Celestar Manual
Using the Drive
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telescope south. If you are NOT using the optional DEC motor then all corrections to the declination axis
must be made manually (i.e., by turning the DEC slow motion knob).
If the drive does not respond when the correction buttons have been pressed, check to make sure that the
hand controller cable is plugged into the drive base correctly.
NORTHERN/SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE OPERATION
When using your Celestar 8 in the southern hemisphere, there is a need to reverse the direction of the R. A.
motor. In previous telescopes this was accomplished by installing a reversed motor. Now, the direction
the drive motor moves the telescope is within the control of the user. Changing from northern hemisphere
to southern hemisphere requires changing the polarity of the drive motor. To do this:
1.
You need to purchase the optional hand controller.
2.
With the power turned off, press down and hold the up and down buttons simultaneously.
3.
Turn the power switch on (keep holding the buttons down).
4.
In one or two seconds the red (LED) will blink. This will indicate the telescope is set for the southern
hemisphere.
5.
Keep the hand controller plugged in at all times. If you unplug the unit, it will default back to northern
hemisphere operation.
The direction of the drive motor is now reversed and will work in the opposite hemisphere.
CHANGING THE BATTERY
Once the battery has been drained, it must be replaced. To replace the battery:
1.
Locate the battery compartment cover. It is on the left side of the drive base cover next to the hand
controller outlet.
2.
Remove the battery compartment cover.
3.
Remove the battery from the terminal.
4.
Attach a new, fresh battery to the terminal.
5.
Replace the battery compartment cover.
To obtain the longest possible run time, use an alkaline battery. This type of battery will power the drive
for up to 50 hours of continuous use. Keep in mind that the DEC motor (if used) consumes more power
than the main R.A. drive motor, thus reducing the run time.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
If the battery voltage gets low, either change the battery or plug the drive into an external power source.
Optional adapters allow the drive to run off AC power or 12-volt DC power.