Has anyone here verified that the current AutoStar Suite, Envisage Software and
USB->srial drivers are compatible with Microsofts new Windows 7?  What are the
performance issues?  Does it work?  Slow or fast?

Any info, I'm sure will be beneficial to all.

Thanks in advance...

Warp

Thanks for the input, gentlemen.

I had already taken this new mount apart since it would not complete a single
azimuth rotation without hanging up, the clutch was too loose. But it seemed
clean inside, just a little string from a drip of the hot glue they use to
secure wiring which I removed.

But then I saw that overshoot about once every 4 or 5 slews. I normally power
from an older lab-type voltage and current regulated power supply, set to 13.5
volts.

I left the cellphone in the house and tried a fully charged 7 amp-hour gel cell
the other night, doing the "night's best" so it would slew a lot, and it never
overshot in an hour. If the clouds ever go away I will test more.

Frank


--- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com, "joe.ashley@..." <joe@...> wrote:
>
>     I have both a teflon bearing DS2000 mount and a roller bearing DS2000
mount for a 2090AT telescope (the Teflon bearing mount is one with fried
electronics I purchased very cheap for spare parts).  Other than the azimuth
axis thrust bearing, I can see no difference between the two mounts.  The
electronic circuit boards appear identical.
>
> On several occasions, I've had my cell phone with me but have never noticed
any correlation with its use and mount performance.  I'm not saying that there
is none but just that I have never observed any.
>
> The symptoms you describe are similar to what I experienced with my roller
bearing mount. The mount, when new, was very accurate but then started operating
in an erratic manor, e.g., occasionally my mount's movement was sort of jerky
resulting in an overshoot.  The problem slowly got worse and eventually made the
mount's performance too uncertain to be usable.
>
> I opened up the mount and found a 1.5 to 2 cm long metal shaving wedged in the
thrust bearing along with a countless number of smaller metal particles.  I
cleaned the bearing and re-assembled it but the mount is not now as accurate as
it was when it was new.
>
> The problem is tightening the azimuth axis bolt properly. Apparently there is
a narrow range of torque on the mounting bolt that will properly engage the
gears but not constrict movement.  Too loose and lag time between motor signal
and movement is too long or, in the worse case, the mount can even wobble.  Too
tight, and motor movement is restricted or locked in place.  Through a tedious
iterative trial and error process, I am slowly improving my mount's accuracy and
have now got it to where an object is nearly always in view with a 40 mm
eyepiece and frequently in view of a 25mm eyepiece.  Before the malfunction, an
object was nearly always within view of a 25 mm eyepiece.
>
> From this experience, I would strongly recommend not to open up a newer roller
bearing mount unless there is a very good reason to do so. If you can live with
your mount in its current state, do so.
>
> Good luck on finding your problem.
>
> Joe
>
>
>
>
>
> --- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com, Jerry <crazyj1251@> wrote:
> >
> > This sounds like a dirty or loose encoder. There is also the possibility
that the batteries are low. While the electronics in Meade scopes are not
shielded in any special way I don't think that most cellphones would have an
effect. Maybe a very powerful one with a low frequency or if you are operating
the scope under a tower, but not usually.
> > Jerry in Arizona

I have both a teflon bearing DS2000 mount and a roller bearing DS2000 mount
for a 2090AT telescope (the Teflon bearing mount is one with fried electronics I
purchased very cheap for spare parts).  Other than the azimuth axis thrust
bearing, I can see no difference between the two mounts.  The electronic circuit
boards appear identical.

On several occasions, I've had my cell phone with me but have never noticed any
correlation with its use and mount performance.  I'm not saying that there is
none but just that I have never observed any.

The symptoms you describe are similar to what I experienced with my roller
bearing mount. The mount, when new, was very accurate but then started operating
in an erratic manor, e.g., occasionally my mount's movement was sort of jerky
resulting in an overshoot.  The problem slowly got worse and eventually made the
mount's performance too uncertain to be usable.

I opened up the mount and found a 1.5 to 2 cm long metal shaving wedged in the
thrust bearing along with a countless number of smaller metal particles.  I
cleaned the bearing and re-assembled it but the mount is not now as accurate as
it was when it was new.

The problem is tightening the azimuth axis bolt properly. Apparently there is a
narrow range of torque on the mounting bolt that will properly engage the gears
but not constrict movement.  Too loose and lag time between motor signal and
movement is too long or, in the worse case, the mount can even wobble.  Too
tight, and motor movement is restricted or locked in place.  Through a tedious
iterative trial and error process, I am slowly improving my mount's accuracy and
have now got it to where an object is nearly always in view with a 40 mm
eyepiece and frequently in view of a 25mm eyepiece.  Before the malfunction, an
object was nearly always within view of a 25 mm eyepiece.

From this experience, I would strongly recommend not to open up a newer roller
bearing mount unless there is a very good reason to do so. If you can live with
your mount in its current state, do so.

Good luck on finding your problem.

Joe





--- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com, Jerry <crazyj1251@...> wrote:
>
> This sounds like a dirty or loose encoder. There is also the possibility that
the batteries are low. While the electronics in Meade scopes are not shielded in
any special way I don't think that most cellphones would have an effect. Maybe a
very powerful one with a low frequency or if you are operating the scope under a
tower, but not usually.
> Jerry in Arizona
>
> --- On Fri, 4/17/09, Franciszek Cesarski <tincanandstring@...> wrote:
>
> From: Franciszek Cesarski <tincanandstring@...>
> Subject: [MeadeDS] Cellphone interference to late model DS-2090?
> To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> Date: Friday, April 17, 2009, 8:36 PM
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> There has been a comment on another group that cellphones can cause random
slewing on certain go-to scopes.
>
> I have a DS-2090 made in 2008, the roller bearing later model, which slews
sometimes with random errors in azimuth. The errors can be from about 5 to about
15 degrees beyond the proper stopping point.
>
> When the random errors occur, if I manually reset the azimuth to center the
target in question (by moving the scope against the clutch, not using the
handset buttons) the scope resumes normal operation, including accurate
subsequent slews, until the next error which may be 5 minutes or an hour later.
>
> I always have a cellphone in my pocket when I observe, a habit I picked up
from using older ETX and DS models, to set the time accurately.
>
> Has someone else seen this problem and fixed it by leaving the cellphone in
the house?
>
> My older DS-2102 does not exhibit this behavior, it is the teflon bearing
model.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Frank
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

This sounds like a dirty or loose encoder. There is also the possibility that
the batteries are low. While the electronics in Meade scopes are not shielded in
any special way I don't think that most cellphones would have an effect. Maybe a
very powerful one with a low frequency or if you are operating the scope under a
tower, but not usually.
Jerry in Arizona

--- On Fri, 4/17/09, Franciszek Cesarski <tincanandstring@...> wrote:

From: Franciszek Cesarski <tincanandstring@...>
Subject: [MeadeDS] Cellphone interference to late model DS-2090?
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
Date: Friday, April 17, 2009, 8:36 PM









There has been a comment on another group that cellphones can cause random
slewing on certain go-to scopes.

I have a DS-2090 made in 2008, the roller bearing later model, which slews
sometimes with random errors in azimuth. The errors can be from about 5 to about
15 degrees beyond the proper stopping point.

When the random errors occur, if I manually reset the azimuth to center the
target in question (by moving the scope against the clutch, not using the
handset buttons) the scope resumes normal operation, including accurate
subsequent slews, until the next error which may be 5 minutes or an hour later.

I always have a cellphone in my pocket when I observe, a habit I picked up from
using older ETX and DS models, to set the time accurately.

Has someone else seen this problem and fixed it by leaving the cellphone in the
house?

My older DS-2102 does not exhibit this behavior, it is the teflon bearing model.

Thanks,

Frank



















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

There has been a comment on another group that cellphones can cause random
slewing on certain go-to scopes.

I have a DS-2090 made in 2008, the roller bearing later model, which slews
sometimes with random errors in azimuth. The errors can be from about 5 to about
15 degrees beyond the proper stopping point.

When the random errors occur, if I manually reset the azimuth to center the
target in question (by moving the scope against the clutch, not using the
handset buttons) the scope resumes normal operation, including accurate
subsequent slews, until the next error which may be 5 minutes or an hour later.

I always have a cellphone in my pocket when I observe, a habit I picked up from
using older ETX and DS models, to set the time accurately.

Has someone else seen this problem and fixed it by leaving the cellphone in the
house?

My older DS-2102 does not exhibit this behavior, it is the teflon bearing model.

Thanks,

Frank

They are getting harder and harder to find. People use them to adapt just about
every brand of GEM to goto. Bill Vorce of Telescope Warehouse had some at last
check but even he was running out quickly. Check his Ebay store. Also Russel
Optics used to sell them but last I heard he was out of them. He too, has an
Ebay store. The last place I can think of is Optics Planet. They get them and
sell them every once in a while.
I don't even think Meade sells them anymore so good luck.
Jerry in Arizona

--- On Sun, 3/29/09, fields512002 <pfields54@...> wrote:

From: fields512002 <pfields54@...>
Subject: [MeadeDS] Have DS-114EC - need motor drive
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, March 29, 2009, 2:18 PM






Anyone have a source of motor drives for DS-114EC?

Thanks,
Paul



















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Anyone have a source of motor drives for DS-114EC?

Thanks,
Paul

Just buy a new 10" with a goto. I bought the Orion EQ-G goto mount for
my Old 80's DS-10 and its still under size when I add a guider scope
and 2 cameras. Next Idea is to take the old mount and add a Autostar
controller and bigger stepper motors.maybe.. Roboscope. I think.

Donny

--- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com, "h" <t.pulliam@...> wrote:
>
> i would like to know if any one has converted one of these into a
> computer go to mount the scope itself is about 30 lbs i just don't want
> to spend $1400 for a go to mount  hell for anther grand i can buy new
> ten inch meade
>

Took a thankless job for $1 a year.

THAT shows commitment!

http://ocbiz.freedomblogging.com/2009/02/06/ceo-of-irvine-telescope-company-quit\
s/9056/

I give him three cheers and my full support!

-Christopher Erickson
Network Design Engineer
5432 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 529
Anchorage, AK  99508
N61° 11.710'  W149° 46.723'
Meade 16" LX200 SCT
www.data-plumber.com





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Unfortunately these scopes have one problem that will keep you from collimating
it. That stupid barlow/corrector lense in the focuser. First check if it is
mounted properly. I have seen them cocked sideways and even got one scope where
the corrector was laying on the primary upon delivery.
The collimation can be achieved by removing it and then putting it back but it
will never be perfect in one of these scopes.
Find a long tube 114mm if you can and toss that Short tube in the trash.
Jerry in Arizona

--- On Tue, 2/3/09, perryd_44 <perryd_44@...> wrote:

From: perryd_44 <perryd_44@...>
Subject: [MeadeDS] Scope Collimation
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2009, 2:22 PM






I need some help with Scope Collimation for my meade 114-eq ast. I
tried collimating it last night and although everything lined up it
still slews images if they are not directly centered in the mirror,
the moon looks fine when centered but get it a little off center and
it looks ovoid. I tried the laser coll I have which works fine on the
ds and my dob but I get no movement from the laser dot when I move the
mirror around. any ideas? I am defering to you guys as I am new to
reflectors. oh, the DS 2130 I have collimated so easy with the laser,
took about two minutes so I think something is wayyy out of wack on
the 114 eq.
Thanks and I am really excited about the group!
Perry


















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I need some help with Scope Collimation for my meade 114-eq ast. I
tried collimating it last night and although everything lined up it
still slews images if they are not directly centered in the mirror,
the moon looks fine when centered but get it a little off center and
it looks ovoid. I tried the laser coll I have which works fine on the
ds and my dob but I get no movement from the laser dot when I move the
mirror around. any ideas? I am defering to you guys as I am new to
reflectors. oh, the DS 2130 I have collimated so easy with the laser,
took about two minutes so I think something is wayyy out of wack on
the 114 eq.
Thanks and I am really excited about the group!
Perry

Welcome to the group!

"My advice is always free and worth every penny!"

-Christopher Erickson
Network Design Engineer
5432 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 529
Anchorage, AK  99508
N61° 11.710'  W149° 46.723'
Meade 16" LX200 SCT
www.data-plumber.com

"Monetary contributions to support the
Data-Plumber.com archives are always
welcome via PayPal to
christopher.k.erickson@..."




> -----Original Message-----
> From: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of perryd_44
> Sent: Friday, January 16, 2009 10:41 PM
> To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MeadeDS] Room for one more?
>
> Hello,
> Just found and joined your group. I recently purchased a DS 2130 long
> tube on craig's list and had to do a little work, it had a busted
> tripod, filthy primary mirror, and the .965 eyepiece adapter. I took
> it apart and sucessfully cleaned the mirror and ordered a new tripod
> and 2" to 1.25" screw top for the focuser from Telescope warehouse,
> excellent service by the way. I powered it up tonight and it seems to
> function well, allthough in the den due to it being totally cloudy
> here. So, I just wanted to say hey and I am looking forward to being
> part of this group.
> Perry
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

Hello,
Just found and joined your group. I recently purchased a DS 2130 long
tube on craig's list and had to do a little work, it had a busted
tripod, filthy primary mirror, and the .965 eyepiece adapter. I took
it apart and sucessfully cleaned the mirror and ordered a new tripod
and 2" to 1.25" screw top for the focuser from Telescope warehouse,
excellent service by the way. I powered it up tonight and it seems to
function well, allthough in the den due to it being totally cloudy
here. So, I just wanted to say hey and I am looking forward to being
part of this group.
Perry

Just for your reading entertainment

http://tinyurl.com/8k536u


"My advice is always free and worth every penny!"

-Christopher Erickson
Network Design Engineer
5432 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 529
Anchorage, AK  99508
N61° 11.710'  W149° 46.723'
Meade 16" LX200 SCT
www.data-plumber.com

"Monetary contributions to support the
Data-Plumber.com archives are always
welcome via PayPal to
christopher.k.erickson@..."





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

People have converted many similar scopes and several
examples can be found in the RoboScope Yahoo group.

However unless you are a tinkerer and love projects
like this, it might be easier to buy a GOTO Dob from
Orion.

"My advice is always free and worth every penny!"

-Christopher Erickson
Network Design Engineer
5432 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 529
Anchorage, AK  99508
N61° 11.710'  W149° 46.723'
Meade 16" LX200 SCT
www.data-plumber.com

"Monetary contributions to support the
Data-Plumber.com archives are always
welcome via PayPal to
christopher.k.erickson@..."




> -----Original Message-----
> From: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of h
> Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:59 AM
> To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MeadeDS] meade ds 10 inch f/4.5 newtonian
>
> i would like to know if any one has converted one of these into a
> computer go to mount the scope itself is about 30 lbs i just
> don't want
> to spend $1400 for a go to mount  hell for anther grand i can buy new
> ten inch meade
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

i would like to know if any one has converted one of these into a
computer go to mount the scope itself is about 30 lbs i just don't want
to spend $1400 for a go to mount  hell for anther grand i can buy new
ten inch meade

I have been informed that there are now two more spammers set up to steal Yahoo
member identities in the same way as Grouply.

They are Friendster and Stumbleupon.

Beware!!!

-Christopher Erickson



	 _____________________________________________
From:  Christopher Erickson [mailto:christopher.k.erickson@...]
Sent: Monday, October 20, 2008 7:19 PM
To:
Subject: Grouply invitations - DANGER!
Importance: High

Grouply is a disease that disguises itself as a service to Yahoo group members.

Grouply asks you to give them your Yahoo ID and password under the guise that
their group "tools" will make your life easier.

In reality, you will have given them the tools to hijack your Yahoo identity and
to spam other Yahoo group members and more, posing
as YOU.

This behavior is unacceptable in my groups.

After today, any group members who are discovered to have given their Yahoo
identity over to Grouply will be immediately banned from
all of my Yahoo groups.

Anyone who has unknowingly joined Grouply is advised to immediately unsubscribe
from Grouply and change your Yahoo password to
protect yourself from Grouply identity theft.

-Christopher Erickson

Grouply is a disease that disguises itself as a service to Yahoo group members.

Grouply asks you to give them your Yahoo ID and password under the guise that
their group "tools" will make your life easier.

In reality, you will have given them the tools to hijack your Yahoo identity and
to spam other Yahoo group members and more, posing
as YOU.

This behavior is unacceptable in my groups.

After today, any group members who are discovered to have given their Yahoo
identity over to Grouply will be immediately banned from
all of my Yahoo groups.

Anyone who has unknowingly joined Grouply is advised to immediately unsubscribe
from Grouply and change your Yahoo password to
protect yourself from Grouply identity theft.

-Christopher Erickson



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

It is kind of a long list. Let's start with the DS80. First I bought a 497
Autostar to replace the 494 these usually come with, then a spare set of motors
with gears (the motors on the DS are interchangeable in the field). I replaced
the finder with a 9X50 finder in a spring loaded bracket for easier alignment. I
also added a Rigel quikfinder. Then I reworked the stock focuser with strips of
teflon and tightened up the backlash and added an electric focuser motor. I also
replaced the eyepiece holder with a metal one that has brass compression rings
and is 2" with the 1.25 adapter (I have losts of 2" eyepieces). I got rid of the
battery pack and now use an automotive jumper battery or a 2.5 amp wall wart for
power with long cords to keep cord wrap down. Then I replaced all the tripod
legs with the 3" wide ones and I got some extra eyepiece holders so I could hook
them together in the center and make the tripods very rigid. I found that with
my heavy
  eyepieces I needed a counterweight system so I put a long piece of metal along
the top of the scope and I have a couple of speaker magnets with felt on them so
I can slide them along the metal to balance the scope even with a camera on it.
There are more things that mostly involve just taking things apart like the
tripod leg extensions have been beefed up, but that is about all of it that I
can think of right now.
The DS114 got most of the above plus the short tube was replaced by a long one,
The primary mirror was changed to a parabolic f8, and I am waiting for the cash
to get a new secondary and holder right now.
Sorry for the long post but you asked. Both scopes are working very well and are
very stable but it was a lot of work. Good thing I like to do that kind of
thing.
Jerry in Arizona

--- On Sun, 9/21/08, arthurok <arthurok@...> wrote:

From: arthurok <arthurok@...>
Subject: Re: [MeadeDS] Re: 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, September 21, 2008, 12:01 AM






describe the modifications sir
----- Original Message -----
From: Jerry
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com
Sent: Saturday, September 20, 2008 10:16 AM
Subject: Re: [MeadeDS] Re: 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC

Gabe,
If you do some research you can find an 8" Dobsonian scope for right around
$200. Try Orion's website first as the intelliscope, while costing a little
more, is a great buy with a computerized object locater. Anttler's optics sells
GSO brand w/o locater for around $200 also. That is where I bought my 8".
I got my Meade DS scopes for right around $200 each but modifying them to work
properly has made them worth about $400 each now.
Remember that any scope will only work as well as the quality of the eyepieces
and other parts allow. Eyepieces alone can cost as much as $650 each or as
little as $20, but you get what you pay for.
Jerry in Arizona

--- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@att. net> wrote:

From: Gabe <gabe1969@att. net>
Subject: [MeadeDS] Re: 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com
Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 5:00 PM

Great, I really appreciate your reponce, I will save up more money for
a better one. They are both around $200 at Costco and Sams, but I
think I should save about 500 to get something thats decent. Thanks
again!

Gabe

--- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com, Jerry <crazyj1251@ ...> wrote:
>
> Neither really. Both are decent scopes as far as goto(if they have
the Autostar 497) but they are cheaply made. If you can save up for a
better scope I would advise it.
> If goto and tracking are not priorities then I would tell you to get
an 8" or larger dob style scope. They are sold at many places like
Orion or others and can be about the same price or even cheaper than
the cheap Meade scopes sold at department stores.
> You can even get dobs with push to which means you don't need motors
but the computer tells you where to push the scope to find what you
are looking for.
> That said, I love my two DS model scopes. I have both a LONG tube
DS114 and a DS80 refractor. These are not the DS20XX series and are
easier to repair then the 20 series.
> If the 114mm scope you are looking at is a short tube model then DON
'T buy it. They have an extra lens in the focuser that simply ruins
the image.
> Of the two you are suggesting, The 2090 refractor is the better buy.
> The mounting system on both of these models like I said is cheaply
made and not repairable by the customer unless you have very good
mechanical and electronics knowledge so if you get one buy the extra
warranty that includes shipping as you will probably be sending it
back at least once.
> By the way, Meade is very close to going out of business or being
bought out right now. The customer NO service has taken a big hit and
there may be no support soon.
> Hope that helps
> Jerry in Arizona
>
> --- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@.. .> wrote:
>
> From: Gabe <gabe1969@.. .>
> Subject: [MeadeDS] 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
> To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com
> Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 4:52 AM
>
>
>
>
>
>
> which would you guys recommend to purchase, they are both about the
> same price at costco and sams club. Which give you the better image
> quality and so on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]


















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

describe the  modifications  sir
   ----- Original Message -----
   From: Jerry
   To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
   Sent: Saturday, September 20, 2008 10:16 AM
   Subject: Re: [MeadeDS] Re: 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC


   Gabe,
   If you do some research you can find an 8" Dobsonian scope for right around
$200. Try Orion's website first as the intelliscope, while costing a little
more, is a great buy with a computerized object locater. Anttler's optics sells
GSO brand w/o locater for around $200 also. That is where I bought my 8".
   I got my Meade DS scopes for right around $200 each but modifying them to work
properly has made them worth about $400 each now.
   Remember that any scope will only work as well as the quality of the eyepieces
and other parts allow. Eyepieces alone can cost as much as $650 each or as
little as $20, but you get what you pay for.
   Jerry in Arizona

   --- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@...> wrote:

   From: Gabe <gabe1969@...>
   Subject: [MeadeDS] Re: 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
   To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
   Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 5:00 PM

   Great, I really appreciate your reponce, I will save up more money for
   a better one. They are both around $200 at Costco and Sams, but I
   think I should save about 500 to get something thats decent. Thanks
   again!

   Gabe

   --- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com, Jerry <crazyj1251@ ...> wrote:
   >
   > Neither really. Both are decent scopes as far as goto(if they have
   the Autostar 497) but they are cheaply made. If you can save up for a
   better scope I would advise it.
   > If goto and tracking are not priorities then I would tell you to get
   an 8" or larger dob style scope. They are sold at many places like
   Orion or  others and can be about the same price or even cheaper than
   the cheap Meade scopes sold at department stores.
   > You can even get dobs with push to which means you don't need motors
   but the computer tells you where to push the scope to find what you
   are looking for.
   > That said, I love my two DS model scopes. I have both a LONG tube
   DS114 and a DS80 refractor. These are not the DS20XX series and are
   easier to repair then the 20 series.
   > If the 114mm scope you are looking at is a short tube model then DON
   'T buy it. They have an extra lens in the focuser that simply ruins
   the image.
   > Of the two you are suggesting, The 2090 refractor is the better buy.
   > The mounting system on both of these models like I said is cheaply
   made and not repairable by the customer unless you have very good
   mechanical and electronics knowledge so if you get one buy the extra
   warranty that includes shipping as you will probably be sending it
   back at least once.
   > By the way, Meade is very close to going out of business or being
   bought out right now. The customer NO service has taken a big hit and
   there may be no support soon.
   > Hope that helps
   > Jerry in Arizona
   >
   > --- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@.. .> wrote:
   >
   > From: Gabe <gabe1969@.. .>
   > Subject: [MeadeDS] 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
   > To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com
   > Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 4:52 AM
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   > which would you guys recommend to purchase, they are both about the
   > same price at costco and sams club. Which give you the better image
   > quality and so on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   >
   > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
   >

   [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Gabe,
If you do some research you can find an 8" Dobsonian scope for right around
$200. Try Orion's website first as the intelliscope, while costing a little
more, is a great buy with a computerized object locater. Anttler's optics sells
GSO brand w/o locater for around $200 also. That is where I bought my 8".
I got my Meade DS scopes for right around $200 each but modifying them to work
properly has made them worth about $400 each now.
Remember that any scope will only work as well as the quality of the eyepieces
and other parts allow. Eyepieces alone can cost as much as $650 each or as
little as $20, but you get what you pay for.
Jerry in Arizona

--- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@...> wrote:

From: Gabe <gabe1969@...>
Subject: [MeadeDS] Re: 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 5:00 PM






Great, I really appreciate your reponce, I will save up more money for
a better one. They are both around $200 at Costco and Sams, but I
think I should save about 500 to get something thats decent. Thanks
again!

Gabe

--- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com, Jerry <crazyj1251@ ...> wrote:
>
> Neither really. Both are decent scopes as far as goto(if they have
the Autostar 497) but they are cheaply made. If you can save up for a
better scope I would advise it.
> If goto and tracking are not priorities then I would tell you to get
an 8" or larger dob style scope. They are sold at many places like
Orion or  others and can be about the same price or even cheaper than
the cheap Meade scopes sold at department stores.
> You can even get dobs with push to which means you don't need motors
but the computer tells you where to push the scope to find what you
are looking for.
> That said, I love my two DS model scopes. I have both a LONG tube
DS114 and a DS80 refractor. These are not the DS20XX series and are
easier to repair then the 20 series.
> If the 114mm scope you are looking at is a short tube model then DON
'T buy it. They have an extra lens in the focuser that simply ruins
the image.
> Of the two you are suggesting, The 2090 refractor is the better buy.
> The mounting system on both of these models like I said is cheaply
made and not repairable by the customer unless you have very good
mechanical and electronics knowledge so if you get one buy the extra
warranty that includes shipping as you will probably be sending it
back at least once.
> By the way, Meade is very close to going out of business or being
bought out right now. The customer NO service has taken a big hit and
there may be no support soon.
> Hope that helps
> Jerry in Arizona
>
> --- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@.. .> wrote:
>
> From: Gabe <gabe1969@.. .>
> Subject: [MeadeDS] 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
> To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups .com
> Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 4:52 AM
>
>
>
>
>
>
> which would you guys recommend to purchase, they are both about the
> same price at costco and sams club. Which give you the better image
> quality and so on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>


















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Great, I really appreciate your reponce, I will save up more money for
a better one. They are both around $200 at Costco and Sams, but I
think I should save about 500 to get something thats decent.  Thanks
again!


Gabe



--- In MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com, Jerry <crazyj1251@...> wrote:
>
> Neither really. Both are decent scopes as far as goto(if they have
the Autostar 497) but they are cheaply made. If you can save up for a
better scope I would advise it.
> If goto and tracking are not priorities then I would tell you to get
an 8" or larger dob style scope. They are sold at many places like
Orion or  others and can be about the same price or even cheaper than
the cheap Meade scopes sold at department stores.
> You can even get dobs with push to which means you don't need motors
but the computer tells you where to push the scope to find what you
are looking for.
> That said, I love my two DS model scopes. I have both a LONG tube
DS114 and a DS80 refractor. These are not the DS20XX series and are
easier to repair then the 20 series.
> If the 114mm scope you are looking at is a short tube model then DON
'T buy it. They have an extra lens in the focuser that simply ruins
the image.
> Of the two you are suggesting, The 2090 refractor is the better buy.
> The mounting system on both of these models like I said is cheaply
made and not repairable by the customer unless you have very good
mechanical and electronics knowledge so if you get one buy the extra
warranty that includes shipping as you will probably be sending it
back at least once.
> By the way, Meade is very close to going out of business or being
bought out right now. The customer NO service has taken a big hit and
there may be no support soon.
> Hope that helps
> Jerry in Arizona
>
> --- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@...> wrote:
>
> From: Gabe <gabe1969@...>
> Subject: [MeadeDS] 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
> To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 4:52 AM
>
>
>
>
>
>
> which would you guys recommend to purchase, they are both about the
> same price at costco and sams club. Which give you the better image
> quality and so on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Neither really. Both are decent scopes as far as goto(if they have the Autostar
497) but they are cheaply made. If you can save up for a better scope I would
advise it.
If goto and tracking are not priorities then I would tell you to get an 8" or
larger dob style scope. They are sold at many places like Orion or  others and
can be about the same price or even cheaper than the cheap Meade scopes sold at
department stores.
You can even get dobs with push to which means you don't need motors but the
computer tells you where to push the scope to find what you are looking for.
That said, I love my two DS model scopes. I have both a LONG tube DS114 and a
DS80 refractor. These are not the DS20XX series and are easier to repair then
the 20 series.
If the 114mm scope you are looking at is a short tube model then DON 'T buy it.
They have an extra lens in the focuser that simply ruins the image.
Of the two you are suggesting, The 2090 refractor is the better buy.
The mounting system on both of these models like I said is cheaply made and not
repairable by the customer unless you have very good mechanical and electronics
knowledge so if you get one buy the extra warranty that includes shipping as you
will probably be sending it back at least once.
By the way, Meade is very close to going out of business or being bought out
right now. The customer NO service has taken a big hit and there may be no
support soon.
Hope that helps
Jerry in Arizona

--- On Fri, 9/19/08, Gabe <gabe1969@...> wrote:

From: Gabe <gabe1969@...>
Subject: [MeadeDS] 2114 VS DS-2090 AT-TC
To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
Date: Friday, September 19, 2008, 4:52 AM






which would you guys recommend to purchase, they are both about the
same price at costco and sams club. Which give you the better image
quality and so on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.


















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

which would you guys recommend to purchase, they are both about the
same price at costco and sams club.  Which give you the better image
quality and so on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Hi - I'm new to group and like to learn more.  I use DS2114 refl
[converted to an astrograph] at
http://www.astroman.fsnet.co.uk/lscmg.htm
and DS2090 refr at
http://www.astroman.fsnet.co.uk/ds2090mg.htm

Nytecam
London -UK

I just posted pictures of the modified Meade DS2102 on the new
Generation II DS Mount in the Photos section.

Warp

An important message about the data-plumber.com (24.237.160.4) file archives.

Some big changes are coming to the www.data-plumber.com file archives, which
have lived
for about the past 10 years at http://24.237.160.4/files

First, the archives will be going dark around August 15th, 2008 and might not be
back on
line until  some time in the spring or summer of 2009.  My wife and I are
retiring,
selling our home and will be hitting the road around September 16th or so in our
RV.
After spending the 2008/2009 winter exploring the US Southwest, that we will be
home
shopping on the Big Island of Hawai'i.  After we are resettled, I will be
looking at
getting the file archives back on-line.  If I find someone who is willing to
host the
file archives while I am on the road, the archives might be back on-line sooner.

Second, the static IP address of 24.237.160.4 will not be going with me to
Hawai'i.  I
have  established a new domain name for the file archives and it is active right
now.

It is www.roboscope.net

www.roboscope.net is active right now, as is 24.237.160.4.  Please update your
saved
bookmarks accordingly to www.roboscope.net

Meanwhile, after http://24.237.160.4 goes dark and before www.roboscope.net
resurfaces,
you will be  able to get to the Internet Archive backup of my site here:

http://web.archive.org/web/*/http://24.237.160.4

It isn't a complete backup but hopefully you will find what you are looking for.

www.data-plumber.com will continue to be available as usual and will not be
disrupted.

Questions, inquiries, monetary contributions to the archives and any offers to
help
host the archives for a while can be directed to me via email at
webmaster "at" data-plumber.com

Thanks for your continued support!

-Christopher Erickson
Network Design Engineer
5432 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 529
Anchorage, AK  99508
N61° 11.710'  W149° 46.723'
Meade 16" LX200 SCT
www.data-plumber.com

"Monetary contributions to support the
Data-Plumber.com archives are always
welcome via PayPal to
christopher.k.erickson@..."





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

FYI

-Chris


> -----Original Message-----
> From: setiweb@... [mailto:setiweb@...]
> Sent: Thursday, July 03, 2008 1:10 PM
> To: cerickson@...
> Subject: Save the Arecibo Telescope: Write to Congress
>
> Dear Christopher Erickson,
>
> Arecibo Observatory, the world's largest radio telescope and the
> source for the SETI@home data that your computer analyzes, faces
> massive budget cuts that will END its ability to continue the search
> for life beyond Earth. The decision to ensure full funding currently
> rests upon votes in Congress on Senate Bill S. 2862 and House
> Resolution H.R. 3737. These bills desperately need more support.
>
> Please take a moment to help us SAVE ARECIBO.
>
> Clicking the link below will direct you to a web page that  allows you
> print out letters prepared for your Senators and Congressional
> Representative urging them to support Arecibo. Printing and mailing
> the letters is really easy, too!  You will also have the chance to add
> a few personal thoughts, if you wish, to let your Senators and
> Representative know why this funding is important to you!  And if
> you're really feeling passionate about saving Arecibo, please use
> these letters as the basis for letters you write yourself, urging
> your congressmen and women to vote to save Arecibo.
>
> Because our representatives in Congress rarely give much  attention to
> all the email they receive, printing out and MAILING these letters via
> standard U.S.  Postal mail remains our best option for contacting them
> and our best hope for saving Arecibo (The second best option is to
> call your representatives). Your 42 cent stamps on these letters could
> help us get the millions of dollars needed to save Arecibo.
>
> Our search cannot continue without the necessary support. Your work, as
> SETI@home participants, represents an indispensable resource for
> conducting the search. Now, we need your help to ensure  that our other
> most valuable resource - our eyes and ears to the cosmos - can continue
> to probe the universe as we seek to answer the question: Is there
> anybody out there?
>
> http://setiathome.berkeley.edu/arecibo_letter.php
>
> Thank you for your help,
>
> The SETI@home Team
>

I think Optics Planet still stocks them. I bought mine
a few months ago there, but they had lots in stock at
the time.
Jerry in Arizona


--- AB <wrangler76@...> wrote:

> Looking for an electric focuser for my latest
> Craigslist purchase....
> Apparently the 1240 is no longer produced by
> Meade....  I can't find a
> retailer with it in stock.  Any suggestions? TIA
>
>



      
________________________________________________________________________________\
____
You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of Blockbuster Total
Access, No Cost.
http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com

Create an automated search on eBay.

Post a want ad on Astromart.

"My advice is always free and worth every penny!"

-Christopher Erickson
Network Design Engineer
5432 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 529
Anchorage, AK  99508
N61° 11.710'  W149° 46.723'
Meade 16" LX200 SCT
www.data-plumber.com

"Monetary contributions to support the
Data-Plumber.com archives are always
welcome via PayPal to cerickson@..."




> -----Original Message-----
> From: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of AB
> Sent: Thursday, April 03, 2008 4:15 PM
> To: MeadeDS@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MeadeDS] Electric Focuser for DS-2102MAK
>
> Looking for an electric focuser for my latest Craigslist
> purchase....
> Apparently the 1240 is no longer produced by Meade....  I
> can't find a
> retailer with it in stock.  Any suggestions? TIA
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>