Crux mounts feature Harmonic Drive Tecnology. This tecnology gives Crux mounts the following advantages over traditional drive systems for astronomy applications;
- The mounts have zero backlash and therefore pointing and guiding can be very accurate
- They have very high torque. This makes it ideal your use with all loads. For instance the length of a refractor normally requires a much more powerful mount than a typical weight capacity suggests. The load limits for Crux mounts are for all types of telescopes and also for imaging
- The motor is very compact and therefore allows a small form factor, resulting in less bulk and weight.
- Harmonic Drive motors are very responsive and therefore react instantly to guiding commands. When combined with the zero backlash this allows for extremley accurate tracking. There is none of the high frequency oscillation normally associated with traditional drive systems.
- The high torque of the motor permits use without a counterweight, further reducing the overall weight. If a counterweight is added, the load capacity can be increased significantly. Note that this counterweight is not used to balance the telescope in the normal way. It is simply helping the drive system and making the load safer.
Please see the short video below for an explanation of how the Harmonic Drive system works. Motors for Crux Mounts are supplied by Harmonic Drive Systems Inc of Japan, a sister company to Harmonic Drive Systems AG.
The Crux 170HD is probably the ultimate in medium capacity mounts. It weighs only 4.7kg. It is a fully GoTo enabled system which includes a 12000+ object database. Without any counterweight the mount has a load capacity of 8kg. By adding a 2.7kg counterweight, the maximum capacity is increased to 18kg. This capacity is rated for imaging
The '170HD', as with all Crux mounts is provided with a mounting point for a QHY Polemaster. No adapter is needed. This makes polar alignment using the built in Altitude and Azimuth controls very simple.
Supplied with all Crux Mounts is the Titan TCS Controller. This provides GoTo functionality and all other mount control and connectivity. It is based on the LX200 protocol and is therefore fully ASCOM and INDI compliant. It also features wireless connectivity in the form of Bluetooth, with WiFi being added shortly. Thus is allows easy integration with Tablet applications such as Sky Safari.
One significant function of the Crux mount and TCS Controller is PEC training. This is where, using a guide system (like PHD2), the drive system is trained. This, once completed permanently (unless reset by the user) lowers the PE of the mount to typically +/- 2-5 arc seconds dependent on the mount. This enhanced error can then be combined with guiding leading to extremely low PE. Potentially as low as 0.1 arc sec. As part of our service, we PEC train each mount before delivery so you receive a mount that is capable of operating at its best, straight out of the box. A copy of the PE test data is also provided.
At The Widescreen Centre, we prioritize prompt order processing and dispatch. We strive to dispatch all orders on the same day or the next working day, depending on the time of your order. We hold extensive stocks to ensure that your items are ready for immediate despatch. Please note that the cut-off time for same-day dispatch is usually 1:30 p.m.
For delivery within Mainland UK, we use reputable couriers to provide efficient service. You can expect your package to arrive in 1-2 working days. Please note that a signature may be required upon delivery to ensure a secure receipt.
In the case of special order items, the delivery time may be longer. If you have any concerns or questions about the delivery of your item, please don't hesitate to Contact Us. We are here to assist you.
Should there be any delay in dispatching your order, we will notify you to keep you informed.
Please be aware that The Widescreen Centre cannot be held responsible for any postal or third-party delays that may occur. We are committed to providing a reliable and efficient delivery service for our valued customers.
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