ZWO AM3 Strain Wave Harmonic Drive Mount Head
Traditional German Equatorial mounts require heavy counterweights and tedious multi-axis balancing. ZWO solves these challenges with the AM3 Strain Wave Equatorial Mount—delivering incredible torque, zero backlash gear reduction, and high payload stability in an ultra-portable body.
Lightweight Design & High Payload Capacity
Weighing just 3.9 kg (8.6 lbs), the AM3 is designed for astrophotographers on the move. Despite its compact footprint, it handles substantial imaging payloads:
- Standard Configuration (No Counterweight): Holds up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs)—perfect for refractors, smart scopes, and camera rigs.
- Heavy Configuration (With Counterweight): Supports up to 13 kg (28.6 lbs) when using an optional counterweight bar and weight (≤ 5 kg (11 lbs) on a 25 cm (9.8 in) bar).
No Counterweight Needed
High-torque strain wave gearing eliminates counterweights for standard setups up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
Customized Strain Wave Gear Drive
Featuring a 300:1 reduction ratio and a synchronous belt system, the AM3 delivers smooth, precise tracking with minimal periodic error. Each unit is individually factory-tested and supplied with an exclusive PE test curve.
Dual EQ & Alt-Az Modes
Switch seamlessly between Equatorial mode (for long-exposure deep-sky imaging) and Altazimuth mode (for rapid visual observation) via the mobile app or wireless hand controller.
Wireless Control & ASIAIR Link
Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow full wireless control via smartphone app or the ergonomic rocker hand controller. Works natively with the ZWO ASIAIR ecosystem.
0° to 90° Full Pitch Angle Adjustment
Wide latitude range allows operation anywhere from the equator to the poles (Gear 1: 0°–60°, Gear 2: 30°–90°).
Technical Specifications
| ZWO AM3 Mount Technical Data | |
|---|---|
| Mount Type | Harmonic Drive / Strain Wave Equatorial & Altazimuth Mount |
| Operating Modes | Equatorial Mode (EQ) / Altazimuth Mode (ALT-AZ) |
| Net Mount Weight | 3.9 kg (8.6 lbs) |
| Payload Capacity (Without Counterweight) | 8 kg (17.6 lbs) |
| Payload Capacity (With Counterweight) | 13 kg (28.6 lbs) (Requires counterweight ≤ 5 kg (11 lbs) on a 25 cm (9.8 in) bar) |
| Drive Mechanism | Strain Wave Gear Reducer + Synchronous Belt Drive |
| Reduction Ratio | 300:1 |
| Latitude Adjustment Range | 0° to 90° (Gear 1: 0°–60° | Gear 2: 30°–90°) |
| Azimuth Adjustment Range | ±6° fine adjustment |
| Dovetail Saddle | Dual Dovetail Saddle (Vixen & Losmandy Compatible) |
| Counterweight Shaft Thread | M12 × 1.75 thread |
| Max Slew Speed | 6° / sec |
| Stepper Motor Resolution | 0.17" |
| Communication Interfaces | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB 2.0, ST4 Guide Port, Hand Controller Port |
| Power Supply Voltage | 12V DC (Operating range 11V–15V DC, Under-voltage alarm < 10.8V DC) |
| Power Consumption | Standby: 12V / 0.38A | Slewing: 12V / 0.5A–0.7A |
| Operating Temperature | -15°C to 40°C (5°F to 104°F) |
What's Included In Package
- ZWO AM3 Harmonic Mount Head Body
- Heavy-Duty Padded Carrying Storage Case
- Rocker-Style Wireless Hand Controller
- 2 m (6.56 ft) Hand Controller Cable
- 2 m (6.56 ft) USB 2.0 Cable
- M4 & M6 Allen Key Wrench Set
- Factory QA Inspection Sheet & Individual PE Curve Certificate
- Quick Start Guide Brochure
Software, Drivers & Support
Ensure your ZWO AM3 mount has the latest firmware and software installed before your imaging session:
| Brand | ZWO |