Will the Dew-Not 6" heater work on my Celestron 6" SCT or my Explore Scientific AR152 refractor?
Yes, the 20.5" length is ideal for 6" (152mm) diameter optical tubes. It will fit a Celestron 6" SCT perfectly. For the AR152, you would typically measure the circumference of the dew shield where you plan to place the strip to ensure a good fit, but this model is designed for that aperture class.
I have a portable 12V power tank. How long will the Dew-Not DN007 run before draining it?
The Dew-Not DN007 draws 0.80 amps. To calculate runtime, divide your power tank's capacity (in Amp-hours) by 0.80. For example, a 17Ah battery would power the strip for over 21 hours (17 / 0.80 = 21.25), assuming the heater is running at 100% power. Your dew controller will likely cycle it, extending battery life even further.
What's the difference between the Dew-Not heater's 20.5" strip length and the 19.5" element length?
The total physical length of the fabric strip, including the Velcro, is 20.5". The actual heating element inside the strip is 19.5" long. This design ensures there is non-heated material at the ends for a secure overlap and attachment without stressing the heating element itself.
Can I plug the Dew-Not DN007 directly into a 12V car battery?
No. While it operates on 12V DC, the strip does not have a built-in regulator and should not be connected directly to a power source. It is designed to be plugged into a dew heater controller, which regulates the power output to provide the right amount of heat and prevent overheating.
Why does Dew-Not use a thick-film heater instead of resistance wire?
Thick-film technology allows for a much larger heating surface compared to a thin wire. This results in more even heat distribution across your telescope, preventing localized hot spots that can affect optical performance or damage equipment. It's a more reliable and efficient method for dew prevention.
Is the Dew-Not DN007 heater strip waterproof?
The heater is designed to combat dew, which is moisture, and is weather-resistant. The cloth and foam construction can handle the damp conditions of a typical observing night. However, it should not be submerged in water.
