Vixen GPDX Skysensor 2000 PC and Hal 110 tripod
Please Log In to view the details for this classified ad.
Don't have an Astromart account? Click here to create one
VIXEN GREAT POLARIS "GPDX" GERMAN EQUATORIAL MOUNT
Make an offer! Need to sell.
This mount is in excellent condition. Used it with my C9.25 and the tracking was great and the mount is solid. The 9.25 is also for sale.
PayPal or Cash only. Buyer pays for shipping in the CONUS only.
"The following is from the Company 7 website"
The GPDX is one of the most massive of the three "Great Polaris" series German equatorial mounts manufactured by Vixen Co., Ltd. The other model GP mounts include the lighter weight GPE model, and another which is similar in appearance to the GPE but is its better accessorized cousin the GP. The GP series are the descendants of the Vixen "Super Polaris" mounts which came to dominate the 1980's.
The Great Polaris are an improved, modular German equatorial mount system where the customer is allowed to tailor the system to their particular needs choosing from a broad selection of accessories. The GP-DX mount closely resembles the more compact and portable GP mount however, this belies it's notably superior payload handling and tracking. The GP-DX differences include durable steel is used for the R.A. and Declination Axes shafts, the worm wheels are made of brass (to about double the tolerance of the GP) on improved bearings to provide smooth and stable operation. Accordingly, the GP-DX mount head weighs almost twice as much as the GP.
Vixen GPE Mount Head Specifications
Modular - you choose how you want the system to be accessorized
Payload rating: 22 lb / 10 kg
Quick Release Dovetail Saddle to facilitate setup or take down, or change of instruments
Right Ascension Axis incorporates 144 tooth Worm Gear Set
Right Ascension Axis Worm Gear period 10 minutes
Right Ascension Axis Worm Gear typical accuracy 15 arc sec.
Declination Axis incorporates 144 tooth Worm Gear Set
Right Ascension Fine Geared Manual Slow Motion Controls
Declination Fine Geared Manual Slow Motion Controls
Head Azimuth Fine Adjustment Control
Latitude Geared Fine Adjustment Range from 0 to 62 Degrees
GPE Mount Setting Circles Model 3593
Right Ascension Setting Circle - 10 Minute increments
Declination Setting Circle - 2 Degree increments
Easy tracking manually with geared controls
One 8.14 lb / 3.7 kg Counterweight included
Counterweight Shaft Diameter is 0.781 inch / 19.84 mm
6x 20mm Illuminated Reticle Pole Finder
8 Degree Actual Field of View
Useful in North and South Hemispheres
Pole alignment to within 3 minute accuracy possible
Reticle Illuminator provided (two "AA" batteries required)
Mount Head weighs 18.7 lb / 8.5 kg
Comes with Skysensor 2000 PC
From the website:
SkySensor 2000
The SkySensor "Go To" control system was introduced in its first form in 1984; this was the first commercially viable "Go To" and tracking computer control system made for amateur telescopes. It was distributed for use as an operator retrofitable controller and motor set for installation onto the "Super Polaris" series German equatorial mounts which have since been discontinued.
This SkySensor systems are all an "open loop" arrangement where assuming they are set up and then indexed to the night sky properly, the SkySensor CPU (central processing unit) calculates where the mount is pointing the telescope and how to move it from point to point. There is no positional feedback from the mount to the CPU and so if one releases the mount clutches and moves the telescope by hand, then the SkySensor will not know this. The open loop arrangement is typically the arrangement which is provided today on most moderate to mid priced amateur "Go To" telescopes; assuming no one accidentally moves the telescope by hand after a CPU is indexed then this can work with a reasonable degree of accuracy for most amateur telescopes.
Right: Vixen SkySensor 2000
Keypad Hand Held Controller with LCD display shown (31,356 bytes).
Click on image to see enlarged view of complete kit with two Model MT-4 motors, cabling and Battery Pack (181,991 bytes)
The current model "SkySensor 2000" and the "SkySensor 2000 PC" systems are the vastly refined and improved successors. SkySensor 2000 is the same operating system as is now provided with the Vixen Atlux series mounts. The SkySensor 2000 is retrofitable, it can be installed by the user for use with the Vixen GP, GP-DX, GP-E, SP or SP-DX equatorial mounts to provide highly accurate "Go To" pointing and tracking of celestial objects in its database including the planets, Moon, Sun, and thousands of other objects from Messier, NGC, IC, UGC, SAO, GCVS catalogs.
This is an easy system to setup and to operate, Polar alignment does not really have to be done for visual uses although we do recommend operators do so for astrophotography. This is the most accurate of the tracking control systems made by Vixen for the GP series mounts since it also incorporates PEC (Periodic Error Correction) circuitry to reduce the amplitude of worm gear periodic errors. It is quite refined, after all Vixen has had twenty years to perfect it - even the effect of atmospheric refraction is automatically corrected so even when searching for objects closer to the horizon the pointing accuracy is good.
Users continually praise the accuracy and ease of use of this device. As s noted in the "Sky & Telescope" magazine review of April 2000, p. 56-61 Far outweighing any criticisms is the overriding fact that Sky Sensor worked reliably. The hardware is well made and the software is robust - never once did I have the hand controller freeze up, crash, or display cryptic error messages. For the most part, I found Sky Sensor remarkably frustration-free...Vixen has produced a strong contender in the Go To sweepstakes.
The SkySensor 2000 differs from the SkySensor 2000 PC in that the basic model does not provide the RS-232 port. This means the SkySensor 2000 can not link to a personal computer, or to a number of other third party devices. The SkySensor 2000 can not be controlled remotely. The SkySensor 2000 PC model is not sold in the USA since it has not been certified to operate within RFI emission standards set forth by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). However, the SkySensor 2000 PC model may be available in Europe selling for more than double the cost of the standard SkySensor 2000 in the USA.
SkySensor 2000 can be a cost effective solution for those who already own a suitable Vixen mount. However, we at Company Seven feel this system has enough limitations by current "Go To" mount standards that we would encourage one who is buying a new mount to consider one such as the well integrated SPHINX SXW system especially since there are now ASCOM modules that permit the SPHINX to communicate with a broad range of optional third party accessories (CCD Cameras, Robotic Focusers, etc.).
The SkySensor 2000 is autoguider compatible and it also provides programmable "Periodic Error Correction" circuitry to improve tracking, this is particularly beneficial for astrographic applications. Includes Keypad Hand Controller, two Model MT-4 motors, cabling and battery case. Optional rechargeable 12 volt power supply with proper polarity cable, or Vixen AM-AC-2537 AC Adapter is recommended.
Database content: 13,942 celestial objects
Slewing Rate: up to 1200x that of Sidereal (5-3/4 Deg. per second)
Automated Searches: possible for up to thirty celestial objects, one after another, and at time intervals
Memory Storage: for up to thirty astronomical and terrestrial objects
Object Data Shown: Right Ascension and Declination coordinates, Altitude and Azimuth coordinates, Magnitude, Size, and Constellation
Time Displays: Sidereal and Local time. A timer function is also available
Epoch Coordinates: Epoch 2000, or those based on the current time
CPU: 32 Bit RISC Processor
Display: LCD with twenty characters, two line
Brightness Adjustable: Yes
Keyboard: sixteen Function Numeric Keys, and four Direction Keys
Languages: English, Japanese, German, French, Spanish or Italian
Tracking Modes: Equatorial, or can be directed along vertical and horizontal directions in an alt-azimuth mode Dimensions: 7.4 inches / 188 mm (L) 3.9 inches x 100 mm (W) 1.8 inch x 45 mm (D) Weight: 370 grams / 13.1 oz
Power Cord Polarity: Center is Negative, Shield is Positive
Model # AM-HC-3363
Make an offer! Need to sell.
This mount is in excellent condition. Used it with my C9.25 and the tracking was great and the mount is solid. The 9.25 is also for sale.
PayPal or Cash only. Buyer pays for shipping in the CONUS only.
"The following is from the Company 7 website"
The GPDX is one of the most massive of the three "Great Polaris" series German equatorial mounts manufactured by Vixen Co., Ltd. The other model GP mounts include the lighter weight GPE model, and another which is similar in appearance to the GPE but is its better accessorized cousin the GP. The GP series are the descendants of the Vixen "Super Polaris" mounts which came to dominate the 1980's.
The Great Polaris are an improved, modular German equatorial mount system where the customer is allowed to tailor the system to their particular needs choosing from a broad selection of accessories. The GP-DX mount closely resembles the more compact and portable GP mount however, this belies it's notably superior payload handling and tracking. The GP-DX differences include durable steel is used for the R.A. and Declination Axes shafts, the worm wheels are made of brass (to about double the tolerance of the GP) on improved bearings to provide smooth and stable operation. Accordingly, the GP-DX mount head weighs almost twice as much as the GP.
Vixen GPE Mount Head Specifications
Modular - you choose how you want the system to be accessorized
Payload rating: 22 lb / 10 kg
Quick Release Dovetail Saddle to facilitate setup or take down, or change of instruments
Right Ascension Axis incorporates 144 tooth Worm Gear Set
Right Ascension Axis Worm Gear period 10 minutes
Right Ascension Axis Worm Gear typical accuracy 15 arc sec.
Declination Axis incorporates 144 tooth Worm Gear Set
Right Ascension Fine Geared Manual Slow Motion Controls
Declination Fine Geared Manual Slow Motion Controls
Head Azimuth Fine Adjustment Control
Latitude Geared Fine Adjustment Range from 0 to 62 Degrees
GPE Mount Setting Circles Model 3593
Right Ascension Setting Circle - 10 Minute increments
Declination Setting Circle - 2 Degree increments
Easy tracking manually with geared controls
One 8.14 lb / 3.7 kg Counterweight included
Counterweight Shaft Diameter is 0.781 inch / 19.84 mm
6x 20mm Illuminated Reticle Pole Finder
8 Degree Actual Field of View
Useful in North and South Hemispheres
Pole alignment to within 3 minute accuracy possible
Reticle Illuminator provided (two "AA" batteries required)
Mount Head weighs 18.7 lb / 8.5 kg
Comes with Skysensor 2000 PC
From the website:
SkySensor 2000
The SkySensor "Go To" control system was introduced in its first form in 1984; this was the first commercially viable "Go To" and tracking computer control system made for amateur telescopes. It was distributed for use as an operator retrofitable controller and motor set for installation onto the "Super Polaris" series German equatorial mounts which have since been discontinued.
This SkySensor systems are all an "open loop" arrangement where assuming they are set up and then indexed to the night sky properly, the SkySensor CPU (central processing unit) calculates where the mount is pointing the telescope and how to move it from point to point. There is no positional feedback from the mount to the CPU and so if one releases the mount clutches and moves the telescope by hand, then the SkySensor will not know this. The open loop arrangement is typically the arrangement which is provided today on most moderate to mid priced amateur "Go To" telescopes; assuming no one accidentally moves the telescope by hand after a CPU is indexed then this can work with a reasonable degree of accuracy for most amateur telescopes.
Right: Vixen SkySensor 2000
Keypad Hand Held Controller with LCD display shown (31,356 bytes).
Click on image to see enlarged view of complete kit with two Model MT-4 motors, cabling and Battery Pack (181,991 bytes)
The current model "SkySensor 2000" and the "SkySensor 2000 PC" systems are the vastly refined and improved successors. SkySensor 2000 is the same operating system as is now provided with the Vixen Atlux series mounts. The SkySensor 2000 is retrofitable, it can be installed by the user for use with the Vixen GP, GP-DX, GP-E, SP or SP-DX equatorial mounts to provide highly accurate "Go To" pointing and tracking of celestial objects in its database including the planets, Moon, Sun, and thousands of other objects from Messier, NGC, IC, UGC, SAO, GCVS catalogs.
This is an easy system to setup and to operate, Polar alignment does not really have to be done for visual uses although we do recommend operators do so for astrophotography. This is the most accurate of the tracking control systems made by Vixen for the GP series mounts since it also incorporates PEC (Periodic Error Correction) circuitry to reduce the amplitude of worm gear periodic errors. It is quite refined, after all Vixen has had twenty years to perfect it - even the effect of atmospheric refraction is automatically corrected so even when searching for objects closer to the horizon the pointing accuracy is good.
Users continually praise the accuracy and ease of use of this device. As s noted in the "Sky & Telescope" magazine review of April 2000, p. 56-61 Far outweighing any criticisms is the overriding fact that Sky Sensor worked reliably. The hardware is well made and the software is robust - never once did I have the hand controller freeze up, crash, or display cryptic error messages. For the most part, I found Sky Sensor remarkably frustration-free...Vixen has produced a strong contender in the Go To sweepstakes.
The SkySensor 2000 differs from the SkySensor 2000 PC in that the basic model does not provide the RS-232 port. This means the SkySensor 2000 can not link to a personal computer, or to a number of other third party devices. The SkySensor 2000 can not be controlled remotely. The SkySensor 2000 PC model is not sold in the USA since it has not been certified to operate within RFI emission standards set forth by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). However, the SkySensor 2000 PC model may be available in Europe selling for more than double the cost of the standard SkySensor 2000 in the USA.
SkySensor 2000 can be a cost effective solution for those who already own a suitable Vixen mount. However, we at Company Seven feel this system has enough limitations by current "Go To" mount standards that we would encourage one who is buying a new mount to consider one such as the well integrated SPHINX SXW system especially since there are now ASCOM modules that permit the SPHINX to communicate with a broad range of optional third party accessories (CCD Cameras, Robotic Focusers, etc.).
The SkySensor 2000 is autoguider compatible and it also provides programmable "Periodic Error Correction" circuitry to improve tracking, this is particularly beneficial for astrographic applications. Includes Keypad Hand Controller, two Model MT-4 motors, cabling and battery case. Optional rechargeable 12 volt power supply with proper polarity cable, or Vixen AM-AC-2537 AC Adapter is recommended.
Database content: 13,942 celestial objects
Slewing Rate: up to 1200x that of Sidereal (5-3/4 Deg. per second)
Automated Searches: possible for up to thirty celestial objects, one after another, and at time intervals
Memory Storage: for up to thirty astronomical and terrestrial objects
Object Data Shown: Right Ascension and Declination coordinates, Altitude and Azimuth coordinates, Magnitude, Size, and Constellation
Time Displays: Sidereal and Local time. A timer function is also available
Epoch Coordinates: Epoch 2000, or those based on the current time
CPU: 32 Bit RISC Processor
Display: LCD with twenty characters, two line
Brightness Adjustable: Yes
Keyboard: sixteen Function Numeric Keys, and four Direction Keys
Languages: English, Japanese, German, French, Spanish or Italian
Tracking Modes: Equatorial, or can be directed along vertical and horizontal directions in an alt-azimuth mode Dimensions: 7.4 inches / 188 mm (L) 3.9 inches x 100 mm (W) 1.8 inch x 45 mm (D) Weight: 370 grams / 13.1 oz
Power Cord Polarity: Center is Negative, Shield is Positive
Model # AM-HC-3363
Funding Member
