iOptron HAE43B iMate Dual Equatorial and Alt-Azimuth Strain Wave Mount Head

iOptron HAE43B iMate Dual Equatorial and Alt-Azimuth Strain Wave Mount Head (#HE432B)

Brains, brawn, and balance—in a mount that redefines mobile precision.

The iOptron HAE43B iMate (#HE432B) sets a new benchmark for compact, counterweight-free mount design by blending the precision of strain wave gear drives with the intelligence of a built-in Linux-based control system. With a payload capacity of 43 pounds and a total head weight of just 13.3 pounds, it delivers remarkable performance in both equatorial and alt-azimuth modes—no counterweights required.

This is the head-only version of the mount. It does not include a tripod, making it ideal for advanced users who already own a compatible iOptron pier, tripod, or permanent mounting solution.

Power Without Counterweights

At the heart of the HAE43B is a pair of strain wave gear drives—compact, high-torque systems capable of eliminating backlash while maintaining incredibly smooth motion. Unlike traditional worm gears, these drives allow the mount to carry up to 43 lbs (19.5 kg) of imaging equipment with no counterweight system. That means less hardware to transport, faster setup, and a cleaner overall rig.

This mount is particularly well-suited for refractors up to 130mm, imaging Newtonians, compact RC astrographs, and Cassegrain-style OTAs with full astrophotography payloads (including cameras, filter wheels, focusers, and dew heaters).

iMate: Remote-Controlled, Linux-Based Imaging Hub

The iMate control system is built directly into the mount head. It operates as a standalone, embedded Linux computer designed specifically for astrophotography. The system comes preloaded with KStars, Ekos, and INDI drivers, giving users direct access to telescope control, plate solving, autofocusing, and automated imaging sequences—all without the need for an external laptop at the mount.

Rather than connecting a monitor, keyboard, or mouse directly, users access the iMate remotely via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This can be done from a laptop, tablet, or desktop using remote desktop software. Once connected, you can operate the mount and connected devices (camera, guider, focuser, etc.) entirely through the iMate’s internal interface.

It’s a clean, cable-minimizing solution that makes deep-sky imaging from remote locations or observatories much more streamlined.

Dual Mounting Modes for Total Flexibility

Need long-exposure tracking for deep-sky imaging? Switch to equatorial mode. Want quick object acquisition for planetary or visual observing? Use alt-azimuth mode for fast setup and horizon-to-zenith slewing. Switching modes takes only a few settings, and the internal drive system handles both with the same whisper-quiet precision.

The mount includes a high-resolution magnetic encoder on the RA axis for increased tracking performance and guiding accuracy. Guiding is handled via pulse commands through INDI or ASCOM, with no need for a traditional ST-4 port.

Mount-Only Configuration for Custom Builds

This #HE432B package includes the mount head only, allowing experienced users to pair it with their choice of tripod or pier. It’s ideal for observatory installations, semi-permanent backyard setups, or users upgrading from another iOptron system with existing hardware.

What’s Included

• HAE43B iMate Mount Head (#HE432B)

• Integrated iMate control system (pre-installed)

• USB and DC power cables

• CNC-machined carry handle

• Fitted hard carrying case

Tripod, hand controller, and counterweights not included.

Technical Specifications

Observing Tip:

Before heading out, set up and test your remote connection to the iMate system using your preferred device and remote desktop software. Since the iMate runs on Linux and offers no direct peripheral input, having everything configured in advance ensures you’ll hit the ground running once you’re under the stars.