Astro Devices DiscMounts DM6 Encoder Kit

Product Overview

The DiscMounts DM6 Encoder Installation Kit brings digital setting circle and push-to capability to a DiscMounts DM6 mount. Two high-resolution encoders — 311,296 steps each — mount to the telescope's altitude and azimuth axes and report their exact position to a digital setting circle computer. With encoders installed, a DSC can translate where the telescope is pointed into precise sky coordinates, so you can locate and track objects without star-hopping from memory.

Who It's For

This kit is made specifically for the DiscMounts DM6 mount. It suits anyone running Astro Devices (or compatible) digital setting circles who needs the encoder hardware that lets the DSC read the mount's movement. Encoders are the physical link between your telescope and your DSC — without them, a digital setting circle has no way to sense where the scope is aimed.

Key Features & Design

• High resolution: two encoders at 311,296 steps each for fine positional accuracy on both axes.
• Purpose-built fit: designed specifically for the DiscMounts DM6, so the hardware lines up with the mount's axes.
• Complete kit: two encoders, an installation hardware set, a 42 cm straight encoder cable, and an installation instruction booklet.
• DSC interface: outputs the axis signals a digital setting circle needs to compute pointing position.
• Light and compact: the full kit weighs about 300 g.

How the Encoders Work

Each encoder tracks rotation of the axis it is attached to and converts that motion into electrical steps — 311,296 of them per full revolution. The digital setting circle counts those steps to know the telescope's angular position on each axis. Higher step counts translate into finer resolution, which helps the DSC place objects accurately across the sky. The included 42 cm straight cable carries the signal from the encoders to the DSC.

Recommended Uses

This kit adds push-to navigation to a DiscMounts DM6 mount, whether you are locating deep-sky objects, planets, or double stars. Paired with a digital setting circle, the encoders let you dial in targets quickly and keep them centered as you observe.

Compatibility and Accessory Notes

The kit is designed for the DiscMounts DM6 mount specifically. The encoders provide the signal input a digital setting circle requires; a compatible DSC unit reads them and displays coordinates. Installation instructions are included in the box and are also available for download from Astro Devices.

Good to Know Before You Order

• Encoders only: this kit supplies the encoders, hardware, and cable — a digital setting circle computer is a separate item.
• Model-specific: the hardware is cut for the DiscMounts DM6, not a universal encoder set.
• Cable length: the included encoder cable is 42 cm and straight.
• In the box: two 311,296-step encoders, one installation hardware set, one 42 cm straight cable, and an instruction booklet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this kit actually do?

It adds two axis encoders to a DiscMounts DM6 mount so a digital setting circle can sense where the telescope is pointed and guide you to objects.

Do I still need a digital setting circle?

Yes. The encoders feed position data to a DSC computer, which is purchased separately. The encoders alone do not display coordinates.

Is it difficult to set up?

The kit is made specifically for the DM6 and ships with an installation hardware set and an instruction booklet, so the encoders mount to the intended points on the mount. The booklet walks through the fit, and the same instructions are available from Astro Devices.

What is the resolution?

Each encoder provides 311,296 steps per revolution.

What cable is included?

A 42 cm straight encoder cable is part of the kit.

Bottom Line

The DiscMounts DM6 Encoder Kit is the direct way to give a DM6 mount digital setting circle and push-to ability. With two 311,296-step encoders, mounting hardware, and a cable in one purpose-built package, it supplies everything the mount side needs to talk to your DSC.