Encoder Connector & PCB Repair/Replacement
... by Markless Astronomics.
Not all encoders are salvagible. Some sustain internal damage. We do not inspect the encoder internally. If we think the encoder is salvagible, we remove the existing PCB and/or connecter. The service we offer is to examine the assembly for possible repair, make the repairs, test the encoder with an Argo Navis DTC, and return the assembly to the owner. We make no guarantee that latent damage has not occurred internally to the encoder, which appears at some later date.
PRICES:
North Carolina residents, please add 7.25% for sales tax.
PRICE SHOWN IS for REPAIR ONLY, unless otherwise specified. Does NOT include encoder(s) nor packaging and shipping. Shipping costs are based upon the weight and size of your containers and the destination. Typically, we ship via USPS Priority Mail or FedEx Ground/HD to continental USA.
Email me to start a discussion: cs(at)marklessastronomics dot com
Charles Starks, Charlotte, NC
Prices subject to change without notice.
... by Markless Astronomics. The DSC encoder assembly, commonly used at the Altitude and the Azimuth axis locations as provided by Obsession Telescopes(TM), Telekit, and others is configured typically as shown in the accompanying photograph. The small printed circuit board (PCB) is soldered to the encoder pins. The Telecom RJ-HS connector is soldered to the PCB. Occasionally, the connector and/or the PCB become damaged, usually by snagging the attached encoder cable with such force that the PCB snaps in half, breaks one or more wires, solder joints, or the connector itself. Often, however, the encoder assembly can be repaired without replacing the encoder.
Glatter Sling Installation on Obsession Telescopes
PRICES SHOWN ARE FOR INSTALLATION ONLY, unless otherwise specified. Materials, packaging, shipping, and handling are not included. Installation prices may vary by telescope brand or size due to different configurations. Material costs, packaging, shipping, and handling costs are in addition to prices shown. Shipping and handling costs are based upon the weight and size of your containers and the destination.
Full installation, without extensions (see below), $90. (Does NOT include the Glatter Sling.)
The Howie Glatter Sling is a fantastic mirror sling for big Dobs. Once installed and adjusted, and the primary mirror is collimated, the optical axis of the primary mirror is coincident with the mechanical axis of the OTA and it will stay that way! The Glatter Sling eliminates mirror movement from the center of the mirror box and keeps the optical axis perpendicular to the plane of the mirror box.
Installation of the Glatter Sling is a one time task, but it is not simple and requires time and patience. However, it is well worth the effort. In addition, some telescopes might require relocation of the sling support bolts to a position a little higher on the mirror cell frame, requiring construction and installation of extensions, one of which may be seen in the above photograph. At the time of this writing, only the Obsession 15 is known to require the extensions. The relocation is needed in order to prevent the mirror from contacting the linear bearings as the mirror is raised to its center position in the mirror box. Without the extensions, the mirror cannot be centered top-to-bottom in the mirror box. It also is known that the Obsession 20 and 25 do not require extensions.
Email me to start a discussion or make a reservation, and/or order extensions for your telescope (see below): cs(at)marklessastronomics dot com
Charles Starks, Charlotte, NC
Prices subject to change without notice.
Sling Extension Assembly
... by Markless Astronomics.
Markless Astronomics has designed and fabricated an extension design similar to the A. French approach for the extensions and offers them for sale, if needed, for your own installation, or if you have us install it. The extensions are 100% steel and are very heavy duty. Each extension consists of two machined plates, machined spacer tube, and stainless steel attachment bolt, washers, and nut. These extensions are required on an Obsession 15 Classic if you intend to center the mirror within the mirror cell.
The price for a set of two extensions is $40. Installation of the extensions at our location by Markless Astronomics, if desired, is $20. Glatter Sling, not included.
Email me to order extensions for your telescope: cs(at)marklessastronomics dot com
Charles Starks, Charlotte, NC
Prices subject to change without notice.
ServoCAT™ and ServoCAT™Jr. GoTo and Tracking system installation
... by Markless Astronomics.
PRICES SHOWN ARE FOR INSTALLATION ONLY. Materials, packaging, shipping, and handling are not included. Installation prices may vary by telescope brand or size due to different configurations. Material costs, packaging, shipping, and handling costs are in addition to prices shown. Shipping and handling costs are based upon the weight and size of your containers and the destination.
Full installation with complete checkout $395.
Here's how it seems to work well:
Ship or bring to me your rocker box and ground board. I will install the ServoCAT parts that can be installed on those components. About a week later, bring me the rest of your telescope. If you get the telescope to me by 9 AM, I will complete the installation, and you can drive away the next day . Includes installation of ALT and AZ Servos, installation of new ground board from RXD (required), and ALT drive cable. Includes installation of DSC Stalk if you purchase it from me at time of ServoCAT installation. Installation of other items is extra and not included in the above price.
Only need DSC Stalk and/or PC Podium installed?
Email me to start discussion and make a reservation: cs(at)marklessastronomics dot com
Charles Starks, Charlotte, NC
Prices subject to change without notice.
Ground Board Repair Services.
Only $30 for the first repair, $15 for each additional repair if performed at the same time, plus S&H to your location.
Astrocrumb Filter Slides - a "MUST HAVE" accessory for your Big Dob. Roger builds 'em RIGHT!
Copyright 2003-2015, by Charles Starks, Charlotte, NC, All Rights Reserved
Updated: 5:32 PM 04/16/2015