SQA55 AF Kit from Askar

Askar has introduced the SQA55 AF Kit, an innovative accessory designed to enhance the functionality and precision of the SQA55 telescope. This kit aims for seamless integration with various electronic focusers, offering astronomers improved focusing accuracy and ease of use.

Benefits of the SQA55 AF Kit

The SQA55 AF Kit offers improved compatibility with a special length adapter plate that allows the SQA55 to connect to various accessories without limitations, effortlessly accommodating different electronic focuser brands. Enhanced focusing accuracy is achieved through the inclusion of a tensioner pulley, which reduces backlash—a common issue with original synchronous belts—thereby improving the precision of focusing. The kit's design simplifies installation by allowing for easy disassembly and reassembly, enabling it to be installed in different positions on the SQA55 lens tube and reserving space for additional required accessories. Its versatility ensures that the SQA55 AF Kit can be adapted to almost all electronic focusers, and if the user decides to switch to a different brand, the kit maintains compatibility and ease of installation.

SQA55 AF Kit from Askar

The SQA55 AF Kit is compatible with nearly all brands of electronic focusers, making it a versatile addition to any astronomer's toolkit. The package includes:

• Three different lengths of MXL synchronous belts (15, 144, and 132 teeth)
• One MXL synchronous pulley
• One tensioner pulley
• Three types of Allen wrenches
• Two M4*10mm screws
• One M4145mm screw
• One M3*40mm screw
• One M4*6mm screw
• Two M3*10mm screws
• Two M4*12mm screws

Will the SQA55 AF work with the ZWO AsiAir?

No. ZWO has a closed system and unless you use a ZWO focuser, you are out of luck.

How to install the Askar SQA55 AF Kit

The installation process is straightforward, designed to minimize setup time and maximize efficiency. The kit includes an L-shaped adapter plate that is fully hollow, allowing it to be adjusted to fit focusers with larger hole distances, such as those from Pegasus Astro. Here is a step-by-step guide to installing the SQA55 AF Kit:

• Start by setting the fine adjustment ring to the zero scale and the coarse adjustment ring to the 20m scale. Remove the coarse adjustment ring locking screw.
• Connect the adapter bracket to the quick-release base of the SQA55. Use a 3mm Allen wrench to turn the tension screw clockwise, locking the adapter bracket onto the base.
• Use a 2.5mm Allen wrench to secure the i-shaped hollow adapter plate onto the adapter bracket with the M4*12mm screws.
• Place the electronic focuser onto the base, selecting the appropriate screws based on the focuser’s thread. The kit provides M3 and M4 screws; in this case, use the M4*10mm screws to lock the electronic focuser and the i-shaped hollow adapter plate together.
• Choose a suitable synchronous belt and install it along with the synchronous pulley onto the electronic focuser. Use a 2mm Allen wrench to lock the synchronous pulley in place.
• Ensure the synchronous belt is perpendicular to the coarse adjustment ring and rests inside the tensioner pulley. Use a 2.5mm Allen wrench to turn the screw clockwise, tightening the synchronous belt via the tensioner pulley.