19 replies to this topic

[tcmattox589]

Anyone have any advice before buying this mount?

I heard that it may have balancing issues.

 

Thanks for all the fed back and help with this post

 

My apologies, I'm using the wrong word, I meant to say that I'm hearing about '"Leveling Issues" with this mount.

Edited by tcmattox589, 13 June 2025 - 11:10 AM.

[jupiter122]

Yoy might want to check out these two reviews on YouTube by Tsula.

https://youtu.be/yNg...pXHuZnXEsFHMqpj

https://youtu.be/P1b...FACoZWPCbMOmRB5

Bot sure if she addresses any balance issues, but you might find them useful nonetheless.

[RKeating]

I've had my HAZ46 for over a year now and it's absolutely the best mount I've ever had. I haven't heard any complaints about balance, in fact you don't have to balance anything. The strain wave doesn't struggle no matter how unbalanced it is. At first I side mounted my scopes because it seemed like I should try to keep it balanced in Alt. But one night I decided to try it Top Saddle (Bino mode). I was surprised that it did not have any affect whatsoever. Objects near zenith (most unbalanced position) tracked just as well as those near horizon. And it did not run battery down any faster. You'll get about 4 hours whether saddle is on top or side. Top saddle makes it so much easier and safer to mount the scope that I keep it that way.

 

I've had many scopes on it, all top saddle, from 4" refractor to heavy 5" f/9 refractor, and a C9.25 SCT and all tracked beautifully, no visible vibration even at 500x. I even tried my C11 on it and the HAZ46 moved it around with ease,  but on top my LiteRock tripod with custom 12” minipier I was afraid any wind might cause a disaster. But the C11 would be fine in top saddle mode with a heavier duty tripod. 

 

Search the forums for HAZ46 or HAZ31 and you'll find a lot of good info.

 

I also have a AZMount Pro, and while it's a good mount too, the HAZ46 is my favorite because no c!ounterweights or rebalancing needed when going from light to heavy eyepieces.

 

BTW, the HAZ31 is almost identical to 46 but without an internal battery and 46 has heavier duty strain wave gear on Alt. The 31, 46, and 71 all use same firmware (see iOptrons web site) so if you read anything about one of them being more accurate don't believe it, they are all good as long as they are perfectly level. Don't trust the built-in bubble level, it is horrible. Put a torpedo level on top flange of tripod/minipier and if you level that your GoTo's will be very accurate.

Edited by RKeating, 13 June 2025 - 01:46 AM.

[travelenfree1952]

Hi RKeating,

Thank You for your great detailed response.

 

i have a 33 lb,  6" F 7 Skywatcher Esprit (long tube) refractor.  Do you think that I would need a 10" or longer saddle, possibly from ADM.  I believe the saddle that comes with the HAZ 71 is only 6" long.  I don't have the HAZ 46.  I am purchasing the HAZ 71 with the 6" mini pier.

 

Did you buy a longer saddle to support your telescopes?

 

Thank You,   Travelenfree1952

Edited by travelenfree1952, 13 June 2025 - 01:45 AM.

[RKeating]

I don't know about the HAZ71, but the HAZ46 has a similar but slightly longer saddle than 31. Many have gone with ADM saddles and seem to like them, but it may not fit in carrying case. You'll see the same complaints for both 31 and 46... that iOptron should have put a bigger lock knob. However the problem I saw was that the lock knob is screwing into aluminum threads, and I was afraid that putting more force on it would increase thread wear over time. On my G11, Losmandy does it similar but they screw a stud into the aluminum and use a female lock knob, that way no wear on aluminum threads. So I copied Losmandy and I am now able to adequately tighten it and I am happy with the iOptron saddle. My stock AZ Pro has two lock knobs but I find the modified HAZ46 saddle grips better. I posted the details of my mod here:

https://www.cloudyni.../#entry13191142

Edited by RKeating, 13 June 2025 - 02:19 AM.

[Astromancer]

I do not have a HAZ46, but I do have a HAZ31 and I absolutely love it. I got it originally to use with my 8” Meade LX90 SCT (for visual work). I too changed the saddle to top mount, because I wanted to try it with my binoculars. I never looked back. I did eventually get an ADM saddle for it, and I can highly recommend that, although I really am not sure that you will actually need the longer saddle.

Currently I use the HAZ31 with my Oberwerk BT-120XL SD. Coupled with a small guide scope, camera and an ASIAir it probably weighs in at 23 or so lbs and the mount handles it with no issues at all. I cannot see why an HAZ46 would not be excellent.

 

One thing I should point out is that I generally do not use the self alignment routine of the mount at all. I simply start it up, point at the sky, take a photo and plate solve using the ASIAIR, sync to the mount and it’s off to the races. I have tried the self-alignment routine and it’s OK, but plate solving is sooo much easier…

 

Chris

[tcmattox589]

Hey Vostok,

Thanks for the information, but I'm new to all this....

 

Could definitely use some help with understanding how to use and connect Asiair with the mount.

 

Anyone? Please?

[Astromancer]

Hey Vostok,

Thanks for the information, but I'm new to all this....

 

Could definitely use some help with understanding how to use and connect Asiair with the mount.

 

Anyone? Please?

I’m actually Astromancer, not Vostok, but here’s how it works with mine. I have the original HAZ31, with the hand controller. The Hand Controller is plugged into the HAZ31, and then a USB cable runs from the controller to the ASIAir. As I recall it, the controller end is a USB-B connector, while the ASIAir end is USB A. The ASIAir app, which I run on an iPad, does not have a specific selection under Mounts for the HAZ31. However i use the iOptron CEM-120, then IP address 10.10.100.254 and Port 8899. If I recall correctly, I have the connection set to Serial and 115000 baud.

 

Once the ASIAir “sees” the mount you are good to go. You can still use the hand controller to move the mount up/down and left/right, but you can also use the arrow keys on the ASIAir main screen. Generally I simply use the ASIAir Go-to commands by selecting an item I wish to observe and then doing a Go-To commands. It will slew the mount to the object, take an image, plate solve, and, if it is not centered it will move as necessary, then plate solve again and confirm that the object is centered. Note that you need to have a camera for this all to work.

 

Good luck and let me know if you need any other help.

 

Chris

[tcmattox589]

I’m actually Astromancer, not Vostok, but here’s how it works with mine. I have the original HAZ31, with the hand controller. The Hand Controller is plugged into the HAZ31, and then a USB cable runs from the controller to the ASIAir. As I recall it, the controller end is a USB-B connector, while the ASIAir end is USB A. The ASIAir app, which I run on an iPad, does not have a specific selection under Mounts for the HAZ31. However i use the iOptron CEM-120, then IP address 10.10.100.254 and Port 8899. If I recall correctly, I have the connection set to Serial and 115000 baud.

 

Once the ASIAir “sees” the mount you are good to go. You can still use the hand controller to move the mount up/down and left/right, but you can also use the arrow keys on the ASIAir main screen. Generally I simply use the ASIAir Go-to commands by selecting an item I wish to observe and then doing a Go-To commands. It will slew the mount to the object, take an image, plate solve, and, if it is not centered it will move as necessary, then plate solve again and confirm that the object is centered. Note that you need to have a camera for this all to work.

 

Good luck and let me know if you need any other help.

 

Chris

My apologies Astromancer,

I have purchased the HAZ46 mount and ready to setup. I will purchase the ASIAIR and Camera asap.

Not sure what camera is needed?

 

I've been studying videos on YouTube, and ready to dive in.....I appreciate all the help, thanks

If I have problems, may I reach you on this page?

 

-Terry

[RKeating]

I wouldn't suggest buying a camera and ASIAIR if you don't plan to do imaging. As long as the HAZ is level you will get pretty accurate GoTo's. New users often complain about GoTo's being inaccurate, and I believe it because they are using the built-in bubble level which is horrible. After people recommend they use a torpedo level they are usually satisfied with pointing accuracy. The HAZ doesn't have a good spot to place a level on, so BEFORE you place the HAZ on tripod or minipier, level the flat top surface where the HAZ will be mounted. I suggest placing the tripod so one leg points South (or North), level in East-West direction first, then level in North-South direction last.

 

When you first get the HAZ you'll have to install the coin battery in the Hand Controller. That battery stores the Zero Position, the GPS coordinates, the Time Zone Offset for your location (in minutes), and the last alignment. So after installing the battery, level tripod and install the HAZ on it with iOptron logo facing North. The first time you run Align Wizard it can do some strange movements, so don't put the telescope on it, just power up HAZ and run the Align Wizard. Let it do its 2 minute "dance" and it will then go to a bright object like the Moon. Just sight along the saddle and when it seems to point at the target hit ENTER to align on it. Then hit MENU button and select PARK. It will aim at North horizon and ask you to turn power off (always park mount at end of night because that will make it fit in case).

 

From then on, the mount will remember its last alignment so skip the Align Wizard and use SELECT & SLEW to go to any object, then use SYNC to align on it.

 

I highly suggest using SkySafari Plus or Pro to control the mount. If you are purchasing the App, keep in mind that if you decide to upgrade they do not give you credit for your previous version, you'll have to pay full price. You need "Plus" to control the HAZ, but I'd suggest just buying "Pro" as you'll save money in the long run. If you haven't used it before, here's the procedure for Android:

In Device's WiFi Settings connect to mount's WiFi (probably begins with something like HBX8409). If asked select "this time only" and it will probably warn you will have no internet connectivity.

In Sky Safari MENU > SETTINGS > TELESCOPE > SETTINGS and deselect TILT DEVICE TO SLEW.

Then MENU > SETTINGS > TELESCOPE > PRESETS > ADD PRESET > OTHER CONNECTIONS and

select "iOptron CEM120" then NEXT (top right). Select "Alt-Az. GoTo" then NEXT. 

Select Connect Via WiFi and set IP: 10.10.100.254 and Port: 8899

Then press CHECK CONNECTION and it should report "Connection Verified" (if not check that WiFi is still connected to HAZ). Press NEXT (at top) and enter a name for this preset (like HAZ46). Deselect Set Time and Location (will be set by GPS) then SAVE PRESET.

 

From then on, when you want to control HAZ from SkySafari:

1) In device's WiFi Settings, connect to HAZ WiFi.

2) Run Sky Safari and select SCOPE button, then CONNECT.

3) Select any object in SkySafari and GOTO it.

[Astromancer]

I use the HAZ31 with a small mini guide scope (i have two of these, the SVbony SV165 and the ZWO 30mm F4 mini). Frankly any cheap and small guide scope will work. No need to spend too much. I use them with a ASI120mm or 220mm mini guide camera.

 

To be clear, the HAZ auto align and go-to performance is fine, it is just not as simple and precise as plate solving. I can afford the extra equipment and I find it much easier to use, especially with the longer focal lengths. You do not NEED to buy a plate solving solution. It all depends on how much you find it frustrating to sit there trying to find an object in the night sky.

 

RKeating is quite correct about how to do it without plate solving. I have done it that way and it works, to a point. But trying to get an object centered with a 800mm plus focal length (much less something like an SCT or MCT) is for me simply an exercise in frustration.

 

When I take my big Binocular Telescope out I really want to spend my time seeing things, not finding them. Plate solving makes my life much easier that way.

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[RKeating]

I'd at least try the torpedo level and see if your GoTo's are "good enough". If not you can try my Reverse Leveling procedure:

https://www.cloudyni...-alt-az-mounts/

 

Most of the time I just level and start using the mount. But if the pointing accuracy isn't good enough for what I'm doing, Reverse Levelling let's me improve it dramatically within minutes.

 

Then if you feel the need you can add a camera and ASIAir.

[tcmattox589]

You guys are awesome, and i want to thank everybody for the help and advice.

I was one click away from giving up on the HAZ46.

 

RKeating I followed your perfect instructions and it's all working just fine, I just gotta keep practicing on leveling.

I'm so happy that I can use an app instead of that frustrating hand controller. I bought the SkySafari Pro

 

I have another Celestron mount with StarSense autoguider that plate solves with no leveling or issues at all, so I somewhat understand your point Astromancer.

 

Plate solving is probably more accurate, but I'm just glad and thankful for you guys helping me.

Maybe in the future I will look into the Asiair and getting a camera.

 

Clear Skies

-Terry

[daw316]

astromancer-

 

I have an haz31.  how do you guide?  I can't find a way to get phd2 to communicate with the mount.

 

thanks.

[Astromancer]

astromancer-

 

I have an haz31.  how do you guide?  I can't find a way to get phd2 to communicate with the mount.

 

thanks.

Daw316, unfortunately I don’t use phd2. I use an ASIAir. That has no problem communicating with the mount (via the hand controller). There’s not much “guiding o be done anyway with a HAZ mount. There’s mount tracks quite well on its own, at least for visual purposes, which is how I use mine.

 

For Astrophotography Alt/Az mounts are not great anyway, certainly not for long exposures. For that i use my iOptron HAE29 or my ZWO AM5. Both of these guide very well (0.5 ~ 0.3”) using the ASIAir.

[daw316]

Thanks for the response.  Visual.  Mostly satellite watching with skytrack.  Guiding is just for "fun"  HAZ31 working great.  Don't use the old "upgraded" ZEQ25 much any more.

[Andrea From Phoenix]

Astromancer~your HAZ31 does it do well with an 8 inch SCT?  I'm trying to decide between HAZ31 and HAZ46, I want to use for visual only (no astrophotography).  Also reading up on tripods, which tripod do you use for your HAZ31?  Does it do well with the 8 inch SCT?  Which tripod is best with the HAZ46?  I am seeing mixed reviews on the carbon fiber tripod iOptron offers.  

[Astromancer]

Astromancer~your HAZ31 does it do well with an 8 inch SCT?  I'm trying to decide between HAZ31 and HAZ46, I want to use for visual only (no astrophotography).  Also reading up on tripods, which tripod do you use for your HAZ31?  Does it do well with the 8 inch SCT?  Which tripod is best with the HAZ46?  I am seeing mixed reviews on the carbon fiber tripod iOptron offers.  

Hi Andrea From Phoenix,

 

My HAZ31 worked very well with my 8” Meade SCT. Absolutely no problems whatsoever. I currently use it with my Oberwerk BT-120XL-SD binoculars. They have an ASIAir, a mini guide scope and an ASI220MM Mini gioude camera, total weight of about 22 lbs. This is more than the 8” SCT and again, no problems. So, you definitely do not NEED a HAZ46 for that. Of course the HAZ46 gives you more headroom if you purchased a much bigger scope (like say and 11 or 12” SCT) but short of that, I would say save your money.

 

As for the tripod, I have mine mounted on an old iOptron 2” steel tripod that came with an equally old AZMount Pro (sold the mount, kept the tripod). I have never had the iOptron CF mount, but I do have a ZWO AM5 mount on a ZWO Carbon Fiber tripod and I am very happy with it. There isn’t a trade-off. The heavier, big, metal tripods feel more stable to me, but that are… well, big. And heavy. So much so that I have been thinking about actually getting an iOptron CF tripod 

 

One thing I would strongly suggest, whichever tripod you get, is the relevant iOptron Pier. These make observing much easier and provide a bit of clearance from the mount. Essential if you have an EQ mount, but quite nice even on the HAZ series.

[Andrea From Phoenix]

Hi Andrea From Phoenix,

 

My HAZ31 worked very well with my 8” Meade SCT. Absolutely no problems whatsoever. I currently use it with my Oberwerk BT-120XL-SD binoculars. They have an ASIAir, a mini guide scope and an ASI220MM Mini gioude camera, total weight of about 22 lbs. This is more than the 8” SCT and again, no problems. So, you definitely do not NEED a HAZ46 for that. Of course the HAZ46 gives you more headroom if you purchased a much bigger scope (like say and 11 or 12” SCT) but short of that, I would say save your money.

 

As for the tripod, I have mine mounted on an old iOptron 2” steel tripod that came with an equally old AZMount Pro (sold the mount, kept the tripod). I have never had the iOptron CF mount, but I do have a ZWO AM5 mount on a ZWO Carbon Fiber tripod and I am very happy with it. There isn’t a trade-off. The heavier, big, metal tripods feel more stable to me, but that are… well, big. And heavy. So much so that I have been thinking about actually getting an iOptron CF tripod 

 

One thing I would strongly suggest, whichever tripod you get, is the relevant iOptron Pier. These make observing much easier and provide a bit of clearance from the mount. Essential if you have an EQ mount, but quite nice even on the HAZ series.

Hello, Astromancer! Thank you so much for your reply~I was veering toward the HAZ46, but now you have me thinking maybe the HAZ31 would be just fine. The 8" is as big as I would ever go, except that I might consider mounting a 72mm refractor on it.  I have looked into the iOptron's LiteRoc tripod (with mini pier) but also looking at Oberwerk's TR3 (with their mini pier), do you have experience with Oberwerk wooden tripods?  Wood is lighter, but is it stronger?  I will start a new thread and ask about them.

[Astromancer]

Hello, Astromancer! Thank you so much for your reply~I was veering toward the HAZ46, but now you have me thinking maybe the HAZ31 would be just fine. The 8" is as big as I would ever go, except that I might consider mounting a 72mm refractor on it.  I have looked into the iOptron's LiteRoc tripod (with mini pier) but also looking at Oberwerk's TR3 (with their mini pier), do you have experience with Oberwerk wooden tripods?  Wood is lighter, but is it stronger?  I will start a new thread and ask about them.

Hi Andrea,

 

Honestly, I think the HAZ31 will be fine for you given an 8” SCT. I do not have any direct experience with the Oberwerk tripod other than playing with one at NEAF earlier this year. Based on that, and anecdotal feedback from others, I suspect it would be fine for your use. I have used  other wooden tripods (Berlbach and Stellarvue) and was perfectly happy with them. If I didn’t already have a number of (heavy) metal tripods I would probably look at one, since that’s the only downside to my current setup, namely that the tripods are heavy. Stable, but heavy).