iOptron HEM44EC Hybrid Strain Wave Drive Equatorial Mount - Head with EC, iPolar, Controller, Case - H444A

Freedom from cumbersome counterweights and shaft is here!

Introducing the iOptron HEM44EC, the latest in revolutionary hybrid strain wave drive mounts. This lightweight, compact, medium payload equatorial mount will deliver an astronomy experience like never before. Imagine a mount head weighing in at just 13.65 pounds with a payload capability of a whopping 44 pounds, without the need of cumbersome counterweights or a counterweight shaft. 

Utilizing state of the art strain wave drive technology for the RA movement in tandem with a backlash-free DEC worm/belt drive design, the HEM44EC delivers unparalleled weight to payload efficiency. Its black anodized all metal CNC machined body is not only appealing to the eye, it’s a rugged platform that will perform at the highest level for many years to come. Unique features such as an electronic friction break and power down memory allow the mount to safely stop and resume a GoTo slew or continue tracking even after an abrupt power loss (No need to realign and start from the beginning).

The iOptron HEM44EC mount can be controlled by the 8409 hand controller, which is included in this package. It can also be controlled via your computer with ASCOM/Commander for a Windows PC or a third party INDI driver for MacOS software. You can also use a SmartPhone/Tablet via iOptron Commander Lite or an App like SkySafari, or use Raspberry Pi device via an INDI driver.

This model (H444A) features a high precision RA axis encoder that delivers incredible tracking accuracy, so much so that many people do not feel the need to guide!  The HEM44EC also includes the built-in iPolar electronic polar scope for easy and accurate polar alignment.

iOptron HEM44EC Equatorial Mount Features

• Advanced strain wave drive technology
• Payload capacity of 20 kg (44 lbs) with the mount weight of 6.2 kg (13.65 lbs)
• CNC machined
• Unique friction brake to safely stop movement during a planned or unplanned power interruption
• 270 second gear period
• High precision encoder with realtime PEC (RPEC)
• Go2Nova® hand controller with ~212,000 object database
• iPolar electronic polar scope for easy and accurate polar alignment
• Cable management system, no hanging exterior cables to moving parts
• Dual saddle (Vixen and Losmandy-D styles)
• Built in zero position search and locator
• Power down position and location memory
• Integrated ST-4 autoguiding port
• Built-in Wi-Fi (via hand controller)
• USB port for firmware upgrade and computer control
• Soft carrying case
• Two year warranty

Specifications