APPENDIX C:

Smart Mount

Introduction

Smart Mount improves the pointing accuracy of your RCX400 telescope's "Go to" sys- tem. Despite careful efforts to calibrate and align telescopes, they may fail to precisely center objects. Smart Mount allows your telescope to learn about, and then correct for, any systematic pointing errors, regardless of the cause.

Because training your mount takes some time, we recommend that it be primarily used on permanently mounted instruments or when imaging requires very accurate pointing. Once Smart Mount training has been performed, the scope will benefit from it so long as you carefully park the telescope at the end of each session and do not modify the mounting.

For portable instruments, we recommend training Smart Mount each time you set up your telescope to insure best results.

We recommend that you use an illuminated reticle during the training procedure. An illuminated reticle allows you to precisely center celestial objects in a telescope’s eyepiece. The more precisely you center objects during Smart Mount training, the more pointing precision your telescope will be able to achieve.

Operation

The Smart Mount feature is located in the Autostar II Setup menu.

In order to use Smart Mount, create a model that allows Smart Mount to improve your telescope's accuracy. This is normally done by training Smart Mount. Once training has been completed, you will save your model. Autostar II allows you to save several models under different names. This allows you to, for example, save one model for a heavy imaging camera configuration on a permanently aligned scope, and another when you have a lighter load on the mount.

Training

In order to obtain solid, repeatable results, perform the following procedures before you create a model:

•Auto align

•Drift align

•Collimate

•Align OTA

•Calibrate Home

•Then train both the RA and Dec training calibration

Once you have calibrated and aligned your telescope, if you wish to start a new model, go to the Smart Mount main menu. Locate and select "Erase" to clear the current model. Next, proceed with the steps below:

Note: If you do not erase the current model, the training session will refine the current model.

•Locate “Train” in the Smart Mount Configuration menu and press enter.

•The telescope will select and slew to several (over 40) stars.

•When requested to do so, carefully center each star and then press ENTER.

If you find that you cannot see a star because there is an obstruction blocking your view:

•Press MODE briefly to skip this star. Another star will be chosen.

To exit the training sequence before it is completed:

•

Press and hold MODE for about two seconds and then release it.

 

When you have completed training:

55

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

Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

 

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Meade RCX400 instruction manual Appendix C, Introduction, Operation, Training
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RCX400 specifications

The Meade RCX400 is a highly regarded telescope in the field of amateur astronomy, designed specifically to provide an unparalleled observing experience. Launched by Meade Instruments, this telescope leverages advanced technology to deliver clarity, precision, and ease of use.

At the heart of the RCX400 is its unique Ritchey-Chrétien optical design, which minimizes optical aberrations and provides exceptionally crisp images. This design is favored among professional astronomers and provides users with the ability to capture stunning celestial details. The telescope comes in various aperture sizes, including 10 inch and 12 inch models, allowing users to choose a configuration that best meets their observational needs.

One of the standout features of the Meade RCX400 is its Advanced Coma-Free (ACF) optics. This technology ensures that the telescope produces sharp images across a wide field of view, making it easier to observe extended objects such as nebulae and galaxies. The ACF system includes a specialized corrector plate that eliminates coma, resulting in pinpoint stars even at the edge of the field.

Another significant advancement in the RCX400 is its Autostar II system, which provides a user-friendly interface for navigating the night sky. This computer-controlled system boasts a database of over 145,000 celestial objects, enabling users to locate and track objects with ease. The Autostar II also features a built-in GPS system, allowing for automatic site location and time adjustments, further simplifying the setup process.

The RCX400 is equipped with an innovative focusing mechanism known as the “Smart Focuser.” This precise focusing system allows for fine-tuning of the telescope's focus electronically, eliminating the need for manual adjustments that could result in misalignment. Users can achieve optimal focus effortlessly, enhancing the overall observation experience.

In terms of construction, the telescope features a sturdy aluminum mount that provides stability during use. The integrated GoTo mount makes aligning the telescope simple, allowing users to easily point towards celestial objects with high accuracy. The RCX400 is also compatible with various accessories such as cameras and eyepieces, enhancing its versatility for astrophotography and visual observation.

Overall, the Meade RCX400 combines cutting-edge technology with robust features, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced astronomers. Its user-friendly design, combined with high-quality optics, ensures that users can enjoy impressive views of the universe with relative ease. Whether for visual exploration or astrophotography, the RCX400 stands out as a formidable tool for stargazing enthusiasts.
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