ZWO AM5N Strain Wave Equatorial Mount Head (2024 Version)

The best-selling astrophotography mount just got better.

Improved for 2024:

• Upgraded payload capacity without counterweights — now supports 33 lbs / 15 kg
• New USB-C port (for mount control) & DC 12v output port on the mount saddle for improved cable management
• New Bluetooth compatibility for improved connectivity
• New base design eliminates azimuth locking knobs
• Improved tracking with higher load angles & heavier payloads
• Periodic error reduced from ±20 down to ±10 arcseconds

Strain Wave Mount Technology: Goodbye Counterweights

The ZWO AM5N features cutting-edge strain wave gears for precise tracking in an lightweight package. Unlike traditional equatorial mounts that feature worm gears, the AM5N's strain wave gears can operate without counterweights when carrying payloads up to 33 lbs (15 kg). Many AM5 owners find this highly convenient as they can easily carry the mount out to the backyard, or even put it in a carry-on luggage bag when traveling. In case 33 lbs isn't enough for your telescope rig, the payload capacity can be extended to 44 lbs (20 kg) with counterweights & a counterweight shaft (sold separately).

Another huge benefit of strain wave drive mounts is that they have zero backlash, which traditional worm drive equatorial mount owners know can be an issue even in the best mounts. Though strain wave drive mounts do suffer from some periodic error, ZWO has made sure that the AM5N has less than ±10 arcseconds (down from 20 on the original AM5), and each mount comes with an inspection certificate to prove it. When autoguiding, the accuracy is an impressive 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds.

High Payload Capacity, Low Weight Mount

The ZWO AM5N mount head on its own weighs just 12 lbs (5.5 kg), making it the ideal mount to transport to your favorite dark sky sites. It also comes with a premium soft shell case to protect the mount head during travel. Despite its light weight, the AM5 can carry an astounding 28 lbs (13 kg) without any counterweights. Medium refractors, large SCTs, and more are all within the range of the AM5 with no counterweights.

If you want to use an even larger telescope, you can increase the payload capacity to 44 lbs (20 kg) with the addition of a counterweight shaft and counterweight (both sold separately, see related products above). This makes the AM5 a highly versatile mount. You can leave the counterweight at home when traveling for a lightweight setup, or use a counterweight when imaging from home for imaging with larger telescopes. Please note that when using the counterweight shaft and counterweight, the largest counterweight allowed is 11 lbs (5kg).

Hybrid Equatorial & Alt-Azimuth Operation

The AM5 comes equipped with a 0-90 degree latitude range, meaning you can use it in both equatorial or alt-azimuth modes. This is a huge benefit to those who enjoy astrophotography and visual observing, as the AM5 can support both. Unlike most equatorial mounts, the full 0-90 degree latitude range also allows for imaging anywhere on Earth, as you can image from the equator or either pole.

Wireless Capability & ASIAIR Compatibility

The AM5 can be operated entirely wirelessly through your phone or tablet. To do this, you must have the included hand controller connected, which is how your phone/tablet communicates to the mount. You will also need the ASI Mount app, which you can download on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

The AM5 also works seamlessly with the ZWO ASIAIR, which can allow you to control not just the mount but your ZWO brand camera, filter wheel, guide camera, EAF, and more. Please note that you will need a separate app, the ZWO ASIAIR App, to run the entire setup.

Hand Controller

The AM5 comes with a rocker style hand controller, which can be used to manually point the mount in any direction. As noted above, it also serves as the WiFi bridge between the mount head and your phone or tablet, so you will need it turned on to perform tasks like operating the mount wirelessly or updating the firmware.

ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod

The ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod (sold separately) is a perfect match for the AM5N. Sporting a light weight of just 5 lbs (2.3 kg), the tripod can carry loads up to 110 lbs (50 kg) so you can feel safe about your gear being secure while still having a portable setup. More specifications can be found on the ZWO TC40 product page.

Other ZWO AM5N Features

Without RA or Dec clutches on the mount, the AM5 is still protected from power failures by use of an internal brake that stops the gears and therefore prevents your telescope from falling on the mount.

The AM5 features four ports on the mount head itself:

• USB port for connecting accessories like the ASIAIR
• An ST-4 port for connecting guide cameras
• A hand controller port for the included hand controller
• A standard 12v DC power port (5.5x2.1mm) to power the mount

The mount saddle accepts both Losmandy (D style) or Vixen (V style) dovetail bars, which cover almost all consumer telescopes available.

ZWO AM5N Specifications:

• Mount type: Strain wave gear equatorial mount
• Operating modes: Equatorial mode & Alt-azimuth
• Load capacity: 32 lbs (15 kg) without counterweight, 44 lbs (20 kg) with counterweight
• Counterweight limit: 11 lbs (5kg) maximum, excluding counterweight shaft
• Mount Head Weight: 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
• Latitude adjustment range: Full 0° to 90°
• Azimuth angle adjustment range: ±6°
• Periodic error: Less than ±10 arcseconds
• Periodic error duration: 288 seconds
• Autoguiding accuracy: 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds
• Drive: Strain wave gear + Synchronous belt (Reduction ratio: 300:1)
• Drive (RA): Stepper motor + Model No. 17 (Reduction ratio: 100:1) + Brake
• Drive (DEC): Stepper motor + Model No. 17 (Reduction ratio: 100:1)
• Stepper motor resolution: 0.17"
• Dovetail: Losmandy & Vixen
• Tripod Connection: Standard 3/8" thread
• Interface thread of counterweight shaft: M12 x 1.75 coarse
• Max slew speed: 6° per second
• Slew rates: 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, 20x, 60x, 720x, 1440x
• Power consumption: 12V / 0.4a (Standby), 12V / 0.7a (Tracking), 12V / 0.9a (Goto/Slewing), 1.7a Heavy Load Mode
• Guide port: ST-4
• Communication interface: USB/WiFi
• Software Support: ASCOM/INDI/SkySafari
• Zero position: Mechanical
• Operating temperature: -20°C to 40°C
• Power failure protection: Yes, built in gear brake
• Power input port: 12v DC 5.5x2.1mm (12V-3A)
• Power requirements: 12v (11v - 15v), 3 amp power supply