What payload can it carry?
The Wave 150i can carry unbalanced payloads on both axes, but balancing, even partially, gives higher stability (especially on a tripod with a small footprint), lower power consumption and better tracking. Rated maximums are a balanced payload of 25 kg at 0.2 m, an unbalanced R.A. load of 15 kg at 0.2 m and an unbalanced Dec/altitude load of 25 kg at 0.03 m.
How do I power it?
DC 12 to 16 V (higher voltage recommended), rated over 35 W (over 3 A at 12 V or 2.2 A at 16 V), with a 2.1mm I.D. / 5.5mm O.D. center-positive barrel plug. Do not use an unregulated AC-to-DC adapter. The power supply is not included.
How do I control it?
The SynScan Pro app is Sky-Watcher's recommended controller: Windows and Mac versions support USB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; Android supports all three (USB needs an OTG dongle); iOS supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. An optional SynScan hand controller plugs into the HAND CNTRL port. The mount also works with third-party control platforms such as ASIAIR, Eagle and StellarMate, for plate solving and automated imaging runs.
How do I set it up for equatorial or alt-az use?
For equatorial mode, loosen the two latitude locking knobs, set the latitude scale to your site with the latitude adjustment knob and lock the knobs. For alt-az mode, turn the altitude adjustment knob counterclockwise until it stops, then lock it. For equatorial mode, set the tripod with one leg toward the pole and align the head's R.A. axis with that leg; the Wave manual refers to the tripod kit's own instructions for the tripod itself.
How do I polar align it?
Loosen the two latitude locking knobs, turn the latitude adjustment knob until the scale reads your latitude, and point the R.A. axis to the pole. Then polar align with the SynScan Pro app or hand controller after a 2-star alignment (repeat two or three times), or with imaging-based tools such as SharpCap Pro or PHD2. Tighten the latitude and azimuth knobs when done. The mount has no polar scope.
Can it return to a home position?
The SynScan Pro app can return the mount to the same home position (Utility, Advanced, Auto Home): a Dec offset of 0 returns to the polar-home position in equatorial mode, and -90 to the north-level position in alt-az mode. Do not start Auto-Home at Dec/Alt -90°/270°.
Can it track satellites?
The 7.5° per second slew rate, with Sky-Watcher's downloadable Satellite Tracker application for Windows PC, lets the Wave track satellites and space stations.
What support comes with this kit?
The EQ6 steel tripod has 2-inch steel legs, and the 180 mm (7 in) Wave to EQ6 tripod adapter fits the Wave head to it and serves as a pier extension, lifting the telescope further above the tripod legs.
What dovetails fit the saddle?
Vixen-style and Losmandy-style bars from 43mm to 73mm wide, in the D/V hybrid saddle.
How does the cable management work?
Wiring runs inside the mount to the declination saddle: the AUX USB interface connects a host to USB devices on the telescope (use a USB hub there for several devices), and the AUX PWR connectors (2.5mm I.D., 5.5mm O.D., 5 A maximum) power devices on the telescope.
What is in the box?
It includes the Wave 150i head, a power cable, a USB cable and a foam-lined carry case, plus the EQ6 steel tripod for Wave mounts and the Wave to EQ6 tripod adapter / pier extension. The counterweight and power supply are not included.
