Astro Devices Stellarvue M2C/M2 Encoder Kit

Product Overview

The Stellarvue M2C/M2 Encoder Kit adds the position sensing a digital setting circle system needs to know where your telescope is pointing. Digital setting circles read the telescope's position from encoders mounted on each axis; without those encoders, the computer has no way to determine where the tube is aimed. This kit supplies the two encoders, the mounting hardware, and the cable required to fit a Stellarvue M2C or M2 mount, so a Nexus DSC or compatible unit can report altitude and azimuth in real time.

Who It's For

This kit suits owners of a Stellarvue M2C or M2 mount who want to run digital setting circles. The current M2C version fits mounts built with 5/8" shafts, and the M2 version fits the earlier mount that uses 3/8" shafts and metal end plates. Choosing the variant that matches your mount is the only decision required before installation.

Key Features & Design

• Two high-resolution encoders: each encoder resolves 311,296 steps per revolution for precise position readout on both axes.
• Mount-specific fit: the hardware set is purpose-built for the Stellarvue M2C and M2, so the encoders seat on the correct shafts without adaptation.
• 40 cm straight encoder cable: a single straight cable links the encoders to your digital setting circle unit.
• Complete installation set: two encoders, the installation hardware, the cable, and an instruction booklet arrive together.
• Light footprint: the kit weighs 300 g, adding little to the mount.

Encoder Resolution and Signal

Each axis carries an encoder rated at 311,296 steps per full turn. That resolution lets the digital setting circle computer register small movements of the mount, which keeps pointing accurate as you slew across the sky. The encoders attach to the telescope's axes and pass their signals down the 40 cm cable to the DSC unit, which converts the counts into altitude and azimuth coordinates.

Recommended Uses

This kit brings push-to guidance to a Stellarvue M2C or M2 mount. Paired with a Nexus DSC, the encoders let you locate and center objects by following on-screen directions, and they report the mount's position throughout a session for star hopping, object logging, and outreach nights.

Compatibility and Accessory Notes

The kit fits two mounts: the Stellarvue M2C, the current model with 5/8" shafts, and the Stellarvue M2, the previous model with 3/8" shafts and metal end plates. Select the variant that matches your mount. The encoders interface with digital setting circle computers such as the Astro Devices Nexus DSC through the supplied 40 cm straight cable. The DSC unit itself is a separate purchase.

Good to Know Before You Order

• Match the variant to your mount: the M2C hardware suits 5/8" shafts and the M2 hardware suits 3/8" shafts with metal end plates, and the two versions differ.
• DSC unit sold separately: the kit provides the encoders and cabling, while the digital setting circle computer that reads them is bought on its own.
• What arrives: two encoders, one installation hardware set, one 40 cm straight encoder cable, and one installation instruction booklet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which variant do I need?

Choose the M2C version for the current Stellarvue M2C mount with 5/8" shafts, or the M2 version for the earlier mount with 3/8" shafts and metal end plates.

Is it difficult to set up?

The kit is purpose-built for the M2C and M2, so the encoders and hardware match the mount's shafts, and an installation instruction booklet is included to walk through mounting the encoders and routing the cable to the DSC unit.

What resolution do the encoders provide?

Each encoder resolves 311,296 steps per revolution.

Does this include the digital setting circle computer?

No. The kit contains the encoders, hardware, and cable; the DSC unit, such as a Nexus DSC, is purchased separately.

Bottom Line

The Stellarvue M2C/M2 Encoder Kit gives your mount the two high-resolution encoders, hardware, and 40 cm cable needed to run digital setting circles. Pick the version that matches your mount's shafts, and your Nexus DSC or compatible computer can report altitude and azimuth for reliable push-to observing.