Re: ATM equatorial platform

[NGC704@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/16/2003 11:25:10 AM Central Standard Time, 
jcurran@asymtek.com writes:

> 1. Are very large radii for the sectors advantageous over smaller radii?  I
>  understand the concept of keeping the axis of rotation going through the
>  scope cg.

    A smaller radius might be imagined to hold the load "in the groove" a 
little better. But if the radii are determined based upon the CG of the scope 
they will handle, then the question is essentially moot. At any rate, they 
*all* work well, all other things being equal. Certainly nothing I would 
think about.
  
>  2. I just read in a recent ATM message: "... and dont use soft rubber 
roller
>  blade wheels or your scope will float like a boat"
>  How about harder wheels?  They make skateboard wheels in all sorts of
>  hardnesses.

    I used inexpensive ball bearings sets packaged for roller blades, and 
they work very well. Smaller diameter, too, which makes for a lower profile, 
rock solid platform.

$0.02,
Kurt Maurer
League City, Texas
http://members.aol.com/NGC704/