Vixen SX2 Mount Manual

Category
Telescopes
Type
Mount Manual

This manual is also suitable for

Instruction Manual for
Equatorial Mount
Instruction Manual for
Equatorial Mount
PREFACE
WARNING!
The SX2 equatorial mount is a basic model of the Vixen Sphinx series which combines high precision mechanics and simple operations. The
standard STAR BOOK ONE hand controller slews a telescope installed on the mount in the x-y directions (in the directions of RA and DEC). The
STAR BOOK TEN featuring a high definition large color LCD screen with intuitive controls is optional for the SX2 mount.
This instruction manual will assist you in the safe and effective use of the SX2 mount. Before using the mount, please be sure to read the safety
precautions described below carefully.
If misused, it can cause you a serious injury or death.
Misuse can cause injury or damage to you or other property.
You must complete all of the steps in this manual.
You must completely execute the instructions in this manual.
Warning
Caution
Important
Direction
*
This manual describes the functions and uses of the SX2 equatorial mount and some accessories for telescopes provided as packages.
You may occasionally find descriptions not relevant to your particular model.
*
Use this instruction manual in conjunction with your telescope manual.
*
Features may be updated or new functions added. Please visit Vixen’s website for the latest software updates.
*
Use the correct power source for the SX2 equatorial mount or the optional AC Adapter 12V 3A sold separately.
*
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant of Part 15 of the FCC rules.
Never look directly at the sun with your naked eyes or
through your telescope and finder scope. Permanent and
irreversible eye damage may result.
Do not leave the optical tube uncapped in the daytime.
Sunlight passing through the telescope or finder scope may
cause a fire.
Do not use the product in a wet environment. This could
damage the mount, result in electrical shock or a fire.
Do not attempt to disassemble or alter any part of the
equipment that is not expressly described in this manual.
This could damage the mount, result in electrical shock, a
fire or lead to an injury.
Keep small caps, plastic bags or plastic packing materials away
from children. These may cause choking or suffocation.
Stop operating the product immediately and unplug the power
cord if it emits smoke or a strange smell. This could result in fire
or electrical shock. Make sure to be safe and consult your local
Vixen dealer or distributor in your country.
Do not allow liquids or foreign objects to enter the product.
Unplug the power cord or switch the power off. This could result
in fire or electrical shock.
Do not damage, alter or place heavy item on the power cord.
This could result in fire or electrical shock.
The product includes heavy items such as the counterweight
and the mount body. Be sure to handle these units carefully.
Be careful not to drop the unit when handling. This may cause
damage or lead to injury.
Be sure to ventilate air while cleaning with volatile cleaner or
spray can cleaner to avoid poisoning.
Do not use the volatile cleaner or spray can cleaner in the
vicinity to fire. This could lead to catching fire.
CAUTION
Do not operate the product with wet hands. Plugging in and
out the power cord, electricity connectors and operating
the electronic parts with wet hands may cause damage to
the equipment or resulting in electrical shock.
Do not use the product while traveling or walking, as
injuries may arise from stumbling, falling or collision with
objects.
Do not bundle the power cord and electricity wires during
the operation. This may result in a short circuit and
damage to the surroundings.
Handle the power cord and electricity connectors properly. Do
not pull the power cord by force when disconnecting. This may
damage the cord and connectors, resulting in fire or electrical
shock.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Do not leave the product inside a car in bright sunshine, or
in hot places. Keep any strong heat radiation sources away
from the product.
When cleaning, do not use solvent such as paint thinners.
It may cause deterioration.
Do not use the product in a wet environment. This may
cause the product to malfunction or result in fire or
electrical shock.
For storage do not expose to direct sunlight and keep the
product in a dry place.
Do not expose the product to rain, water drops, dirt or sand.
Gently wipe the product with a damp cloth for cleaning.
Thank you for your purchase of a Vixen SX2 equatorial mount.
Safety Precautions
Legend
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BEFORE USE
Checking the Package Contents
SX2 Mount Components Guide
SX2 Mount Specifications
STAR BOOK ONE Specifications
STAR BOOK ONE Components Guide
Flow of Operation
PREPARATION
Assembling the Mount
Setting up the Tripod
Attaching the Equatorial Mount
Attaching the Counterweight
Attaching the Optical Tube
Balancing the Equatorial Mount
Tips on Proper Balancing
Connecting the STAR BOOK Cable
Connecting to the Mount
Connecting to the STAR BOOK ONE
Connecting the Power Cable
BASIC OPERATION
Turning ON the Power
Setting 言語/Language
Slewing the Telescope
Changing the Slewing Speed
Terrestrial Viewing
Rough Alignment of the Moun
APPLICATION
Using the Polar Axis Scope
Polar Alignment in the Northern Hemisphere
Meridian Offset Setting for the Polar Axis Scope
Polar Alignment in the Southern Hemisphere
Precise Polar Alignment
(A Method of Drift Alignment)
Drift Alignment in the Northern Hemisphere
Change the Altitude Setting
How to Change Settings on the Mount / Controller
Mount Menu
Tracking Speed
Tracking Direction
Motor Power
Slewing Speed
Backlash Compensation
Setting for Autoguider
PEC
(Periodic Error Correction)
APPLICATION
Display Menu
Contrast Adjustment
Brightness Adjustment
Backlight Adjustment
Red LED Light Adjustment
Polar Scope Illumination Adjustment
Other Functions
Field of View Orientation
Reset
APPENDIX
Connectors on the STAR BOOK ONE
Connectors on the SX2 Mount
Dimensions of the SX2 Mount
Dimensions of the SXG Half Pillar
Dimensions of the SXG-HAL130 Tripod
Dimensions of the SXG-P85DX Pillar
Memo
------------------------------P 2
--------------------------------P 3
----------------------------------------P 4
---------------------P 4
----------------------P 5
---------------------------P 6
--------------------P 6
---------------P 7
----------------------------------P 8
---------------------------------------P 9
------------------------------P 9
----------------------------P 9
------------------P10
--------------------- P11
----------------------P12
------------------P13
------------------------P15
------------------P16
------------------------P16
-------------P16
--------------------P16
-----------------------------------P17
------------------------------P17
--------------------------P17
------------------------------P18
--------------------P18
------------------------------P19
-----------------------P20
----------------------------------------P21
-------------------------P21
-----P21
----P23
-----P24
---P26
------P27
---------------------P27
---P28
------------------------------------P28
------------------------------P28
----------------------------P29
---------------------------------P29
------------------------------P30
-------------------------P31
---------------------------P33
-----------------------P34
-----------------------------------P37
-------------------------P37
-----------------------P37
------------------------P37
-------------------P38
---------P38
--------------------------------P38
--------------------P38
---------------------------------------P38
-------------------------------------------P39
---------------P39
-------------------P39
-----------------------P40
---------------P40
-------------P41
---------------P41
------------------------------------------------P42
3
Zenith
North Celestial Pole
North Celestial Pole
Earth's Axis
Polar Axis
Horizon
Equator
North Pole
South Pole
BEFORE USE
The SX2 Equatorial mount package contains the items listed below. Check if all the items are included.
In the northern hemisphere, stars appear to turn around the
polar star (the north celestial pole) making approximately one
rotation per day. This is called diurnal motion and occurs
because the earth turns on its own axis once a day. The
equatorial mount is a platform which is designed to rotate
parallel to earth's rotational axis.
Note:
*
The contents of your SX2 mount package may differ when you
purchase it as a complete telescope package.
*
A power supply unit is sold separately.
Checking the Package Contents
Package Consisting of
What is an Equatorial Mount?
Every movement of the electrically driven SX2 Mount is fully
controlled by the STAR BOOK ONE hand controller. The mount
will perform smooth and accurate movements when each
component on the mount is balanced correctly. An unbalanced
mount may cause vibrations and can result in tracking errors or
failure of rotational mechanisms. Make sure that the telescope
is well balanced.
Basic Movement of the SX2 Mount
Do not rotate the mount manually without loosening the
clamp levers.
Be careful not to bang the mount against other objects.
This could damage the gears and bearings.
The SX2 mount has clamps which allow you to rotate the Right
Ascension (R.A) and Declination (DEC.) axes freely for quick
set up for home position and compact storage of the mount.
Remember to tighten the clamp levers when you use the mount.
The clamp levers should be loosened to protect the inner gear
train for storage and when you transport the mount.
CAUTION
Never connect the STAR BOOK cable to other equipment
such as a PC.
This could result in electrical shock, fire, or damage to the
equipment. (The specifications of the STAR BOOK cable are
not compatible with RS232C (D-SUB 9PIN) connectors.)
CAUTION
SX2 Equatorial Mount
SX Counterweight 1.9kg
STAR BOOK ONE Hand Controller
STAR BOOK Cable
Ferrite Core (for commercial LAN cables)
Allen Wrench of 5mm on a side
Cigarette-lighter Plug Cord
Strap for STAR BOOK ONE
SX2 Instruction Manual (This book)
--------------------------------------1
------------------------------------1
--------------------------1
----------------------------------------1
--------------------1
-----------------------------1
---------------------------------1
---------------------------------1
-------------------------1
SX2 Equatorial MountSX Counterweight 1.9kg
Allen Wrench of
5mm on a side
STAR BOOK ONE
Hand Controller
Strap for STAR BOOK ONE
Cigarette-lighter Plug Cord
Ferrite Core
STAR BOOK Cable
4
BEFORE USE
SX2 Mount Components Guide
Mount Head
(Optical Tube Attachment Base)
DEC. Clamp Lever
R.A. Clamp Lever
Polar Axis Rear Cap
(Polar Scope Cover)
Altitude Scale
Polar Axis Scope
(Sold Separately)
Altitude Adjustment Knob
(for Polar Alignment)
Power Switch
Set Position Guidepost
Azimuth Adjustment Knobs
(for Polar Alignment)
DC12V Power
Connecting Port
Counterweight Bar
Counterweight Lock Screw
Counterweight 1.9kg
(4.2 lb)
Counterweight
Safety Thumbscrew
Finder Scope
Carry Handle
Lock Screw
Eyepiece
Flip Mirror Diagonal
Focuser Draw-tube
Focus Knobs
Fixing Bolt(Inside)with Grip
Fixing Knob
(for Half Pillar)
Leg Tip
(3 places)
Dew Shield
Safety Screw
Objective lens (Inside)
Dovetail Tube Plate
Dovetail-plate Mounting Block
SXG Tripod
SXG Half Pillar
Fixing Bolt with Grip
Leg Bracket
Extension Clamps
(3 places)
STAR BOK ONE
Motor Housing
Set Position Guidepost
Polar Axis Front Cap
R.A. Axis(Polar Axis)
Counterweight Bar Lock Lever
Controller Connecting Port
Altitude Clamp Lever
(For Polar Alignment)
[
SX2 Mount with optical tube and tripod
]
[SX2 Mount]
SX2-ED103S shown as an example
Dovetail Tube-Plate Lock Screw
Safety Screw
Declination Axis
DEC. Clamp Lever
5
BEFORE USE
SX2 Mount Specifications
The specifications are subject to change without notice.
Mount
R.A Slow Motion
DEC. Slow Motion
Worm Gear Shaft
R.A. Axis
DEC. Axis
Number of Bearings
Counterweight Bar
Polar Axis Scope
Azimuth Adjustment
Altitude Adjustment
Drive Motor
Celestial Tracking
Loading Capacity
Controller Cable Connection Port
Power Connecting Port
Electricity Consumption
Dimensions
Weight
Counterweight
Optional Accessories
(Available separately)
SX2 Equatorial Mount
180-tooth full circle micro-movement wheel gear, 72mm in diameter, Aluminum alloy
180-tooth full circle micro-movement wheel gear, 72mm in diameter, Aluminum alloy
9mm in diameter, Brass
40mm in diameter, Aluminum alloy die casting
35mm in diameter, Aluminum alloy
5 pieces
20mm in diameter, retractable to the DEC body
Built-in 6x20mm scope with 8 degrees field of view, bubble level, illuminated reticle, Setting accuracy
within 3 arc minutes,
Time graduation circle : 10 arc minutes increments between 16h and 8h (the following day)
Date graduation circle : 2-day increments
Meridian offset circle : Adjustable between E20 degrees and W20 degrees in 5-degree increments
Northern hemisphere : Polaris guide scale (Applicable to year 2025)
Southern hemisphere : Octant 4 stars pattern
Fine adjustments: About ±7 degrees
Twin tangent screws/knobs : About 1.2 degrees per rotation
Latitude between 0 degree ~ 70 degrees, 3-altitude zone setting (high, middle and low latitude, adjustment
rage : ±15 degrees in each zone) , Altitude Scale:2-degree increments, Twin T-bar handles: 0.8 degrees per rotation
Stepping (Pulse) motors with 250PPS
High precision tracking with STAR BOOK ONE controller
About 1.2kg ~ 12kg (26.5lb), (300kg / cm torque load = About 12kg at a point of 25cm from the fulcrum)
D-SUB 9PIN male plug
DC12V EIAJ RC5320A Class4, Center-plus polarity
DC12V 0.3A ~ 2.0A
343mm (L) × 128mm (W) x 360mm (H)
About 7kg (15.4 lb), excluding counterweight
1.9kg (4.2 lb) x 1pc
STAR BOOK TEN Controller, SXG-HAL130 Tripod, SXG Half Pillar, AXG-P85DX Pillar, AC Power Source
STAR BOOK ONE Specifications
Hand Controller
CPU
Display
Power Connecting Port
Autoguider Port
Controller Cable Port
Power Supply
Electricity Consumption
Operating Temperature
Dimensions
Net Weight
Major Functions
STAR BOOK ONE
32bit CISC Processor 40MHz RX210
Two-line STN characters, with backlight
DC12V EIAJ RC5320A Class4, Center-plus polarity
6-pole 6-wired modular jack (For external Autoguider)
D-SUB9PIN male plug
DC12V (Supplied from the mount side.)
12V 0.3A ~ 2.0A (Combined with the mount.)
0 ~ 40℃ (104 F)
137mm (L) × 65mm (W) × 21mm (H)
110g (3.88 oz) (Excluding the cable.)
Celestial, Solar, Lunar and Kings rate speeds, tracking variable from 0.1x to 10x by steps, Backlash
compensation, PEC, Autoguider port, Two languages (Japanese and English), Screen brightness
adjustable, Direction keys, Red LED light
6
Star
N x999
Patent Pending DC12V Max.0.5A
(
6
)
Plus and Minus buttons
BEFORE USE
STAR BOOK ONE Components Guide
(
1
)
Mount button
(
2
)
Display button
(
3
)
Direction Keys
(
2
)
Display button
(
1
)
Mount button
(
6
)
Plus and Minus buttons
LCD Monitor
(
10
)
Eyelet
(
10
)
(
8
)
LED Light button
(
4
)
RA Reverse button
(
5
)
DEC Reverse button
(
7
)
LED Light button
(
3
)
Direction Keys
(
12
)
Mount Connecting Port
(
11
)
Autoguider Port
Set up menus for the mount such as tracking mode and
backlash compensation, with the mount button. Press-
ing the Mount button turns up the brightness of the
button itself and allows you to change the settings with
the direction keys. Press the Mount button again to
leave the menu and the brightness dims. The new
setting is saved as you enter the new value. (Your
recorded PEC data are for temporary use and not
saved if you turn off the mount.)
Set up menus for the controller such as language and
backlight adjustments, with the display button. Press-
ing the Display button turns up the brightness of the
button itself and allows you to change the settings with
the direction keys. Press the Display button again to
leave the menu and the brightness dims. The new
setting is saved as you enter the new value.
You can move your telescope in the RA and DEC
directions with these keys. Pressing any of the four
direction keys will accelerate the motor speed toward
the maximum value you selected. Then, that speed is
maintained while the key is being pressed. The motor
speed is decelerated lf you stop pressing the key.
The Direction keys function as menu selection buttons
to change the settings while the Mount button or
Display button is selected and lit brightly.
(
4
)
RA Reverse button
The tracking direction of the RA can be reversed to have
the orientation of your eyepiece’ s field of view change to an
opposite direction. Pressing the RA Reverse button turns
up the brightness of the button itself and the button will
function. Pressing the button again will change the orienta-
tion of the telescope to the original direction, and it will turn
down the brightness of the button to leave the menu.
(
5
)
DEC Reverse button
The tracking direction of the DEC can be reversed to
have the orientation of your eyepiece’ s field of view
change to an opposite direction. Pressing the DEC
Reverse button turns up the brightness of the button
itself and the button will function. Pressing the button
again will change the orientation of the telescope to
the original direction, and it will turn down the bright-
ness of the button to leave the menu.
With these buttons you set up the maximum slewing
speed of the telescope. The Plus and Minus buttons
function as menu selection buttons to change settings
as long as the Mount button or Display button is turned
up brightly
(
7
)
LED Light button
There is a built-in red LED light on the back of the
STAR BOOK ONE. The red light is switched to ON or
OFF alternatively each time the button is pressed
shortly. The red lightstays lit while you continue press-
ing the LED light button and the light goes off as you
release the button.
(
8
)
LED Light button
A 2 line (8 character each line) information screen with adjustable
backlight.
(
9
)
Red LED Light
The built-in red LED light on the back of the STAR BOOK ONE is
useful to keep accommodating your eyes to darkness at an observa-
tion site when you want to avoid white light.
(
10
)
Eyelet
The eyelet hole for a strap. The eyelets are provided on either side of
the controller.
(
11
)
Autoguider Port
Compatible with the SBIG autoguider’ s connection port. Designed for
6-pole 6-wired modular jack.
A connecting port to connect between the SX2 mount and the STAR
BOOK ONE. Designed for D-SUB9PIN.
(
12
)
Mount Connecting Port
7
BEFORE USE
Flow of Operation
Preparation
Take the following steps to set up and use the SX2 equatorial mount correctly.
Set up the tripod on a level ground and attaching the mount.
Balancing the Telescope in RA.
Balancing the Mount in DEC.
Page 9
Page 17
Page 18
Set the Language (The first time only)
Slewing the Telescope
Initial Setting
Basic Operation
Page 21
Using the Polar Axis Scope
High or Low Latitude Setup
Changing various settings on the mount and controller.
Application
8
1
3
4
2
2 33
1-1
1-1
2-1
2-3
2-2
2-1
2-3
2-2
1-2
1-2
4-2
4-2
2
4-1
4-1
Extension clampExtension clamp
SXG-HAL130三脚
ハーフピラー
SX2
NorthNorth
Screwdriver
SX2
Screwdriver
Post
Post
Post
Post
Vanity Ring
Vanity Ring
Vanity Ring
Outer Hole
Outer Hole
Hole
Hole
Hole
Hole
SXG Half Pillar
SXG Half PillarSXG Half Pillar SXG Half Pillar
Vanity Ring
Post
Post
Post
Post
Post
Post
Allen wrench
Allen wrench
Fixing KnobFixing Knob
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
PREPARATION
Refer to the instruction manual of your telescope and accessory together with this manual when you attach the optical tube assembly to the mount.
The unit includes heavy items. Take care not to drop them when assembling as it could seriously damage the equipment or lead to injury.
Take care not to pinch your finger in the slide leg of the tripod when setting up.
Proceed to step II if this accessory is not provided with your telescope package.
Place the tripod on a level ground to make the telescope stable
during observation.
Loosen the extension clamp on the tripod leg so that the tripod
leg can be adjusted. Pull the tripod legs apart until each leg is
fully extended.
Tighten the extension clamp to hold the tripod leg securely in
place.
Attach the metal post on the tripod head. Thread the metal post
into the hole marked as SX and tighten it with a screwdriver.
Tighten the metal post completely until the end of the thread;
otherwise it could cause bend and break.
Position the tripod so that the metal post comes to north.
Assembling the Mount
Setting up the Tripod
1
2
Put the vanity ring on the thread of the metal post and attach the
metal post on the head of the half pillar. (1-1)
There are two threaded holes on the head of the half pillar. Thread
the metal post into the outer hole and tighten it with the supplied Allen
wrench.
Loosen the fixing knob on the lower part of the half pillar in advance
and put the half pillar on the tripod head. (2-1)
Attach the half pillar on the tripod head so that the center projection
on the bottom of the half pillar fits the center hollow on the tripod
head. (2-2)
Tighten the lock knob beneath the tripod head to secure the half
pillar. (2-3)
Attaching the SXG Half Pillar
TripodTripod
North
North
Place the tripod so that the metal post
on the SXG Half Pillar faces north.
9
1
3
2
2
3
2-1
2-2
2-1
2-2
3
3
2-1
2-2
2-1
2-2
2-3
2-3
PREPARATION
Attaching the Equatorial Mount
Package without the SXG Half Pillar
CAUTION: Be sure to handle the equatorial mount carefully as it is very heavy.
Loosen the azimuth adjustment screws in advance by turning the
azimuth adjustment knobs on the mount.
Position the mount so that the azimuth adjustment screws of the
mounting base comes above the metal post as shown in the figure.
(2 -1)
Place the mount on the tripod and tighten the fixing bolt underneath
the tripod head to hold the mount in place. (2-2)
Tighten the azimuth adjustment knobs on the mount base so that
the two knobs are set equally.
1
Package with the SXG Half Pillar
Loosen the azimuth adjustment screws in advance by turning the azimuth adjustment knobs on the mount.
Attach the mount on the half pillar so that the center projection on
the bottom of the mount fits the center hollow on the half pillar as
shown in the figure. (2-1)
Tighten the fixing bolt underneath the head of the half pillar to
hold the mount in place. (2-2)
Tighten the azimuth adjustment knobs on the mount base so that the two knobs are set equally.
PostPost
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Azimuth Adjustment
KnobsAzimuth Adjustment Knobs
Post
Post
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Azimuth Adjustment
KnobAzimuth Adjustment Knob
Azimuth Adjustment
KnobAzimuth Adjustment Knob
Azimuth Adjustment
KnobsAzimuth Adjustment Knobs
Azimuth Adjustment
KnobAzimuth Adjustment Knob
10
PREPARATION
CAUTION: Be sure to handle the counterweight carefully as it is very heavy.
The counterweight bar is in the declination body. You may balance the SX2 mount with only the counterweight bar to start.
1
3
4
2
Tips on Assembling the Mount
Generally equatorial mounts are heavier on the declination axis side. Because of this feature, placing the equatorial mount so that its
declination axis comes directly over one of the tripod legs can make the equatorial mount most stable when you use the equatorial
mount for a north (or south) latitude of 50 degrees and lower. However, the balance of the equatorial mount may vary if the equatorial
mount is used in latitude higher than 50 degrees. This may result in shifting the center of balance to the opposite side of the
declination axis depending on the location of the loading equipment. Change the position of the tripod legs so that the equatorial
mount becomes more stable in such a case.
Loosen the counterweight bar lock lever to draw out the counterweight bar.
Tighten the counterweight bar lock lever with the counterweight bar extended fully.
Remove the safety screw on the end of the counterweight bar. Loosen the lock knob on the side of a
counterweight and install the counterweight by sliding it onto the counterweight bar.
Attach the counterweight so that the lock knob on the counterweight
is on the far side of the safety screw as shown in the figure.
Tighten the counterweight lock knob and replace the safety screw to screw it down on the end of the
counterweight bar tightly.
Far Side
Attaching the Counterweight
Lock Lever
Counterweight
Bar
Lock Lever
Counterweight
Bar
Counterweight
Counterweight
Safety Screw
Safety Screw
Safety Screw
Safety Screw
Lock
Screw
Far Side
Lock Screw
Lock
ScrewLock Screw
11
PREPARATION
Attaching the Optical Tube
The telescope attaches to the SX2 mount via a dovetail tube plat or a dovetail slide bar.
Make sure that the slide bar or dovetail tube plate is flat against the saddle plate. Tightening the lock screws with a gap between these
parts may cause the telescope to fall.
1
2
3
The ED103S shown as an Example:
Loosen the lock knob and the safety screw on the mount head before you attach the optical tube.
Slide the dovetail tube-plate mounted optical tube onto the sunken platform of the mount head.
Tighten the lock knob onto the dovetail tube-plate centering notch until snug. Tighten the safety
screw securely.
Lock KnobLock Knob
Safety Screw
Safety Screw
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Safety Screw
Safety Screw
Dovetail-plate Tube Plate
Dovetail-plate Tube Plate
Optical Tube
Optical Tube
CAUTION: Take care not to drop the optical tube as it could result in serious damage.
12
PREPARATION
1
3
4
2
2-22-2
3
3
1-1
1-1 2-12-11-21-2
Balancing the Equatorial Mount
Balancing the Mount in Declination
In case of Optical Tube Assembly with Dovetail Slide Bar
Note:
Note:
The Vixen SX2 mount is a German equatorial mount, in which the rotating RA axis and rotating DEC axis cross each
other at right angle. The axes are rotated by using the movement of both axes to get maximum stability and limit
the stress on the gears. If the equatorial mount is in an unbalanced state, it will increase stress to the gears and
this could result in damage or erratic operation.
Precise slewing requires a high level of accuracy in rotation of both axes and is important in eliminating stress to
the gears. Make sure to balance the equatorial mount properly in RA and DEC accordingly.
An optical tube weighing 1.2kg (2.6 lb.) or less cannot be balanced with the SX2 mount.
Take care not to drop the optical tube assembly as it could seriously damage the equipment or lead to injury. Pay close attention to
the security of the telescope tube and do not excessively loosen the lock knobs on the equipment.
Loosen the R.A. clamp while holding the counterweight bar (1-1) and
turn the telescope tube until the
DEC. axis comes to horizontal (1-2). Tighten the R.A. clamp and
loosen the DEC. clamp. Be sure to hold the optical tube or
counterweight in hand while loosening the clamps.
Release the telescope gradually to see which way the telescope rotates around the declination axis.
If the telescope tube starts rotating as you release, it shows there is an imbalance in DEC.
To determine the balance point, loosen the lock knob that hold the telescope tube to the dovetail-plate
mounting block and slide the telescope tube either forward or backward until it remains stationary.
Do not loosen the lock knob too much in balancing. This could cause telescope to fall and lead
to injury.
Tighten the lock knob (and the safety screw) securely to hold the telescope tube in place.
Tighten the DEC clamp to finish this adjustment.
Counterweight
Bar
Counterweight
Bar
R.A. Clamp
DEC. Clamp
Decl. Axis
R.A. Clamp
DEC. Clamp
Decl. Axis
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Standstill
Standstill
13
PREPARATION
3
4
4
2
R200SS shown
1
In case of Optical Tube Assembly with Tube Rings
Loosen the R.A. clamp while holding the counterweight bar (1-1) and turn the telescope tube until the
DEC. axis comes to horizontal (1-2). Tighten the R.A. clamp and loosen the DEC. clamp. Be sure to
hold the optical tube or counterweight in hand while loosening the clamps.
Release the telescope gradually to see which way the telescope rotates around the declination axis. If
the telescope tube starts rotating as you release, it shows there is an imbalance in DEC.
To determine the balance point, loosen the tube ring lock knobs that hold the telescope tube and slide
the telescope tube either forward or backward until it remains stationary.
Do not loosen the lock knobs too much in balancing. This could cause telescope to fall and lead to injury.
Tighten the tube ring lock knobs (and the safety screw if any) securely to hold the telescope tube in
place.
Tighten the DEC clamp to finish this adjustment.
An optional dovetail slide bar is useful to extend a balancing range.
1
2
3
Balancing the Mount in R.A (Right Ascension)
Loosen the R.A. clamp while holding the counterweight bar and turn the telescope tube until the DEC axis comes to horizontal as
shown in the figure.
Release the telescope tube gradually to see which way the telescope rotates around the R.A. axis. If the telescope tube starts
moving by its own weight as you release, it shows there is an imbalance in the R.A.
While holding the counterweight bar, loosen the lock knob on the counterweight so that it can be
moved to a point where it balances the telescope tube. This is the point at which the telescope
remains stationary when the R.A. clamp is loose.
If your telescope is light in weight, the mount may balance without the supplied counterweight. (The
extended counterweight bar itself can act as a counterweight.) Retract the counterweight bar for
further balance adjustment.
Tighten the lock knob on the counterweight to hold in place.
Tighten the R.A. clamp on the mount securely.
Do not move the counterweight too much in balancing. This could damage the telescope tube
or lead to injury.
Lock KnobLock Knob
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Lock
ScrewLock Screw
Standstill
Standstill
Counterweight
Counterweight
Decl. Axis
Decl. Axis
Note:
Note:
Note:
14
30. 9c
. 7c
. 7c
43.9c
. 8kg+3.7kg
25c
. 8kg+3.7kg
9.0〜12.3kg
(225.3〜309.6kg・cm)
. 7c
43.9c
.7k
25c
.7k
5.4〜8.2kg
(136.0〜206.9kg・cm)
25c
25c
23 .1c
42 .6c
25c
. 7c
1.9cm
. 7c
42 . 9c
.0kg
.9kg
. 8kg
.0kg
25c
.9kg
. 8kg
1.2〜1.7kg
(31.0〜44.5kg・cm)
2.7〜3.4kg
(67.8〜44.5kg・cm)
3.5〜4.9kg
(87.8〜124.1kg・cm)
4.4〜6.5kg
(111.0〜164.6kg・cm)
28.9c
. 7c
. 7c
43.9c
.9kg+3.7kg
25c
.9kg+3.7kg
7.7〜11.1kg
(194.7〜278.5kg・cm)
PREPARATION
Tips on Proper Balancing
No counterweight:
from 1.2kg (2.6 lbs.) up to 1.7kg (3.7 lbs.)
One 1.0kg (2.2 lbs) only:
from 2.7kg (5.9 lbs.) up to 3.4kg (7.5 lbs.)
One 1.9kg (4.1 lbs) only:
from 3.5kg (7.7 lbs.) up to 4.9kg (10.8 lbs.)
One 2.8kg (6.1 lbs) only:
from 4.4kg (9.7 lbs.) up to 6.5kg (14.3 lbs.)
One 3.7 kg (8.1 lbs)only:
from 5.4kg (11.9 lbs.) up to 8.2kg (18 lbs.)
One 3.7kg (8.1 lbs) and one 1.9kg (4.1 lbs):
from 7.7kg (16.9 lbs.) up to 11.1kg (24.4 lbs.)
One 3.7kg (8.1 lbs) and one 2.8kg (6.1 lbs):
from 9.0kg (19.8 lbs.) up to 12.3kg (27.1 lbs.)
The balance arrangements below illustrate various possible settings, depending on the length and weight of your optical tube. The center
of gravity of the telescope is given as 25cm from the intersection of the RA and DEC axes.
15
Connecting to the Mount
Note:
*
Hold the connector part of the STAR BOOK cable securely and pull it straight when you unplug the cable. Unplugging by grabbing the
cable part may cause a wire to break.
*
Never connect the STAR BOOK cable to other equipment such as a PC. It may cause failure, fire or electrical shock. (The STAR
BOOK cable does not meet the RS232C specifications.)
*
Do not bundle or bend the STAR BOOK cable forcedly. It may cause a wire to snap.
Note:
*
When unplugging the power cable, be sure to hold the connector part and pull it straight. Unplugging by grabbing the cable part may
cause a wire to snap.
*
Avoid pulling or bending a part of the power cable adjacent to the connectors. It may cause a wire to snap.
*
Do not use the power cable in a folded and tied condition. It may cause electrical shock or fire.
Specifications:
DC12V EIAJ RC5320A
Class4 center positive (+) polarity
1
2
PREPARATION
Connecting the STAR BOOK Cable
Plug one end of the STAR BOOK cable, where no ferrite core is
attached, into the connecting port on the mount for the controller
cable.
Secure the connector with the setscrews.
Connecting the Power Cable
Connecting to the STAR BOOK ONE
1
2
Plug the other end of the STAR BOOK cable, where the ferrite core is attached, into the connecting
port on the STAR BOOK ONE for the controller cable.
Secure the connector with the setscrews.
2211
Use an optional AC Adapter 12V-3A or portable power supply with
the supplied cigarette-lighter plug cord.
The portable power supply is sold separately.
Confirm that the power switch is turned OFF (i.e. the O mark on the
switch is depressed) before you plug the power cable to the DC12V
input of the mount.
Controller Connecting Port
Setscrews
Controller Connecting Port
Setscrews
16
StarBook
ONE V
Mount
SX2
Star
N x999
Language
English
Language
ニホンコ゛
BASIC OPERATION
Power SwitchPower Switch
1
2
The power switch is located on the bottom of the declination body of the mount. To turn
on the power, press the side marked I on the switch and to turn off the power, press the
O marked side on the switch.
The mount starts the celestial tracking at the same time the power is ON although it
seems the mount stands still.
The initial screens below appear on the display of the STAR BOOK ONE as you turn on the power switch.
Pressing the Display key illuminates that key and the setting screen* is displayed.
*The setting screen used with the last setting will appear if you press the key.
First, designate the language you use.
2. In the setting screen, choose “Language” with the left or right direction key.
The setting is defaulted to “English”
You can choose “Japanese” language with the up or down key (or plus or minus key also).
Turning ON the Power
Setting 言語/Language
11
Note:
1
2
3
version
17
Star
N ×999
Star
N ×30
Star
N ×1.0
Star
N ×0.5
Star
N x999
BASIC OPERATION
Make sure that the SX2 mount is turned on
and the R.A and DEC clamps on the mount
are locked tightly.
Move the telescope in the direction of R.A with the left and right direction keys and in
the direction of DEC with the up and down keys respectively.
You can move the telescope at different speeds through use of the direction keys.
While both the Mount and Display keys are inactive with no illumination, pressing the Plus
key will accelerate theslewing speed and pressing the Minus key will decelerate the
slewing speed.
Defaultslewing speed: 999x of the sidereal rate at a maximum, and it is slow down to 30X,
1.0X and 0.5X of the sidereal rate by step. The slewing speed can be changed between
0.5X and 999X of the sidereal rate.
Slewing the Telescope
1
2
DEC clamps
R.A clamps
DEC clamps
DEC clamps
DEC clamps
R.A clamps
Changing the Slewing Speed
X999
It is useful to choose this option when you dramatically change the telescope’s pointing direction. You
can move the telescope by loosening the clamp levers on the mount in combination with use of this
setting. Be sure to tighten the clamp levers again after slewing the telescope manually.
X30
Use this option when you bring your target object in the crosshairs in the field of view of the finder
scope. The telescope moves slowly.
X10
Choose this option when you correct a position of the object in the field of view of the telescope as
it makes you move the telescope very slowly.
X0.5
Choose this option when you use the telescope with high magnification. The telescope moves
extremely slow.
First, you need to accustom yourself to the basic operation of the equatorial mount.
DEC Axis
Polar Axis
M
o
v
e
s
i
n
t
h
e
D
E
C
d
i
r
e
c
t
i
o
n
M
o
v
e
s
i
n
t
h
e
R
.
A
.
d
i
r
e
c
t
i
o
n
18
Star
N x999
TrackSpd
Star
TrackSpd
Stop
Star
N x999
TrackSpd
Star
TrackSpd
StarX0.1
BASIC OPERATION
Try observing landscape in daylight first in order to understand the movements of the SX2 mount and the filed of view of your finder
scope and telescope.
The mount starts celestial tracking at the same time the power is ON. You need to stop the tracking using the following procedure to
view terrestrial objects.
Press the MOUNT button to enter the mount menus. Choose “TrackSpd Star” with the left or right direction key and choose “TrackSpd
Stop” with the up or down key. Press the MOUNT button again to leave the menu.
With the finder scope aligned and the eyepiece attached, you are ready to use the telescope with your SX2 mount for your celestial
observation in the night sky. Let’s begin by observing a bright and easy-to-find object, the Moon at moderate magnification.
It is recommended to choose the tracking speed at “StarX0.1” in the menu.
Terrestrial Viewing
Observing the Moon
19
BASIC OPERATION
Rough Alignment of the Mount
After setting up the telescope, locate the SX2 mount so that its R.A. axis points toward the north celestial pole, if you use the
telescope in the northern hemisphere. A rough setting with a compass or pointing at Polaris will work well for visual observation.
If your intention is to take lengthy astrophotography, however, you must align the R.A. axis to the celestial pole. This requires the
use of the SX Polar Axis Scope sold separately.
In this section a rough Polar alignment using the finder scope is described. The finder scope of your telescope must be aligned
accurately before you start aligning the mount.
While looking for Polaris in the finder scope’ s field of view, adjust the mount with the azimuth adjustment screws and altitude
adjustment knob so that Polaris comes to the center of the finder scope’s field of view (an intersection point of the crosshairs).
Turn the altitude adjustment knob so
that the elevation of the R.A. axis
matches the latitude of your observing
site.
Turn the azimuth adjustment screws so
that Polaris comes to the center.
Loosening the azimuth adjustment
screw on one side will allow you to
tighten the screw on the other side.
Thus the direction in azimuth can be
changed.
Bring Polaris into the center of the
finder scope’s field of view to finish.
Make sure that the R.A and DEC lock clamps on the mount are tightend securely.
Point the mount toward the north celestial pole in the northern hemisphere as
shown in the figure.
Loosen the R.A and DEC lock clamps and position the telescope’ s optical tube so
that it points toward the north. The home position guideposts marked on the mount
are useful to position the telescope in place.
1
2
3
4
Polaris
R.A clamp
DEC clamp
North
North
Polar Axis
Polar Axis
Guidepost
Altitude Adjustment Knob Azimuth Adjustment Knob
Finder Field of view Finder Field of view
20
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Vixen SX2 Mount Manual

Category
Telescopes
Type
Mount Manual
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