ZWO AM3N Harmonic Equatorial Mount with TC40 Tripod

Strain-Wave Gearing: A 300:1 Reduction Ratio for High Torque

The core of the AM3N's design is its strain-wave gear reducer, which works with a synchronous belt drive to achieve a high 300:1 reduction ratio. The result is stable transmission and high torque output from a compact mechanism, so payloads up to 8 kg need no counterweight.

Still, check the center of gravity in several directions before use, because an unbalanced load on a strain wave gear mount can shift and increase the risk of tipping. The strain wave drive is fully sealed, so the gear does not rust over time and its performance stays consistent.

Payload Capacity: 17.64 lb. Counterweight-Free, 28.66 lb. with Balance

The ZWO AM3N handles an impressive 17.64 lb. (8 kg) payload without requiring a counterweight or shaft. That covers many wide-field refractors and camera lens setups within the rated weight. Working without counterweights reduces total system weight and complexity, which helps for travel and quick setups.

For heavier optical tubes, you can increase the mount's capacity to 28.66 lb. (13 kg) by adding an optional counterweight and M12 x 1.75 threaded shaft. This expanded capacity allows the AM3N to carry larger instruments.

Tracking Precision: <±15" Periodic Error, Tested on Every Unit

Every AM3N mount is individually tested at the factory, and each unit ships with its own performance sheet verifying a periodic error of less than ±15 arcseconds over its 288-second cycle. This level of native accuracy is a direct result of the strain-wave gear system's smooth, precise motion.

For longer focal length imaging, the mount's precision and ST4 autoguider port allow it to work with guide cameras for autoguided tracking. The combination of low native periodic error and responsive guiding makes the AM3N a reliable platform for capturing pinpoint stars during long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography.

Dual-Mode Operation: Equatorial and Alt-Azimuth from 0° to 90°

ZWO engineered the AM3N for true dual-purpose use with a mechanical design that supports both equatorial (EQ) and alt-azimuth (Alt-Az) modes. You can switch between modes via the hand controller, allowing you to use the mount as a precise, polar-aligned platform for long-exposure imaging or as a simple, intuitive GoTo mount for visual observing.

This flexibility is enhanced by the mount's 0° to 90° latitude adjustment range. A dual-gear altitude system allows you to set the mount for any location on Earth, from the equator to the poles, without needing a separate wedge or pier. Whether you are traveling to an eclipse or setting up in your backyard, the AM3N adapts to your needs.

Total Control: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ASIAIR, ASCOM, and Hand Controller

The AM3N offers a complete suite of control options to fit any workflow. The included hand controller provides immediate manual slewing and can create its own Wi-Fi hotspot for wireless GoTo control via ZWO's mobile apps. The mount also connects over Bluetooth to the ASI Mount app on a smartphone or tablet.

• Wireless Control: Use the ASI Mount or SkyAtlas apps on your mobile device for functions like "Tonight's Best," object searching, and GoTo slewing.
• ASIAIR Integration: The AM3N is fully compatible with ASIAIR, and the saddle's DC output and Type-C port can power and connect an ASIAIR.
• PC Control: With support for ASCOM and INDI drivers, the AM3N is compatible with software that supports the ASCOM driver, such as ASIStudio, MaxIm DL, NINA and SGP, via its USB port.

Field-Ready Kit: The 9.04 lb. Mount Head and TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod

This kit combines the 9.04 lb. AM3N mount head with the ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod. The mount head packs into the included carrying case, which makes it easy to take to remote dark-sky sites and to store at home.

With the TC40 tripod included, the mount and tripod arrive as a matched set, ready to assemble as the quick guide shows.

Power System: 12V DC Input with Power-Off Brake Protection

The AM3N operates on a standard 12V DC power supply, requiring at least 3A. A key safety feature is the integrated power-off brake on the Right Ascension axis. If power is accidentally disconnected or fails during an imaging session, this brake engages to prevent the telescope from swinging freely, protecting your optical tube and camera from potential damage.

The mount also features an audible low-voltage alarm; if the input voltage drops below 10.8V, a buzzer will sound to alert you. For streamlined cable management, the dovetail saddle includes an integrated 12V DC power output port and a Type-C USB port, allowing you to power cameras or accessories directly from the mount head.

AM3N vs. AM3: Key Upgrades for Field Reliability

The AM3N is greatly improved over the original edition, with larger load capacity, higher precision, better low-temperature tolerance and better cable management. While retaining the core harmonic drive system, these upgrades make the AM3N a more user-friendly mount for demanding field conditions.

• On-Saddle Power & USB: The dovetail saddle now integrates a 12V DC output and a Type-C port, which can power external devices such as an ASIAIR. This minimizes cable drag and the risk of snags during long slews.
• Improved Low-Temperature Tolerance: The AM3N is rated for operation from -20°C to 40°C; enable the low-temperature high-load mode in the software below 0°C.
• Integrated Bluetooth: The app has added Bluetooth connectivity, so you can connect to the mount from the ASI Mount app.