Note:

Autostar II locates align- ment stars based on the date, time, and location entered. The alignment stars may change from night to night. All that is required is for the observer to center the selected stars in the eyepiece when prompted.

Tip:

Try a Spiral Search

The GO TO key also allows you to perform a "spiral search." A spiral search is useful when the telescope slews to an object, but that object is not visible in the eyepiece after the tele- scope finishes its search. (This sometimes occurs during an alignment proce- dure.) Press GO TO when the slew is finished and the telescope starts slewing in a spiral pattern at a very slow speed around the search area. Look through the eyepiece and when the object does become visible, press MODE to stop the spiral search. Then use the Arrow keys to center the object.

3.Set Home Position. Place the telescope in the home position.

To Set the Home Position Manually:

a.See Figs. 32 and 33, page 34. Loosen the telescope’s Dec. lock (17, Fig. 1a). Set the optical tube to 0° on the Dec. setting circle (Fig. 33).

b.Tighten the Dec. lock (17, Fig. 1a) to a firm feel only.

c.Level the tripod base.

d.Move the base of the telescope so that the computer control panel (12, Fig. 1a) approximately faces South.

e.Unlock the R.A. lock (13, Fig. 1a) and turn the telescope's optical tube hor- izontally until it points North.

f.Re-lock the R.A. lock (13, Fig. 1a). Press ENTER.

g.Press ENTER.

4 . Star Alignment. "Select Star" displays. Autostar II then displays a library of stars for the observer to choose from. Use the Scroll keys to scroll to a star on the list that you wish to align upon. Select a star that you can easily locate in the night sky. Press ENTER.

5.Center Star. The telescope slews to the star. Use the Arrow keys to move the tel- escope until the star is centered in the eyepiece. Press ENTER.

6.Center Star. Repeat procedure for the second alignment star. The telescope is aligned and you are now ready to use Autostar II's GO TO capabilities for a night of observing.

One-Star Alt/Az Alignment

One-Star Alignment requires some knowledge of the night sky. Autostar II provides a library of bright stars. One-Star Alignment is identical to Two-Star Alt/Az: Alignment (see TWO-STAR ALT/AZ ALIGNMENT, page 42), except only one star from the data- base is chosen by the observer for alignment.

To Download the Latest Version of Autostar II Software

Included with your telescope is a CD ROM and a USB cable. You need to install the USB drivers, that are included on the CD ROM, BEFORE plugging in the cable:

1Select RCX Users (the fourth selection on the list) from the CD Rom.

2Follow on screen instructions (click “Next” and “Finish” buttons when asked to do so).

3Plug in the USB cable. Plug one end into one of the RCX400 USB ports on a computer control panel/ Plug the other end into a USB port of your PC.

Next, you will install the Autostar Suite software from the CD ROM. This software provides a menu that allows you to download the latest version of Autostar II software into the Autostar II handbox.

4.Select Autostar Suite on the CD ROM to install Autostar Suite onto your PC. Follow the on-screen instructions.

5.Once the Autostar Suite software installs, double-click the new “Autostar Suite” icon on the desktop.

6.Go to the Telescope menu and select “Update Autostar.” The “Autostar Update” screen displays. Click the “Upgrade Autostar Software Now” button.

7.The application detects your telescope type and the version of Autostar soft- ware on your handbox.

8.A window displays asking if you wish to download the latest version of Autostar from your hard drive (if you previously downloaded it separately from the Meade website) or from the internet. Select one of the choices and follow on-screen instructions.

9.The download will take several minutes (download time depends on your inter- net connection, speed of your computer and so forth). When the download is complete, the new version of the Autostar software displays.

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Meade RCX400TM instruction manual One-Star Alt/Az Alignment, To Download the Latest Version of Autostar II Software
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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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