How do I know if the Dew-Not DN006 will fit my 5" telescope?
The Dew-Not DN006 is specifically designed for 5" aperture telescopes. Its 16.75" length is calculated to wrap perfectly around the optical tubes and dew shields of common 5" instruments like refractors, Maksutov-Cassegrains, and Schmidt-Cassegrains. The Velcro closure allows for a secure and adjustable fit.
What makes the Dew-Not heater different from cheaper resistance wire dew straps?
The key difference is the thick-film heating element. Traditional straps use a thin wire that can create uneven hot spots and is prone to breaking. The Dew-Not's solid-state element distributes heat evenly across its entire 15.75" surface, leading to greater efficiency, reliability, and safety for your telescope's optics.
What power supply do I need for this 5" Dew-Not heater strip?
You will need a 12V DC power source, such as a portable astronomy power tank or a compatible AC adapter. The heater connects via a standard RCA-style plug to a dew controller (sold separately), which then connects to your power supply. The heater itself cannot be plugged directly into a power source without a controller to regulate the output.
I have a 5" Maksutov-Cassegrain. Is the Dew-Not DN006 the right size for its corrector plate?
Yes, this is the ideal size. For a 5" Maksutov-Cassegrain, you should wrap the 16.75" Dew-Not strip around the main optical tube, directly behind the corrector lens cell. This placement warms the entire cell, which in turn keeps the glass corrector plate just above the dew point, preventing condensation from forming.
Will the 7.9W power draw of the Dew-Not heater drain my field battery while imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?
The 7.9W (0.66A) draw is very efficient and represents a small load on most astronomy power tanks. For a typical 17 amp-hour battery, this heater alone could run for over 25 hours. When combined with a mount and camera, it's a minimal addition to your total power budget, allowing for a full night of imaging without concern for premature battery drain.
Why is the heating element (15.75") shorter than the total strip length (16.75") on the Dew-Not DN006?
The extra inch of length on the 16.75" strip accommodates the robust Velcro closure system. This non-heated section allows the strap to overlap for a secure fit on your 5" telescope without placing any heating elements within the Velcro material itself, ensuring durability and a safe electrical connection.
