Microfocus or not?

[GalaticBoba]

Should I get this microfocuser for my SW Classic 250p dob. 

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/skywatcher-focusers/dual-speed-crayford-1252-inch-focuser-for-skywatcher-explorer.html

And this for my Celestron 8SE SCT.

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/starlight-instruments-feather-touch-sct-microfocusers/ft-microfocuser-ftm-c8.html

I want more control over focusing for visuals. However, I have started my collection of ZWO equipment for imaging and already ordered an ASIair plus. My intention is to buy the ZWO EAF, will these microfocusers work with this EAF? I assume I won't need this bracket?

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/zwo-accessories/zwo-eaf-bracket-for-celestron-c8-and-c925-sct-telescopes.html

Or are microfocusers redundant with EAF?

[banjaxed]

IMO dual speed focusers are very useful for obtaining sharper focus.

[M40]

Echo banjaxed, I stuck a dual speed focuser on the skymax then added a motor focuser. It has made for an excellent upgrade. An email to FLO to confirm what bits you need is the way forward then the dual speed focuser first. 

[johninderby]

The SW replacement focuser is a basic dual speed focuser. Not high quality but a big improvement over stock and a simple bolt on replacement 👍🏻

Had the FeatherTouch micro focuser when I had an 8SE and found focusing was much, much better and using the fine focus knob scope vibration while focusing was greatly reduced which. given the 8SE can be a bit wobbly while focusing is a real help. Highly recommended upgrade for visual use. Not sure about using a motorised focus unit though although should work in theory.🤔

 

Edited October 14, 2021 by johninderby

[GalaticBoba]

Brilliant, thanks for the responses. The 8SE mount is far too wobbly with all the accessories so this now sits on a CGX.

Is there a better SW focuser then the link I posted, I can't find anything on FLO. 

[johninderby]

There are plenty of focusers that will fit the 250 but may need a minor mod to the scope. The problem is the various manufacturers bolt spacing on  the mounting plates varies and you may need to drill a couple of new mounting holes.

Can highly recommend the Baader Steeltrack focusers. very high quality and work brilliantly. I have a couple of the Steeltracks myself. 

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/baader-diamond-steeltrack-focusers/baader-steeltrack-diamond-nt-for-newtonians.html

Edited October 14, 2021 by johninderby

[Captain Scarlet]

I have 3 baader diamond steeltracks. 2 on newts and one on my skymax 180. As John says, they are superb, much better than the DS upgrade. Another decent alternative is the Lacerta DS upgrade to the stock unit. I had one of those too.

But you will need to drill 4 new holes in your tube to fit the steeltrack. Baader’s instructions say the mounting plate fits skywatcher holes but they’re wrong. It’s not difficult though, use the detachable mounting plate as a template. Thereafter there’s lots of room for mounting adjustment.

good luck, Magnus

Edited October 14, 2021 by Captain Magenta