Note the position of the Atlas Focuser in the optical train
(in this photo, the bulge just under the focusing eyepiece of
the finder scope). It carries tremendous weight on a long
moment arm - 4.0" flattener, Astrodon MMOAG,
Apogee CFW50-9R filter wheel, Apogee U8300 CCD.
The 3.5" Feathertouch focuser just wasn't up to the task
and is relegated to the role of a Coarse Positioner.
All of the cables route into the Dec shaft from just behind the dovetail plate:
- USB Hub #1: 5v power, data
(drives Meade DSI guider
and FLI Atlas focuser)
- USB Hub #2: 5v power, data
(unused but important spare)
- Apogee U8300 CCD: 12v power, data
(dedicated USB extender line
instead of a hub)
- Apogee CFW50-9R Wheel: 12v power, data
(dedicated USB extender line
instead of a hub)
- FLI Atlas focuser: 5v power, data
- Kendrick Dew Controller: 12v power