Bresser Vixen SXD2 Equatorial Mount User manual

Instruction Manual for
SXD2 Equatorial Mount

2
PREFACE
Thank you for your purchase of the Vixen SXD2 equatorial mount.
The SXD2 equatorial mount is a high precision sturdy mount ideal for astrophotography. The cutting-edge STAR BOOK TEN Hand Controller features a
high definition large color LCD screen with intuitive controls to help you enjoy your astronomical observation.
*The manual describes the functions and uses of the SXD2 equatorial mount and various Vixen Telescopes. You may occasionally find descriptions not
relevant to your model.
*Use this instruction manual in conjunction with your telescope manual.
*Features may be updated or new functions added. Please visit Vixen‘s website for the latest software updates.
*Use the correct power source for the SXD2 equatorial mount or the optional AC Adapter sold separately.
Carefully read the instructions before use.
*Follow the instructions precisely.
*Keep this manual nearby to find quick answers to questions.
*This instruction manual will assist you in the safe use of the SXD2 equatorial mount.
WARNING!
CAUTION
Never look directly at the sun with your naked eyes or through your telescope and finder scope.
Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result.
*Do not try to restrain the movement of the mount when in operation, which may lead to injuries to you or damage to your equipment.
*Do not use the product in a wet environment.
*Do not turn on the power switch of the mount under circumstances when internal condensation is suspected on the equipment. It may cause a failure by a
short circuit.
*Do not attempt to disassemble or alter any part of the equipment that is not expressly described in this manual. This could damage the mount, result in
electricasl shock or lead to injury.
*Do not use the D-sub 9pin cable of the STAR BOOK TEN to connect to other equipment such as a PC. It may cause a failure, heating, or electrical shock
HANDLING and STORAGE
*This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant of Part 15 of the FCC rules.
*Do not expose the product to rain, water drops, dirt or sand.
*When cleaning, do not use solvent such as paint thinners.
*For storage, keep the product in a dry place, and do not expose to direct sunlight.
*Remove the batteries from the battery compartment if the product is not used for a long time.

1 SOLAR key
2 NAMED key
4 M key
5 NGC/IC key
6 STAR key
7 OBJECT key
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
PREFACE ---------------------------------------------------------- P 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS-------------------------------------------- P 3
BEFORE USE ------------------------------------------------------ P 4
Checking the Package Contents-------------------------------------- P 4
SXD2 Mount Components --------------------------------------------- P 5
STAR BOOK TEN Components---------------------------------------- P 7
Screen Menus and Instructions --------------------------------------- P 8
Flow of Operation------------------------------------------------------- P 9
Chapter 1
PREFACE ---------------------------------------------------------- P 2
About the Internal Battery of STAR BOOK TEN----------------------P10
Assembling the Mount -------------------------------------------------P11
I. Setting up the Tripod -------------------------------------------------P11
II. Attaching the Equatorial Mount ------------------------------------P12
III. Attaching the Counterweight --------------------------------------P13
IV. Attaching the Optical Tube -----------------------------------------P14
V. Balancing the Equatorial Mount ------------------------------------P15
VI. Connecting the STAR BOOK Cable -------------------------------P18
VII. Connecting the Power Cable--------------------------------------P18
Chapter 2
INITIAL SETTING -------------------------------------------------- P19
I . Turning ON the Power ------------------------------------------P19
II . Setting/Language ----------------------------------------------P19
III . Setting Local Time --------------------------------------------P20
Time Zone -----------------------------------------------------P20
IV . Setting Location -----------------------------------------------P21
Chapter 3
BASIC OPERATION -----------------------------------------------P23
AUTOMATIC GO-TO SLEWING ---------------------------------- P24
Appendix----------------------------------------------------------- P97
Moving the Telescope ---------------------------------------------P23
Changing the Go-To Slewing Speed -----------------------------P23
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
I. How to Use the Polar Axis Scope -------------------------- P52
Polar Alignment -------------------------------------------- P52
Precise Polar Alignment ---------------------------------- P57
Change the Altitude Setting on the SXD2 Mount ------- P58
II. Initial Configuration ------------------------------------------ P59
Use Last Mount Setting----------------------------------- P59
LCD Adjustment ------------------------------------------- P59
Night Vision ------------------------------------------------ P60
Key LED Brightness --------------------------------------- P60
Volume ------------------------------------------------------ P61
Atmospheric Refraction----------------------------------- P61
Language -------------------------------------------------- P62
Initialize Memory Data P62
About StarBook TEN -------------------------------------- P63
About LAN --------------------------------------------------P63
III. System Menu (Main menu) ----------------------------------P64
Chart Setting--------------------------------------------------P64
Display Style -----------------------------------------------P64
Constellation-----------------------------------------------P65
Display of Star ---------------------------------------------P66
Star Popular Name ---------------------------------------- P67
Bayer Designation-----------------------------------------P68
Sun, Moon, Planet -----------------------------------------P69
Comet ------------------------------------------------------P69
Satellite-----------------------------------------------------P70
RADEC Grids----------------------------------------------- P70
Center Circle-----------------------------------------------P71
Catalogue Objects ----------------------------------------P71
Mount Setting------------------------------------------------P73
Direction Key ----------------------------------------------P73
AltAz -----------------------------------------------------P73
RADEC---------------------------------------------------P73
X-Y -------------------------------------------------------P73
Auto Guider ------------------------------------------------P74
PEC (Periodic Error Corrction) ---------------------------P75
Backlash Compensation----------------------------------P78
GOTO Speed -----------------------------------------------P80
Polar Scope Light -----------------------------------------P80
Motor Power -----------------------------------------------P81
Mount Type-------------------------------------------------P82
Cross Over Meridian---------------------------------------P83
Delete Align Point Data -----------------------------------P85
Following Object ------------------------------------------P85
System Setting ----------------------------------------------P86
GOTO Message --------------------------------------------P87
Expansion Function ---------------------------------------P88
Mount Information ----------------------------------------P89
IV. Using as a Stand-alone Unit---------------------------------P90
Connecting to LAN ----------------------------------------P90
Requirements ----------------------------------------------P90
V . Updating your STAR BOOK TEN ---------------------------P91
VI. Entering Orbital Elements and User Defined Objects ---- P93
Startup Procedure -------------------------------- P24
I . Locating the SXD2 Mount ----------------------- P25
II . Home Position------------------------------- P25
III . Alignment ---------------------------------- P26
IV . Slewing to an Object in SCOPE MODE -------------- P31
V . Slewing to an Object in CHART MODE -------------- P32
VI . Slewing with Command Keys -------------------- P34
----------------------------- P34
----------------------------- P34
----------------------------- P34
----------------------------- P34
----------------------------- P34
Moon Map --------------------------------- P35
Calling up the Moon Map---------------------- P35
Using the Moon Map------------------------- P36
Example: Go-To slewing with the NGC/IC key --------- P42
Object Menu -------------------------------- P43
----------------------------- P43
Recently Located Objects --------------------- P43
Constellation ------------------------------ P44
Coordinates ------------------------------ P45
Comet ---------------------------------- P46
Satellite(Artificial Satellite)--------------------- P47
User Coordinates--------------------------- P50
Home Position----------------------------- P51
APPLICATION ------------------------------------------------------P52

4
BEFORE USE
Checking the Package Contents
Package Consisting of :
The SXD2 Equatorial mount package contains the items listed below. Check if all the items are included.
SX Counterweights 3.7kg and 1.9kg 1
SXD2 Equatorial Mount 1
STAR BOOK TEN Hand Controller 1
Ferrite Core for LAN cable 1
Allen Wrenches; one each of 5mm and 0.5 inch 1
Strap for STAR BOOK TEN 1
(Checking Purpose Only)
STAR BOOK Cable 1
Phillips Head Screwdriver 1
Cigarette-lighter Plug Cord 1
CR2032 Battery for STAR BOOK TEN‘s built-in clock 1
SXD2 Instruction Manual (This book) 1
Basics of Equatorial Mounts
CAUTION
Basic movement of the SXD2 Mount
Note:
* Your SXD2 mount package may differ when you purchase it as a complete telesco-
pe package.
* A power supply unit is sold separately.
What is an Equatorial Mount?
In the northern hemisphere, stars appear to turn around the polar star (the north celestial pole)
making approximately one rotation per day. This is called diurnal motion and occurs because the
earth turns on its own axis once a day. The equatorial mount is a platform which is designed to
rotate parallel to earth‘s rotational axis.
Every movement of the electrically driven SXD2 Mount is fully controlled by the STAR BOOK TEN hand controller. The mount will perform smooth and accurate
movements when each component on the mount is balanced correctly. An unbalanced mount may cause vibrations and can result in tracking errors or failure of
rotational mechanisms. Make sure that the telescope is well balanced.
Do not rotate the mount manually without loosening the clamp levers.
The SXD2 mount has clamps which allow you to rotate the Right Ascension (R.A) and Declination (DEC) axes freely for quick set up for home position and compact
storage of the mount. Remember to tighten the clamp levers when you usethe mount. The clamp levers should be loosened to protect the inner gear train for storage
and when you transport the mount.
Never connect the STAR BOOK cable to other equipment such as a PC. This could result in electrical shock, fire, or damage to the equipment. (The specifications of
the STAR BOOK cable are not compatible with RS232C (D-SUB 9PIN) connectors.)
Be careful not to bang the mount against other objects. This could damage the gears and bearings.
Zenith
North Celestial Pole
Polar Axis
Horizon
North Celestial Pole
North Pole
South Pole
Earth‘s Axis
Equator

ST
5
BEFORE USE
SXD2 Mount Components
Declination Axis
Leg Tip
SXD2-AX103S shown as an example
R.A Axis(Polar Axis)
[SXD2 Mount series telescope package with optical tube and tripod]
[SXD2 Mount]
DEC Clamp lever
Polar Axis Front Cap
Motor Housing
Counterweight Bar Lock Lever
Counterweight Bar
Counterweight 3.7kg
(8.18 lb)
Counterweight 1.9kg
(4.2 lb)
Counterweight Lock Screw
Counterweight
Safety Thumbscrew
Dew Shield
Objective Lens [Inside]
Dovetail Tube Plate
Dovetail-plate Mounting Block
Fixing Bolt with Grip
SXG Tripod
Leg Bracket
Extension Clamps
Controller Connecting Port
DC12V Power
Connecting Port
Power Switch
Altitude Adjustment Knob
(For Polar Alignment)
Azimuth Adjustment Knobs
[For Polar Alignment]
Polar Axis Scope
[Built-In]
Polar Axis Rear Cap
(Polar Scope Cover)
DEC Clamp Lever
Mount Head
[Optical Tube Attachment Base]
Safety Screw
Carry Handle
Lock Screw
Finder Scope
Eyepiece
Flip Mirror Diagonal
Focuser Draw-tube
Focus Knobs
Dovetail Tube-Plate Lock Screw
R.A Clamp Lever
Altitude Scale
Set Position Guidepost
Altitude Clamp Lever
(For Polar Alignment)
SXG Half Pillar Fixing Bolt(Inside) with Grip
Fixing Knob
STAR BOOK TEN
Safety Screw
Set Position Guidepost

6
BEFORE USE The specifications are subject to change without notice.
SXD2 Mount Specifications
STAR BOOK-TEN Specifications
Mount SXD2 Equatorial Mount
R.A Slow Motion 180-tooth full circle micro-movement gear, 72mm in diameter, Brass wheel
DEC Slow Motion 180-tooth full circle micro-movement gear, 72mm in diameter, Brass wheel
Worm Gears 9mm in diameter, Brass
R.A Axis 35mm in diameter, Carbon steel
DEC Axis 40mm in diameter, Carbon steel
Number of Bearings 9 pieces
Counterweight Bar 20mm in diameter, Retractable
Polar Axis Scope Built-in 6x20mm scope, FoV 8 degrees, Bubble level, Illuminated reticle, Setting accuracy within 3 arc minutes,
Time graduation circle: 10 arc minutes increments between 16h and 8h (the following day)
Date graduation circle: 2-day increments
Meridian offset circle: Adjustable between E20 degrees and W20 degrees in 5-degree increments
Northern hemisphere: Polaris guide scale (Applicable to year 2025)
Southern hemisphere: Octant 4 stars pattern
Azimuth Adjustment Fine adjustments: About ±7 degrees
Twin tangent screws/knobs: About 1.2 degrees per rotation
Altitude Adjustment
Latitude between 0 degree ~ 70 degrees, 3-altitude zone setting (high, middle and low latitude, adjustment range:
±15 degrees in each zone), Altitude Scale:2-degree increments, Twin T-bar handles: 0.8 degrees per rotation
Drive Motor Stepping (Pulse) motors with 250PPS
Automatic Slewing High precision “GOTO” slewing with STAR BOOK-TEN, 1000x sidereal rate at maximum
Maximum Astrophotography Payload
15kg (33 lb), (375kg•cm torque load = About 15kg at a point of 25cm from the fulcrum)
Controller Cable Connection Port
D-SUB 9PIN male plug
Power Connecting Port DC12V EIAJ RC5320A Class4
Electricity Consumption DC12V • 0.45~2.2A(at 10kg payload), 0.6A~2.5A (at 15kg payload)
Dimensions 343 x 360 x 128mm
Weight 9.2kg (20.2 lb), excluding counterweights
Counterweights 3.7kg (8.15 lb) x 1pc and 1.9kg (4.2 lb) x 1pc
Optional Accessories SXG-HAL130 Tripod, SXG Half Pillar, AXG-P85 Pillar, AC Power Source
Hand Controller STAR BOOK TEN
CPU 32bit RISC Processor 324MHz SH7764
Display 5-inch TFT, WVGA(800×480 pixels) 65,536 colors, with backlight
Power Connecting Port DC12V EIAJ RC5320A Class4
Autoguider Port 6-pole 6-wired modular jack (For external Autoguider)
LAN Port 10BASE-T
Controller Cable Connection Port D-SUB9PIN male plug
Expansion Slot For Advance Unit sold separately
R.A & DEC Display Unit R.A: 1-arc second , Decl.: 0.1-arc. minute
Power Supply DC12V (Supplied from the mount side.)
Built-in Clock Battery CR2032×1
Electricity Consumption 12V•0.5A (Stand alone use)
Operating Temperature 0~40°C (104 F)
Dimensions 169mmL×154mmW ×30mmH
Weight 380g (13.4 oz) (Excluding the built-in battery, cable and optional Advance Unit.)
Celestial Object
Database
272,342 (SAO: 258997, NGC objects: 7840, IC objects: 5386, Messier objects: 109*, 7 Planets,
1 quasi-planet, the Moon and the Sun)
*M40 is a missing number. M91 and M102 are listed as NGC4548 and NGC5866 in the database respectively
Menus and Major
Functions
Automatic GoTo Slewing, Sidereal tracking and different tracking speeds for the Sun, the Moon, planets,
comets and artificial satellites, Backlash compensation, PEC, Autoguider, Night vision mode, Screen brightness
control, Hibernate mode, Built-in speaker, LAN connecting update and more.
Applicable OS:
Microsoft Windows® XP Home Edition Service Pack 3 Microsoft Windows® 7 HomePremium
Microsoft Windows® XP Professional Service Pack 3 Microsoft Windows® 7 Professional
Microsoft Windows® Vista HomeBasic Microsoft Windows® 7 Ultimate
Microsoft Windows® Vista HomePremium Microsoft Windows® 8
Microsoft Windows® Vista Business Microsoft Windows® 8 Pro
Microsoft Windows® Vista Ultimate
*Not applicable to MacOS, Linux and Unix

①
②④
③
⑤⑦⑥ ⑧ ⑨
7
BEFORE USE
STAR BOOK TEN Components
Displays star charts and information about celestial object and the status of the
mount.
The zoom keys are used in the following functions.
(DC12V EIAJ RC5320A Class4)
Move your telescope manually and scroll the star chart on the screen or move the
cursor. (Also the key is referred to as ENTER in some dialog boxes.)
Allows you to enter a number or a command indicated on the keys. The
following commands are allocated.
Commands
Functions
*Switches the star chart from Scope Mode to Chart Mode or vice versa.
It will proceed to GoTo slewing if pressed in the Chart Mode.
*Pressing the key will fix your input value and option.
Clears menus and/or dialog boxes displayed on the screen and
returns to the star chart. (If the key is pressed during the initial settings,
the screen will come back to the Initial Configuration menu.)
Calls up the main menu to perform various setups.
Chooses a target from the sun, the moon, or planets slew to.
Chooses a well-known deep sky object like the Andromeda galaxy, the
Pleiades star cluster, and so on from the database to slew to it.
Chooses a mode of the direction keys from AltAzimuth, R.ADecl and X-Y
(vertical and horizontal axial movements on the mount).
Chooses a target from the Messier objects database to slew to.
Chooses a target from the NGC or IC objects database to slew to.
Pressing the key will switch the database alternately
Chooses a bright and conspicuous star such as Sirius, Antares,
and so on from the database to slew to it for star alignment.
Displays lists of 272,342 celestial objects.
Call up the expansion function menu if an optional Advance
Unit is installed.
Aligns your telescope.
Enlarge or reduce a displayed star chart on the screen
Enlarge a star chart in both Chart Mode and Scope Mode.
Reduce a star chart in both Chart Mode and Scope Mode.
Accelerate or decelerate the motor speed between 0.5x and 800x
sidereal rate. (The maximum speed can vary according to a set value.)
Accelerate the motor speed (Linked to zoom in the screen.)
Decelerate the motor speed (Linked to zoom out the screen.)
Scroll the cursor up or down in various menus to change preset
values
Move the cursor step by step or to have the cursor scroll up
every 5 or 6 objects in the Object menu.
(It depends on the size of a dialog box.)
Move the cursor step by step or to have the cursor scroll down
every 5 or 6 objects in the Object menu.
(It depends on the size of a dialog box.)
Scrolling star charts
The displayed star chart on the screen can be scrolled up
and down or back and forth with the • • • keys if
the setting is in AltAz mode. If the direction key setting is in
R.A/DEC or X-Y mode, the • keys allow scrolling in the
direction of DEC and the • keys allow scrolling sin
the direction of R.A.
Move the cursor up and down or back and forth with the
keys.
Also,
: Advance a cursor such as the enter key.
(It does not fix the entered value.)
: Back to a previous dialog box or screen.
⑥Autoguider Port
⑦LAN Connecting Port (10BASE-T)
⑧Mount Connecting Port
⑨Expansion Slot for Advance Unit sold separately
①Color LCD Screen ⑤Numerical / Command Keys
② Zoom Keys
③ Power Connecting Port for stand alone use
④ Direction Keys
STAR BOOK TEN Bottom View

①
⑨⑧ ⑩ ⑫ ⑬ ⑱⑭ ⑮⑪ ⑰ ⑲
② ④ ⑤③
⑯
⑥ ⑦
8
BEFORE USE
Screen Menus and Instructions
Item Description
①Display Mode SCOPE MODE: The telescope is linked with the star chart. The telescope follows in the same direction as the star chart is
scrolled.
CHART MODE: The telescope is independent of the star chart. The star chart is scrolled to select a target object.
②Zenith Mark Indicates the zenith and north-south-east-west directions.
③Target Object Indicates the direction where the telescope is pointing or the section of the area where a target is centered.
The two concentric circles show areas in an angular field of view.
④Date Local time of your observing site.
⑤Battery Level Indicates the level of battery discharge if the AC Adapter is not used.
⑥R.A Grid Parallel of longitude. 0h to 23h at one-hour intervals.
⑦DEC Grid Parallel of latitude. Between -90deg. and +90 deg. at 10°intervals.
⑧Telescope Icon Tracking ON / OFF
:ON :OFF *The counter is displayed while the PEC is in operation.
⑨Telescope Coordinates Displays the direction of your telescope in Right Ascension and Declination.
⑩Azimuth / Altitude Displays the direction of your telescope in azimuth (left and right) and altitude (up and down).
⑪Target Circles Indicates the direction where the telescope is pointing or the section of the area where a target is
centered.The two concentric circles show areas in an angular field of view.
⑫Target Name Indicates a target by number or its common name(within 10 characters).
⑬Target The heading of your target information.
⑭Target Coordinates Displays coordinates of the selected target in R.A and DEC
⑮Zoom Level Indicator Levels of zooming up or down the star chart by graph.
⑯Motor Speed Displays a maximum motor speed at a given zooming rate.
⑰Horizon The line corresponds to the horizon.
⑱Number of Alignment Number of aligned objects.
⑲Direction Key Mode Indicates the orientation of the direction keys • • • by AltAz, RA DEC or X-Y mode.
Icon Object
Galaxy
Deffuse nebula
Globular clusters
Star clusters
Planetary nebula
Sun
Icon Object
Moon *3
Mercury
Venus
Mars
Jupiter
Saturn
Icon Object
Uranus
Neptune
Pluto
Comet *4
Satellite *5
*1: These icons are different from actual viewing images of the celestial objects. Except the Sun and the Moon, the size of the icons is unchangeable.)
*2: It is not designed to simulate a transit of a planet on the surface of the Sun and a solar eclipse.
*3: The appearance of the waxing and waning of the moon displayed on the screen is for illustrative purpose. It is not suitable for accurately simulating an occultation of the
moon or a lunar eclipse.
*4: Register orbital elements of a comet to display.
Legend "1

9
BEFORE USE
Flow of Operation
①Preparation
Take the following steps to set up and use the SXD2 equatorial mount series correctly.
②Initial Setting
③Basic Operation
④Go-To Slewing to Celestial Objects
⑤Application
• Balancing the mount.
• Set up the tripod on a level ground.
• Learn and understand the basic operations of the SXD2 mount.
• Use various functions and applications.
• Begin with the Home Position
Run the motors of the SXD2 mount by the STAR BOOK TEN
to position the mount toward the home position.
• Automatic Go-To Slewing
Once the alignment is completed, enjoy your observing as the
STAR BOOK TEN will point you to your target object.
• Align the telescope
Choose two (or more) reference stars from the database to align
the telescope.
• Set the Language (The first time only)
Turn on power to the STAR BOOK TEN and set your language.
• Set longitude and latitude.
Enter longitude and latitude of your observing site into your STAR BOOK TEN.
• Set date, time and time zone (The first time only Enter
date, time of your observing site and time zone into your
STAR BOOK TEN.
P52~97
P24~51
P23
P19~22
P10~18

10
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
About the Internal Battery of STAR BOOK TEN
CAUTION
Replacing the Battery
Inserting the Battery
Use a wooden stick or an object with non electric conductivity to avoid malfunction or damage to the STAR BOOK TEN when you remove the battery.
Do not allow liquids or foreign objects or a finger to enter the battery container. This could result in damage or electrical shock.
The STAR BOOK TEN controller has a built-in clock, which runs on a CR2032 battery. As the battery is not inserted in the STAR BOOK TEN at Vixen‘s
factory before shipment insert it when you use the STAR BOOK TEN for the first time. The provided battery is for factory inspection and not designed for
long term use. (The STAR BOOK TEN is usable even if its internal battery is exhausted, but you will need to set up your local time every time you power
on the STAR BOOK TEN.)
1Remove the cover of the battery container on the back of the STAR BOOK TEN by removing the screws with the provided
Phillips screwdriver as shown in the figure.
2
Insert a fresh battery into the inside of the container so that its
positive polarity faces upward. Placing the battery in the wrong
direction could result in damage or malfunction.
3
Screw the cover back in place.
4Remove the cover of the battery container on the back of the STAR BOOK TEN.
5Press the edge of the battery with your fingertip and pull up the battery.
6Push out the battery from the inner side as shown in the figure.
7Insert a fresh battery so that its positive polarity faces upward. Screw the cover back in place.
cover
Philips screwdriver

2 33
1-11-1
2-1
2-3
2-2
2-1
2-3
2-2
1-21-2
4-24-2
2
4-14-1
11
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
Assembling the Mount
Attaching the SXG Half Pillar
I . Setting up the Tripod
Refer to each instruction manual of your telescope and accessory together with this manual when you attach them to the mount.
1Place the tripod on level ground to make the telescope stable during observation. Pull the tripod legs apart until each leg is fully extended.
2Loosen the extension clamp on the tripod leg so that the tripod leg can be adjusted.
3Tighten the extension clamp to hold the tripod leg securely in place.
4Attach the metal post on the tripod head. Thread the metal post into the hole marked as SXD2 and tighten it with a screwdriver.
Tighten the metal post until the end of the thread securely; otherwise it
could cause a bending a break.
Position the tripod so that the metal post comes to north.
1Put the vanity ring on the thread of the metal post and attach the metal post on the head of the half pillar. (1-1)
There are two threaded holes on the head of the half pillar. Thread the
metal post into the outer hole and tighten it with the supplied Allen
wrench.
2Loosen the fixing knob on the lower part of the half pillar in advance and put the half pillar on the tripod head. (2-1)
Attach the half pillar on the tripod head so that the center projection on
the bottom of the half pillar fits the center hollow on the tripod head. (2-2)
Tighten the lock knob beneath the tripod head to secure the half pillar.
(2-3)
Extension clamp
SXD2
Post
North
North
Screwdriver
Hole
Post
Post
Post
Post
Tripod
Fixing Knob
Hole
Allen wrench
Outer Hole
Vanity Ring
SXG Half Pillar SXG Half Pillar
Vanity Ring
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Proceed to the step II if this accessory is not provided for your telescope.
Place the tripod so that the metal post on the SXG Half Pillar faces north.

2-1 2-2 2-1 2-2
3
3
2-1 2-2
2-1 2-2
2-32-3
is a very heavy item.
12
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
CAUTION: Be sure to handle the equatorial mount carefully as it is a very heavy item.
Package with the SXG Half Pillar
Package without the SXG Half Pillar
Package without the SXG Half Pillar
II . Attaching the Equatorial Mount
1Loosen the azimuth adjustment screws in advance by turning the azimuth adjustment knobs on the mount.
2Position the mount so that the azimuth adjustment screws of the moun- ting base come above the metal post as shown in the figure.
(2-1)
Place the mount on the tripod and tighten the fixing bolt underneath the
tripod head to hold the mount in place. (2-2)
3Tighten the azimuth adjustment screws on the mount base so that the two knobs are set equally.
Post
Post
Lock Kob
Lock Knob
Azimuth Adjustment Knob
Azimuth Adjustment Knob
Azimuth Adjustment Knobs
Azimuth Adjustment Knob
Azimuth Adjustment Knob
1Loosen the azimuth adjustment screws in advance by turning the azimuth adjustment knobs on the mount.
2Attach the mount on the half pillar so that the center projection on the bottom of the mount fits the center hollow on the half pillar as
shown in the figure. (2-1)
Tighten the fixing bolt underneath the head of the half pillar to hold
the mount in place. (2-2)
3Tighten the azimuth adjustment screws on the mount base so that the two knobs are set equally.

13
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
CAUTION: Be sure to handle the counterweight carefully as it is a very heavy item.
III. Attaching the Counterweight
Lock Lever
Lock Screw
Lock Screw
Safety Screw
Safety Screw
Far Side
Counterweight
Counterweight
Bar
1Loosen the counterweight bar lock lever to draw out the counterweight bar.
Tighten the counterweight bar lock lever with the counterweight bar extended fully.
2Remove the safety screw on the end of the counterweight bar. Loosen the lock screw on the side of a counterweight and install the counterweight by sliding it onto the counterweight bar.
3Attach the counterweight so that the lock screw on the counterweight is on the far side of the safety screw as shown in the figure.
4Tighten the counterweight lock screw and replace the safety screw to screw it down on the end of the counterweight bar tightly.
The counterweight bar is in the declination body. You may balance the SXD2 mount with only the counterweight bar to start.
Tips on Assembling the Mount
Generally equatorial mounts are heavier on the declination axis side. Because of this feature, placing the SXD2 mount so that its
declination axis comes directly over one of the tripod legs can make it most stable when you use the SXD2 mount for a north (or south)
latitude of 50 degrees and lower. However, the balance of the SXD2 mount may vary if it is used in latitude higher than 50 degrees.
This may result in shifting the center of balance to the opposite side of the declination axis depending on the location of the loading
equipment. Change the position of the tripod legs so that the SXD2 mount becomes more stable in such a case.

14
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
IV. Attaching the Optical Tube
Attaching to the Saddle Plate
Attaching to the Dovetail-plate Mounting Block
Safety Screw
Safety Screw
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Optical Tube
Dovetail-plate Tube Plate
Make sure that the slide bar or dovetail tube plate is flat against the saddle plate. Tightening the lock screws with a gap between these parts may cause
the telescope to fall.
1Loosen the two lock knobs on the saddle plate before you attach the optical tube.
2Slide the dovetail bar on the bottom of the optical tube onto the sunken platform of the saddle plate.
3Tighten the two lock knobs on the saddle plate securely.
1Loosen the lock knob and the safety screw on the mount head before you attach the optical tube.
2Slide the dovetail tube-plate mounted optical tube onto the sunken platform of the mount head.
3Tighten the lock knob onto the dovetail tube-plate centering notch until snug. Tighten the safety screw securely.

2-22-2
3
3
1-11-1 2-12-11-21-2
15
1Loosen the R.A clamp lever while holding the counterweight bar
(1-1) and turn the telescope tube until the DEC axis comes to
horizontal (1-2). Tighten the R.A clamp lever and loosen the DEC
clamp lever. Be sure to hold the optical tube or counterweight
securely while loosening the clamps.
2Release the telescope gradually to see which way the telescope rotates around the declination axis.
If the telescope tube starts rotating as you release, it shows there is an imbalance in DEC
To determine the balance point, loosen the lock knob that hold the telescope tube to the dovetail-plate moun-
ting block and slide the telescope tube either forward or backward until it remains stationary.
3Tighten the lock knob (and the safety screw) securely to hold the telescope tube in place.
4Tighten the DEC clamp to finish this adjustment.
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
CAUTION
CAUTION
V . Balancing the Equatorial mount
Telescope Tube with Dovetail Slide Bar
Balancing the Mount in Declination
Do not loosen the lock knob too much in balancing. This could cause the telescope to detach or lead to injury.
Take care not to drop the optical tube assembly as it could seriously damage the equipment or lead to injury. Pay close attention to the security of the
telescope tube and do not excessively loosen the lock knobs on the equipment.
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Counterweight
Bar
R.A Clamp
DEC Clamp
Standstill
Decl. Axis
Why Balance the Mount?
The Vixen SXD2 mount is a German equatorial mount, in which the rotating RA axis and rotating DEC axis cross each other at right angle.
The axes are rotated by using movements of gears on the each axis to get maximum stability and limit the stress on the gears. If the
equatorial mount is in an unbalanced state, it will increase stress to the gears and this could result in damage or erratic operation.
Precise slewing requires a high level of accuracy in rotation of both axes and is important in eliminating stress to the gears. Make sure to
balance the equatorial mount properly in RA and DEC accordingly.
An optical tube weighing 1.3kg (2.8 lb.) or less will not balance with the SXD2 mount.

16
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
Telescope Tube with Tube Rings
CAUTION
Do not move the counterweight too much in balancing. This could damage the telescope tube or lead to injury.
Lock Knob
Lock Knob
Lock Screw
AX103S shown
R200SS shown
Standstill
Decl. Axis
Counterweight
1Loosen the R.A clamp while holding the counterweight bar (1-1) and turn the telescope tube until the DEC axis
comes to horizontal (1-2). Tighten the R.A clamp and loosen the DEC clamp. Be sure to hold the optical tube or
counterweight in hand while loosening the clamps.
2Release the telescope gradually to see which way the telescope rotates around the declination axis. If the tele-
scope tube starts rotating as you release, it shows there is an imbalance in DEC
To determine the balance point, loosen the tube ring lock knobs that hold the telescope tube and slide the tele-
scope tube either forward or backward until it remains stationary.
3Tighten the tube ring lock knobs (and the safety screw if any) securely to hold the telescope tube in place.
4Tighten the DEC clamp to finish this adjustment.
CAUTION
Do not loosen the lock knobs too much in balancing. This could cause the telescope to fall or lead to injury.
1Loosen the R.A clamp lever while holding the counterweight bar and turn the telescope tube until the DEC axis comes to horizontal as shown in the
figure.
2Release the telescope tube gradually to see which way the telescope rotates around the R.A axis. If the telescope tube starts moving by its own
weight as you release, it shows there is an imbalance in the R.A
While holding the counterweight bar, loosen the lock knob on the counterweight so that it can be moved
to a point where it balances the telescope tube. This is the point at which the telescope remains stationary
when the R.A clamp is loose.
If your telescope is light in weight, the mount may balance without the supplied counterweight.
(The extended counterweight bar itself can act as a counterweight.) Retract the counterweight
bar for further balance adjustment.
3Tighten the lock knob on the counterweight to hold in place.
4Tighten the R.A clamp on the mount securely.
Balancing the Mount in R.A (Right Ascension)

1.3～1.8kg
(32.5～46.2kg·cm)
25cm
11.8～14.8kg
(297.3～371.2kg·cm)
25cm
36.7cm
43.9cm
31.5cm
1.9kg＋2.8kg＋3.7kg
10.3～14.2kg
(259.3～357.3kg·cm)
25cm
24.7cm
43.9cm
32.9cm
40.2cm
3.7kg＋3.7kg3.7kg＋3.7kg
9.0～12.4kg
(226.8～311.3kg·cm)
25cm
30.9cm
23.7cm
36.7cm
43.9cm
2.8kg＋3.7kg2.8kg＋3.7kg
2.7～3.5kg
(69.3～88.8kg·cm)
25cm
23.1cm
42.6cm
1.0kg1.0kg
3.5～5.0kg
(89.3～125.8kg·cm)
25cm
22.7cm
41.9cm
1.9kg1.9kg
4.5～6.6kg
(112.5～166.3kg·cm)
25cm
23.7cm
42.9cm
2.8kg2.8kg
5.5～8.3kg
(137.5～208.6kg·cm)
25cm
24.7cm
43.9cm
3.7kg3.7kg
7.8～11.2kg
(196.2～280.2kg·cm)
25cm
28.9cm
22.7cm
37.7cm
43.9cm
1.9kg＋3.7kg1.9kg＋3.7kg
17
Chapter 1 PREPARATION
Tips on Proper Balancing
No counterweight: One 3.7kg (8.1 lb.) and one 1.9kg (4.1 lbs.):
One 3.7kg (8.1 lbs) and one 2.8kg (6.1 lbs):
One each of 1.9kg (4.1 lbs), 2.8kg (6.1 lbs) and 3.7kg (8.1lbs):
One 1.0kg (2.2 lbs) only:
One 1.9kg (4.1 lbs) only:
One 2.8kg (6.1 lbs) only:
One 3.7kg (8.1 lbs) only:
Two 3.7kg (8.1 lbs):
from 1.3kg (2.8 lbs.) up to 1.8kg (3.9 lbs.) from 7.8kg (17.1 lbs) up to 11.2kg (24.6 lbs)
from 9.0kg (19.8 lbs) up to 12.4kg (27.3 lbs)
from 2.7kg (5.9 lbs) up to 3.5kg (7.7 lbs)
from 10.3kg (22.6 lbs) up to 14.2kg (31.2 lbs)
from 11.8kg (26 lbs) up to 14.8kg (32.6 lbs)
from 3.5kg (7.7 lbs) up to 5.0kg (11 lbs)
from 4.5kg (9.9 lbs) up to 6.6kg (14.5 lbs)
from 5.5kg (12.1 lbs) up to 8.3kg (18.2 lbs)
The balance arrangements below illustrate various possible settings, depending on the length and weight of your optical tube. The center
of gravity of the telescope is given as 25cm from the intersection of the RA and DEC axes.

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Chapter 1 PREPARATION
VI. Connecting the STAR BOOK Cable
Connecting to the Mount
Connecting to the STAR BOOK TEN
VII. Connecting the Power Cable
CAUTION
CAUTION
* Hold the connector part of the STAR BOOK cable securely and pull it straight when you unplug the cable. Unplugging by grabbing the cable part may
cause a wire to break.
* Avoid pulling or bending a part of the cable adjacent to the connectors. It may cause a wire to snap.
* Never connect the STAR BOOK cable to other equipment such as a PC. It may cause failure, fire or electrical shock. (The STAR BOOK cable does not
meet the RS232C specifications.)
* When you unplug the power cable, be sure to hold the connector part and pull it straight. Unplugging by grabbing the cable part may cause a wire to
snap.
* Avoid pulling or bending a part of the cable adjacent to the connectors. It may cause a wire to snap.
* Do not use the power cable in a folded and tied condition. It may cause electrical shock or fire.
1Plug one end of the STAR BOOK cable, where no ferrite core is
attached, into the connecting port on the mount for the controller
cable.
2Secure the connector with the setscrews.
1Plug the other end of the STAR BOOK cable, where the ferrite core is attached, into the connecting
port on the STAR BOOK TEN for the controller cable.
2Secure the connector with the setscrews.
Use an optional AC Adapter 12V-3A or portable power supply with the sup-
plied cigarette-lighter plug cord.
The portable power supply is sold separately.
Confirm that the power switch is turned OFF (i.e. the O mark on the switch
is depressed) before you plug the power cable to the DC12V input of the
mount.
Specifications:
DC12V EIAJ RC5320A
Class4 center positive (+)
Controller Connecting Port
Setscrews

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Chapter 2 INITIAL SETTING
I . Turning ON the Power
II . Setting Language
Note: Your stored data in the memory may be initialized due to replacement of the built-in battery, firmware version update, or if the built-in battery is
exhausted. If this happens: “Memory Error!! Initialized Memory Data” is indicated on the screen and all memory is erased and the STAR BOOK TEN
reverts back to default settings.
Note: The mount does not start celestial tracking while the initial setting screen is displayed. The celestial tracking starts at the same time the star chart
appears on the screen.
Basic functions of the mount are described in this chapter. For advanced functions refer to Chapter 5 “Application”.
1The power switch is located on the bottom of the declination body of the mount. To turn on the power press the side marked I on the switch and to
turn off the power, press the O marked side on the switch.
2Turning on the power switch displays the Vixen logo on the screen of the STAR BOOK TEN.
3The „Initial Configuration“ menu is displayed.
1In the “Initial Configuration” menu, choose “Language” with the call up or direction key and press the key (or the key) to the dialog box.
2
In the “Language” dialog box, choose “English” with the or direction key and press the key.
3
Now it is available in English language
Note: You can also access the “Language” dialog box from “System Menu”.
Power Switch
Language is available in Japanese, English, German, Italian and Spanish on the STAR BOOK TEN as of November 2012.
The setting is defaulted to „Japanese“.

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Chapter 2 INITIAL SETTING
III . Setting Local Time
Time Zone
Time Zone
Note: You can also set date and your local time by number with the command keys.
This setting is required the first time you use the STAR BOOK TEN or when the internal battery has been changed. You can enter date and local time of
your area using 24 hours a clock, i.e. 3pm is 1500. It does not offset daylight saving time. (The last entered date and time information will be stored and
displayed.)
1Choose „Local Time Setting“ in the „Initial Configuration“ menu with the or key (zoom key ordirection key) and press the (or ) key to access the „Local Time Setting“ dialog box.
2With the • • • direction keys move the cursor to an available entry space and enter the date and your local time with the or direction key.
3Once you fill in the complete time, the cursor shifts to OK. Press the key to complete the local time setting. Then, press the key again to come back to the “Initial Configuration” menu.
Example: Enter date of December 21, 2012 and time of 18h05m:
Move the cursor to the entry space for date and time.
The cursor will move forward automatically as you enter the numbers.
Date formats are available from the following 3 patterns:
YY/MM/DD
MM/DD/YY
DD/MM/YY
Choose “Date Format” in the entry dialog box with the or zoom key (or direction key) and press the
or zoom key (or direction key) and press the key to access the Date Format. Move the cursor
to your desired date format with the or key and press the key. Then, choose OK with the
or key and press the key.
The time zones are based on longitude bands 15 degrees wide, starting at Greenwich, England. Set the time difference in hours between your local time
and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The sign is “+” (plus) if local time is ahead of GMT (east of Greenwich) and “-“ (minus) if local time is behind GMT (west
of Greenwich).
For example, the time zone for Los Angeles (on Pacific Standard Time) is -8 hours.
Please note that the time zone setting is not converted to Daylight Saving time automatically. When you reset your clocks for Daylight time, add one hour
to the value in the Time Zone setting, as in Los Angeles, change the setting from -8 to -7.
→ →/ → →/ → → → →/ → →: → in turn and press the key.
Note: You can always access the Local Time Setting from „System Menu“.