Meade 8" LX100 Series User manual

Meade lnstruments Corporation
lnstruction Manual
8" LX100 Schmidt-Cassegrain
1 0" LXI00 Schmidt-Gassegrain

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Note
lnstructions for the use of optional accessories are not included
in this manual. For details in this regard, see the Meade
GeneralCatalog.
The Meade Schmldt-Cassegraln Optlcal System (Diagram nol to scale)
(4 (r)
Secondery
Liror
ln the Schmkjt-Cassegrain design of the Meade 8'and 10'models, light
enters from the right, passes ttnough a thin lens with 2-sided aspheric
conection ('correcting phte'), proceeds to a spherical primary mirror,
and tren b a convex aspheric secondary minor. The convex secondary
minor multiplies the effeclive focal lergth ol the primary mirror and
results in a focus at the focal plane, with light passing through a central
perforation in the prirnary mirror.
The 8'and 10" npdels include oversize 8.25'and 10.375" prinnry
mirrors, respectively, yielding fully illuminated fieldsoFview significantty
wider han is possibh with standard-size primary mirrors. Nob that light
ray (2) in the figure would be lostentirely, exceptfor the oversize primary.
It is this phenomenon which results in Meade 8'and 10'
Schmid t-Cassegrains having off-ax is fi eld illuminalio ns 1 0% greater,
aperture-for-aperture, fran oher Schmidt-Cassegrains utilizing
standard-size primary mirrors. The optical design of the 4" Model 2045D
is almost identical but does not include an oversize primary, since the
effect in this case is small.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. lntroduction
1. What ls the LX100
a. Heavy-Duty Fork Mounts
b. 2-Speed Drive Systems
c. Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) Smart Drive. .
d. Display (Power) Panel .
2. Standard Equipment
a.8'Model LX100
b.10'Model LX100 .
B. Telescope Assembly
1. Unpacking (Both 1X100 Models)
2. The Field Tripod (Both 1X100 Models)
3. EquatorialWedge
a. 8' Equatorial Wedge (8' LX100) .
1)Azimuth Control
2) Deluxe Latitude Adjuster
b. Superwedge (1 0' LX1 00)
6
6
6
6
6
6
7
7
7
8
8
I
10
10
11
11
12
4. Setting Up The Telescope . 14
a.8'1X100 14
b.10" 1x100
5. Mounting The Telescope On The Wedge (Both 1X100 Models)
6. Mounting The Viewfinder
a. 6 x 30 Viewfinder (8' LX100)
1) Attaching the Viewfinder
2) Focusing the Viewfinder
3) Collimating the Viewfinder
b. B x 50 Viewfinder (10" 1X100) .
1) Attaching the Viewfinder
2) Focusing the Viewfinder
3) Collimating the Viewfinder
7. Attaching the Diagonaland Eyepiece
8. Magnetic Compass (Both LXl00 Models) .
a. Setting Magnetic Declination
b. Compass lnstallation
c. Finding True North
C. Telescope Functions (Both LX100) .
1. LX100 Power Panel
a. Ammeter
b. Power lndicator
c. On/Off Switch
d. Northern/Southern Switch
e. Dec Motor Output
f. Eleckic Focuser Output
g. llluminated Reticle Output
h. Electronic Command Center
j:33["lll3ll,i.l?3i;; : : : ::.
14
16
18
18
18
18
18
19
19
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21
21
22
23
26
26
26
27
27
27
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27

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2. Electronic Command Center (ECC)
a.Map Light.
b. Drive Corrector Control Buttons
c. Electric Focuser Buttons
d.Map Light Button .
e.2X/32X Slide Switch
liffil*,,,::t*',ir,".: ::: ::::: :
3. Operation
a. AC Operation
b. DC Operation
D. Telescope Operation (Both 1X100 Models) .
1. Your First Observations .
2. Focusing
3. Magnifications
4. Apparent Field and ActualField . 33
5. Celestial Coordinates: Declination and Right Ascension 34
6. Lining Up With The Celestial Pole . 35
7. Precise Polar Alignment
8. Electric Motor Drive
9. Setting Circles
10. Observing With The Telescope
Smart Drive (Both LX100 Models)
1. Smart Drive Features
2. What is Smart DrivE?
3. Operation 40
a. Accessing Smart Drive Functions 40
b. Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) . 41
1)Training the Smart Drive (Both 1X100 Models) 41
a) Building the Worm Model
b) Erasing the Worm Model
c) Updating the Worm Model .
c. Electric Focuser Switch
d. Declination Drift
28
28
28
28
28
28
29
29
29
30
30
30
a1
9t
31
31
32
E.
36
37
38
39
40
40
40
42
42
43
43
44
e. Declination Motor Directions
f. Two Speed Electric Focus
F. Maintenance (Both LX100 Models)
1. Cleaning The Optics
2. Alignment (Collimation) Of The Optical System
3. Dewing Of The Corrector Plate .
4. Adjusting The Bight Ascension Lock .
5. Adjusting The Declination Lock .
6. A Note ON The'Flashlight'Test
7. Factory Servicing And Bepairs
8. Troubleshooting The 1X100 Drive System
AA
44
45
45
45
47
47
48
48
48
49
50
G. Specifications

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PRECAUTIONARY WARNING! Be sure to read this manual, or at minimum, the introductory assembly
and operationalprocedures contained herein before attempting to use your telescope.
A. INTRODUCTION
Meade 8" and 10'LX100 SchmidtCassegrain Telescopes are instruments of advanced mirror-lens design
for astronomicaland terrestrial applications. Optically and mechanically, the 8'and 10'telescope models
are among the most sophisticated and precisely manufactured telescopes ever made available to the serious
amateur. These telescopes enable the visual astronomer to reach out for detailed observations of the Solar
System (the planets: Jupiter, Saturn, Mars) and beyond to distant nebulae, star clusters, and gala:ries. The
astrophotographer will find a virtually limitless range of possibilities since, with the precision Meade
worm-gear motor drive system, long exposure guided photography becomes not a distant goal, but an
achievable reality. The capabilities of the instrument are essentially limited not by the telescope, but by the
acquired skills of the observer and photographer. Do take the time to read this manual thoroughly so that
you will be fully acquainted with the many important features of the telescope, as well as with the auxiliary
equipment and accessories available for advanced applications.
The 8'and 10" models are, with the exception of a few assembly operations and features, almost identical
operationally. Most standard and optional accessories are interchangeable between the two telescopes.
The instructions in this manualgenerally apply to both telescopes;when exceptions to this rule occur, they
are clearly pointed out.
1. What is the LXl00?
Designed for advanced visual and astrophotographic applications, Meade 8'and 10'LX't00's include a
dazzling array of standard-equipment features for the serious observer: Wide-field f/6.3 or classical f/10
opticalsystems, mounted atop the largest, most rigid fork mounts available.
a. Heavy-Duty Fork Mounts
The oversized fork mountings included with Meade LX100's are the largest, most rigid mounts ever offered
by a commercial Schmidt-Cassegrain manufacturer. Vibration damping times arthe lowest of any fork mounts
currently available, and yet, these 8'and 10'telescopes move effortlessly across the skies on giant 4'sealed,
preloaded polar ball bearings.
b. 2-Speed Drive Systems
ln addition to the basic quartz-controlled sidereal tracking rate, LX100 models incorporate 2 right-ascension
tracking speeds, controllable from the handbox: 2x sidereal rate for photo-guiding during astrophotography,
and 32x siderealrate for microslewing, or moving, objects within the field of view of view of the main telescope.
Add the optional #39S Declination motor and 2-speed control is actuated on both telescope a:<es,
simultaneously if desired.
c. Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) Smart Drive
The Meade Srnart Drive permits the observer to compensate for minor periodic worm gear inaccuracies; ftis
exclusive Meade software package, built into every LX100, is capable of reducing periodic drive rate errors to an
incredible 5 arc. sec. or less. The Smart Drive only requires user prograrnming once; thereafter the Smart Drive
model is forever stored in the telescope's non-volatile memory, even when power is turned off.
d. Display (Power) Panel
The 1X100 display panelallows for addition of the Meade #1206 Electric Focuser, operable forthe telescope's
Electronic Command Center (ECC), and for direct connection of popular CCD autoguiders. Connectors for
powering the optional#39S Declination Motor, and illuminated reticle guiding eyepiece and for the ECC are
also provided. The bar-type, red LED ammeter permits readout of the telescope's electrical current
consumption.

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2. Standard Equipment
a.8" Model LX100
lncludes 8'schmidt-Cassegrain opticaltube assembly (specify f/6.3 or f/10)with enhanced multi-coatings
(D = 203mm; F = 12$0mm f/6.3 or 2000mm f/10); heavy-duty fork mount with 4'-dia. sealed polar ball bearing,
5.75' RA worm gear, quartz-microprocessor-controlled DC servo-motor drive, and multi-function power panel
display on the drive base; manualslow-motion controls and setting circles on both axes;handheld pushbutton
Electronic Command Center with PPEC Smart Drive and 2-speed l2x,32xl drive control; 25 ft- power cords
for telescope operation from either 12v.DC auto cigarette lighter plug or from 115v.AC outlet; 6 x 30mm
viewfinder; eyepiece holder and diagonal prism (1.25"); Series 4000 SP 26mm eyepiece; equatorialwedge
with elevation scale, bubble level, and azimith control; variable-height field tripod;deluxe die-cut-foam{itted
carrying case; operating instructions.
b. 10" Model LX100
tnctudes 10" Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube assembly (specify f/6.3 or f/10)with enhanced multi-coatings
(D = 254mm, F = 1600mm f/6.3 or 2500mm f/10); heavy-duty fork mount with 4'-dia sealed polar ball bearing,
5.75" RA worm gear, quartz-microprocessor-controlled DC servo-motor drive, and multi-function power panel
display on the drive base;manualslow-motion controls and setting circles on both a,res;handheld pushbutton
Efectronic Command Center with PPEC Smart Drive and 2-speed (2x,32x) drive control; 25 ft. power cords
for telescope operation from either 115v.DC auto cigarette lighter plug or from 11Sv.AC outlet;8 x 50mm
viewfinder; eyepiece holder and diagonal prism (1.25"); Series 4000 SP 26mm eyepiece; supenuedge with
elevation scale, bubble level, and azimuth control; variable-height field tripod; deluxe die-cut-foam-lined
carrying case; operating instructions.

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B. TELESCOPE ASSEMBLY
Use the following steps to assemble your telescope. Note: Section headings list the specific LX100 model
covered under that heading.
1. Unpacking (Both LXl00 Models)
Meade 8' and 1O' LXl OO telescopes are packed differently, depending on the model, to assure safe arrival.
Carefully unpack and remove all the telescope parts from their packing material. Compare the parts to the
"Packing Program'(packed with the telescope) to identify each part.
NOTE: We recommend that you keep atl packing materiats. lf it is ever necessary foryou to return your
telescope to the Meade factory for servicing, these materials will help to assure that no shipping damage will
occur.
Note to foreign users: Meade 8'and 10'LX100 Schmidt-Cassegrain models supplied to countries
outside the U.S.A. are identicalin all respects to the telescopes offered domestically, with the exception
of the AC wall adapter. Also included is a set of plug adapters which willallow the walladapter to be
plugged into the standard wall sockets of most countries.
2. The Field Tripod (Both LXl00 Models)
The Field Tripods for the Meade 8" and 10' LX100 telescopes are supplied as completely assembled units,
except for the spreader bar (#4, Fig. 1) and the 6 lock knobs (2 knobs for each of the 3 tripod legs) used to
adjust the height of the tripod. These knobs are packed separately for safety in shipment.
For terrestrial observations, the base of the telescope's fork mount may be attached directly to the field tripod.
The telescope in this way is mounted in an 'altazimuth" ('altitude-azimuth," or "vertical-horizontal') format,
ideal for non-astronomical applications. The telescope in this set-up moves along vertical and horizontal
a,\es, @rresponding respectively to the Declination and Right Ascension axes in an astronomical observing
mode. The telescope may, of course, be used for astronomical observations when set-up in the altazimuth
mode, but the electric motor drive will, in this case, be non-functional from a practical point of view.
Alternately, the field tripod is normally used in conjunction with the appropriate equatorial wedge (see
section 3) for serious astronomical applications. The equatorialwedge permits alignment of the telescope's
Polar Axis with the Celestial Pole (or North Star), so that the.electric motor drive becomes operational.
After removing the field tripod from its shipping carton, stand the tripod vertically, with the tripod feet down
and with the tripod stillfully collapsed (see Fig. 2). Grasp two of the tripod legs and, with the full weight of
the tripod on the third leg, gently pull the legs apart to a fully open position.
Thread in the 6 lock-knobs (2 on each tripod leg) near the foot of each tripod leg. Refer to Fig. 1. These
lock-knobs are used to fix the height of the inner, extendable tripod leg sections. Note: "Firm feel"
tightening is sutficient; over-tightening may result in stripping of the knob threads and results in no
additional strength.
The spreader bar (#4, Fig.1) has been removed for shipment. To replace, first remove the hex nut from the
top of the threaded rod (#2, Fig.1) and remove the threaded rod from the tripod head (#1 , Fig. 1). (Note, the
threaded rod has a knob (#3, Fig. 1) permanently attached.) Remove the second hex nut from the threaded
rod.
Slide the spreader bar onto the threaded rod (note the correct orientation as shown in Fig. 2) and position
the threaded rod back through the tripod head. Place the clip retainer (a'C'clip) into the slot in the threaded
rod. This clip holds the threaded rod in place. See Fig' 2.
Position the spreader bar so that the 3 arms of the spreader bar are lined up with the 3 tripod legs.

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To attach the equatorialwedge to the field tripod, leave the threaded rod loose for the time being.
To vary the tripod height, loosen the 6lock-knobs and slide the 3 inner tripod leg sections out to the desired
height. A bubble level is included on allequatorialwedges to aid in leveling the field tripod.
To collapse the tripod (after removing the telescope and equatorialwedge) for storage follow these steps:
1. Lower the tripod legs to the lowest position.
2. Rotate the spreader bar (#4, Fig. 1) 60' from its assembled position, so that one spreader bar arm is located
between each adjacent pair of tripod legs.
3. At the base of the tripod is a 3-vane extension strut system, with a circular hub at its center (#7, Fig. 1).
To collapse the tripod, grasp the tripod head (#1, Fig. 1) with one hand and, with the other hand, pull
directly 'up'on the central hub of the extension strut system. This operation will cause the tripod legs to
move inward to a collapsed position.
PRECAUTIONARY NOTES
1. lf the tripod does not seem to extend or collapse easily, do not force the tripod legs
in or out. By following the instructions above, the tripod will function properly, but
if you are unclear on the proper procedure, forcing the tripod into an incorrect position
may damage the extension strut system.
2. Do not overtighten the 6 lock-knobs used to fix the inner tripod leg sections at
various heights. 'Firm feel'tightening is sufficient.
(1) Tripod Head
(2)Threaded Rod
(3) Tension Knob
(4) Spreader Bar
(5) Lock Knobs
(6) Extension Strut
(7) Tension Hub
Fig. 1: Field Tripod
- 'C'-Clip
Fig.2z Field Tripod (collapsed)

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3. Equatoria! Wedge
There are two equatorial wedges used on Meade LX100 telescopes. Pick the section, below, that applies to
your telescope.
a. 8" EQUATORIAL WEDGE (8" LXl00)
The Equatorial Wedge permits use of the B" LX100 telescope in an astronomical, or "equatorial," mode. The
wedge fits onto the field tripod, described below, and accepts the base of the 8" LX100 fork mount. See
Fig. 9.
NOTE: The Meade equatorial wedge is designed solely for use in conjuncJion with the Meade field tripod.
The wedge should never be used without the field tripod, e.g.by placing the wedge alone on a table top and
then nrounting the telescope on the wedge. The 8" LX100, placed onto the equatorialwedge alone without
the field tripod attached to the wedEe may become seriously imbalanced, to the point where the telescope
may actually tip over.
The equatorial wedge for the 8" LX100 telescope is of modern design, with several important features
incorporated to simplify and facilitate telescope operation. After using the wedge, you will find that the
functional design features included are of very significant value in routine telescope operations. Features
included are:
1. Attachment of the wedge to the field tripod by means of only one manual knob.
2. Quick azimuth adjustment by loosening the manual knob as described above.
3. Bubble level for rapid tripod/wedge leveling.
4. Etched latitude scale for fast adjustment of the latitude angle.
-o
(1) Tilt-Plate
(2)Attachment Knob
(3) Latitude Scale
(4) Wedge Body
Fig. 3: Equatoria! Wedge for 8"
(5) Tilt Angle Adjustment Knob
(6) Fine Latitude Adjuster Crossbar Screws
(7) Bubble t-evel
LX100 Telescopes

1) Azimuth Control
The Azimuth Controlfor the Meade Equatorial Wedge and
Field Tripod is shipped in a plastic bag and includes the
following parts:
o Azimuth Base (large U shaped piece of aluminum)
o Azimuth Arm (smallT shaped piece of aluminum)
. 2- Azimuth Knobs
. 2 - 8-32 x 1/2' flat-head machine screws
. 2 - 8-32 x 1' round-head machine screws
To attach the Azimuth Control to your wedge and tripod,
follow these steps:
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To assemble the equatorialwedge, follow this procedure (note that all required wedge hardware and manual
knobs are shipped within the wedge carton):
1. The wedge consists of two basic parts: the wedge body and the tilt-plate, as shown in Fig. 3. Attach the
tilt-plate to the wedge body by threading in the four knobs provided. Two knobs, with washers, should be
used on each side of the wedge body so that a total of 4 knobs attach the tilt plate to the wedge body.
NOTE: When installing the tilt-plate to the wedge, note that it is a tight fit and the sides must generally spread
slightly to accept the tilt-plate. lf the main crossbar of the Deluxe Latitude Adjuster is already tightened into
place this will inhibit your installatlon of the tilt-plate. You will therefore see that by releasing the screws on
the ends of the DLA crossbar (#6, Fig. 3) your installation of the wedge tilt-plate will be facilitated.
2. Place the wedge onto the field tripod with the central threaded rod of the tripod fitting through the center
hole in the floor of the wedge. Thread the wedge knob (#9, Fig. 9) onto the threaded rod of the field tripod
and firmly tighten the manual knob. Wedge
Tripod Head
Azimuth Or, \
FFig.4: Azimuth Control
1. Remove the 4 set screws from the wedge and field tripod (which plug the attachment holes) using a
screwdriver.
2. Attach the Azimuth Arm to the Equatorial Wedge using the 2 ea.8-32 x 1/2'flat-head machine screws.
3. Attach the Azimuth Base to the Field Tripod using the 2ea.8-32 x 1'round-head machine screws.
4. Thread the two Azimuth Adjustment Knobs into the Azimuth Base, until they just touch the Azimuth Arm.
The Azimuth control is now ready to use. To adjust in azimuth, loosen the wedge knob (#9, Fig. 9). Rotate
the wedge by using the two Azimuth knobs in a push-pull manner. After positioning the wedge, tighten the
centralwedge knob.
2) Detuxe Latitude Adjuster
The Deluxe Latitude Adjuster (DLA) attaches directly to the Equatorial Wedge and permits very precise
adjustments in latitude angle by the simple turning of one knob.
The Equatorial Wedge for Meade 8'Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope is shipped with the main crossbar
(#5, Fig. 1 1) of the DLA already installed. Loosen the two socket-head screws that lock the main crossbar
in place, to allow the crossbar to rotate slightly if needed. Thread the long adjustment knob (#3, Fig. 1 1) into
the main crossbar and position the end of the adjustment knob into the cavity on the underside of the
Equatorial Wedge Tilt-Plate. Tighten the two socket-head screws locking the main crossbar into place.
The DLA is now ready to use. To make fine latitude adjustments, follow this procedure:
1 . Slightly loosen the knobs (#5, Fig. 3), on each side of the wedge.
2. Turn the DLA's adjustment knob (pressing against the bottom of the tilt-plate), so that the tilt-plate moves
in latitude angle.
3. Re-tighten he two knobs, which were loosened in step 1, above.

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b. SUPERWEDGE (10" LX100)
The Superwedge permits use of the 10" LX1o0 telescope in an astronomical, or "equatorial," mode. The
wedge iits onto tfre field tripod, described below, and accepts the base of the 10" LX100 fork mount. See
Fig. 9.
NOTE: The
Superwedge should never be uled without the f ield tripod, e.g.by placing the Superwedge alone on a table
top and then mounting the telescope on the wedge. The 10" LX100, placed onto the Superwedge alone
without the field tripoi attached to the wedge may become seriously imbalanced, to the point where the
telescope may actuallY tiP over.
The Superwedge for the 10" LX100 telescope is of modern design, with several important features
incorporated toiimplify and facilitate telescope operation. After using the superwedge for your telescope'
you will find that the functional design features included are of very significant value in routine telescope
operations. Some of these f eatures include:
1. Attachment of the Superwedge to the field tripod by means o{ only one manual knob. (For photographic
applications with the ielescope where extreme steadiness is required, 3 additional hex-head screws
are provided).
2. euick azimuth adjustment by loosening the manual knob as described above.
3. Bubble levelfor rapid tripod/wedge leveling'
4. Etched latitude scale for fast adjustment of the latitude angle.
5. Built-in latitude adjustment control.
(1) Tilt-Plate
(2)Attachment Screw
(3) Latitude Scale
(4)Wedge BodY
(5) Tilt Angle Adjustment Screw
Fig. 5: SuPerwedge for
(6) Vernier Pointer
(7) Bubble Level
(8) Fine Latitude Control Knob
(9) Azimuth Control Knob
10" LX100 TelescoPe

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To assemble the Supenredge, follow this procedure (note that all required wedge hardware and manual
knobs are shipped within the wedge carton):
1. Locate the two 8-32 nylon set screws on the rim of the tripod head and remove them. Attach the tangent
arm to the tripod using the supplied g-32 x 1/2'socket cap screws. (See Fig. 6, betow.)
Azimuth Thrust
Bar Pin .'
=--:
Tangent Or^/
Fig. 6: Mounting Superwedge Fig.7: Latitude Range Hotes
2. Push the field tripod threaded rod up so that the threaded rod.extends above the top of the tripod head.
3. Holding the threaded rod in position, place the Supenaredge on top of the tripod head so that the threaded
stud extending from the tripod head passes through the center hole on the wedge floor. Make sure the
pin extending from the bottom of the azimuth thrust bar is positioned in the slot on the tangent arm (see
Fig. 6, above).
4. lnstall the large hand knob/compass onto the threaded stud. For additional stability, pass the three 5\16-1g
X 1-114" button head screws through the clearanoe slots on the wedge floor and tnreaO them into the tripod
head.
5' The lower tilt plate locking screws (see 'A', Fig. 7) are installed in the factory to allow the tilt plate to be
adjustedforanylatitudelessthan55degrees. lfviewinginaregionwithalatitudegreaterthan55degrees,
move the locking bolts to the lower mounting holes (see,B', Fig. 7).

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4. Setting Up The Telescope
a.8" LX100
The 2080 model telescopes are shipped as completely assembled instruments. Simply remove the telescope
from the packing materials.
c. 10" LXl00
SEE CAUION BOX, BELOW. The 10'LX100 modeltelescopes are shipped as completely assembled
instruments. Simply remove the telescope from the packing materials.
C A U T I O N: All 10" LX100 Model Owners
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TURN THE FOCUSER KNOB OF THE OPTICAL TUBE UNTIL YOU HAVE
READ THIS NOTE!
Next to the base of the focuser knob you will see a red-colored slotted head bolt. This bolt is used only
for safety in shipment. Remove this bolt before attempting to turn the focuser knob. ln its place, insert
the rubber plug provided as a dust protector (this rubber plug is included with your hardware package).
Your focuser is now operational.
Warning! The 10'LXlOO should never be commercially shipped without this red-colored head bolt
secured in place. This is essential during commercial transport where rough handling may occur. For
your personal transport and storage, you will never need to use this bolt again.
TO COMMERCTALLY RE.SHIP THE 10* LXlOO, BE SURE TO FOLLOW THIS PROCEDUHE:
1. Turn the focuser knob clockwise continuously until it stops. This will bring the primary mirror all the
way back in the tube.
2. Remove the rubber plug and insert the red-headed bolt. Thread it in to a firm snug feel. Do not
overtighten. (lf you have misplaced the red-headed bolt, you may use any other bolt that is 1/4-20x1'
long).
Please note that commercial shipment of the 10" LX100 telescope without this safety bolt in place is done
at owner's risk and your freight insurance may be voided if shipping damage results.

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(1)Viewfinder
(2) Declination Lock
(3) Declination Setting Circle
(4) Declination Pointer
(5) Optional Declination Motor
(6) Declination Slow-Motion Control
(7) R.A. Lock
(8) R.A. Slow Motion-Control
(9) R.A. Pointer
(10) R.A. Setting Circle
(11) LX100 Power Panel
(12) Electronic Command Center
(13) Diagonal Prism
(14) Eyepiece
(15) Eyepiece Holder
Fig. 8: 8" LXl00 Telescope

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5, Mounting The Tele*cope 0* The Ylfedge {8oth l-X1$S $$odel*}
With 8" LXl*0 modef t+l*sccpes, threc kn*bs are suppiisd for rn*unting th* teles*ope's drive base i* th*
lilt-plate frf th€ equatoriai wedge. With tha 1*" i-X100, three socket $cr6w$ are prcvided f*r this purpose.
il i
t?\
i3)
i4)
i5)
i6)
i7)
la\
{s)
Tilt Plal*
Wedge Bcdy-t*-Titl Plate Atta*hfisnt Knob
Tilt Angle Adj*strnent (nob
Kno* i*r Altaching ths Telesc*pe tc Tilt Plate
Drive Base
$lat far Kneb {#4, above)
Holes lor ACditionai Attachment Knobs
B*bble Level
Manual Knobl0rmpass tor Attachi*g the
W*dge tc Field T*pod
F*g. 9; Fla*ing the Taleseope on tfte Equatarial Ytledge
l'hread cne of thes* kr':*b* {*r ecrew$, a* appropriate} partially int* the hole *n the u*dersid* *f tila drive
base, lccated al the curved-end *f tlr* drive lra**. $ee #4, Fig" S. "Ihis knob *r $crew should ba thre*ded in
about 3 lull turns, r"rat tuliy threaded into the hole.

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(1) Wedge Attachment Holes
(2) Altazimuth Attachment Hole (1t2-13 thread)
Fig. 10: Underside of the Drive Base
Grasping the 2 fork arms of the telescope
firmly, with the power paneltowards you, place
the telescope onto the tilt plate of the wedge by
sliding the knob (8" LXl00) or screw (10"
LX100) into the slot at the top of the curved-end
of the wedge tilt-plate.
lnsert the 2 remaining knobs for the 8" LX100,
or socket screws for the 1 0' LX1 00, through the
underside of the tilt plate and into the underside
of the drive base. Tighten down all 3 knobs or
screws to a firm feel. Extreme force is not
necessary in this regard.
The telescope is now fully mounted onto the
wedge and field tripod. Adjustments in wedge
Iatitude angle and/or azimuth orientation may
be made with the telescope in place. Further
details on telescope polar alignment are given
below under "Lining Up with the Celestial Pole." (1) Tilt Plate Attachment Knobs
(2) Telescope-to-Tilt Plate Attachment Knobs
(3) Deluxe Latitude Control (DLC) Knob
(4) 112-13 Altazimuth Attachment Hote
(5) Deluxe Latitude Control Main Crossbar
(6) DLC Main Crossbar Attachment Screws
Fig. 11 : Telescope On Wedge

-18-
6. Mounting The Viewfinder
a. 6 x 30 VIEWFINDER (8" LX100)
The standard 6x30mm viewfinder is shipped in its mounting bracket with each 8" LX100 Modeltelescope.
Mounting screws for the viewfinder bracket have been threaded into the top of the main telescope's rear cell,
in the hole positions where the viewfinder bracket will be seated. See Fig. 12.
1) Attaching the Viewfinder
To attach the viewfinder, remove the 2 viewfinder mounting screws from the rear cell, using one of the hex
wrenches provided with the telescope; place the viewfinder with bracket ovel these mounting holes and then
replace the 2 mounting screws to securely attach the viewfinder bracket to the rear cell. Tightening these
niounting screws to a "firm feel" is sufficient;avoid over-tightening, which might cause the rear cellthreads
to strip.
WARNING: Never use set screws on any part of the optical tube assembly, except those factory-supplied
set screws included with the basic telescope or with optional accessories. Longer non-standard set screws
may protrude too far into the optical tube and cause serious damage to the primary mirror.
2) Focusing the Viewfinder
The 6x30mm viewfinder has been factory pre-focused at infinity. Should this focusing need adjustment for
your eyes, loosen the knurled collar at the objective lens-end of the viewfinder (#3, Flg. 12), enabling rotation
of the objective lens cell forward or backward for precise focusing. Then tighten down the knurled collar
against the objective lens cell to lock the focus in place. Note that no focusing is possible or necessary al
the eyepiece end of the viewfinder.
3) Collimating the Viewfinder
The viewfinder will require alignment, or collimation, with the main telescope. Using the 25mm eyepiece,
point the main telescope at some easy to find land object (e.9. the top of a telephone pole or corner of a
building) at least 200 yards distant. Center a well-defined object in the main telescope. Then, using one of
the hex wrenches provided, tighten or loosen, as appropriate, the viewfinder's 3 collimation screws
(#4, Fig. 12) untilthe crosshairs of the viewfinder are precisely centered on the object already centered in
the main telescope. With this collimation accomplished, objects located first in the wide-field viewfinder will
then be centered in the main telescope's field of view.
Once attached, the viewfinder may be left permanently mounted onto the telescope's rear cell. The viewf inder
need not be removed when storing the telescope in its carrying case.
(1) Mounting Screw
(2) Objective Lens Cell
(3) Knurled Collar
(4) -Collimation Screws
(5) Eyepiece
Fig. 12: 6x30 Viewfinder for 8" LX100 Telescopes

-19-
b.8 x 50 VIEWFINDER (10" Lx100)
Each 10" LX100 Model telescope is supplied as standard equipment with an 8x50mm straight-through
viewfinder. The bracket for this viewfinder is packed separately from the finder itself, and the 6 nylon
thumbscrews for collimation should be threaded into the viewfinder bracket, securing the viewfinder in the
bracket. The viewfinder bracket base has been mounted to the main telescope's rear cell, and will accept
the viewfinder and bracket directly, allowing quick removalfor storage See Fig. 13.
1) Attaching the Viewfinder
To attach the viewfinder, simply slide the viewfinder and bracket into the base and tighten the two
thumbscrews to a "firm" feel.
WARNING: Never use set screws on any part of the optical tube assembly, except those factory supplied
set screws included with the basic telescope or with optional accessories. Longer, non-standard set screws
may protrude too far into the optical tube and cause serious damage to the primary mirror.
2) Focusing the Viewfinder
The 8X50mm viewfinder has been factory pre-focused at infinity. Should this focusing need adjustment for
your eyes, loosen the knurled collar at the objective lens-end of the viewfinder (#3, Flg. 13), enabling rotation
of the objective lens cell (#2, Fig. 13) forward or backward for precise focusing. Then tighten down the knurled
collar against the objective lens cell to lock the focus in place. Note that no focusing is possible or necessary
at the eyepiece end of the viewfinder.
3) Collimating the Viewfinder
The viewfinder will require alignment, or collimation, with the main telescope. Using the 25mm eyepiece,
point the main telescope at some easy to find land object (e.9. the top of a telephone pole or corner of a
building) at least 200 yards distant. Center a well-defined object in the main telescope. Then, simply turn
the 6 nylon collimation lhumbscrews (#4, Fig. 13) until the crosshairs of the viewfinder are precisely centered
on the object already centered in the main telescope. With this collimation accomplished, objects located
first in the wide-field viewfinder will then be centered in the main telescope's field of view.
.-_@__==_
(1) Bracket Slide
(2) Objective Lens Cell
(3) Focus Locking Ring
(4) Collimation Screws
(5) Eyepiece
Fig. 13:8x50 Viewfinder for 10" LX100 Telescopes

_20_
7. Attaching Diagonal and Eyepiece
The eyepiece holder (#15, Fig. 8) threads directly onto the rear-cellthread of the 8' and 10' telescopes. The
diagonal prism (#13, Fig.8) slides into the eyepiece holder and, in turn, accepts the supplied 1-114" O.D.
eyepiece. For astronomical observations, the diagonal prism generally provides a more comfortable
right-angle viewing position. Alternately, an eyepiece may be inserted directly into the eyepiece holder for
straight-through observations. Note in this case, however, that the image will appear inverted and reversed
left-for-right. With the diagonal prism, telescopic images appear correctly oriented up-and-down, but still
reversed left{or-right. For terrestrial applications, where a fully corrected image orientation is desired, both
up-and-down and left-for-right, the optional#924 Erecting Prism ('l-114'O.D.) should be ordered separately.
Eyepieces and the diagonal prism are held in their respective places on the telescope by a moderate
tightening of the thumbscrews on the diagonal prism and eyepiece holder.

-21 -
8. Magnetic Compass (Both LXlOO Models)
The magnetic compass helps the observer to set-up the telescope without actually seeing the pob star
Potaris. This allows setting up before dark or in locations where the view of Polaris is obstructed. The
magnetic compass has an adjustment to compensate for the local angle of Magnetic Declination. Note:
Magnetic Declination is the difference between Magnetic North (which the compass shows) and true north
(where the telescope should be pointed). Magnetic Declination should not be confused with the astronomical
term 'Declination,'which, when used with 'Right Ascension', describes the celestialcoordinate system.
a. SETTING MAGNETIC DECLINATION
ln order to obtain an accurate reading using the compass, you must first adjust for the Magnetic Declination
for your location.
1. First, determine the Magnetic Declination in your area using the lsogonic Chart (Fig. 14)
E-0eclination - H
t5"
2l' 2t'
20"
r9"
ll'
tI'
l5'
rfll'
13"
lf
ll" Jr'
l. 0" ir"
t' s"
Fig. 14: Magnetic Declination MaP