Definitions

Throughout this manual, you will notice the terms "Alt/Az," "Right

Ascension," and

"Declination." Alt/Az or more properly, altitude- azimuth (or altazimuth), is frequently used to refer to altitude or Declination (the up-and-down vertical move- ment of the telescope) and azimuth or Right Ascension (the side-to-side horizontal movement of the tele- scope). Right Ascension is abbreviated as "R.A." and Declination as "Dec."

Caution:

When loosening the Dec. lock, be sure to support the optical tube (19, Fig. 1a). The weight of the tube could cause the tube to swing suddenly.

1#) in the unlocked position. Set the R.A. Lock to a "partially locked" position to create a comfortable drag for the R.A. Slow Motion Control.

Caution: Do not operate the R.A. Slow Motion Control with the R.A. Lock in the fully locked position, as such operation may result in damage to the internal gear system and also cause you to lose alignment.

j Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) Computer Control Panel (also see e):

H. USB Port: Provides 3 connections for USB 2.0 devices. This port is typically used to connect to CCD cameras, such as Meade’s LPI or Deep Sky Imager. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, pages 48 - 50.Your PC can control your RCX400 telescope using serial commands. Go to the Meade website (www.meade.com) to download the latest serial commands and device pinouts.

J.Serial Port: Provides connection with a PC and for current and future Meade accessories. Your PC can control your RCX400 telescope using serial commands. Go to the Meade website (www.meade.com) to download the latest serial commands and device pinouts.

Important Note: Although both the Base Computer Control Panel and the OTA Computer Control Panel include a serial port, only one may be used at a time; you cannot plug into both ports at the same time.

K.Autoguider Port: Plug the optional autoguider into this port. See the instruction sheet that came with your autoguider for more information. Also see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, pages 48 - 50.

L.Reticle Port: Plug the optional reticle eyepiece into this port. Control the reticle through the AutoStar II menus. See HOT BUTTON MENUS page 36. Also see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, pages 48 - 50.

Note: See the instruction sheets that are included with the reticle and the autoguider for more details.

M.Handbox (HBX) Port: Plug the AutoStar II coil cord into this port.

Important Note: Although both the Base Computer Control Panel and the OTA Computer Control Panel include an HBX port, only one hand- box maybe be plugged in at a time; you cannot plug handboxes into both ports at the same time.

N. Smart Accessory Port: Provides connection for future Meade acces- sories.

1) GPS Receiver: Receives information transmitted from Global Positioning System satellites. See page 25 for more information.

1! Declination (Dec.) Setting Circle (on left fork arm): See APPENDIX A, page 57, for detailed information.

1@ Mounting Base: Attach to the tripod base (see 2&). See page 16 for mounting instructions.

1# Right Ascension (R.A.) Lock: Controls the manual horizontal rotation of the telescope. Turning the R.A. lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope, enabling it to be freely rotated by hand about the horizontal axis. Turning the R.A. lock clockwise locks the telescope, prevents the telescope from being rotated manu- ally, and engages the horizontal motor drive for AutoStar II operation.

1$ AutoStar II Handbox and Tiltable Holder: Controls all the electronic functions of the telescope. See pages 13 - 15 for detailed information. You may have noticed that there is no manual focus knob; all focus is achieved by using the AutoStar handbox. Attach the holder to one of the handles (see f). Holds your handbox in a convenient location.

1% Right Fork Arm: The right side of the heavy-duty mount that holds the optical tube securely in place (see g).

1^ Declination (Dec.) Slow-Motion Control: Make fine adjustments in Declination(altitude) by turning this control with the Dec. Lock (see 1& below) in the locked position. In order for this control to operate properly, power must be off.

1& Dec. Lock: Controls the manual vertical movement of the telescope. Turning the Dec. lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope enabling it to be freely rotated by hand about the vertical axis. Turning the Dec. lock clockwise (to a firm feel

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Meade RCX400TM instruction manual Definitions
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RCX400TM specifications

The Meade RCX400TM is a sophisticated telescope designed for serious astronomers and astrophotographers seeking exceptional performance and innovative features. Combining advanced optics with user-friendly technology, the RCX400TM stands out as a powerful tool for both amateur and experienced stargazers.

At the heart of the RCX400TM is its revolutionary Ritchey-Chrétien optical design. This design minimizes optical aberrations, resulting in sharp, high-contrast images across the field of view. The telescope features a large aperture, typically around 10 inches, which allows for the observation of faint celestial objects, including distant galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae. The high-quality optics ensure that users can capture stunning details and nuances of their targets.

One of the standout characteristics of the RCX400TM is its advanced AutoAlign technology. This feature simplifies the setup process by automatically aligning the telescope to the night sky, enabling users to start observing in a matter of minutes. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free experience when setting up for observations.

Additionally, the telescope is equipped with the Meade Smart Drive system, which enhances tracking accuracy and allows for long exposure astrophotography without the worry of trailing or blurring. This system compensates for periodic errors and undergoes continuous monitoring, ensuring that the telescope maintains precise alignment while tracking celestial objects.

The RCX400TM also incorporates an intuitive user interface with a large, easy-to-read LCD display. This interface allows users to access a comprehensive database of celestial objects, making it simple to locate and observe a wide range of astronomical phenomena. With its compatibility with various Meade accessories, such as cameras and filters, the RCX400TM provides flexibility for users looking to expand their astrophotography capabilities.

Durability is another significant aspect of the RCX400TM. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand various outdoor conditions, making it suitable for both backyard observations and expeditions to remote dark sites.

In summary, the Meade RCX400TM is designed for those who demand high-performance optics, advanced technology, and ease of use. With features like the Ritchey-Chrétien optical design, AutoAlign technology, and the Smart Drive system, it offers a remarkable viewing experience that brings the wonders of the universe closer to all who gaze through its eyepiece. Whether for casual observation or serious astrophotography, the RCX400TM is poised to satisfy the needs of astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.
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