iOptron HAE43EC Dual EQ/AZ Strain Wave Mount Head with High-Precision RA Encoder – 44 lb Capacity, 13 lb Frame, No Counterweight Required
iOptron Part Number: HE434C
Precision. Portability. Performance. The iOptron HAE43EC brings them all together in a sleek, compact package that defies traditional expectations. With a mount head weighing under 13 pounds, yet capable of carrying 44 pounds of equipment without the need for counterweights, the HAE43EC is a professional-grade mount tailored for advanced imagers and visual observers who demand tracking accuracy, compactness, and cable-free flexibility.
This “EC” version of the HAE43 family features a high-resolution right ascension encoder, enabling real-time periodic error correction (RPEC) that’s so precise, many astrophotographers can image unguided. Whether you're shooting long focal length galaxies or running multi-hour exposures on narrowband targets, the HAE43EC delivers.
Harmonic Power – Dual-Axis Strain Wave Technology
Like its larger siblings in the HAE and HAZ series, the HAE43EC employs strain wave gear systems (also called harmonic drives) in both the RA and DEC axes. These compact, high-torque gear assemblies provide:
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Backlash-free motion
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Exceptional weight-to-capacity ratio
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High slewing speeds and torque without needing counterweights
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Whisper-quiet operation for both visual and imaging sessions
The 270-second gear period, paired with the high-resolution encoder in RA, gives the mount ultra-smooth tracking performance suitable for even the most demanding imaging applications.
Encoder-Driven Precision – Real-Time PEC
The standout feature of the HAE43EC is its precision RA encoder, which allows real-time periodic error correction (RPEC). This onboard system constantly measures and corrects gear motion, effectively eliminating periodic error without requiring training routines or guiding corrections.
This means:
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Improved unguided tracking accuracy
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Fewer guiding corrections when using an autoguider
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Better star shapes, longer exposures, and less time troubleshooting guiding errors
For users imaging with refractors, compact RCs, or high-speed astrographs, the RPEC capability makes the HAE43EC a serious tool for deep-sky work.
Dual EQ/AZ Capability – One Mount, Two Modes
The HAE43EC operates in either equatorial or alt-azimuth mode, allowing you to tailor your observing or imaging setup to your needs.
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EQ mode: Standard for long-exposure imaging, with polar alignment
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AZ mode: Ideal for visual astronomy, EAA, public outreach, or planetary imaging where polar alignment is unnecessary
Switching between modes is easy, giving you maximum flexibility with a single mount.
No Hand Controller Needed – But Optional if You Want It
The HAE43C-series mounts now feature internal main boards, meaning the mount can be operated directly via USB-C connection to a computer—no hand controller required.
Supported control options include:
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ASCOM/Commander (Windows PC)
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INDI drivers (MacOS, Linux, Raspberry Pi)
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SkySafari and Commander Lite (smartphone/tablet)
If you prefer tactile control or plan to operate the mount without a laptop, the optional Go2Nova 8411 OLED hand controller offers complete standalone GoTo functionality with a 212,000+ object database and cold-weather OLED display.
Cable-Free Convenience and Smart Safety Features
With internal control boards, direct USB-C connectivity, and the optional iMate mini computer (sold separately), the HAE43EC supports clean cable routing with minimal external connections.
The mount includes:
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ST-4 autoguider port
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USB port for firmware upgrades and external control
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Zero position locator and homing function
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Electronic friction brakes on both axes for safe power-off behavior
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Power-down memory, so you don’t lose alignment after shutdown
It’s designed to be used in the field or observatory with confidence.
Precision Construction, Travel-Ready Size
The HAE43EC is CNC-machined from anodized aluminum and built to operate under real-world conditions. Despite its 12.8 lb mount head weight, it carries up to 44 pounds of payload—including heavy imaging gear, 5–6" refractors, or even compact SCTs with full filter wheels and guide scopes.
An aluminum carry case is included, and the mount is compatible with standard Vixen and Losmandy D-style dovetail bars via its spring-loaded dual saddle.
What’s Included
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iOptron HAE43EC Dual EQ/AZ Mount Head with RA Encoder
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USB cable and documentation
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Dual dovetail saddle (Vixen and Losmandy)
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Built-in main board with USB-C control interface
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Soft padded aluminum carry case
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Two-year manufacturer warranty
Optional: Go2Nova 8411 hand controller, iPolar electronic polar scope, and iMate onboard mini-computer.
Observing Tip
If you're looking to travel light and eliminate guiding headaches, the HAE43EC is a strong candidate for unguided imaging. Pair it with a fast refractor or an f/4–f/6 astrograph and you'll enjoy tight, round stars—even without autoguiding. For best results in EQ mode, consider adding the optional iPolar polar scope or use software-based polar alignment via your preferred planetarium app.
Why Choose the HAE43EC?
The HAE43EC is more than a mount—it’s a high-precision control system disguised in a compact package. For imagers and observers who demand serious performance without a heavy pier-mounted setup, it offers unmatched flexibility, encoder-driven accuracy, and full alt-az/equatorial dual-mode versatility.
No counterweights. No trailing cables. No guiding if you don’t want it. Just professional-grade tracking in a portable, modern platform.
