In the equatorial mode can the zwo am3n and am5n mounts be set to ignore any flip at the actual meridian?
AI Overview
No, the ZWO AM3N and AM5N mounts cannot be set to completely ignore the meridian flip
and track endlessly through the actual meridian by default due to built-in safety limits. The mounts are designed to perform a meridian flip or stop tracking a few minutes past the meridian to prevent the telescope from crashing into the tripod or pier.
However, users have found workarounds to extend the tracking range past the meridian, often by manipulating the meridian flip time settings:
Adjusting Time Limits: In the mount settings (accessible via the ASIair app or the ZWO ASCOM driver), you can adjust the "Meridian Flip" settings to track past the meridian for a short duration. Users have reported success by changing the default limits (e.g., from 5 minutes) to a larger value, such as 10-20 minutes, to allow sequencing software (like NINA, SGP, etc.) enough time to initiate the flip command before the mount's internal hard stop is reached.
A "work-around" to disable the flip: Some users have reported a workaround within the ZWO AM3/AM5 Facebook group where they set one meridian flip time to 0 minutes and another to a very large number (e.g., 500 minutes). This reportedly allows the mount to happily track through the meridian. This method is experimental and should be used with caution, as it potentially bypasses intended safety features.
Important Considerations:
Safety First: These mounts have safety limits to prevent equipment damage. Bypassing these limits increases the risk of your telescope hitting the tripod.
External Software: For automated imaging, external software like NINA or SGP manages the meridian flip process. The key is to ensure the mount's tracking limit is set to be later than the time the software is set to initiate the flip.
Firmware/Software Updates: ZWO has issued firmware updates to allow the mount to track past the meridian for a short time to help with automated flips. Always check for the latest information and guidance on the official ZWO User Forum or the ZWO website.
