iOptron G28ECA Series

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features
Important Cautions

The iOptron GEM28™ German Equatorial GoTo Mount is designed for astronomical observation and astrophotography, offering precise tracking and automated object location. It comes in two main models: GEM28 (#G28 Series) and GEM28EC (#G28ECA Series), with the EC version typically including an optional hard case.

Function Description:

The GEM28 mount is a German equatorial mount system that automatically tracks celestial objects as they move across the night sky, compensating for the Earth's rotation. Its GoTo functionality allows users to select an object from a database, and the mount will automatically slew the attached telescope to that object. The mount is designed to minimize stress on its driving mechanism through proper balancing and offers various features for accurate polar alignment, essential for long-exposure astrophotography.

Important Technical Specifications:

Mount Type: German Equatorial GoTo Mount
Payload Capacity: Approximately 13 lbs (6kg) for an 8" scope, with a 10.4 lbs (4.7 kg) counterweight included. Higher payloads may require additional counterweights or a CW Extension Bar.
Tripod: 1.5-inch tripod with an accessory tray (optional LiteRoc™ tripod available).
Polar Scope: Equipped with either an AccuAlign™ dark field illuminated Polar Scope or an iPolar™ electronic polar scope.
Hand Controller: Go2Nova® 8409.
Connectivity: Built-in WiFi, USB 2.0 cable, Mini USB cable (for iPolar or polar scope LED), controller cables (X2), optional/external GPS Module (#8438).
Power: AC adapter (100-240V).
Balancing: Requires balancing in both DEC and RA axes to ensure minimum stress on the mount driving mechanism.
Gear Switches: RA and DEC Gear Switches for engaging/disengaging the worm system.
Mount Base: 102mm base.
Dovetail Saddle: Vixen dovetail saddle with a center adjusting block.

Usage Features:

Setup and Assembly:
- The mount head is removed from the package by ensuring the RA axle is locked with an Allen wrench and the R.A. and DEC Gear Switches are in the unlocking position.
- The tripod is set up by threading the Alignment Peg onto the tripod head and securing the Accessory Tray.
- The mount head is attached to the tripod by retracting the Azimuth Adjustment Screws, fitting the alignment peg, and then tightening the Azi Locking Screws.
- The mount should be leveled using the built-in Bubble Level Indicator or an external leveler.
- Latitude adjustment is made by loosening the Latitude Locking Lever, turning the Latitude Adj. Knob, and then tightening the lever. A push-button on the ratchet lever allows for quick adjustment.
- The counterweight shaft is threaded into the mounting holes.
- The counterweight is installed by ensuring the mount is at its zero position (CW shaft pointing to the ground), locking the RA axle with an Allen wrench, disengaging the R.A. Gear Switch, gliding the CW over the shaft, and tightening the CW Locking Screw. A safety cap is placed back on the shaft.
- The telescope is installed by releasing the dovetail saddle locking knob, sliding the telescope dovetail plate into the saddle, and tightening the knob.
Balancing Payload: After attaching the telescope and accessories, the mount head assembly must be balanced in both DEC and RA axes. This involves setting the mount to Zero Position, disengaging both RA and DEC gear switches, and moving the scope/CW until balance is achieved. The balancing process must be done with Gear Switches in the totally disengaged position to prevent damage to the worm system.
Cable Connections: Short RJ11 cable connects the DEC control unit to the DEC port of the RA/main control unit. The Go2Nova® 8409 Hand Controller connects to the HBX port. A 12V DC power supply plugs into the DC12V IN socket. An optional GPS module connects to the iPORT.
Controller Setup (Time & Site): The MENU button is used to access "Settings" and "Set Time & Site." Users can manually enter the current date, time zone offset (e.g., "UTC -300 minutes" for Boston), and toggle Daylight Saving Time. Latitude and longitude coordinates can be entered manually or obtained from a GPS module.
Polar Alignment:
- iPolar Polar Alignment: Requires downloading and installing iPolar Software, connecting a mini USB cable between the iPolar and a computer, and following on-screen instructions.
- Quick Polar Alignment (AccuAlign™): Involves threading the polar scope LED onto the polar scope, connecting the LED cable to the DC12V OUT socket from the DEC unit, and using the Hand Controller (MENU => "Align" => "Pole Star Position") to display the Polaris Position. Azimuth and Latitude Adj. Knobs are used to adjust the mount until Polaris is in the indicated location on the Polar Scope Dial.
- BrightStar Polar Alignment: For situations where the pole star is not visible, users should refer to the online Instruction Manual.
Manual Operation: Arrow keys (◄ ► ▲ ▼) are used to point the telescope, and number keys change the slewing speed. The STOP/0 button starts tracking.
Set Zero Position: This command registers the current mount position as zero. The mount should be physically set at Zero Position (telescope on top of mount head, pointing to North Pole, CW shaft pointing to ground) before registering via MENU => Zero Position => Set Zero Position.
One Star Alignment: Performed to correct Zero Position discrepancy and improve GOTO accuracy.
Go to an Object: Press MENU, select "Select and Slew," choose a category (e.g., Solar System), then an object (e.g., Moon). The mount will slew to the object and begin tracking.
Sync to Target: If an object is not centered in the eyepiece after slewing, this function (MENU => Sync to Target) allows centering and synchronizing to improve local GOTO accuracy.
Packing Up: It is recommended to return the mount to Zero Position, lay it into the carrying case, disengage the gear system, and insert the Allen wrench to lock the RA axis for transportation.

Maintenance Features:

Firmware Upgrades: Hand controller and mount firmware upgrades are available online and should be checked for the latest versions.
Warranty: iOptron offers a two-year warranty on telescopes, mounts, and controllers, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Returns require a Proper Return Merchant Authorization Number (RMA) obtained from iOptron. The customer is responsible for transportation and insurance costs. The warranty is void if the product is modified, abused, misused, mishandled, or unauthorized repair is attempted. Normal wear and tear are not covered.
Support: Technical support is available via email (support@ioptron.com) and phone. Online resources include a User's Manual and tips for setup.

Important Cautions:

Always read the Quick Start Guide carefully before setup and use. Worm system damage due to user operation error is not covered by warranty.
Never disengage Gear Switches without holding the mount firmly to prevent personal injury and/or equipment damage.
The balancing process must be done with Gear Switches in the totally disengaged position; otherwise, it might damage the worm system.
Always hold the mount and/or telescope assembly before releasing the Gear Switches to prevent it from swinging and causing injury or damage.