Caution When loosening the Dec. lock, be sure to support the optical tube (18, Fig. 1a). The weight of the tube could cause the tube to swing suddenly.

2* Want to learn more about setting the lati- tude dials?

See STEP 6, page 12.

1% Viewfinder Bracket Screws: Tighten to a firm feel to hold viewfinder securely in place (see E and h). See page 12 for more information.

1^ Focus Lock Knob: Designed to prevent the focuser drawtube from moving when a heavy accessory, such as a camera, is attached to the focuser assembly. For normal observing with an eyepiece and diagonal, it is not necessary to use the lock knob.

1& Declination (Dec.): Controls the manual movement of the telescope. Turning the Dec. lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope enabling it to be freely rotated by hand about the Dec. axis. Turning the Dec. lock clockwise (to a firm feel only) tightens the lock and prevents the telescope from being moved manually, but engages the Dec. motor drive (see 3$) for Autostar operation.

1* Polar Viewfinder Cap: Remove this cap when using the polar viewfinder (see 2().

1( Dec. Setting Circle: See APPENDIX A, page 50, for more information.

2) Counterweight Shaft Base: Thread, along with the shaft, to the mount. See page 11 for more information.

2! Counterweight and Counterweight Lock Knob: Counterbalances the weight of the optical tube, and adds stability to the mount. Tighten the lock knob on the side of the counterweight to a firm feel to prevent the weight from sliding on the shaft.

2@ Counterweight Shaft: Slide the counterweight onto this shaft (see 2!).

2# Counterweight Safety Cap: Prevents the counterweight from accidentally slip- ping off the end of the counterweight shaft.

2$ Computer Control Panel (see Fig. 1e):

A. Handbox (HBX) Port: Plug the Autostar or EC handbox coil cord (10, Fig. 2) into this port.

B. 12v DC Power Connector: Plug the battery pack into this connector. The telescope assembly also may be powered from either a 12v DC auto cigarette lighter plug using the optional #607 Cigarette Lighter Adapter or from a standard 115v AC home outlet using the optional #547 Power Adapter with Cable or #547F Power Adapter for 220v out- lets. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 38.

C. LED: Illuminates when power is supplied to the Autostar or EC hand- box and the telescope’s motor drive.

D. ON/OFF Switch: Turns the Computer Control Panel and Autostar ON or OFF.

E.AUX Port: Provides connection for current and future Meade accessories. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 38.

F.Dec Port: Plug the coil cord from the Dec. motor assembly into this port for Autostar to control the motor drive.

2% Right Ascension (R.A.) Motor Drive Assembly: Controlled by Autostar or EC handbox. Moves the optical tube along the R.A. axis. The R.A. Lock (see 3#) must be tightened to a firm feel in order for the R.A. motor to operate.

2^ Latitude Adjustment T-Handles (2): Sets the latitude of your observing location. The two T-handle screws work in a "push - pull" operation—as you tighten one, loosen the other.

2& Fine Azimuth Control Knobs: Fine tune the side-to-side movement of the tele- scope when centering Polaris in the telescope eyepiece or when using the polar alignment viewfinder (see 2().

2* Latitude Dial: Set the latitude of the observing site on this dial using the latitude T-handle screws. For more information see Step 6, page 12.

2( Polar Alignment Viewfinder: Allows you to precisely polar align the telescope. Useful when performing astrophotography. See page 52.

3) Polar Alignment Viewfinder Reticle and LED Knob: Rotate the knob to switch on or off the LED that illuminates the reticle within the polar alignment finder. Be 7

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Meade LXD 75-Series instruction manual $ Computer Control Panel see e

LXD 75-Series specifications

The Meade LXD 75-Series telescopes represent a significant advancement in amateur astronomy technology, combining ease of use with professional-grade features. Designed for both novice and experienced astronomers, the LXD 75-Series offers sophisticated tracking capabilities and a range of optical tube assemblies, making it a versatile choice for stargazers.

One of the most notable features of the LXD 75-Series is its advanced German equatorial mount, which provides precise tracking of celestial objects. This mount is equipped with digital setting circles and a built-in autoguider port, allowing users to take long-exposure astrophotography without the hassle of manual adjustments. The telescope's mount is designed to be sturdy yet lightweight, enhancing portability for backyard observations or remote excursions.

The optical tube assemblies available in the LXD 75-Series include both refractor and reflector designs, allowing astronomers to choose according to their preferences. Refractors provide crisp, high-contrast images ideal for planetary observations, while reflectors excel in deep-sky viewing, revealing the nuances of nebulae and galaxy structures. The series typically offers apertures ranging from 6 to 10 inches, giving users the flexibility to select a model that best suits their observational needs.

Another feature that stands out in the LXD 75-Series is its user-friendly GoTo system. This system utilizes a database containing thousands of celestial objects and employs sophisticated software to navigate the night sky effortlessly. With a simple push of a button, users can locate and track objects, making the stargazing experience more engaging and less intimidating for beginners.

The LXD 75-Series also emphasizes durability and ease of assembly. The telescopes are designed for quick setup, with intuitive components that make it easy to get started in minutes. Additionally, the quality of craftsmanship ensures longevity, which is vital for a reliable observational tool.

In conclusion, the Meade LXD 75-Series stands out for its combination of advanced technologies and user-centric designs. With powerful tracking capabilities, versatile optical options, and an easy-to-use GoTo system, these telescopes cater to the diverse needs of astronomical enthusiasts. Whether for casual observation or serious astrophotography, the LXD 75-Series proves to be a stellar option for those looking to explore the wonders of the universe.