ZWO AM3N Strain Wave Harmonic Drive Equatorial Mount Head
Building upon the success of the original AM3, the upgraded ZWO AM3N brings next-generation quality-of-life enhancements to mobile astrophotographers. Engineered to eliminate messy cable tangles and cumbersome balancing, the AM3N combines strain wave gearing with built-in power distribution and Bluetooth connectivity.
Saddle-Integrated Power & Data
The DEC dovetail saddle now features Type-C and 12V DC power output ports to power ASIAIR or smart cameras directly, eliminating cable snag risk during slewing.
Built-In Native Bluetooth
Bluetooth hardware is now built into the main housing, enabling instant wireless mobile/ASIAIR control without attaching the hand controller.
Sub-Zero Performance
Rated for colder operational climates down to -20°C (-4°F), compared to the -15°C limit of the previous generation.
Magnetic Tool Slot
Features a built-in magnetic holder for the M6 hex key, which doubles as a lever for the altitude adjustment knobs.
High Payload Capacity (8 kg to 13 kg)
Despite weighing only 4.1 kg (9.04 lbs), the AM3N easily handles payload demands:
- Without Counterweight: Supports up to 8 kg (17.63 lbs)—nearly double its own net weight.
- With Counterweight: Supports up to 13 kg (28.66 lbs) when using an optional counterweight bar and weight (≤ 5 kg (11 lbs) positioned between 20 cm to 30 cm (7.87 in to 11.81 in)).
Counterweight Formula
Target Torque: 10 N·m ≤ m × g × L ≤ 15 N·m. Allows precise positioning for custom weight setups.
Precision Strain Wave Gear & Guaranteed PE
Utilizes a custom 300:1 strain wave gear reducer paired with a synchronous belt drive. Guaranteed periodic error (PE) within ±15 arcseconds, with an individual PE test report included with every unit.
Dual EQ & Alt-Az Operating Modes
Easily switch between Equatorial mode (for long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography) and Altazimuth mode (for rapid visual astronomy).
Full 0° to 90° Latitude Range
Wide altitude adjustment range suitable for any observing location worldwide (Gear 1: 0°–60° | Gear 2: 30°–90°).
Power Failure Protection
Equipped with an internal electromagnetic brake on the RA axis that instantly engages during unexpected power loss, preventing gear free-swing and protecting equipment.
Technical Specifications
| ZWO AM3N Mount Technical Data | |
|---|---|
| SKU / MPN | ZWO-AM3N / AM3N |
| Mount Type | Harmonic Drive / Strain Wave Equatorial & Altazimuth Mount |
| Operating Modes | Equatorial Mode (EQ) / Altazimuth Mode (ALT-AZ) |
| Net Mount Weight | 4.1 kg (9.04 lbs) |
| Payload Capacity (Without Counterweight) | 8 kg (17.63 lbs) |
| Payload Capacity (With Counterweight) | 13 kg (28.66 lbs) (Requires counterweight ≤ 5 kg (11 lbs) at 20 cm to 30 cm (7.87 in to 11.81 in)) |
| Drive Mechanism | Strain Wave Gear Reducer + Synchronous Belt Drive |
| Gear Reduction Ratio | 300:1 |
| Periodic Error (PE) | ≤ ±15 arcseconds (Individually certified) |
| Latitude Adjustment Range | 0° to 90° (Gear 1: 0°–60° | Gear 2: 30°–90°) |
| Azimuth Adjustment Range | ±6° fine adjustment |
| Dovetail Saddle Type | Dual Saddle (Vixen & Losmandy Compatible) with Integrated USB-C & 12V DC Ports |
| Max Slew Speed | 6° / sec |
| Power Failure Safety | RA Axis Electromagnetic Brake Protection |
| Communication Interfaces | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB 2.0 (Type-B), USB-C (Saddle), 12V DC Out (Saddle), ST4 Port |
| Power Requirements | 12V DC @ 3A (Under-voltage alarm at < 10.8V DC) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 40°C (-4°F to 104°F) |
What's Included In Package
- ZWO AM3N Mount Body
- Premium Carrying Case
- 2 m (6.56 ft) USB 2.0 Cable (Type-B to Type-A)
- 1 m (3.28 ft) USB 2.0 Cable (Type-C to Type-A)
- Rocker-Style Hand Controller
- 2 m (6.56 ft) Hand Controller Cable
- Magnetic M6 Allen Key
- Performance Sheet (Individual PE Curve)
- Quick Guide Brochure
Software, Drivers & Support
Make sure to download and install the latest drivers, ASCOM platform files, and firmware before operating your AM3N mount: