Cloud Break Optics

L-350 Direct Drive Mount

L-350 Direct Drive Mount - Main image
$10950 $15000 In stock

Category: Mounts

Shipping on this item will be quoted and billed separately. We will reach out to you to estimate a lead time and make shipping arrangements.

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-350 Mount Features:

  • Load capacity of 100 lbs (45 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





Specifications

Mount System

Type Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial Direct Drive Mount
Weight 110 lbs (50 kg)
Max. Load Capacity 100 lbs (45 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 All ASCOM compatible.

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

For warranty information please check our Standard Warranty Page

Included Items

Hardware Six 3/8-16 x 1/4″ socket head cap screws to bolt the mount to the pier, or wedge

Six 3/8-16 x 1/4″ 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
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Express Shipping · United States: $3.99

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United States · Return window (days after delivery): 30. Return method: By mail. Return postage: Seller pays.

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Customer Reviews (4.6 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Charlotte ★★★★★

Took a while to sort out shipping, but once it arrived the build quality was immediately obvious. The direct drive mechanism feels incredibly solid under load, no flex at all. Well worth the patience for this level of precision.

Avery T. ★★★★★

Finally got this mounted after working out the shipping details, and the direct drive feels incredibly smooth with zero backlash. The build quality is solid enough that I don't worry about any flex under load.

Hazel H. ★★★★★

Setup was a bit of a project since shipping was quoted separately, but once it arrived the direct drive mechanism is so smooth and silent it feels like a different class of mount altogether. The build quality is clearly designed for serious long-exposure imaging.