All,
I have an EM400 that I inadvertently left on-tracking for several hours. As
a result, the mount continued to track until it contacted the tripod. I don't
know exactly how long it continued to run in that state. When I found it the
next day, I released the locking clamps to break contact with the tripod, swung
it manually to 00 and used the hand controller to check functions of the DEC and
RA motors. The mount slewed appropriately and it appears to operate normally.
However, I can't say that for tracking until I get it out and checked. In the
tracking mode, I do notice a slight increase in noise from the RA motor which
normally is barely audible.
My questions then are, what damage did I do to the mount, i.e. RA motor,
gears, clutches, etc? Are there any built in safeguards that prevent damage?
What's your spin on the situation?
I have an EM400 that I inadvertently left on-tracking for several hours. As
a result, the mount continued to track until it contacted the tripod. I don't
know exactly how long it continued to run in that state. When I found it the
next day, I released the locking clamps to break contact with the tripod, swung
it manually to 00 and used the hand controller to check functions of the DEC and
RA motors. The mount slewed appropriately and it appears to operate normally.
However, I can't say that for tracking until I get it out and checked. In the
tracking mode, I do notice a slight increase in noise from the RA motor which
normally is barely audible.
My questions then are, what damage did I do to the mount, i.e. RA motor,
gears, clutches, etc? Are there any built in safeguards that prevent damage?
What's your spin on the situation?
Scott Busby
A.K.A. Reconair
Carpe Noctum
Mortal as I am, I know that I am born for a day. But when I follow at my pleasure the serried multitude of the stars in their circular course, my feet no longer touch the earth.
- Ptolemy,c.150 AD
