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The Series IV 'Stiletto' is the most recent addition to our acclaimed line of precision knife-edge focusers for astrophotography. Its development stems from suggestions from users of our Series III 'Stiletto' models. Rather than a departure from the basic sound design of the Series III, the Series IV incorporates a large collection of refinements - some small and some large - in many areas of the design. Below, we cite a few of them. * The finish of the body unit was completely restudied to increase its resilience. Instead of using epoxy enamel, each Series IV body is now baked at 425 ° F after powder-coated with a black-wrinkle textured finish. This finish is scratch-proof and chip-proof . It is the same finish used on Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Under heavy use, the Series IV will continue to look as new as the day you received it after a lifetime of focusing.
* A 3-point Collimateable Diagonal is now standard on the Series IV. This allows very precise positioning of the mirror and allows for easy and firm adjustment. |
 * A separate Fast Mount Ring now makes it easier to attach modular mounts to the body and to reposition them. The Series IV now incorporates a separate black-anodized M42x1 mounting ring on the body which provides a more rigid foundation for the different mounts. The mounting ring allows for faster changes and is impossible to cross-thread. The ring is firmly attached to the body. In the Series II and Series III models modular mounts attached directly to threads in the body assembly.
. * MgFs coated optics are found throughout the Series IV, including the transfer lens installed inside of the diagonal. This reduces light loss and improves the ability to focus directly on dimmer stars. * A quality valise is now included with the Series IV Professional Edition. This black blow-molded case is large enough to hold all of the Series IV accessories and provides excellent protection for the main focuser. Accessories are cushioned by cubed and eggshell foam. Storage of previous models was always problematic, motivating many users to purchase separate camera cases, or to store their focuser in the same compartment alongside the main camera. Neither approach provided adequate protection..
* Ronchi screen housings have been completely redesigned in the Series IV. The addition of precision-machined aluminum rings makes changing from one screen resolution to another much easier and faster. Unlike the previous design, no tools are necessary to remove assemblies from the helical focusing tube. The ring also offers better protection for the ronchi screen assembly itself and guarantees maintenance of calibration when swapping screens. * All Ronchi Gratings are now protected on each side by optical glass. This reduces problems with dew collection in humid environments and allows for easier cleaning screens should it be necessary.
* Upgrades are available for owners of Series II and III 'Stiletto' models. Please call or write to order. The cost to upgrade to the Series IV Pro Edition is normally around $149 plus shipping and you must return your original unit in its entirety. Upgrades are not available to Series IV Standard or Deluxe models. * Customization Services are now offered. If you suspect that you may have a camera out of spec or would like an exact calibration for your particular camera, we would be happy to take specific measurements from your camera and customize a Series IV to match it exactly. Please call us at 1-800-232-9416 for information and instructions. Final Note: I wish to thank all of our 'Stiletto' users for contributing the fine ideas that resulted in the development of the Series IV. But my own philosophy is that a product is never really done. There is always room for some improvement, and ideas for making astrophotography better and easier in the future will continue to come from you all. In line with this, please feel free to call me toll-free or send email anytime you get the inkling. But mostly, enjoy life under dark skies and send some great pictures!
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* A high quality plossl eyepiece now replaces the Kellner cross-hair eyepiece used in the past. This eyepiece provides for crisper and brighter images of the bar pattern on the ronchi screens during focusing.
