What payload can it carry?
In equatorial mode, telescopes under 10 kg (22 lb) need no R.A. balancing, and the Dec axis needs balancing only with heavy telescopes. With the optional 5 kg counterweight the limit is 15 kg (33 lb), with the telescope's center no more than 20 cm (7 3/4") from the R.A. axis. In alt-az mode the azimuth axis needs no balancing up to 15 kg on the primary saddle and 6 kg (13 lb) on the second saddle.
How do I power it?
DC 12 to 16 V (higher voltage recommended), rated over 55 W, with a 2.1mm I.D. / 5.5mm O.D. center-positive barrel plug. Do not use an unregulated AC-to-DC adapter. The power supply is not included.
How do I control it?
The SynScan Pro app is Sky-Watcher's recommended controller: Windows and Mac versions support USB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; Android supports all three (USB needs an OTG dongle); iOS supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. An optional SynScan hand controller plugs into the HAND CNTRL port. The mount also works with third-party control platforms such as ASIAIR, Eagle and StellarMate, for plate solving and automated imaging runs.
How do I set it up for equatorial or alt-az use?
For equatorial mode, loosen the two latitude locking knobs, set the latitude scale to your site with the latitude adjustment knob and lock the knobs. For alt-az mode, turn the adjustment knob until it stops and lock the mount upright. For equatorial mode, set the tripod with one leg toward the pole and align the head's R.A. axis with that leg; the Wave manual refers to the tripod kit's own instructions for the tripod itself.
How do I polar align it?
Loosen the two latitude locking knobs, turn the latitude adjustment knob until the scale reads your latitude, and point the R.A. axis to the pole. Then polar align with the SynScan Pro app or hand controller after a 2-star alignment (repeat two or three times), or with imaging-based tools such as SharpCap Pro or PHD2. Tighten the latitude and azimuth knobs when done. The mount has no polar scope.
Can it return to a home position?
The SynScan Pro app can return the mount to the same home position (Utility, Advanced, Auto Home): a Dec offset of 0 returns to the polar-home position in equatorial mode, and -90 to the north-level position in alt-az mode. Do not start Auto-Home at Dec/Alt -90°/270°.
Can it track satellites?
The 7.5° per second slew rate, with Sky-Watcher's downloadable Satellite Tracker application for Windows PC, lets the Wave track satellites and space stations.
What support comes with this kit?
The EQ6 steel tripod has 2-inch steel legs, and the 180 mm (7 in) Wave to EQ6 tripod adapter fits the Wave head to it and serves as a pier extension, lifting the telescope further above the tripod legs.
What dovetails fit the saddle?
Vixen-style and Losmandy-style bars from 43mm to 73mm wide, in the D/V hybrid saddle.
Can I mount two telescopes?
Yes, in alt-az mode. Sky-Watcher fits the Wave 100i with a second saddle for solar imagers, eclipse chasers and outreach: it carries up to 6 kg (13 lb), with up to 15 kg (33 lb) on the primary saddle. For alt-az mode, fix the second saddle to the mount with the two M5 countersunk and two M6 cap screws supplied, and fit the saddle cover. Use the 3mm hex key on the two screws at the side of the primary saddle to align the two telescopes in the same direction.
What is in the box?
It includes the Wave 100i head, the second saddle and its cover, 3mm and 4mm hex keys, two M6 and two M5 screws, a power cable, a USB cable and a foam-lined carry case, plus the EQ6 steel tripod for Wave mounts and the Wave to EQ6 tripod adapter / pier extension. The counterweight and power supply are not included.
