What is the advantage of the Paramount ME's belt-driven worm gear system?
The belt-driven, spring-loaded worm gears on the Software Bisque Paramount ME are designed to produce virtually zero backlash. This means that when the mount receives a command to move—whether for guiding, slewing, or tracking—the response is instantaneous. This eliminates the slight delay or "slop" found in many other drive systems, resulting in tighter guiding and more precise pointing.
How does the Paramount ME's TPoint modeling improve accuracy over a standard GoTo mount?
A standard GoTo mount relies on a simple 1, 2, or 3-star alignment to approximate its position. The Paramount ME uses TPoint to build a detailed mathematical model of your entire optical system. This model accounts for and corrects numerous real-world errors that other mounts ignore, including:
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Polar Misalignment: Achieve precise tracking even with a less-than-perfect polar alignment.
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Atmospheric Refraction: The mount compensates for the bending of light as it passes through the atmosphere.
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Telescope Flexure: TPoint models how your telescope sags under its own weight as it points to different parts of the sky.
The result is dead-on pointing accuracy across the entire sky.
Do I need the on-axis absolute encoders for my Paramount ME?
The choice depends on your primary use case. The standard motor-based encoders, when paired with TPoint and ProTrack, deliver exceptional tracking for long-exposure astrophotography, often allowing for unguided exposures of 5-20 minutes. On-axis absolute encoders offer two key advantages: they provide immunity to periodic error and allow the mount to know its exact position instantly without a homing procedure. This is most beneficial for remote observatories requiring immediate startup after a power cycle and for specialized applications like satellite tracking.
Can I control the Paramount ME mount from my MacBook Pro running macOS?
Yes. The Paramount ME includes TheSky Universal Bundle, which provides native, fully-featured software for macOS, Windows, and Linux. You are not required to use a Windows PC or run virtual machines. The user interface and functionality are consistent across all operating systems, making it a truly cross-platform solution.
My imaging setup includes a 14" SCT with an OAG and filter wheel. Is the Paramount ME suitable?
The Software Bisque Paramount ME is specifically designed for large, complex instrument packages like a fully-equipped 14" SCT. Its robust mechanical design and high-torque 48V motors are engineered to handle the weight and moment arm of such setups with ease. The included pair of 14 kg counterweights can balance a payload up to approximately 28 kg (60 lb.), with additional counterweights available for heavier configurations.
How does the "AutoHome" feature on the Paramount ME work after a power outage?
The AutoHome™ feature on the Paramount ME (on models without absolute encoders) provides a reliable method to re-establish the mount's orientation. After power is restored, the mount performs a homing sequence that takes about a minute. It uses high-precision sensors to find its unique "home" position, ensuring that your TPoint model remains valid and the mount knows exactly where it's pointing without requiring a new star alignment.
