Note:

The Download function requires the optional LX200 Interface Cable. See the instruction sheet included with the cable for more infor- mation on how to download. Also see OPTIONAL

ACCESSORIES, page 44.

Important Note:

If your download fails in the middle of the download attempt (e.g., your PC crashes), turn off the tele- scope. Turn the telescope back on and as soon the AutoStar II display lights up, press "999." Then attempt the download again

Focus Speeds:

Key #

Speed

1 or 2

Fine

3, 4, or 5

Slow

6 or 7

Medium

8 or 9

Fast

All: Everything—user-defined information and AutoStar II software—is sent to another AutoStar II.

Download: Transfers information from a personal computer or another AutoStar II. During the operation, the warning “Downloading Do Not Turn Off” appears.

Catalogs: Receives only user-defined object information, such as new satellite orbits or comet data to another AutoStar II handbox.

Software: Receives only the basic AutoStar II software. This is useful if one user has downloaded a new version of AutoStar II software from the Meade website (www.meade.com) and wants to pass this software along to friends.

All: Everything—user-defined information and AutoStar II software—is received by another AutoStar II handbox.

Statistics: Provides basic statistical data about AutoStar II, including:

Characters Free: Displays how much room is available in user-defined object memory.

Version: Displays the current version of the AutoStar II software.

Serial Number: Displays the unit's serial number.

Reset: Completely resets AutoStar II. Most values entered into the menus revert to factory defaults. AutoStar II requires initialization again after a Reset before proceed- ing with observations. See AUTOMATIC ALIGNMENT, page 18.

"Hot Button" Menus

Two menus, six object libraries and two functions can be accessed directly using the Number keys (commonly referred to as "hot buttons"). The two functions, the Speed mode and the Utility light are described earlier in the manual.

Focus Control Menu: Press Number key "4" to select this menu directly from AutoStar II's keypad. Press the Up or Down Scroll keys to cycle through the four focus speed options and then press ENTER to select the desired speed. Or press a Number key after pressing the Focus key to change the speed (see chart to the left). Use the Up or Down Arrow keys to achieve fine focus of the object. See page 17 for more information.

Reticle Control Menu: Press Number key "7" to select this menu directly from

AutoStar II's keypad. "Reticle Control: Set Intensity" displays. Press ENTER. The Intensity menu allows you to change the intensity of the Reticle Eyepiece Illuminator. Use the Scroll keys to change the value. As you change the value, look through the reticle to note how the Intensity changes.

Note: You may continue to change the values using the Scroll keys (and thus changing the intensity) until you press ENTER again. This allows you to experiment with the intensity level until you decide which intensity level works best for you. This feature operates in the same manner in the Rate and Duty Cycle menus.

When you have finished adjusting the intensity, press ENTER. Press Number key "7" again and the Rate menu displays. Press ENTER again. Use the Scroll keys to change the value of the the rate at which the Reticle Eyepiece blinks. As you change the value, look through the reticle to note how the Blink Rate changes.

When you have finished adjusting the rate, press ENTER. Next, Press Number key "7" again and the Duty Cycle menu displays. Press ENTER again. The Duty Cycle menu controls how long the Reticle Eyepiece Illuminator is on during a blink cycle. Use the Scroll keys to change the value. As you change the value, look through the reticle to note how the Duty Cycle changes. When you have decided on a Duty Cycle value, press ENTER.

To exit the Reticle menu, press MODE once.

Object Catalogs: See page 25 for more information.

- 31 -

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversible damage to your eye. Do not point this tele-

 

scope at or near the Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

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Page 31
Image 31
Meade LX200 R instruction manual Hot Button Menus
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LX200 R specifications

The Meade LX200 R is a renowned telescope that has captivated astronomers and enthusiasts alike with its impressive blend of advanced technology, user-friendly features, and excellent optical performance. Launched as part of Meade's line of enjoyable yet high-performing telescopes, the LX200 R remains a top choice for both amateur stargazers and serious astrophotographers.

At the heart of the LX200 R is its advanced telescope design. It features a robust, 8-inch primary mirror, which provides exceptional light-gathering capability. This larger aperture allows users to observe faint celestial objects, including distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, with stunning clarity and detail. The telescope's reflective optics are coated with high-quality, anti-reflective coatings that enhance contrast and minimize light loss, ensuring crisp, clear images even in challenging viewing conditions.

One of the standout features of the LX200 R series is its sophisticated computer-controlled GoTo mount. This feature allows users to locate over 30,000 celestial objects with remarkable precision using a simple one-button operation. The dual-axis motor drives enable smooth tracking of objects across the night sky, making it easier to follow their movements. The mount also includes an integrated GPS system, which automatically adjusts the telescope's location and time settings for accurate alignment without requiring complex manual adjustments.

The LX200 R is configured for both visual observations and astrophotography, accommodating a wide range of accessories like cameras and focal reducers. Its sturdy construction minimizes vibrations, which is crucial for capturing sharp images during extended exposures. Additionally, the telescope's optical tube is designed to be both lightweight and durable, making it convenient for transport and setup in various observing locations.

The ergonomic design of the LX200 R also enhances user experience, featuring a comfortable eyepiece height and an intuitive control panel. The display is user-friendly, allowing even novice astronomers to navigate settings and options quickly. With its combination of high-quality optics, advanced tracking capabilities, and versatile design, the Meade LX200 R continues to be a preferred choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the universe with sophistication and ease.
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