iOptron CEM26 Saddle I/O Mod

This is a somewhat sketchy apparatus to add an IO panel to your iOptron CEM26 mount, similar to what we have on the larger models of the series. It takes advantage of the existing hollow tube assembly to pass cables inside of it and avoid visible external cables. This provides a cleaner appearance and eliminates any risk of cable tangling.

The DEC axis plate can rotate freely with the cables inside it.

This mod is composed of two main components:

The bottom part of the IO, with 3 connections: the main 12V DC input with a GX16 connector, a USB type B to connect the hand controller, and a 12V DC output to power the mount. The 12V DC input also powers a step-down buck converter to power 5v devices. This is then routed through the mount to the saddle. This part is divided into two sections, the first one directly fixed to the mount base, using existing nicely positioned threads to provide a good accessible way of mounting and soldering all the connectors. The second section is a case to protect all the electronics.

The top part of the IO, an extension for the saddle with 6 outputs to power the devices: a USB type B to connect the mount to the computer attached to the telescope, 2 5V powered USBs, 2 DC 5.5 x 2.1mm power connectors, and a USB type C to power a Raspberry Pi 4.

This was designed with some constraints in mind:

No permanent modifications needed, so this can be removed at any time to restore the stock appearance on the mount.

Try to minimize the impact on existing functionalities of the mount while adding this one (More details below).

Things to take into consideration:

Some clearance with the mount base is lost due to the nature of this mod. Even if I tried to minimize it, if you use this mount at high latitudes, please check if there is a risk of collision on the lower part before doing it. I would say you can safely go up to 50 degrees max!!, but double-check it yourself, please.

Also, about half of the saddle space is dedicated to the cable channel, but in my tests, this did not affect the saddle performance in securely holding the telescope. So, there is nothing to worry about (You could add a safety screw on the dovetail to be safe). You could reduce this lost space by using slimmer cables and making the tunnel thinner. Make your own modifications!

Screws:

• 2x M3x12
• 3x M5x10
• 1x M5x25

Print Settings

Printer Brand:

Creality

Printer:

Rafts:

No

Supports:

Resolution:

0.32

Infill:

Filament: JAYO PLA Black

Category: Physics & Astronomy