With the HAE29, iOptron offers a mount with dual strain wave gear (SWG) on both axes , which supports telescopes up to 13.5 kg, but weighs only 3.6 kg itself! In addition, there is no need for a heavy counterweight with a bulky counterweight bar!
The black anodised, CNC-machined metal housing is not only visually appealing, but also a robust platform.
Unique features include an electronic friction brake. This stops the mount immediately if the power supply is accidentally interrupted. After switching on, the mount calibrates itself and also detects its position.
The HAE29 mount can be controlled via a computer – either via ASCOM/Commander for a Windows PC or a third-party INDI driver for macOS software.
The "C" models (versions with internal mainboard) with integrated WLAN allow external control via a Smartphone/tablet using the iOptron Commander Lite app or an app such as Sky Safari; or via a Raspberry Pi using an INDI driver.
For those who prefer to use a handheld device, the optional 8411 Go2Nova® controller is available.
Both versions of the HAE29C (Standard or EC) have USB and 12 V connections on the saddle for easier cable management. A carrying case is included in the scope of delivery.
The HAE29-EC features a high precision RA axis encoder that delivers incredible tracking accuracy, enough that many will choose to image “sans” guiding.
Is the version with encoders (EC) worth the additional cost?
This is a question asked by many astrophotographers who are looking for a strain wave mount.
A precision encoder on an iOptron HAE mount (Hybrid Azimuth/Equatorial) with wave gear offers significant advantages, especially for astrophotography and high-precision astronomical applications. Here are some of the most important advantages.
- Exceptional tracking accuracy: The high-precision encoder for right ascension (RA) provides tracking accuracy of less than one arc second. This is crucial for long exposures in astrophotography.
- Strain wave gears have inherent periodic errors due to their mechanical design. The precision encoder significantly reduces these errors by providing real-time position feedback, enabling smoother movement. This eliminates the need for periodic error correction (PEC).
- The encoder's accuracy is so high that there is no need for an autoguider. This simplifies shooting and reduces equipment complexity.
- Improved performance under high loads: The encoder ensures precise control even with heavy payloads without counterweights.
- The encoder enables a closed-loop feedback system in which the mount continuously corrects its position based on the encoder data. The encoder acts as a "fast internal control loop" and supplements slower autoguider corrections, if used.
The question "Is it worth it?" is one that everyone must answer for themselves. Objectively speaking, however, current sales figures show that the trend is towards strain wave mounts with precision encoders (EC).
