The ZWO AM5N is a new low-cost strain wave-geared equatorial/alt-az mount for on the go visual observing and astrophotography.

The new 2024 AM5N version features improved payload capacity without counterweights (up to 15 kg), better tracking performance with smaller periodic error (now >± 10 arcsec) and includes power and USB output for mount control on the saddle, making cable management easier.

Incredibly lightweight at only 5.5kg, the AM5 has an impressive payload of 15kg without counterweight or 20kg with counterweight. Despite its size, the AM5 is precisely engineered to be stable and sturdy enough for deep sky imaging with a wide range of telescopes. With a latitude range of 0-90°, the mount can be used easily near the equator.

The AM5 can be controlled via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or a wired USB connection seamlessly with the ASIAIR or ASCOM/INDI with the LX200 command set, as well as with the included hand controller. You can also use the AM5 app to control the mount over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth with a smartphone/tablet.

ZWO has developed custom harmonic drive speed reducer with the demands of imaging in mind. This along with the mount's synchronous belt transmission system results in high torque, smooth gearing and very low periodic error make the AM5 an excellent mount for astrophotography.

The mount is equipped with an electromagnetic brake on the RA axis in case of sudden power failure, which will prevent your telescope from being damaged.

Counterweight bar compatible with counterweights from SKYWATCHER and iOPTRON. The AM5N can be connected to any tripod that has a 3/8" bolt in the centre.

Compatible counterweights

Specifications

Mount type	Alt-Az/Equatorial
Max payload	15 kg without counterweight, 20 kg with counterweight @ 25 cm
Mount weight	5.5 kg
Drive	Strain wave gears + synchronous belt
Reduction ratio	100:1
Periodic error (PE)	<± 10 arcsec, 288 seconds duration
RA drive	Stepper motor + synchronous belt + 17 type strain wave gear + brake
DEC drive	Stepper motor + synchronous belt + 17 type strain wave gear
Latitude adjustment range	0º ~ 90º
Azimuth adjustment range	± 6º
Dovetail saddle	Losmandy & Vixen
Counterweight shaft	M12 x 1.75 coarse thread
Stepper motor resolution	0.17"
Max slew speed	6º/S
Power port	DC 5.5 x 2.1 12V 3A
Power consumption	0.4A standby, 07A tracking, 0.9A GOTO (1.7A in heavy lode mode)
Guide port	ST4
Communication interface	USB C/ Wifi / Bluetooth, ASCOM, INDI (LX200)
Zero Position	Mechanical
Operating Temperature	-15º - 40º C
Power failure protection	Yes, brake on RA axis

With a counterweight of 5kg, the lever arm should be within 20 - 30cm.

For counterweights of other masses, the installation position can be calculated as follows:

Assume the counterweight mass is m kg. The allowable lever arm length L is defined by:
10 N·m ≤ m × g × L ≤ 15 N·m where g = 9.8 m/s^2, which can be approximated as 10 m/s^2.

For example, if a 2 kg counterweight is used, the allowable range of L is from 10 N·m / (2 × 10 m/s^2) = 0.5 m to 15 N·m / (2 × 10 m/s^2) = 0.75 m.

Items included

Gallery

Sample images taken with a 130mm apochromatic refractor with 900mm focal length. Image is 1 arcsecond per pixel at 200% zoom.

ZWO SOLAR ECLIPSE SALE