Meade LXD 750, LXD 650 instruction manual #1697 Computer Drive System Introduction, Installation

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#1697 COMPUTER DRIVE SYSTEM:

INTRODUCTION

The Meade #1697 Computer Drive System (CDS) is easily installed in the Meade LXD 650 and 750 Equatorial Mounts. With a properly polar aligned mount, (see the instruction manual which accompanies the telescope), the #1697 Computer Drive System's advanced electronics permit the location and observation of the major planets as well as hundreds of deep-sky objects the very first night of use. Its 64,359-object library provides enough galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and other deep sky objects for a lifetime of observing enjoyment.

Please take a few minutes to read this manual and become familiar with all of the #1697 Computer Drive System's capabilities.

Fig. 1 #1697 Computer Drive System.

INSTALLATION

For the #1697 CDS to function properly, there are two printed circuit boards that need to be installed into the Declination housing of the LXD Equatorial Mounts.

The CDS printed circuit boards are sensitive to static electricity and should be handled with care to avoid damage. Whenever handling the electronics, be sure to observe the following precautions:

Installing the CDS is a straightforward procedure, requiring only a phillips screwdriver, and hex wrench.

1.On the LXD Equatorial Mount, remove the rubber knurling on the Declination slow-motion knob (2), Fig. 2, and remove this knob by loosening the hex set screw.

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Fig. 2 Installing the Printed Circuit Boards. (1) Phillips-Head Screws; (2) Declination Slow-Motion Knob; (3) Cover Plate.

2.Remove the four screws (1), Fig. 2, holding the cover plate (3), Fig. 2, on the Declination slow-motion knob side of the mount. Discard this cover plate.

3.Inside the Declination housing, you will see the Declination motor and cord with connector. Attach the Dec motor cord, (3), Fig. 3, to the Driver printed circuit board (PCB), (2), Fig. 3. Note the correct orientation of the connector, as shown in Fig. 3.

4.On the Driver PCB, on the opposite side of the Dec motor cord (3), Fig. 3, look for a piece of electrical tape covering the circuitry. If the tape is not in place and the circuitry is visible, place a piece of electrical tape over this area to prevent the contacts from rubbing against the polar shaft during the installation process. Leave the electrical tape in place after the Driver PCB is installed.

5.The Driver PCB has a 16-pin ribbon cable (1), Fig. 3 already attached to the new cover plate. Feed this cable into the Declination housing as shown in Fig. 3.

6.Place the Driver PCB into the Declination housing and replace the four Phillips-head screws, (1), Fig. 2, to hold the new cover plate in place.

•Leave the printed circuit boards in the static-resistant bags until ready to install them into the Declination housing.

•When making the installation, avoid standing on a carpeted floor. Instead, stand on a formica or wood floor surface when installing the boards.

•Limit your movements while installing the printed circuit boards, as unnecessary movement can increase the chance of static build-up and discharge.

•Discharge yourself by touching the metal of the telescope before you touch the printed circuit boards.

•Always handle the printed circuit boards by the edges; avoid touching any of the components.

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Fig. 3 CDS Driver Printed

Circuit Board. (1) 16-Pin

Ribbon Cable; (2) Driver PCB;

(3) Dec Motor Cable.

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Fig. 4 CDS Printed Circuit

Board. (1) CDS PCB;

(2) 16-Pin Ribbon Cable