Beginners guide to CCD & Scope hardware

Hi,

I'm trying to equip myself with some knowledge before deciding on the physical hardware I need to go about taking some CCD-based astro photographs.

I have many questions. Some of my questions would perhaps be better suited for another of the forums on this site (if so, tell and I'll repost them). That said, I am specifically looking for CCD/AstroPhotography based feedback, so with that in mind, I have posted it here. (I hope I don't offend anybody by doing that)

Right now I have an SCT scope (ETX90) and have been using this with my digital camera. I have been bitten by the bug and want to try something more advanced...

I am considering partnering a suitable scope with an SBIG (not sure which model.. partly depends on the scope I guess) and a suitable mount (a whole other bunch of questions I'll save for another time)

I am looking to move to an APO (but then again, I've also considered a larger SCT...).

[I've hit the 3000 character limit for a posting, so I have put my questions as a follow up to this posting.]

Many thanks for reading, I appreciate any help (e.g Go and read book XXXXX)

Best regards

Alex

0. Is there any website or printed material (So far I have only really considered Ron Wodaski's new book) that explains the hardware rather than the software?

1. I can't decide between models (but essentially its between a Tak and a TMB but I can't find a Tak retailer in Europe at the moment...)

2. I am unclear what makes for the 'best' (and I use this word in its loosest sense) setup taking into account all CCD imaging factors. I am considering CCD, Scope, Mount and all the other things I don't yet know about combined with one-another to form a rounded package.

3. I assume that a faster F-ratio is desirable since it allows wider field imaging and cuts down shutter times (i.e. less time required to obtain a similar luminosity of image when compared with a 'slower' scope?).

4. With #3 in mind (assuming I am correct?) then what would be considered a 'slow' APO refractor? I have been thinking that something in the F6 range (for 130) would be nice. I have been considering these scopes:

a) Takahashi FS-128F F/8.1, 2.7" focuser (or 4" focuser?) - (so many versions I have no idea where to start!)
b) 4.5" F/7 (115/805) TMB-Apo
c) 4.1" F/6.2 (105/650) TMB-Apo
d) 5.1" F/6 (130/780) TMB-Apo
e) 6.0" F/8 (152/1200) TMB-Apo

Are there any others I should be considering (apart from 4+ year waiting lists for an AP...)

There are quick overviews of the scopes on these pages:

http://www.buytelescopes.com/product_list.asp?t=1&m=&p=3
http://www.apm-telescopes.de/products/apm/index.htm

5. Is 5 or 6" overkill? Aperture fever... (stupid question probably)

6. Is a larger focuser more desirable for imaging? The Tak 128 can be purchased with a 4" focuser, but the TMB has only a 3 (or a 4" if I go for the 6" model).

7. Should I be considering an SCT?

8. Can anybody point me in the direction of an explanation of what a field reducer/doubler/whatsit does? I have searched, but I need a newbie-level guide My basic understanding is that it makes the scope faster and increases the field of view (so more of the sky can be captured?)

Thank you, much appreciate you reading this!