tmboptical : Messages : 36569-36598 of 36598

Hi everyone:

Need help in attaching a Feather Touch Focuser on my "old" TMB 115 f/7 CNC
silver model.
I E-mailed TMB about this and since Thomas Back passing away, no specifications
on this
model are known.

Is it worth the upgrade?

Has anyone done this with a silver 115 f/7 CNC?

Anthony Dente

#36570

From: "u_rackem" <u_rackem@...>
Date: Wed Apr 29, 2009 1:43 am
Subject: is this site active

u_rackem

Offline

no response on this site
is it up and running

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (1)

#36571

From: "mrgrytt" <mrgrytt@...>
Date: Tue Jul 28, 2009 3:42 am
Subject: Re: Feather Touch focuser for a TMB 115 f/7 CNC Silver

mrgrytt

Offline

Why would you consider the Feathertouch to be an "upgrade".  They went to
the present configuration because it was cheaper.  The original German focusers
are excellent but were too costly.
      Are you familiar with how to adjust them?  Are you having a problem with
it?

Harvey


--- In tmboptical@yahoogroups.com, "Anthony Dente" <vacdente@...> wrote:
>
> Hi everyone:
>
> Need help in attaching a Feather Touch Focuser on my "old" TMB 115 f/7 CNC
silver model.
> I E-mailed TMB about this and since Thomas Back passing away, no
specifications on this
> model are known.
>
> Is it worth the upgrade?
>
> Has anyone done this with a silver 115 f/7 CNC?
>
> Anthony Dente
>

#36572

From: "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...>
Date: Tue Jul 28, 2009 5:03 am
Subject: RE: Feather Touch focuser for a TMB 115 f/7 CNC Silver

terry_tuggle

Offline

Anthony,

      If it is the 10 to focus knob you are interested in, here is what I did
with a Tak knob instillation:

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/tmboptical/files/Tak%20Micro%20Focuser/

Reference message nr. 732739

Here is an article I put together on Tom's request which included some of
his instructions also:

http://f1.grp.yahoofs.com/v1/wHduSg1XbH7Rn1EjK2IyNetrW_v0ByC1gLsXMDsrrmeTF8t
077ECxFKRAx_tF4x4xg_1IcxdpYmftO636Y3DEJ0WDYrI9ENx05bJPAoWxaJhtQ/CNCfocuserAd
justments.pdf    or http://tinyurl.com/mp96bs

This is dealing with adjustments on the focuser.

HTH,



All the best,

Terry



   _____

From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Anthony Dente
Sent: Wednesday, June 10, 2009 2:23 PM
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [tmboptical] Feather Touch focuser for a TMB 115 f/7 CNC Silver





Hi everyone:

Need help in attaching a Feather Touch Focuser on my "old" TMB 115 f/7 CNC
silver model.
I E-mailed TMB about this and since Thomas Back passing away, no
specifications on this
model are known.

Is it worth the upgrade?

Has anyone done this with a silver 115 f/7 CNC?

Anthony Dente





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

#36573

From: "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...>
Date: Tue Jul 28, 2009 5:07 am
Subject: RE: 130mm front lens rattle

terry_tuggle

Offline

Mike,

      You must remove the dew shield to get to the lens cell. After you
remove the dew shield, you will see the cell. There will be six screws on
the front flange; three collimation screws and three tightening screws which
prevent the collimation screws from moving. If any thing is loose with the
cell, it will be there.

HTH



All the best,

Terry



   _____

From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of u_rackem
Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2009 5:16 PM
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [tmboptical] 130mm front lens rattle





I have a 130 TMB/APM Just came back from a skyparty and set up the 130 in my
observatory and noticed a rattle when I extended the dew shield.
Sounds like the front lens is loose. Can anyone advise me on how to tighten
or correct this problem? I hope this is somthing I can correct myself. It
wasnt there when I left the star party, must have happen getting rattled
around on the way home. Also would I need to re-collimnate?
Thanks for any advise.
Mike





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

#36574

From: "Mark" <msholdenct@...>
Date: Thu Jul 30, 2009 12:08 pm
Subject: Re: Feather Touch focuser for a TMB 115 f/7 CNC Silver

msholdenct

Online Now

Hi Mike

there are 2 possibilities from what the rattle can come

a, the scope have on the rear lens cell a push pull flange and the scres there
became loosen. Lateste modells, the black and white one, do not use such flange
anylonger, only the silver/white tubes used it.

b, if a is not the case , then maybe due whatever reason the front lens
retaining ring got loosen. If that is the case, you need to contact me offline
at anfrage@... to get clear instructions what to do

good luck

Markus Ludes
APM-Telescopes


----- Original Message -----
   From: u_rackem
   To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
   Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2009 3:22 AM
   Subject: [tmboptical] 130mm front lens


     I have a TMB-APM 130mm I just setup my scope back in my observatory after a
trip to a starparty and heard a rattle up front while extending the dew shield.
Not to bad but its there and wasnt before. I think it might be the front lens.
If so is there a way i can tighten the lens and would I need to recollimnate.
   Any help would be greatfull
   Thanks
   Mike





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

#36580

From: Roy Ramdeen <deepsky1@...>
Date: Tue Aug 11, 2009 1:46 am
Subject: Re: It is coming today

deepsky_01

Offline

Congrats on the new scope Howard, Let us know when it arrives..
Roy..

----- Original Message -----
From: lazhow320 <lazhow320@...>
Date: Monday, August 10, 2009 7:39 pm
Subject: [tmboptical] It is coming today
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com

> I am new to this group but certainly not new to astronomy. I
> ordered and will get today the TMB 92 MM F/5.5.
> It will be used as a grab and go scope which I feel will
> probably get more use out of it than my AP 130MM f/8.
> I noted on the Astronomics site today that the TMB 92mm is now
> backordered....so I guess I lucked out ordering the last few
> available from their inventory....looks like they truly do make
> only 100 units per year.
> Hopefully the TMB Optical site will be up and running so we can
> always get the lastest info from the company directly.�
> Clear skies to all
> Howard�
>
>


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

#36581

From: "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...>
Date: Tue Aug 11, 2009 10:26 am
Subject: RE: Re: Feather Touch focuser for a TMB 115 f/7 CNC Silver

terry_tuggle

Offline

Raimo,

      It is further down in the files section; look for "CNCfocuser
Adjustments. There is a Word document and a PDF.



All the best,

Terry



   _____

From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of varsikuono
Sent: Saturday, August 01, 2009 6:39 AM
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [tmboptical] Re: Feather Touch focuser for a TMB 115 f/7 CNC Silver





Hi Terry,

Nice pictures of the Tak fine focuser. I have not been able use the two
other links you included in yr answer. Could you kindly check if those are
still valid and if needed update the links.

Many thank in advance!

Raimo

--- In tmboptical@yahoogro <mailto:tmboptical%40yahoogroups.com> ups.com,
"Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...> wrote:
>
> Anthony,
>
> If it is the 10 to focus knob you are interested in, here is what I did
> with a Tak knob instillation:
>
> http://tech.
<http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/tmboptical/files/Tak%20Micro%20Focuser/>
groups.yahoo.com/group/tmboptical/files/Tak%20Micro%20Focuser/
>
> Reference message nr. 732739
>
> Here is an article I put together on Tom's request which included some of
> his instructions also:
>
> http://f1.grp.
<http://f1.grp.yahoofs.com/v1/wHduSg1XbH7Rn1EjK2IyNetrW_v0ByC1gLsXMDsrrmeTF8
t> yahoofs.com/v1/wHduSg1XbH7Rn1EjK2IyNetrW_v0ByC1gLsXMDsrrmeTF8t
>
077ECxFKRAx_tF4x4xg_1IcxdpYmftO636Y3DEJ0WDYrI9ENx05bJPAoWxaJhtQ/CNCfocuserAd
> justments.pdf or http://tinyurl. <http://tinyurl.com/mp96bs> com/mp96bs
>
> This is dealing with adjustments on the focuser.
>
> HTH,
>
>
>
> All the best,
>
> Terry
>
>
>
> _____
>
> From: tmboptical@yahoogro <mailto:tmboptical%40yahoogroups.com> ups.com
[mailto:tmboptical@yahoogro <mailto:tmboptical%40yahoogroups.com> ups.com]
On
> Behalf Of Anthony Dente
> Sent: Wednesday, June 10, 2009 2:23 PM
> To: tmboptical@yahoogro <mailto:tmboptical%40yahoogroups.com> ups.com
> Subject: [tmboptical] Feather Touch focuser for a TMB 115 f/7 CNC Silver
>
>
>
>
>
> Hi everyone:
>
> Need help in attaching a Feather Touch Focuser on my "old" TMB 115 f/7 CNC
> silver model.
> I E-mailed TMB about this and since Thomas Back passing away, no
> specifications on this
> model are known.
>
> Is it worth the upgrade?
>
> Has anyone done this with a silver 115 f/7 CNC?
>
> Anthony Dente
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>





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

#36582

From: "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...>
Date: Tue Aug 11, 2009 10:52 am
Subject: RE: Parts for a 105/650 CNC

terry_tuggle

Offline

Roy,

      The focusers were made in Germany by APM along with the tube, so Markus
is who you need to talk to. Just don't refer to it as a TMB and he will not
be offended. Markus is the person responsible for making these scopes.
Thomas designed the optics and sold the scopes in the US while they were
still partners. Everyone just called them TMB's because they were the ones
assembled by Tom.

Markus also sold on Astromart where I bought my scope from him; 130/780
(SN006). Most referred to these scopes as APM/TMB's.

      The "CNCfocuser Adjustments" is in the file section.

HTH,



All the best,

Terry



   _____

From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Roy Ramdeen
Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 12:06 AM
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [tmboptical] Parts for a 105/650 CNC





Well I though this site was down as well because I haven't had any posts
from the site as well for a while.

A while ago I called Markus @ APM to get information on my TMB 105, Makus
replied no objective test info available, no parts call TMB. I email TMB
several times with out any success, when Thomas was alive I had better
service, so looks like TMB is struggling in my view, by now I was getting a
little annoyed. Does anyone have or know where I can get the cnc German
knobs that came with these great units. Further more I thought I would try
the new TMB's and was told these objectives are now made in china. Is this
true? I just don't need another William Optics. I not here to piss anyone
off just need a little assistance that doesn't seem to exist at TMB.

Roy...

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





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

#36583

From: "Tube Tim" <potentate@...>
Date: Wed Aug 12, 2009 1:51 pm
Subject: Re: Parts for a 105/650 CNC

limunary

Offline

>--- In tmboptical@yahoogroups.com, Roy Ramdeen <deepsky1@...> wrote:
> < snip >

Does anyone have or know where I can get the cnc�German�knobs that came with
these great units.

I would look for a local machine shop to duplicate one.  That is how I made an
extra knob and it looks identical.  The cost was about same as purchasing one
direct.

You might check with Teton Telescopes also.

_ .. --
   Tim
>
> Roy...
>

#36584

From: "Junn" <dchavezjr@...>
Date: Wed Aug 12, 2009 11:37 am
Subject: Removing TMB 105/650 CNC Focusing Knob

junn_kulit

Offline

Hi To All,

I might attach a Robofocus motor to my TMB scope (silver and aluminum)in the
future. I want to know how to remove one of the focusing knob. I don't see any
screw on the knob's axle, but there is a hex screw near the shaft.

To those who know the mechanics of the TMB focuser, please help. I know my scope
is built like a tank but I don't want to ruin or mess up the focuser.

Thanks and clear skies,

Junn

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

#36585

From: Frank Sackenheim GMX <frank.sackenheim@...>
Date: Wed Aug 12, 2009 1:54 pm
Subject: Reducer/Flattener

franksackenheim

Offline

Hi everyone,

i am new to this group as i just became a TMB User a couple of weeks
ago. I bought a 80/600 TMB in used but perfect condition. As this was
my dream telescope for years i was very proud to call it my own. But
after the first light with my canon 350d i was disappointed. I used
the Tele Vue REF 3007 Reducer for Instruments of 400-800m focal
length. The First Light showed very heavy image field curveture in
the edges of the image. After some research i found out that i have
to increase the backfocus of my setup up to 56mm. i used some spacers
to get there and the second light showed some better results as can
be seen here: http://frank-sackenheim.de/html/bilder/Crescent_Final.jpg
But there is still some image field curvature in the edges, and as i
�m going tu use larger chips in the future im searching for a
perfectly working reducer for my scope. Its too bad that TMB doesnt
build a Reducer/Flattener for this scopes!

I Hope someone could help me cause i dont want to change my scope
again to a Takahashi Scope:-)

CS and Kind Regards Frank

_______________________________________
Frank Sackenheim
F�rsterstra�e 49
50825 K�ln
Tel 0221 122121
Mobil 0163 3122121
frank@...
www.frank-sackenheim.de
www.myspace.com/sackenheim





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

#36586

From: "APM Telescopes" <anfrage@...>
Date: Tue Aug 11, 2009 8:05 am
Subject: Re: Parts for a 105/650 CNC

apmtelescopes

Online Now

Hi Roy

to public same as to you

1, Thomas Back got the original testreports and keeped them, I have no access to
those, so please do not complain about me , ok ?

2, please tell me where I told you to call TMB ? Thats not true

3, TMB Lenses ( called Signature Series ) of today are indeet made in Asia,
where excactly only Astronomics can tell you

4, the lenses we did and sold together with Thomas Back , are made in Russia
only and renamed now into APM/LZOS and APM/LOMO , a clear indication that they
are made in Russia and not in China. Our Lenses are available since 1999 until
today and we sell them still with good success all over the world

thanks

Markus

   ----- Original Message -----
   From: Roy Ramdeen
   To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
   Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:05 AM
   Subject: [tmboptical] Parts for a 105/650 CNC


     Well I though this site was down as well because I haven't had any posts
from the site as well for a while.

   A while ago I called Markus @ APM to get information on my TMB 105, Makus
replied no objective test info available, no parts call TMB. I email TMB several
times with out any success, when Thomas was alive I had better service, so looks
like TMB is struggling in my view, by now I was getting a little annoyed. Does
anyone have or know where I can get the cnc German knobs that came with these
great units. Further more I thought I would try the new TMB's and was told these
objectives are now made in china. Is this true? I just don't need another
William Optics. I not here to piss anyone off just need a little assistance that
doesn't seem to exist at TMB.

   Roy...

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





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

#36587

From: Roy Ramdeen <deepsky1@...>
Date: Wed Aug 12, 2009 7:43 am
Subject: Re: RE: Parts for a 105/650 CNC

deepsky_01

Offline

Terry,
Thanks much for this, I now have a bit more info on this great scope. I will
give markus a call again.
If I may say so this 105 comes fairly close to an AP Traveler.
Roy..

----- Original Message -----
From: Terry Tuggle <tlt284@...>
Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2009 4:53 am
Subject: RE: [tmboptical] Parts for a 105/650 CNC
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com

> Roy,
>
> ���� The focusers were made in Germany by
> APM along with the tube, so Markus
> is who you need to talk to. Just don't refer to it as a TMB and
> he will not
> be offended. Markus is the person responsible for making these scopes.
> Thomas designed the optics and sold the scopes in the US while
> they were
> still partners. Everyone just called them TMB's because they
> were the ones
> assembled by Tom.
>
> Markus also sold on Astromart where I bought my scope from him;
> 130/780(SN006). Most referred to these scopes as APM/TMB's.
>
> ���� The "CNCfocuser Adjustments" is in the
> file section.
>
> HTH,
>
> �
>
> All the best,
>
> Terry
>
> �
>
> � _____�
>
> From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
> Behalf Of Roy Ramdeen
> Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 12:06 AM
> To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [tmboptical] Parts for a 105/650 CNC
>
> �
>
> �
>
> Well I though this site was down as well because I haven't had
> any posts
> from the site as well for a while.
>
> A while ago I called Markus @ APM to get information on my TMB
> 105, Makus
> replied no objective test info available, no parts call TMB. I
> email TMB
> several times with out any success, when Thomas was alive I had better
> service, so looks like TMB is struggling in my view, by now I
> was getting a
> little annoyed. Does anyone have or know where I can get the cnc
> Germanknobs that came with these great units. Further more I
> thought I would try
> the new TMB's and was told these objectives are now made in
> china. Is this
> true? I just don't need another William Optics. I not here to
> piss anyone
> off just need a little assistance that doesn't seem to exist at TMB.
>
> Roy...
>
> [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]

#36588

From: "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...>
Date: Wed Aug 12, 2009 8:24 pm
Subject: RE: Removing TMB 105/650 CNC Focusing Knob

terry_tuggle

Offline

Junn,

      It is that hex screw near the end of the shaft. These pictures of the
Tak focuser knob addition I did for my scope is here:

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/tmboptical/files/Tak%20Micro%20Focuser/

There is some adjustment info for the focuser also further down in the file
section called CNC Focuser Adjustments.





I made the adapter myself for the RoboFocus, but later found out that AP
makes an adapter that will work much like the one I made. It is called a
Robo Bracket (JRFBRK),

which is under Accessories/Photographic and CCD imaging.

http://www.astro-physics.com/

HTH



All the best,

Terry



   _____

From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Junn
Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 6:38 AM
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [tmboptical] Removing TMB 105/650 CNC Focusing Knob





Hi To All,

I might attach a Robofocus motor to my TMB scope (silver and aluminum)in the
future. I want to know how to remove one of the focusing knob. I don't see
any screw on the knob's axle, but there is a hex screw near the shaft.

To those who know the mechanics of the TMB focuser, please help. I know my
scope is built like a tank but I don't want to ruin or mess up the focuser.

Thanks and clear skies,

Junn





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

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

#36589

From: "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...>
Date: Wed Aug 12, 2009 8:31 pm
Subject: RE: Reducer/Flattener

terry_tuggle

Offline

Frank,

      Check out Teton Telescopes

http://www.tetontelescope.com/product_info.php?cPath=47_14_32
<http://www.tetontelescope.com/product_info.php?cPath=47_14_32&products_id=5
32> &products_id=532



This is a Field Flattener that should work; Mark will know for sure.

HTH





All the best,

Terry



   _____

From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Frank Sackenheim GMX
Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 8:54 AM
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [tmboptical] Reducer/Flattener





Hi everyone,

i am new to this group as i just became a TMB User a couple of weeks
ago. I bought a 80/600 TMB in used but perfect condition. As this was
my dream telescope for years i was very proud to call it my own. But
after the first light with my canon 350d i was disappointed. I used
the Tele Vue REF 3007 Reducer for Instruments of 400-800m focal
length. The First Light showed very heavy image field curveture in
the edges of the image. After some research i found out that i have
to increase the backfocus of my setup up to 56mm. i used some spacers
to get there and the second light showed some better results as can
be seen here: http://frank-
<http://frank-sackenheim.de/html/bilder/Crescent_Final.jpg>
sackenheim.de/html/bilder/Crescent_Final.jpg
But there is still some image field curvature in the edges, and as i
�m going tu use larger chips in the future im searching for a
perfectly working reducer for my scope. Its too bad that TMB doesnt
build a Reducer/Flattener for this scopes!

I Hope someone could help me cause i dont want to change my scope
again to a Takahashi Scope:-)

CS and Kind Regards Frank

_______________________________________
Frank Sackenheim
F�rsterstra�e 49
50825 K�ln
Tel 0221 122121
Mobil 0163 3122121
frank@frank- <mailto:frank%40frank-sackenheim.de> sackenheim.de
www.frank-sackenheim.de
www.myspace.com/sackenheim

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





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

#36590

From: Roy Ramdeen <deepsky1@...>
Date: Fri Aug 14, 2009 6:17 am
Subject: Re: Parts for a 105/650 CNC

deepsky_01

Offline

Thanks for responding makus,
I now know a little more history on my scope and the conglameration between
APM/TMB. I am at the Sasketchewan Summer Star Party, and getting more info.
There are two TMB's including mine, so we are having a field day with these
great old scopes. I also have my AP 130, but havn't had a real need to pull it
out, happy doing AAVSO double stars, with my now APM/TMB it's inpressive
compared to the more expensive stuff.
I head a lot of second hand history on the relationship between TMB and APM,
that i will not go into.

When I contacted APM (You) via email for info you told me you did not have any
and to contact a US dealer,
You did not tell me to contact TMB, but in retrospect if you live in North
America and you have to get info you call the source, I though TMB would be my
best bet, not a reseller. Secondly I was not complaining about you or your
services, don't know where you are comming from. No need to start that train of
though.
I thank you very much for the rest of your communication.

Regards Roy



----- Original Message -----
From: APM Telescopes <anfrage@...>
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 8:00 am
Subject: Re: [tmboptical] Parts for a 105/650 CNC
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com

> Hi Roy
>
> to public same as to you
>
> 1, Thomas Back got the original testreports and keeped them, I
> have no access to those, so please do not complain about me , ok ?
>
> 2, please tell me where I told you to call TMB ? Thats not true
>
> 3, TMB Lenses ( called Signature Series ) of today are indeet
> made in Asia, where excactly only Astronomics can tell you
>
> 4, the lenses we did and sold together with Thomas Back , are
> made in Russia only and renamed now into APM/LZOS and APM/LOMO ,
> a clear indication that they are made in Russia and not in
> China. Our Lenses are available since 1999 until today and we
> sell them still with good success all over the world
>
> thanks
>
> Markus
>
> � ----- Original Message -----
> � From: Roy Ramdeen
> � To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
> � Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:05 AM
> � Subject: [tmboptical] Parts for a 105/650 CNC
>
>
> ��� Well I though this site was down as well
> because I haven't had any posts from the site as well for a while.
>
> � A while ago I called Markus @ APM to get information on
> my TMB 105, Makus replied no objective test info available, no
> parts call TMB. I email TMB several times with out any success,
> when Thomas was alive I had better service, so looks like TMB is
> struggling in my view, by now I was getting a little annoyed.
> Does anyone have or know where I can get the cnc German knobs
> that came with these great units. Further more I thought I would
> try the new TMB's and was told these objectives are now made in
> china. Is this true? I just don't need another William Optics. I
> not here to piss anyone off just need a little assistance that
> doesn't seem to exist at TMB.
>
> � Roy...
>
> � [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]

#36591

From: Roy Ramdeen <deepsky1@...>
Date: Fri Aug 14, 2009 4:14 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Parts for a 105/650 CNC

deepsky_01

Offline

Thanks Tim..

----- Original Message -----
From: Tube Tim <potentate@...>
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 7:52 am
Subject: [tmboptical] Re: Parts for a 105/650 CNC
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com

> >--- In tmboptical@yahoogroups.com, Roy Ramdeen
> <deepsky1@...> wrote:
> > < snip >
>
> Does anyone have or know where I can get the cnc�German�knobs
> that came with these great units.
>
> I would look for a local machine shop to duplicate one.�
> That is how I made an extra knob and it looks identical.�
> The cost was about same as purchasing one direct.
>
> You might check with Teton Telescopes also.
>
> _ .. --
> � Tim
> >
> > Roy...
> >
>
>


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

#36592

From: "fernandorivera3" <fernandorivera3@...>
Date: Sun Sep 13, 2009 12:20 am
Subject: Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side

fernandorivera3

Offline

Greetings! This is my first post to the user-group, so I will be looking forward
to responses to my questions. What I would like to do is sometime in the near
future image with two small APO's, mounted side by side, with one for RGB
exposures, the other for Luminance or H-alpha data. Now, assuming that (1)
imaging setup is balanced properly, (2) imaging setup is completely
"orthogonal", & (3) excellent polar alignment, what issues (besides differential
flexure) can arise with such a configuration? Speaking of differential flexure,
it can be compenstated for by using an off axis guider, a ccd camera with (a)
built in off axis guider (QSI) or (b) built in guide chip (SBIG), or physically
connecting the guider itself to telescope focuser. But are there other options?
Is there something I have not considered that would lead to issues/problems? I
am asking this before spending LOTS OF $$$ on a 2nd APO & 2nd ccd camera. So any
comments, suggestions, recommendations are greatly appreciated!

Regards,
Fernando

#36593

From: "Junn" <dchavezjr@...>
Date: Thu Aug 13, 2009 5:47 pm
Subject: Re: Removing TMB 105/650 CNC Focusing Knob

junn_kulit

Offline

Terry,

Thanks a lot for the info you provided.

Clear skies,

Junn

--- In tmboptical@yahoogroups.com, "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...> wrote:
>
> Junn,
>
>      It is that hex screw near the end of the shaft. These pictures of the
> Tak focuser knob addition I did for my scope is here:
>
> http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/tmboptical/files/Tak%20Micro%20Focuser/
>
> There is some adjustment info for the focuser also further down in the file
> section called CNC Focuser Adjustments.
>
>
>
>
>
> I made the adapter myself for the RoboFocus, but later found out that AP
> makes an adapter that will work much like the one I made. It is called a
> Robo Bracket (JRFBRK),
>
> which is under Accessories/Photographic and CCD imaging.
>
> http://www.astro-physics.com/
>
> HTH
>
>
>
> All the best,
>
> Terry
>
>
>
>   _____
>
> From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
> Behalf Of Junn
> Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 6:38 AM
> To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [tmboptical] Removing TMB 105/650 CNC Focusing Knob
>
>
>
>
>
> Hi To All,
>
> I might attach a Robofocus motor to my TMB scope (silver and aluminum)in the
> future. I want to know how to remove one of the focusing knob. I don't see
> any screw on the knob's axle, but there is a hex screw near the shaft.
>
> To those who know the mechanics of the TMB focuser, please help. I know my
> scope is built like a tank but I don't want to ruin or mess up the focuser.
>
> Thanks and clear skies,
>
> Junn
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

#36594

From: "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...>
Date: Thu Sep 17, 2009 2:08 am
Subject: RE: Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side

terry_tuggle

Offline

Fernando,

      There is no advantage to a side by side setup; in fact if the scopes
are not the same weight it sets up a built in imbalance; the traditional
over and under works the best. And for a guide scope the Mini Borg guiding
scope is top notch; its advantage is the guider can be hard mounted to the
scope without having to worry about focuser related issues.

http://www.hutech.com/ImagAcce.htm

The x-y positioner looks like a handy accessory as well.



All the best,

Terry



   _____

From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of fernandorivera3
Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2009 7:21 PM
To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [tmboptical] Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side





Greetings! This is my first post to the user-group, so I will be looking
forward to responses to my questions. What I would like to do is sometime in
the near future image with two small APO's, mounted side by side, with one
for RGB exposures, the other for Luminance or H-alpha data. Now, assuming
that (1) imaging setup is balanced properly, (2) imaging setup is completely
"orthogonal", & (3) excellent polar alignment, what issues (besides
differential flexure) can arise with such a configuration? Speaking of
differential flexure, it can be compenstated for by using an off axis
guider, a ccd camera with (a) built in off axis guider (QSI) or (b) built in
guide chip (SBIG), or physically connecting the guider itself to telescope
focuser. But are there other options? Is there something I have not
considered that would lead to issues/problems? I am asking this before
spending LOTS OF $$$ on a 2nd APO & 2nd ccd camera. So any comments,
suggestions, recommendations are greatly appreciated!

Regards,
Fernando





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

#36595

From: "a1parkranger" <a1parkranger@...>
Date: Thu Oct 1, 2009 1:10 am
Subject: Re: Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side

a1parkranger

Offline

Hi Fernando,
Here is a relatively easy fix for flexure:
http://www.horizontalheavens.com/TMB80_3RingMounted.jpg
*I eventually replaced this first ring around the focus drawtube with a smaller
90mm ring on a DA.  It works best when the three points are just barely snugged
while still allowing the motorized focuser to work via FocusMax.

FWIW, I also changed this setup to a double dovetail and extended a 3rd ring
down and onto the NP-127 as well.  Sorry, no images of that setup.
Michael Howell
http://www.horizontalheavens.com/


> From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com] On
> Behalf Of fernandorivera3
> Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2009 7:21 PM
> To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [tmboptical] Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side
>
> Greetings! This is my first post to the user-group, so I will be looking
> forward to responses to my questions. What I would like to do is sometime in
> the near future image with two small APO's, mounted side by side, with one
> for RGB exposures, the other for Luminance or H-alpha data. Now, assuming
> that (1) imaging setup is balanced properly, (2) imaging setup is completely
> "orthogonal", & (3) excellent polar alignment, what issues (besides
> differential flexure) can arise with such a configuration? Speaking of
> differential flexure, it can be compenstated for by using an off axis
> guider, a ccd camera with (a) built in off axis guider (QSI) or (b) built in
> guide chip (SBIG), or physically connecting the guider itself to telescope
> focuser. But are there other options? Is there something I have not
> considered that would lead to issues/problems? I am asking this before
> spending LOTS OF $$$ on a 2nd APO & 2nd ccd camera. So any comments,
> suggestions, recommendations are greatly appreciated!
>
> Regards,
> Fernando
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

#36596

From: "Mark" <mclewis1@...>
Date: Thu Oct 8, 2009 10:47 pm
Subject: Re: Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side

mclewis123

Offline

Actually Terry there are a number of benefits to a side by side
configuration compared to a piggyback one  ...

1) The total equipment weight is closer to the mount which means a
little less counterweight is required. This can be very useful if your
setup requires close to the maximum available counterweight.

2) Less weight on a single dovetail bar/plate (the one under the larger
primary scope). The side by side spreads out the weight of the two
scopes between the two plates. This is even more of an issue if you've
got a primary scope with the smaller Vixen compatible dovetail bar.

3) More flexibility in mounting multiple scopes, with rings you'll
usually need multiple setups to handle more than two scopes. If you've
got more than two scopes this can start to become a more important
issues.

4) More substantial mounting points compared to some 3 point rings. This
is admittedly a bit of a two edged sword as the more substantial
mounting also means less flexibility in pointing. You also  need to
spend some time aligning the saddles (usually a one time event)  if
you're not going to use 3 point rings.

5) Increased weight carrying capability ... there are some practical
limits for the piggybacked scope. Sometimes it's costs (really big rings
and mounting hardware can be expensive), at other times it's weight
(those bigger rings and mounting hardware can also end up weighing quite
a bit more than the extra saddle and side by side bar). With a side by
side configuration you can easily even mount scopes of the same weight
together.

Weight imbalance between the scopes is usually not an issue at all. Yes
you do spend a bit more time on the initial setup getting everything
balanced but once that's done there's no problem. With a SbS
configuration you deal with the imbalance by sliding the connecting
bar/plate sideways which places the primary scope closer to the mount's
saddle and the lighter scope a bit farther away.

I run a combination of C11, C6, TMB115 and a AT80ED scopes on a CGE with
an ADM SbS configuration. For visual work it's usually the C11 and
TMB115 (30 vs. 15lbs) but for imaging it can be just about any other
combination. For autoguiding I've also  started to use a converted 50mm
finderscope instead of my 80mm refractor. This smaller guidescope
configuration is mounted underneath the primary imaging scope on the
dovetail bar/plate leaving the 2nd saddle open for other uses.

Mark

--- In tmboptical@yahoogroups.com, "Terry Tuggle" <tlt284@...> wrote:
>
> Fernando,
>
>      There is no advantage to a side by side setup; in fact if the
scopes
> are not the same weight it sets up a built in imbalance; the
traditional
> over and under works the best. And for a guide scope the Mini Borg
guiding
> scope is top notch; its advantage is the guider can be hard mounted to
the
> scope without having to worry about focuser related issues.
>
> http://www.hutech.com/ImagAcce.htm
>
> The x-y positioner looks like a handy accessory as well.
>
>
>
> All the best,
>
> Terry
>
>
>
>   _____
>
> From: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com [mailto:tmboptical@yahoogroups.com]
On
> Behalf Of fernandorivera3
> Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2009 7:21 PM
> To: tmboptical@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [tmboptical] Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side
>
>
>
>
>
> Greetings! This is my first post to the user-group, so I will be
looking
> forward to responses to my questions. What I would like to do is
sometime in
> the near future image with two small APO's, mounted side by side, with
one
> for RGB exposures, the other for Luminance or H-alpha data. Now,
assuming
> that (1) imaging setup is balanced properly, (2) imaging setup is
completely
> "orthogonal", & (3) excellent polar alignment, what issues (besides
> differential flexure) can arise with such a configuration? Speaking of
> differential flexure, it can be compenstated for by using an off axis
> guider, a ccd camera with (a) built in off axis guider (QSI) or (b)
built in
> guide chip (SBIG), or physically connecting the guider itself to
telescope
> focuser. But are there other options? Is there something I have not
> considered that would lead to issues/problems? I am asking this before
> spending LOTS OF $$$ on a 2nd APO & 2nd ccd camera. So any comments,
> suggestions, recommendations are greatly appreciated!
>
> Regards,
> Fernando
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

#36597

From: Mike Dodd <mike@...>
Date: Thu Sep 17, 2009 2:18 am
Subject: Re: Imaging with 2 OTA's side by side

doddm2001

Offline

fernandorivera3 wrote:
> What I would like to do
> is sometime in the near future image with two small APO's, mounted
> side by side, with one for RGB exposures, the other for Luminance or
> H-alpha data. Now, assuming that (1) imaging setup is balanced
> properly, (2) imaging setup is completely "orthogonal", & (3)
> excellent polar alignment, what issues (besides differential flexure)
> can arise with such a configuration?

You'll need to make sure the two OTAs are precisely aligned with each
other, or else the edges of the luminance and RGB frames will be lost.

> Speaking of differential
> flexure, it can be compenstated for by using an off axis guider, a
> ccd camera with (a) built in off axis guider (QSI) or (b) built in
> guide chip (SBIG), or physically connecting the guider itself to
> telescope focuser.

Well, no, not really. These methods will eliminate flexure for ONE of
the OTAs, but the potential for it remains on the other OTA.

In reality, what you are proposing is nothing more than a very large
guide scope. The issue of differential flexure will remain, and because
of the size and weight of the "guide scope," I believe it could be a
non-trivial challenge to eliminate.

Based on my experience with differential flexure
<http://astronomy.mdodd.com/flexure.html> I would think twice before
attempting what you're proposing.

   But are there other options? Is there something I
> have not considered that would lead to issues/problems?

How will you control and acquire images from two cameras simultaneously?
Will you need two computers? I'd be surprised if you could have two
instances of (e.g.) Maxim or CCDSoft (one for each camera) running at
the same time on one computer.

In terms of other options, you might want to consider sticking with one
imaging OTA and a small external guide scope (60mm f/5 is what I use)
Invest your money in automation software such as ACP instead of a second
OTA. With automation software, you don't have to get up in the middle of
the night to do the meridian flip and, since the software plate-solves
pointing, framing is very precise, not only after the flip, but also
from one night to the next. For example, I just completed two nights of
imaging NGC6979 with ACP, and lost only about 5% of the image due to
framing differences between the two nights.

While automation software such as ACP is not a panacea, it certainly
makes imaging much easier and enjoyable. There is a learning curve, but
it's a heck of a lot smaller than the learning curve I went through with
differential flexure.
-----
Mike

Mike Dodd
Montpelier, VA USA
http://astronomy.mdodd.com

#36598

From: "rick_auerbach" <rauerbach2@...>
Date: Fri Oct 9, 2009 1:48 pm
Subject: Moon Projectile and Mars

rick_auerbach

Offline