Observatory-Class Precision in a Portable Head-Only Package
The iOptron CEM40EC mount head (#C404A) is the heart of a precision tracking system built for the astrophotographer who demands performance, reliability, and portability without compromise. This is not simply a mount—it is a platform of possibility, engineered with the kind of elegance and restraint that invites confidence in every session.
Equipped with a high-resolution right ascension encoder, this EC version delivers real-time tracking correction with ±0.25 arcsecond RMS accuracy (typical)—without requiring constant autoguiding intervention. The encoder reads, adjusts, and maintains precision silently in the background, freeing you to focus on what matters most: capturing the sky.
This package is ideal for imagers with an existing setup. It includes only the mount head, iPolar polar scope, and a custom foam-lined hard case—no tripod or pier is included. If you're adding this mount to a permanent observatory, replacing a standard CEM40, or already own an iOptron LiteRoc or Tri-Pier, this configuration gives you exactly what you need and nothing you don’t.
Designed Around Balance—In Every Sense
The CEM40EC's center-balanced equatorial design places the payload directly over the pier or tripod, reducing torque on the motors, lowering vibration, and enhancing tracking smoothness. This forward-thinking design reduces power consumption while offering exceptional load capacity for its weight.
At just 15.8 pounds, the mount head supports up to 40 pounds of payload—perfect for high-end triplet refractors, Newtonian astrographs, or compact imaging rigs with filter wheels, cameras, and guide scopes.
High-Resolution RA Encoder = Low-Stress Imaging
What truly elevates the EC model is its hardware-based tracking correction. The high-res encoder continually monitors the RA axis for any deviations, feeding data back to the control system to correct the motion in real time. There’s no guessing, no estimating, and no hoping your guiding is good enough. It simply is.
This is the kind of performance that transforms an imaging rig from good to great—and opens doors to longer exposures, tighter stars, and smoother guiding curves with less effort.
Built-In iPolar Polar Alignment Camera
Every CEM40EC includes an integrated iPolar polar alignment camera, allowing fast, sub-arcminute precision polar alignment—even when Polaris is hidden by trees or obscured by your observatory walls. This isn’t a retrofit—it’s a fully integrated solution, aligned at the factory and ready to use with iOptron’s intuitive software. No bending over, no guesswork.
A Clean, Compact Package for Serious Setups
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The included dual saddle accepts both Vixen and Losmandy-style dovetails.
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USB and ST-4 ports provide flexible guiding and control options.
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The Go2Nova 8407+ hand controller puts 212,000+ celestial objects at your fingertips.
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And the custom hard case ensures your mount arrives at your next destination in perfect condition.
Tripod not included – this package is intended for users who already own an iOptron-compatible tripod (LiteRoc, Tri-Pier, etc.) or plan to mount the head to a permanent pier using the appropriate adapter.
What’s Included:
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CEM40EC mount head with high-resolution RA encoder
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Integrated iPolar electronic polar alignment camera
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Dual dovetail saddle (Vixen + Losmandy)
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Counterweight shaft
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Go2Nova 8407+ hand controller
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USB and ST-4 ports
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Foam-lined hard carrying case
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Tripod and counterweight sold separately
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Part Number: C404A
Technical Specifications:
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Mount Type: Center-balanced equatorial (CEM)
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Payload Capacity: 40 lbs (18 kg), not including counterweights
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Mount Head Weight: 15.8 lbs (7.2 kg)
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RA Encoder: High-resolution encoder for real-time correction
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Polar Scope: iPolar (built-in electronic camera)
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Saddle Type: Dual (Vixen and Losmandy)
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Connectivity: USB, ST-4, Hand Controller
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Computer Control: ASCOM, iOptron Commander, INDI-compatible
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Power Requirements: 12V DC, 5A
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Tripod: Not included
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Part Number: C404A
Observing Tip:
If you already own a CEM40 or Tri-Pier setup and are looking to upgrade to encoder precision, this head-only version of the CEM40EC is a cost-effective, modular way to elevate your tracking performance. Combine it with your favorite imaging rig and iOptron accessories, and you’ll have a system that’s ready for fully automated, unattended operation—even in remote or robotic observatories.
