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, Telescope instruction manual $ Computer Control Panel see e
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Telescope, LXD 75 specifications

The Meade LXD 75 is an advanced telescope mount designed for both amateur and professional astronomers looking to explore the wonders of the night sky. Known for its precision and ease of use, the LXD 75 offers several features and technologies that make it a standout choice for astrophotography and visual observation alike.

At the heart of the Meade LXD 75 is its robust equatorial mount, which provides stable tracking of celestial objects. This mount is both lightweight and durable, allowing for easy transport to observing sites. The equatorial design is especially beneficial for astrophotography, as it compensates for the Earth's rotation, enabling longer exposure times without the trailing effects commonly associated with less sophisticated mounts.

One of the most notable features of the LXD 75 is its dual-axis tracking system. This system allows users to electronically control the telescope's movements along both the right ascension and declination axes. The built-in Data Sky control panel is user-friendly, offering intuitive access to a wealth of astronomical data, including over 30,000 celestial objects. This makes locating and tracking objects in the sky simpler and more efficient.

The LXD 75 also supports a variety of telescope configurations, accommodating optical tubes up to 10 inches in diameter. This versatility makes it suitable for a range of viewing preferences, from planetary observations to deep-sky astrophotography. The mount's heavy-duty construction ensures it can handle the weight of larger telescopes while maintaining stability.

In terms of technology, the Meade LXD 75 is equipped with AutoStar computer technology. This innovative feature enables automatic location and tracking of celestial bodies using a simple pointing and clicking interface. Users can also create custom observing lists, making it easier to plan and execute dedicated viewing sessions.

Additionally, the LXD 75 boasts robust connectivity options, including the ability to integrate with a wide range of imaging software and accessories, making it a great choice for those interested in advanced astrophotography techniques. The mount's compatibility with Meade's own range of cameras and filters further enhances its potential for capturing stunning images of the universe.

In conclusion, the Meade LXD 75 is a well-rounded telescope mount that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features. Its equatorial design, dual-axis tracking, and AutoStar system make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced astronomers. Whether for visual observation or astrophotography, the LXD 75 offers the performance and versatility to enhance any stargazing experience.
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