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In general, the steps on how to install the ZWO EAF to an SBVONY 503 telescope are as follows:
Gather your tools and materials. You will need the following:
- ZWO EAF
- SBVONY 503 telescope
- Allen wrenches
- Flexible coupling
- M5 screws
- Spacers
- ZWO hand controller (optional)
- ASIAIR (optional)
- Other ASCOM software (optional)
Remove the focus lock screw from the SBVONY 503 telescope.
Remove the single-speed focuser knob from the SBVONY 503 telescope.
Attach the flexible coupling to the focuser knob shaft.
Attach the motor bracket to the focuser lock screw hole and tension hold screw hole.
Insert the motor body onto the flexible coupling.
Tighten the grub screws on the motor body.
Align the motor body with the motor bracket.
Attach the motor to the bracket with the M5 screws and spacers.
Adjust the motor bracket so that it is just touching the motor body.
Tighten the screw on the motor bracket.
Test the EAF to make sure that it is working properly.
SVBony does have an install guide that you can check out here.
If you are using the ZWO hand controller, you can use it to control the EAF. If you are using ASIAIR or other ASCOM software, you can use that software to control the EAF. Now, I bought the hand controller because I do not want to bump the scope while focusing. Each time I bump it, I am forced to wait a few seconds for the scope to settle down before taking the next test image. This waists too much time and the hand controller solves this problem. Given that it only adds $49 to the cost, I think it’s well worth the money.
The hand controller has 2 speeds which allow you to switch between fast but course corrections and then fine tune the result when you are close to focused.