The HEQ5 is Simon's favourite mount and this version has the smoothness and accuracy of the Goto version with a straightforward dual-axis hand controller. These mount also have amongst the best polar alignment scopes on the market today. All the accuracy of the EQ6 but a manageable mount for portable use. Unlike the EQ5-class mounts, which have the motors exposed on the outside, all the fragile parts here are enclosed making them much more reliable in transportation.

The HEQ5 SynTrek succeeds the previous standard model HEQ5 which was black in colour. It is basically a Pro Series HEQ5 with a pre-installed PRO SynScan motherboard and stepper motors but supplied with its own unique SynTrek hand-controller. It is not a Goto mount but can be upgraded simply by purchasing the additional handset for £169.00 and plugging it in.

The SynTrek hand control is designed for the purpose of providing a simple slewing and tracking control, far has superior performance to the older pre-SynTrek HEQ5 models. The small and versatile SynTrek hand control provides automatic tracking of celestial objects as soon as the power is turned on. The user-friendly interface provides quick access to many other functions the SynTrek has to offer.

SynTrek Hand Control

• Power supply: 11 to 15V DC 2Amp
• Motor type and resolution: Microstep driven 1.8 stepper motors. Resolution: 0.144 arc sec (or 9,024,000 steps/rev.)
• Slewing speeds: Guiding speed, 4x 8x, 32x, 64x, 800x
• Guiding speeds: 1x, 0.75x, 0.5x, 0.25x
• Gear ratio: 705
• Tracking rates: Sidereal, Lunar, Solar
• Tracking Modes: RA tracking