What do I need to power the Dew-Not DN018 Telrad Heated Shield?
You will need a 12V DC power source and a dew heater controller. The heater connects to the controller via a standard RCA-style plug. The controller, which is sold separately, allows you to adjust the heat output to match changing environmental conditions.
How is the Dew-Not Telrad heater installed?
Installation is simple and requires no tools. The Dew-Not DN018 is designed as a shield that slides directly onto the body of your Telrad finder. Its custom-fit design ensures it stays in place without affecting the finder's alignment.
Will the 1.44W output of the Dew-Not DN018 be enough on a very humid night?
Yes. The 1.44W output is specifically calculated for the surface area of the Telrad's window. The goal is not to make the window hot, but to keep it just a few degrees above the ambient dew point. This low-power approach is highly effective and prevents the formation of dew even in damp conditions while observing targets like the Orion Nebula (M42).
How much power will the DN018 heater draw from my field battery?
The heater is very efficient, drawing only 0.12 A of current. This is a minimal load for most portable 12V DC astronomy power supplies, allowing you to run it all night with little impact on your battery's total runtime.
Can I use the Dew-Not Telrad heater on a different type of finder?
This heater, model DN018, is specifically designed for the Telrad finder. Its shape and attachment method are custom-made for that model. Using it on other finders is not recommended as it will likely not fit correctly or provide even heating.
I use my Telrad on an 8" SCT for finding Jupiter. Will installing the DN018 heater affect its alignment?
No, the heater is lightweight and designed to slide on securely without shifting the position of the Telrad. Once your finder is aligned, you can install or remove the heated shield without needing to realign it.
