ZWO AM3N Harmonic Drive Mount With TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod

ZWO AM3N Harmonic Drive Mount with TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Portable Precision, Refined for the Modern Imager

The ZWO AM3N Harmonic Drive Mount with TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod combines one of the most advanced strain wave mounts available with a lightweight, observatory-stable foundation. Together, they form an ultra-portable system that delivers professional tracking accuracy, quiet operation, and uncompromising strength—all in a package designed to travel anywhere the night sky calls.

Building on the heritage of ZWO’s acclaimed AM-series, the AM3N refines harmonic drive performance with integrated power ports, verified periodic error testing, and improved wireless control. Paired with ZWO’s TC40 carbon fiber tripod, it achieves the ideal balance of weight, rigidity, and vibration damping—giving astrophotographers a perfectly matched system for deep-sky imaging, planetary work, and visual observation.

Harmonic Drive Precision – Tested and Verified

Inside the AM3N lies ZWO’s custom-engineered strain wave gear system—an evolution of the harmonic drive technology that transformed mount design. This high-torque, backlash-free gear train delivers a 300:1 reduction ratio, providing smooth, responsive motion across both axes.

Every AM3N mount is individually tested and includes a verified periodic error (PE) curve, ensuring that performance stays within ±15 arcseconds. This level of precision allows long-exposure imaging without the constant guiding corrections that traditional worm-driven mounts require.

Coupled with a synchronous belt drive for whisper-quiet operation, the AM3N tracks with remarkable stability—transforming compact travel rigs into imaging systems capable of professional-grade results.

Light on Weight, Heavy on Performance

Despite weighing just 4.1 kg (9.0 lb), the AM3N supports 8 kg (17.6 lb) without counterweights and 13 kg (28.7 lb) with a counterweight system—more than triple its own mass. The harmonic drive’s torque efficiency means even complex imaging trains with guide scopes, filter wheels, and cooled cameras remain balanced and stable.

The paired ZWO TC40 carbon fiber tripod complements this performance perfectly. Its rigid four-section legs and precision-machined aluminum joints provide solid footing on any surface while keeping the total setup weight remarkably low. With a load capacity exceeding 110 lbs (50 kg), the TC40 offers more than enough support for the AM3N’s maximum payload with room to spare.

Together, they create a high-capacity system that sets up in minutes and travels effortlessly—ideal for remote astrophotography, expeditions, or backyard observatories alike.

Integrated Power and Cable Management

ZWO designed the AM3N around a single goal: simplicity without compromise. The mount’s integrated Type-C and 12V DC power ports are built directly into the dovetail saddle, streamlining connections and virtually eliminating cable clutter.

A magnetic hex key attaches neatly to the mount body for quick adjustments in the field, and the internal routing ensures power and data lines stay secure and untangled throughout the night.

This cable-free elegance defines the AM3N experience—fewer wires, faster setup, and greater confidence under dark skies.

Wireless Control, Anywhere You Go

Freedom from hand controllers and tethered cables is now standard. The AM3N includes Bluetooth connectivity for direct smartphone or tablet control, plus Wi-Fi access via the hand controller for higher-bandwidth operation.

Through ZWO’s SkyAtlas or ASIAIR app, you can control every aspect of your imaging session wirelessly:

• Slew to objects with GoTo and tracking

• Use Tonight’s Target for curated observing lists

• Adjust position with an on-screen joystick

• Preview, align, and capture—all from your device

The mount is also compatible with ASCOM, INDI, and ASIAIR, ensuring seamless integration with ZWO’s entire ecosystem and most popular astrophotography software.

Equatorial or Alt-Azimuth Operation

The AM3N easily switches between Equatorial (EQ) and Alt-Azimuth (AZ) tracking, providing unmatched versatility for both imaging and visual use:

• EQ Mode – Ideal for long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography, eliminating field rotation for perfectly round stars.

• AZ Mode – Great for visual observing, planetary imaging, and outreach sessions—no polar alignment required.

An innovative dual-gear altitude mechanism provides smooth 0°–90° adjustment, allowing operation from any latitude with effortless tension control.

The TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod – Strength Without Weight

Weighing only 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg), the ZWO TC40 tripod delivers remarkable stability in an ultra-light package. Its carbon fiber legs dampen vibration far faster than aluminum, providing steady tracking and sharp exposures even during light wind or uneven terrain.

Key TC40 features include:

• Load capacity: up to 50 kg (110 lbs)

• Leg diameter: 40 mm carbon fiber tubing for strength and rigidity

• Adjustable height: 18.9" to 31.5" (48–80 cm)

• Weight: 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg)

• Compatibility: Fits AM3, AM3N, AM5, and other ZWO mounts via standard interface

This tripod folds compactly for travel yet delivers exceptional stability—perfect for the AM3N’s lightweight harmonic design.

Technical Overview

Mount Type: Dual-mode (Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial)
Drive System: Strain wave (harmonic) gear + synchronous belt, 300:1 reduction
Periodic Error: ±15 arcseconds (factory tested, report included)
Payload: 8 kg (17.6 lb) without counterweight, 13 kg (28.7 lb) with counterweight
Counterweight Support: ≤5 kg (11.0 lb) on ≤25 cm bar
Mount Weight: 4.1 kg (9.0 lb)
Power Ports: Integrated Type-C + 12V DC
Control: Bluetooth (direct), Wi-Fi (via hand controller), ASCOM / INDI compatible
Saddle Type: Dual Vixen / Losmandy
Altitude Adjustment: 0°–90°, dual-gear system
Construction: CNC-machined aluminum
Tripod: ZWO TC40 carbon fiber (40 mm leg diameter, 110 lb capacity)
Total System Weight (Mount + Tripod): ~14.5 lbs (6.6 kg)

Final Thoughts

The ZWO AM3N with TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod is the ultimate portable imaging system for astrophotographers who demand precision without complexity. The harmonic drive mount’s torque, verified tracking performance, and integrated power ports merge seamlessly with the tripod’s lightweight strength, creating a rig that’s as easy to carry as it is to trust.

Whether you’re chasing faint nebulae from a dark site, filming lunar landscapes from your backyard, or simply enjoying the elegance of a perfectly balanced system, this combination delivers it all—performance, reliability, and portability in equal measure.

It’s the future of field astrophotography—refined, compact, and brilliantly engineered.