iOptron HAE69EC Mounting iMate

iOptron HAE69EC Mount iMate: Heavy-duty strain wave with encoder and onboard computer

The iOptron HAE69EC is an AZ/EQ mount with strain wave drive (harmonic drive) on both axes. Without a counterweight, it carries 31.3 kg (69 lbs). Use it azimuthally for quick visual observing or equatorially for long-exposure astrophotography.

The EC execution corrects the periodic error of the strain wave drive in real-time via a high-resolution encoder on the right ascension axis. Together with the built-in iMate computer, this creates an autonomous precision setup without a guidescope and without a laptop.

USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports and switched power connect the complete photo chain via the head.

Without guidance, without a laptop

The encoder continuously adjusts; the iMate runs KStars and Ekos on board and controls the camera, focuser, and filter wheel. You can monitor via WiFi.

For extreme focal lengths, ST-4 autoguiding remains available.

iMate: complete onboard minicomputer

The built-in iMate is a 64-bit ARM computer with 32GB of storage and a micro-SD slot, pre-loaded with KStars, Ekos, and INDI drivers. You connect the camera, focuser, and filter wheel directly to the mount, and the entire photo session runs autonomously on board.

You can monitor and adjust settings via WiFi from Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. Switched 12V outputs on the cap power your peripherals without loose cables.

Strain wave: power without counterbalance

The strain wave gears deliver a high torque without backlash, making a counterweight unnecessary in most setups. That saves kilograms of heavy lifting and minutes of setup time.

The electronic friction brake on both axes safely stops the mount in case of a power failure, and the power-down memory saves the alignment, so you can continue without re-aligning.

Double saddle, ready for any tube

The dual saddle accepts Vixen and Losmandy-D rails. For heavier or unbalanced setups, add the optional counterweight bar with counterweight.

The head comes with a transport case or bag and without a tripod; it fits on matching iOptron tripods and mounts.

Included

• HAE69EC mounting adapter with RA encoder and integrated iMate
• Transport case
• Power supply and USB cable

Featured accessories

Add the 20 cm MiniPier for the HAE69 for clearance around the zenith, and the counterweight clamp for unbalanced hanging setups.

For whom yes and for whom no

• ✓ Demanding astrophotographers who work autonomously and without guiding up to 31.3 kg
• ✗ Anyone who wants a manual control: choose the version with iMate and handset

Specifications

You can find more mounts and accessories for this merk at the iOptron merk page.