How does the 9.25" Dew Heater Ring install on my telescope?
The Celestron Dew Heater Ring is designed to permanently replace the existing plastic retaining ring on the front of your 9.25" SCT or EdgeHD telescope. The installation process is straightforward and involves carefully removing the old ring and securing the new heater ring in its place, which then also holds your corrector lens.
Will this Dew Heater Ring work with a third-party dew controller?
Yes, the heating element can be powered by any controller that provides 12V DC through a compatible RCA-style plug (using the included extension cable). However, the integrated thermistor function is only compatible with Celestron SmartHeat Dew Controllers via its 2.5mm audio jack.
What kind of power supply do I need for the Celestron 9.25" Dew Heater Ring?
You need an external 12V DC power source with a 5.5mm/2.1mm, tip-positive barrel connector. This can be a portable battery pack like a Celestron PowerTank, a dedicated dew controller power port, or an AC adapter if you are observing from home.
Is a dew shield still necessary with the 9.25" Dew Heater Ring?
While not mandatory, using a dew shield is highly recommended. A dew shield reduces the rate of cooling on the corrector plate by blocking it from the open sky. This significantly decreases the amount of power the 24-watt heater ring needs to use to keep the glass clear, saving battery life.
Can I leave the Dew Heater Ring on my 9.25" EdgeHD when I put the dust cover on?
Yes. The ring is designed to live on the telescope permanently. It includes two integrated storage clips that securely hold the power and thermistor jacks, allowing the telescope's original dust cover to fit perfectly over the top.
How much power does the Dew Heater Ring draw on my CPC 925?
The ring has a maximum power draw of 24 watts. When used with a simple 12V DC source, it will run continuously at this power. When paired with a Celestron SmartHeat Dew Controller, the power draw will be variable and much lower on average, as the controller only provides enough energy to keep the corrector just above the dew point.