keys that is comfortable for you.

Alt Percent: The Alt (Altitude) Percent operates identical to the AZ Percent option (see above), but allows you to change the altitude backlash, i.e., the way the Arrow keys move the telescope when moving along the altitude (vertical) axis.

NTrain Drive: Trains the Altitude and Azimuth motors to locate objects with more precision.

If you are experiencing any problems with pointing accuracy, select the Tarin the Drive procedure and follow the on-screen instructions, to insure accurate pointing and tracking.

NTracking Rate: Changes the speed at which the telescope tracks targets in the sky.

a.Sidereal: The default setting for AutoStar; sidereal rate is the standard rate at which stars move from East to West across the sky due to the rotation of the Earth.

b.Lunar: Choose this option to properly track the Moon over long observing sessions.

c.Custom: Allows entry of user-defined tracking rates.

NReverse L/R: Reverses the functions of the Left and Right Arrow keys (i.e., the Right key moves the telescope to the left).

NReverse UP/DOWN: Reverses the functions of the Up and Down Arrow keys (i.e., the Up key moves the telescope down).

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Meade DS-2102AT-TC, DS-2090AT-TC instruction manual
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DS-2090AT-TC, DS-2102AT-TC specifications

The Meade DS-2102AT-TC and DS-2090AT-TC are two innovative telescopes that cater to avid stargazers and aspiring astronomers alike. Designed with user-friendly features and robust optics, these telescopes offer a stellar viewing experience for both novice and experienced hobbyists.

The DS-2102AT-TC model boasts a 102mm aperture, providing a wider field of view that allows users to observe celestial objects with clarity and precision. This telescope utilizes a refractor design, which minimizes chromatic aberration and enhances image brightness. The combination of high-quality glass optics and a fully coated lens system ensures excellent light transmission, making it ideal for viewing planets, star clusters, and other astronomical phenomena.

One of the standout features of the DS-2102AT-TC is its AutoStar technology. This advanced computer-controlled system provides users with the ability to easily locate and track thousands of celestial objects. With a simple press of a button, the telescope automatically aligns itself to the night sky, allowing for hassle-free observation. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners who may find it challenging to manually locate specific stars or planets.

The DS-2090AT-TC model incorporates a slightly different design, featuring a larger 90mm aperture and a similar refractor configuration. This telescope is also equipped with the AutoStar computer control system, enhancing the user experience by offering guided tours of the night sky. The DS-2090AT-TC excels in delivering bright and detailed views of deep-sky objects, making it a great option for those interested in exploring the wonders of the universe.

Both models are designed for portability, making them easy to transport to various observation sites. The sturdy mount and adjustable tripod provide stability and ease of use, ensuring that users can enjoy extended viewing sessions without fatigue. Additionally, these telescopes come with a variety of eyepieces, allowing for different magnification levels to suit the observer's preference.

In conclusion, the Meade DS-2102AT-TC and DS-2090AT-TC offer a compelling combination of advanced technology, user-friendly features, and high-quality optics. Whether you're a beginner eager to explore the night sky or a seasoned enthusiast seeking detailed celestial observations, these telescopes provide the tools you need to immerse yourself in the wonders of astronomy. With their reliable performance and impressive capabilities, the Meade DS series stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to making astronomy accessible and enjoyable for everyone.