Weasner's Meade ETX Tech Tips

#1244 ELECTRIC FOCUSER ON ETX-90 MAK PORTABLE OBSERVATORY

Last updated: 24 May 2012

Sent:	Tuesday, May 22, 2012 12:41:01
From:	Matt Edmondson (edmondson69@gmail.com)
I just recently purchased (5/8/2012) a Meade ETX-90 MAK Portable
Observatory #3514-04-20 telescope and subsequently purchased the Meade
#1244 electric focuser, which the manual states "for ETX90".

While attempting to install the focuser I noticed the bottom mounting
plate hole does not align with the telescope mount hole (picture
attached).

I called Meade customer (no)support and they told me there was no newer
model and that the focuser should fit. I guessed I called the wrong
Meade company. I didn't know there was another one out there. Aha, maybe
the one in China where it was manufactured.... I need their number and a
translator. LOL
 
My question is; do any of you know anything about this problem. Is there
a correct electric focuser for this newer model ETX90, maybe #1245
electric focuser?
 
Thanks for your time,
Matt

Mike here: I am not surprised that the electric focuser for the older model ETX does not fit the newest ETX model. The Meade focuser was discontinued several years ago. Would likely fit the (also discontinued) ETX-125. You might try JMI but I don't know if their ETX focuser works with the new model either.

And:

Thank you, I will try.

And an update:

I did not like the appearance of the JMI (cheap looking) or the price of
$179, which I wasn't willing to gamble. So yesterday after emailing with
you I decided to make it work. The focuser is at and angle but works
fine. Attached are pictures of what I did. I added the ugly JMI picture
as well.

Thanks for your help in motivating me to make a decision!

JMI ETX Focuser

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