10Micron AZ 6000 DDS

10Micron AZ 6000 DDS

Description

The AZ 6000 DDS mount represents a new generation of robotic fork-mounted systems designed by 10Micron for professional and research-grade applications. With an alt-azimuth configuration, direct-drive motors, and high-resolution absolute encoders, this mount ensures uncompromised tracking, pointing speed, and safety in observatory-grade settings.

Optimized for large optics up to 31" in diameter, the mount can be delivered in standard Cassegrain focus or optional Nasmyth configurations. Custom flanges and complete telescope systems are available upon request. The compact and rigid fork minimizes vibrations and base height, ideal for small dome installations.

Electronics are fully integrated, including onboard microserver, internal sky model, safety systems (emergency stop, anti-wrap, electromechanical brakes), and assisted balance features. A software-integrated derotator/focuser interface (GO1) is available optionally.

Key performance features include:

• Slewing speed up to 30°/s

• <10" RMS pointing accuracy (25-star model)

• ~1" typical tracking over 15 min, 0.6" RMS in real sky use

• Encoder resolution <0.01"

All mount functions are accessible via the included 4-line rugged Keypad or remotely via Ethernet/RS-232 with ASCOM, LX200, and dedicated control software. A professional web interface is under development.

Technical specifications

• Mount name: AZ 6000 DDS

• Mount type: Alt-azimuth, direct-drive with high-resolution absolute encoders

• Payload capacity: up to 300 kg, up to 31" optical diameter

• Weight (mount only): 360 kg

• Dimensions: 1660 × 550 × 1520 mm

• Nasmyth interface: 2 standard ports, 110 mm diameter, 35 kg capacity each

• Motors: zero-backlash direct-drive professional-grade

• Bearings: large-diameter ball bearings, high-precision

• Encoders: Renishaw high-res absolute encoders, <0.01" readout error

• Power supply: 48 V, 7 A peak

• Go-To speed: up to 30°/s

• Pointing accuracy: <10" RMS with internal 25-star model (max 100)

• Tracking accuracy: ~1" over 15 min, ~0.6" RMS with model

• Derotator/focuser: GO1 optional, 25 kg capacity

• Temperature sensor: internal probe for thermal compensation

• Interfaces: RS-232, Ethernet, GPS, ST-4

• Internal software:

  • Mount modeling up to 100 stars

  • Multiple models storage

  • Configurable tracking speed and movement limits

  • Refraction compensation

  • Dome control via RS-232

  • Assisted balancing, leap second support

• Object database:

  • Named stars, Bayer, Flamsteed, SAO, HIP, HD, PPM, ADS, GCVS

  • Deep sky: M, NGC, IC, PGC, UGC (to mag 16)

  • Solar system: Sun, Moon, planets, comets, asteroids, satellites

  • User-defined objects, fast-slew presets

• Safety:

  • Mechanical stops Az: ±300°, Alt: −5°/+95°

  • Electromechanical brake for Alt axis

  • Anti-wrap logic

  • Emergency stop onboard and remote

  • Acoustic warnings

  • Collision/unbalance protection

• Keypad control:

  • Metal body, backlit keys, heated 5-line graphical display

  • All mount functionality available without external PC

• PC control:

  • RS-232 / Ethernet

  • Firmware and orbital update support

  • Virtual Keypad, Mount Manager

  • ASCOM/LX200 support

  • Upcoming Web interface

Additional information

• Includes Renishaw absolute encoders

• 48 V power supply included

• 10Micron professional Keypad #1452059 included

• Optional derotator/focuser not included

• Special packaging required: ref. #1456601

• Only approved power supplies must be used to maintain warranty