How does the FTM-M1012 improve focusing on my Meade LX200 12" SCT?
It replaces the single-speed factory knob with dual-speed coarse and fine knobs, so you can make the small adjustments sharp focus needs at high magnification.
Will the FTM-M1012 help me get sharp images of Jupiter with my Meade 10" f/10 SCT?
It helps. Planetary detail needs exact focus, and the fine knob lets you approach it in small steps instead of jumping past it. Seeing still sets what you see and record.
Can I install the FTM-M1012 on my f/8 Meade SCT?
No. This model will only fit the f/10 Meade 10" and 12" SCTs. For f/8 tubes, Starlight makes the FTM-M1012-F8.
How difficult is it to install the Feather Touch Micro Focuser?
Starlight's instructions take three steps. The only tool required is a 5/64" hex wrench, which is included. You remove three screws, slide the factory assembly off the mirror rod, slide the Feather Touch unit on, centered, and replace the screws.
Does the Micro Focuser change the back of the telescope?
No. It replaces the focus knob assembly and is not in the light path, so the rear port and your image train are unchanged.
Does the FTM-M1012 eliminate image shift on my LX90?
No. Image shift is inherent to the SCT design, where the primary mirror moves to focus. The Feather Touch Micro still uses this mechanism. What it adds is fine focus without the coarse jumps of the stock knob.
What tools are needed for installing the FTM-M1012?
The only tool required is a 5/64" hex-head wrench, which is included with the focuser. You will use it to remove the three set screws holding the original focus assembly and to install the new one.
Can I motorize this Feather Touch Micro Focuser later?
Yes. The Handy Stepper Motor (HSM20) fits any Feather Touch Micro Focuser. It is sold separately and runs on a Focuser Boss II or EFS controller.
What is the reduction ratio of the fine focus knob on the FTM-M1012?
Starlight's Meade instructions and site copy do not state a ratio for this model. The brochure lists 10:1 coarse and fine knobs among the Feather Touch standard features, meaning ten turns of the fine knob equal one turn of the coarse knob.
Is the FTM-M1012 made of plastic or metal?
Feather Touch standard features include hardened stainless steel, steel and aluminum construction and an anodized aluminum fine focus knob.
My telescope is on a German equatorial mount. Does that affect installation of the FTM-M1012?
Remove the scope from a German equatorial mount for the installation. The tube must be horizontal before the focus assembly is removed, or the primary mirror could move.
The FTM-M1012 focuser feels tight after installation. What should I do?
Stop turning the knob immediately. If the brass shaft is not properly centered on the small rod of the mirror assembly, the focuser may bind, potentially breaking it. Remove the focuser again and check that the shaft is centered.
