Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor for 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser

Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor for 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser - MTDD-3.0

Introducing the Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor for 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser - Setting a new standard in precision and reliability for large-format imaging.

The Feathertouch 3" focuser has long been hailed as the industry benchmark for quality and performance, gracing numerous telescopes either as standard equipment or an optional upgrade.

However, its fine-focus mechanism, employing bearing balls for planetary reduction, can lead to slippage when tasked with hefty payloads like a substantial CCD camera with a filter wheel, off-axis guider, and more.

Enter the Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive, a formidable upgrade to the conventional motor typically bundled with our MicroTouch autofocuser.

Unlike its predecessor that merely turns a gear affixed to the fine-focus shaft of the Feathertouch, the Direct Drive takes a different approach.

Bypassing the fine-focus mechanism entirely, it directly engages the focuser pinion, eradicating any chance of slippage.

To preserve the Feathertouch's renowned precision, the MicroTouch Direct Drive boasts a sophisticated high-ratio gear reduction system.

This imparts an astounding 44:1 focus reduction capability, translating to a staggering 13,200 motor steps per revolution of the focuser pinion, or an astonishingly minuscule 1.6 microns (0.000063") per step.

Rigorously tested to hoist a minimum of 70 pounds, this motor is engineered to meet the demands of even the most formidable astrophotography setups.

Understanding how the Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor for 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser works:

Upon disassembling the manual focus knobs of the conventional Feathertouch focuser to integrate an autofocus motor, the internal reduction mechanism is revealed.

A stainless steel bearing balls arrangement, enclosed within a brass housing, securely clamps onto the fine-focus shaft (the customary mounting point for the motor gear).

When the coarse-focus knob is manipulated, it directly turns the brass housing and balls, initiating movement in the pinion shaft which subsequently shifts the focuser drawtube.

On the other hand, when the fine-focus knob (or focus motor) rotates the fine-focus shaft, the balls rotate at a slower pace due to the variation in radius between the shaft and the bearing balls.

This results in a 10:1 fine-focus reduction. (When coupled with the 2:1 gearing of the standard MicroTouch motor, the end ratio becomes 20:1.)

Regrettably, when confronted with a substantial load, the drawtube opposes the upward force exerted by the payload against gravity.

This can lead to slippage of the fine-focus shaft against the bearing balls, resulting in a loss of precision in focus control.

The Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive tackles this issue by employing a high-ratio gear reduction assembly.

By propelling the pinion directly, it circumvents engagement with the fine-focus mechanism altogether.

This design eliminates any potential for drawtube slippage, delivering markedly enhanced precision and consistency in focus adjustments.

Features and Highlights

• 70+ Pound Lift Capacity: The Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor for 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser boasts an impressive lift capacity of over 70 pounds, making it exceptionally robust and reliable for accommodating heavy astrophotography equipment. This remarkable strength ensures stable and secure operation even with large-format CCD cameras, filter wheels, off-axis guiders, and other substantial payloads, providing astrophotographers with unparalleled versatility in their imaging endeavors.

• 44:1 Fine-Focus Reduction: With a high-ratio gear reduction system, the MicroTouch Direct Drive delivers an exceptional 44:1 fine-focus reduction capability. This translates to an extraordinary precision of 13,200 motor steps per revolution of the focuser pinion, or an incredibly minute 1.6 microns (0.000063") per step. This level of granularity allows for exquisitely fine adjustments, enabling astrophotographers to achieve razor-sharp focus on celestial objects with unparalleled clarity and detail.

• Rugged, High-Quality Construction: Crafted with utmost attention to durability and quality, the MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor features a rugged construction that ensures longevity and reliable performance even in demanding astrophotography environments. Engineered with precision and durability in mind, this motor is built to withstand the rigors of extended use, providing astrophotographers with a dependable tool they can rely on for years to come.

• Compatible with all Feathertouch 3" and True 3" Focusers: Designed for seamless integration, the MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor is compatible with both Feathertouch 3" and True 3" Focusers. This wide-ranging compatibility ensures that users can effortlessly incorporate this motor into their existing equipment setup, allowing for a straightforward upgrade that enhances their focusing capabilities without the need for extensive modifications or adaptations.

• Easy Installation: Installing the MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly design and clear, straightforward instructions. Whether you're a seasoned astrophotographer or a newcomer to the hobby, you'll appreciate the ease with which this motor can be integrated into your existing setup. This hassle-free installation process minimizes downtime and allows you to quickly start benefiting from the enhanced focusing precision that the MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor offers.

• Made in USA: Crafted with pride in the USA, the MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor exemplifies a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Manufactured with precision and attention to detail, this motor is a testament to American engineering excellence. By choosing the MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor, astrophotographers also support local manufacturing and can trust in the high standards of production that come with products made in the USA.

What's Included:

✓ Starizona MicroTouch Direct Drive Motor for 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser

✓ Instructional Manual