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PlaneWave Instruments is proud to introduce its new L-Series direct drive mount system. Offered in Alt-Az or Equatorial configuration. The L-Series comes in three models; the L-350 capable of holding 100 lbs; the L-500 designed for the CDK17/20 that can hold payload of over 200 lbs. The L-600 is ideal for the CDK24 and can hold up to 300 lbs. All mounts are designed and manufactured by PlaneWave Instruments with zero backlash and zero periodic error, virtually silent motion and slew speeds of up to 50 degrees per second!
Description
The L-Series:
Combines versatility, simplicity and affordability by combining all the technology of our observatory class telescopes into a compact stand-alone mount. In its Alt/Az configuration it is considerably more compact than its equatorial counterpart, allowing a larger telescope to fit in a smaller enclosure. Unlike traditional German Equatorial mounts, there are no meridian flips to deal with, and no large protruding counterweights to create a dangerous hazard in a public observatory. Alt/Az is more intuitive to use and no polar alignment is needed. Besides, it is the way the pros do it! For added flexibility, the L-Series mounts can be installed in either Alt/Az, or equatorial mode with the optional wedge accessory.
L-500 Mount Features:
- Load capacity of 200 lbs (90 kg)
- Direct-drive motors on each axis for smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope
- Slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second
- High resolution encoders on each axis for precise positioning
- Zero backlash
- Zero periodic error
- PointXP mount modeling software
- Enclosed electronics
- Through the mount cabling
Checkout our AutoTuner software tutorial below for tuning your L-500 once it is setup and balanced!
Features:
| Direct drive motors and encoders | Direct Drive motors and on-axis encoders eliminate the need for gears, thereby eliminating backlash and periodic error. With high-resolution encoders providing the feedback for the direct drive motors, not only will the telescope track without periodic error and backlash, the mount will also counter wind gusts with precise servo feedback. | 
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| Incredible Slew Speed | The direct drive motors can move the telescope at speeds up to 50 degrees per second for tracking satellites or just to minimize target acquisition time. | 
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| Dual mounting bracket | PlaneWave style mounting bracket to hold CDK17/20 onto inside of fork arm with additional option of mounting a scope on the outside of the fork arm. Optional dovetail clamp required. | 
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| Azimuth dovetail balance system | For precise center of gravity balance whether in Alt-Az or Equatorial configuration | 
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| Through the mount cabling | Access panels in the fork arm and azimuth axis allow for camera equipment cabling through the inside of the mount. | 
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| Proven CDK700/PW1000 Technology | The L-Series uses the same proven technology as the CDK700 and 1-Meter PW1000 which are being used in Universities round the world. | 
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CDK-500 + Core Accessories:
|
Item Number |
Description |
Price |
| 200130Q | CDK-500 (CDK20 / L-500) | $47,000 |
| 600180 | IRF90 Rotating Focuser | $ 4,500 |
| 200901 | EFA, Focuser Accessory Control | $ 800 |
| Total | $52,300 |
CDK-400 + Core Accessories:
|
Item Number |
Description |
Price |
| 170130Q | CDK-400 (CDK17 / L-500) | $38,000 |
| 600180 | IRF90 Rotating Focuser | $ 4,500 |
| 200901 | EFA, Focuser Accessory Control | $ 800 |
| Total | $43,300 |
Specifications
Mount System
| Type | Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial Direct Drive Mount |
| Weight | 257 lbs (100 kg) |
| Component Weights | Azimuth Base – 121 lbs, Fork Arm – 136 lbs |
| Max. Load Capacity | 200 lbs (91 kg) |
| Latitude Range | 0 to 90 degrees, Northern and Southern hemispheres |
| Cable Management | Equipment cables can be wired through mount |
Control System
| Control Electronics | PlaneWave Interface dual axis telescope control |
| User Interface | PlaneWave Interface 4 (PWI4) Control Software with integrated PointXP mount modeling software |
| Homing Sensors | Home position sensors are included allowing the mount can find its home position on power up. |
| Slew Rate | 20 degrees per second (standard); 50 degrees per second (maximum), both axes |
| Power Requirement | Accepts 120 to 240 VAC. Supplied with 120 VAC 15A IEC Type B Regulated Power Adapter. |
Motion Control
| Motor Control | Industrial grade brushless motor control system and built in electronics |
| Motor – Azimuth and Altitude | Direct Drive 3 Phase Axial-Flux Torque Motors |
| Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude | 152mm stainless steel encoder ring with reader built into the azimuth and altitude axes. 18,880,000 counts per revolution (0.069 arcsecond resolution). |
| Motor Torque | Approximately 20 ft-lbs continuous; 50 ft-lbs peak |
| Drive Electronics | Industrial grade, off-the-shelf brushless motor drives for each axis with custom designed interface card |
| Telescope Control Software | PlaneWave Interface (PWI4). Incorporates PointXP mount modeling software by Dave Rowe. Provides HTTP and ASCOM control interfaces. |
System Performance
| Pointing Accuracy | <10 arcsecond RMS with PointXP Model |
| Pointing Precision |
2 arcseconds at sidereal velocity |
| Tracking Accuracy |
< 0.3 arcseconds over a 5 minute period at sidereal velocity |
| System Natural Frequency | 10 Hz or greater |
Included Items
| Hardware | Six 1/2-13 x 1 1/4″ socket head cap screws to bolt the mount to the pier, or wedge
Six 1/2-13 washers One extended length shoulder bolt for RA axis to EQ wedge alignment |
| One 16′ USB cable | To connect the mount to the observatory control computer |
| One 120VAC power cable | To provide power to the mount |
| Standard Allen Key set | For tightening bolts used on the mount |
| Flashdrive | Contains PWI4 software for mount control and instructions for installation |
| 3/8 Socket | Used for operating the RA balance leadscrew on the mount |
| Gamepad | Used for control of the mount tracking speeds for visual observing |
Fast Shipping and Professional Packaging
Due to our longstanding partnership with UPS FedEx DHL as well as other major international carriers, we are able to provide various shipping options. Our warehouse personnel will pack each item according to our strict requirements. Before they are shipped, your goods will be thoroughly examined and secured. Everyday, we send to thousands of clients in different countries. This is a sign of our determination to become the largest online retailer globally. The warehouses and centers for distribution are in Europe, as well as the USA.
Note that orders containing more than one item will be processed according to the specific item.
Before shipping before shipping, we'll inspect thoroughly the items you've purchased. Most orders are delivered within 48 hours. The estimated delivery time is between 3 and 7 days.
Returns
The inventory is always changing and we do not fully manage it because of the fact that many parties are involved, including our warehouse and factory. Therefore, the actual inventory could change at any time. It's possible that your order will be unable to fill when you have placed the order.
Our policy is valid for 30 days. If 30 days have gone without a trace since the purchase and we are unable to offer an exchange or refund.
In order for your item to be returned it must be in its original packaging, unopened and in the same condition as when you received it in. It must also be in its original packaging.
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