L-500 Direct-Drive Mount

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

Check out our AutoTuner software tutorial below for tuning your L-500 once it is set up 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, but the mount will also counter wind gusts with precise servo feedback.
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.
Dual mounting bracket	PlaneWave style mounting bracket to hold CDK17/20 onto the inside of fork arm with the additional option of mounting a scope on the outside of the fork arm. Optional dovetail clamp required.
Azimuth dovetail balance system	For the precise center of gravity balance whether in Alt-Az or Equatorial configuration.
Through the mount cabling	Access panels in the fork arm and azimuth axis allow for camera equipment cabling through the inside of the mount.
Proven CDK700/PW1000 Technology	The L-Series uses the same proven technology as the CDK700 and PW1000 which are being used in Universities around the world.

CDK-500 + Core Accessories:

Item Number	Description	Price
200130Q	CDK500 (CDK20 / L-500)	$54,000
600180	IRF90 Rotating Focuser	$5,200
200901	EFA, Focuser Accessory Control	$1,175
Total		$60,375

CDK-400 + Core Accessories:

Item Number	Description	Price
170130Q	CDK400 (CDK17 / L-500)	$42,500
600180	IRF90 Rotating Focuser	$ 5,200
200901	EFA, Focuser Accessory Control	$1,175
Total		$48,875