-
Software Bisque Paramount MX/MX+ Versa-Plate
The Software Bisque Paramount MX/MX+ Versa-Plate is the factory-original mounting platform, providing a rigid foundation for your telescope. Its extensive grid of pre-drilled mounting holes and integrated female dovetail saddle are designed to securely attach virtually any optical tube assembly without flexure.
A Platform for Any Telescope Configuration
The core design principle of the Versa-Plate is universal compatibility. Its surface is populated with a precise pattern of threaded holes, eliminating the need to source additional, flexure-inducing adapter plates when mounting your telescope.
This layout accommodates a vast range of hardware, from the mounting rings of a large refractor to the dovetail bars on a Schmidt-Cassegrain. By allowing you to bolt your equipment directly to the plate, you create the shortest, stiffest mechanical connection possible between your optics and the mount's axes.
The Integrated Saddle: A Foundation of Rigidity
In a high-precision system like the Paramount, mass is a critical component for stability and damping vibrations. This plate is not just an accessory; it is an integral structural element of the mount head.
The integrated female dovetail (saddle) provides a secure grip on standard male dovetail bars. As a direct replacement part, it ensures your Paramount MX or MX+ maintains its original pointing and tracking accuracy, whether you are replacing a damaged plate or acquiring one for a used mount.
-
Is the Versa-Plate the standard part included with a new Paramount MX+?
Yes. This plate is included with the Paramount MX/MX+. It is an ideal choice if you need to replace a damaged plate or have acquired a used mount that was missing this component.
How much does the Paramount MX/MX+ Versa-Plate weigh?
Software Bisque does not state the plate's own weight; the 32 lbs on its listing is the shipping weight.
Can I use the Versa-Plate on a mount other than a Paramount MX or MX+?
This Versa-Plate is for the Paramount MX and MX+ only. Other Paramount models, including the Series 6 mounts, use their own Versa-Plates.
What kind of mounting hardware is compatible with the Versa-Plate?
The Versa-Plate is engineered for near-universal compatibility. Its features include:
-
An integrated female dovetail saddle for clamping onto Losmandy D-style or other large-format male dovetail bars.
-
A grid of pre-drilled and threaded holes that allow direct attachment of telescope tube rings, eliminating the need for a dovetail bar altogether for the most rigid connection.
How do I attach my Celestron C14 with a Losmandy-style bar to the Versa-Plate?
Mounting a heavy instrument like a C14 is precisely what the Versa-Plate is designed for. You simply open the jaws of the integrated saddle on the plate, place the Losmandy-style dovetail bar of your C14 into the saddle, and securely tighten the locking knobs.
Will I need to rebalance my Paramount MX+ after installing the Versa-Plate?
Yes, absolutely. The Versa-Plate's own weight adds to the load on the declination axis. You must account for it and your telescope's weight when selecting and positioning your counterweights to achieve proper balance in both Right Ascension and Declination.
-
| Shipping Weight |
32 lbs |
| Shipping Dimensions |
24 × 10 × 6 in |
| Kind |
Versa-Plate with integrated female dovetail |
| Fits (mount / scope) |
Paramount MX, Paramount MX+ |
| Dovetail standard |
Losmandy D |
-
-
Paramount MX/MX+ Versa-Plate
× 1
-
-
Software Bisque 2-Year Warranty
