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Appendix 2: Telescope Control Systems
Depending on the Meade DS telescope model, one of the following manual or electronic con-
trol systems may be included in the telescope’s standard specifications. (Telescope specifi-
cations are generally listed on the box in which the telescope is packed.) Alternately, any of
these control systems may be purchased separately as an optional feature.
#490 Manual Slow-Motion Control Set: The #490 Control Set permits manual tracking of
astronomical and terrestrial objects through the telescope, by turning one or both of the man-
ual control knobs; one slow-motion control is attached to each of the vertical and horizontal
axes of the telescope, as shown in Figs. T and U.
If purchased as an option, the instructions for mounting the #490 are included with the control
set itself. If this feature is standard on your telescope, the control set is preassembled on the
telescope, except the control knobs (T-1 and T-2). Attach these knobs with the provided hex
key. Be sure to align the set screw with the flat on the shaft.
With the lock-knobs (U-1) and (U-2) in their locked positions, the observer may track, or fol-
low, any object, astronomical or terrestrial, by turning one or both of the control knobs (T-1)
and (T-2). To move the telescope rapidly from one point in the sky to another, unlock the lock-
knobs (U-1) and (U-2), relocking them once the desired object has been placed in the tele-
scopic field.
Note that placing each of the two lock-knobs in a “partially-locked” position creates a com-
fortable drag in moving the telescope. Experiment with the lock-knobs to find the optimum lock
tensions for your applications.
#492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System: With the #492 Electronic Control System
attached to any Meade DS telescope, all motions of the telescope, including moving the tele-
scope to an object, centering it in the field of view, and tracking it (in the case of an astro-
nomical object) to compensate for the Earth’s rotation, may be effected through the pushbut-
ton Electronic Controller (Fig. X).
If purchased as an option, the instructions for mounting the #492 are included with the control
system itself. If this feature is standard on your telescope, the user needs to attach the motor
assemblies to the telescope, as described below.
The #492 System consists of the following components, each of which should be located in
the packing before installation to the telescope is attempted (see Figs. V and Y): battery pack
(Y-1); accepts ten AA-size user-supplied batteries) with cord; two small hex wrenches; two
(identical and interchangeable) motor assemblies (V-1) and (V-4) with cords; one Electronic
Controller handbox (Fig. X). (Note that for clarity cords attached to the motor assemblies and
battery pack are not shown in the accompanying Figs. V and Y of the #492 Control System.)
To install the #492 System:
1. Place ten AA-size batteries inside the battery pack (Y-1), with correct battery orientation as
indicated on the battery pack’s internal holder; attach the battery pack to one of the tripod legs
using the Velcro fastener as shown in Fig. Y, or set it on the accessory shelf (Fig. Y).
2. Attach the vertical motor assembly (V-1) to the vertical control unit by placing the knurled
ring (V-2) of the motor assembly over the reduction gear (V-3). Note that three small plastic
tabs project outward about 3mm (1/8") from the face of the threaded ring near the reduction
gear (V-3). These “locator” tabs must fit into mating slots located just-inside the knurled ring
(V-2). Wiggle the motor assembly (V-1) to engage the reduction gear (V-3) with the internal
gears of the motor assembly (V-1). The knurled ring (V-2) locks into position by threading it
to a mating thread located on the vertical control unit. Turn the knurled ring to a firm-feel only;
do not overtighten.
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