text:
What are the chances of updated Losmandy mounts?
Posted 09 February 2010 - 01:59 AM
Posted 09 February 2010 - 02:50 AM
The Gemini add on is fairly expensive, but it does require replacing the motors as well as the electronic box. So, the cost is for cables, motors and gearboxes plus the computer.
Posted 09 February 2010 - 05:37 AM
Posted 09 February 2010 - 08:16 AM
Other manufacturers seem to have gone the route of better integration and I'm sure Losmandy will eventually, but when is that likely?
Some other manufacturers have the capability of designing and producing (or having produced for them) such dedicated, integrated systems. Losmandy doesn't have those capabilities. The Gemini system is, as you decribe, an addon that is purchased from an outside source by Losmandy and several other mount manufacturers. A higher degree of integration with any of those mounts is highly unlikely under that business model.
Posted 09 February 2010 - 09:10 AM
Beyond that, I would suggest that the term "better integration" is a misnomer. The level of systems integration required in any technology depends on its function, and beyond that technology-dependent point, integration is not necessarily a virtue. For example, a boombox is a highly-integrated audio system, where my home theater's audio system is integrated only via its wire and optical interfaces. Does that decoupling of audio system components not represent a "better" approach?
Losmandy's approach to systems integration has permitted them to concentrate on what they are very, very good at, and it has permitted customers to buy high-quality mount technology that (for but one example) doesn't have to be shipped somewhere far away when one component fails.
That apparent lack of integration is not a bug: it's a feature.
Posted 09 February 2010 - 11:31 AM
Posted 09 February 2010 - 10:32 PM
I bought mine for $1800 (no go-to) and could probably sell it for that or more (it has Ovision and other mods). Basically I have had the use of this mount for free, were I to sell (but I would be nuts to sell it).
Anyhow, I haven't seen any other systems in comparable load categories, with or without go-to, that made me want to change. Not yet anyhow.
greg n
Posted 09 February 2010 - 11:09 PM
I bought mine by being quick on the trigger when a fellow wanted to sell it and wanted a local sale. I met him 100 miles from home, half way, to pick it up. It only had been run for 3 hours. It also had lots of accessories including a hard case with wheels. jump:
I think that there will be a NEW Gemini in the future, I keep hearing rumors and catching posts. Plus, there are a lot of them out there, so there is a market for upgrades.
Posted 10 February 2010 - 01:50 PM
..... It seems to me, though, that the Losmandy G8 and G11, though both very good mounts, are due to a bit of an update in regards to the integration of the goto electronics into the mount as a whole. .....
I believe that Meade has a patent on integrated and distributed control electronics for telescope mounts, plus the look & feel of their control software. Celestron has to pay Meade some undisclosed amount for each mount they sell as part of a law suite settlement. Why would Losmandy want to get involved in that?
Posted 10 February 2010 - 07:35 PM
Posted 10 February 2010 - 07:40 PM
I thought Meade lost that one but won the level north case. That was why Celestron went to sky align. Uncle Rod can clarify that.
The case they won was for the combination of distributed processing AND "North and Level". That's why Celestron can still use distributed processing with their non-N&L models.
It's irrelevant in an EQ-only mount so no GEM manufacturers need to worry about it.
Posted 10 February 2010 - 07:48 PM
Posted 11 February 2010 - 10:20 PM
That apparent lack of integration is not a bug: it's a feature.
Is having separate audio components a feature when you are taking the family for a picnic and want some music? I'll take a "boom box", even with its disadvantages, for that purpose.
People's needs (and preferences) vary. I don't have an observatory and probably won't for another 2 years or more. Even when I set up in the backyard, it's like a remote setup. For me, a better integrated system has a lot of appeal.
So far, Gemini and the look-like-add-on motors have kept me away from a G11. I would definitely be interested in a new GoTo package, whether it's the next Gemini or something completely different. I suspect a new Gemini will mean an updated computer with the same type/level of integration. So maybe it wouldn't sway me in that direction, but I'd sure reassess the G11 option.
Posted 12 February 2010 - 01:18 AM
Posted 12 February 2010 - 11:08 AM
How would you suggest that motors and gearboxes be added to the G-11, if not like they are now, so that they do not look like add ons?
There may not be a better way to mount them without a total redesign. It's just an opinion anyway, but as someone who always has to lug my gear around, the way the motors are mounted looks too fragile for me. I suppose I'd want to see a more substantial cover that firmly bolted to the mount and that could bear the weight of the mount and handle small impacts. Perhaps the motor could bolt to a stout motor box and the box bolts to the mount chassis? I would guess the chassis wasn't designed to accommodate a motor box so a retrofit probably isn't possible.
Losmandy mounts are a bit like Harley-Davidsons. In the case of a Harley, everyone likes to snap pictures of the side with the exhaust pipes and air cleaner. The other side isn't unattractive, it's just a bit boring. When I was just getting interested in Astrophotography and had only done some preliminary internet browsing about equatorial mounts, I thought Losmandy mounts looked like a tight package. Do a Google Images search and an overwhelming majority of the pictures show the "good" side. Most of us take some pride in our gear, so I don't think that's a coincidence.
The first time I saw a GM8, G11, and Titan on the same field, I was a bit surprised. Overall they are great looking mounts. The non-motor side shows a tight, well designed and well made piece of machinery. But on the other side, those motors stick out like a sore thumb. I asked the Titan owner if they were at all fragile and he indicated that he had broken one and installing/removing the motors was now part of the setup/teardown process. I'm not generally clumsy, but moving heavy gear around when tired . . . eventually I'd ding one of those motors and possibly do some damage.
The Astro-Physics mounts also have "bolt-on" motors and the concept does have some appeal to me. It certainly would be easier to replace a motor on an AP or Losmandy than it would be in my Atlas (and likely a Takahashi as well). I like that if I had an RA motor failure in the field, I could swap motors and avoid a wasted night. But the Losmandy motors just seem too exposed.
It's just an opinion and it's based on my priorities and my particular needs. If I had an observatory, this issue wouldn't bother me a bit. I'm not in any way trying to slam Losmandy mounts or start a peeing match. Lately the mount forum has gotten more testy than the eyepiece and refractor forums it seems. The Borg with their "superior" direct drive technology are trying to assimilate everyone. Resistance is futile ;-)
Actually, that whole debate does relate to this issue a bit. I'm an engineer so heck yeah, I love technology. But not every application and operating environment are appropriate for every technology or packaging of that technology. In the case of a mount for field setup, better integrated or better protected motors is a tangible benefit. The Losmandy mounts seem like the best compromise between cost and quality (by a large margin in my opinion), and so I may one day go with a Losmandy mount despite my concerns. But those concerns are still going to be there.
Posted 12 February 2010 - 11:44 AM
Somewhere I heard an engineer saying this ...
Make it as good as necessary and not as good as possible
I am an Engineer too ...
Posted 12 February 2010 - 01:36 PM
I know that there are some that have the motors inside of the housing, which is also good a bad. You have a bit of work to replace them and they do not get to cool as well as an exposed motor.
I have hit a motor before, with no damage thank goodness, but I just take a lot of care to not hit them.
Posted 12 February 2010 - 03:41 PM
The mount arrived in November but I'm still waiting for the housings! I hope I don't bang a motor against the door frame, why moving the mount outside, before I get a chance to fit them.
Posted 12 February 2010 - 09:58 PM
:rofl2: :rofl2: :rofl2: :rofl2:
Even after we're all assimilated, there will be "diehard' enclaves of 8/11 users hiding out in the mountains out West... able to self repair their mounts while the modern direct drive folks have to just dump 'em in the landfill and buy new....
Posted 12 February 2010 - 10:16 PM
"The Borg with their "superior" direct drive technology are trying to assimilate everyone. Resistance is futile ;-) "
:rofl2: :rofl2: :rofl2: :rofl2:
Even after we're all assimilated, there will be "diehard' enclaves of 8/11 users hiding out in the mountains out West... able to self repair their mounts while the modern direct drive folks have to just dump 'em in the landfill and buy new....
Yup they'll be sitting around the peat fire telling stories of how good things were before the industrial revolution.
Posted 13 February 2010 - 09:43 AM
I'm not generally clumsy, but moving heavy gear around when tired . . . eventually I'd ding one of those motors and possibly do some damage
Anyone clumsy enough to break a G11 motor carrying it to or from the tripod probably shouldn't be pursuing this hobby, because they'll have to carry a heavy OTA as well, and that's where the clumsiness would really cost them. A G11 is infinitely safer to haul around than a C11, so anybody likely to bust loose a motor on a G11 is much more likely to break a collector plate or destroy a brittle and expensive objective lens. This really isn't a hobby for the clumsy, and this really isn't a problem for the G11.
Posted 13 February 2010 - 11:18 AM
Anyone clumsy enough to break a G11 motor carrying it to or from the tripod probably shouldn't be pursuing this hobby, because they'll have to carry a heavy OTA as well, and that's where the clumsiness would really cost them. A G11 is infinitely safer to haul around than a C11, so anybody likely to bust loose a motor on a G11 is much more likely to break a collector plate or destroy a brittle and expensive objective lens. This really isn't a hobby for the clumsy, and this really isn't a problem for the G11.
So I guess the two people I've seen with rubber bands holding their motors in place need to have their astronomy cards revoked. Too clumsy = not allowed to play? Accidents happen. I appreciate your input that this is a non-issue, but just because I have other fragile gear to worry about doesn't mean I want more.
Again, so much depends on each person's needs, preferences, and time constraints. I can see this being a non-issue for a lot of people. It's an issue for me.
Posted 13 February 2010 - 11:22 AM
Posted 13 February 2010 - 11:31 AM
Nah, it fits pretty well. Lack of integration = the "guts on the outside". Integration = "guts on the inside". Things like internal cable routing, for example, represent a higher degree of integration between mount mechanical bits and the electronic drive bits. Losmandy is like the way Vixen used to be - guts on the outside. Many mount makers (Takahashi, A-P, Celestron, Vixen, etc.) have moved toward cleaner, more highly integrated mounts. Losmandy has not.
The question is...is it better to have the guts on the outside where you can access them easily or on the inside where they are out of the way? The answer to that may depend on the observer and his or her usage.
As for the mechanical excellence of Losmandy mounts, I would say there are some weak areas. The need to periodically adjust the worms for backlash, for example, is just plain poor design. A better mechanical design would let you set backlash and forget it until you wanted to change it. IMO whether Losmandy needs electronic integration updates or not, a little mechanical redesign work would help as well.
Posted 13 February 2010 - 11:49 AM
Again, so much depends on each person's needs, preferences, and time constraints. I can see this being a non-issue for a lot of people. It's an issue for me.
You are always free to choose whatever "issues" you prefer. You've expressed concern about a mounting scheme that has proven to be robust and reliable. As others have pointed out already, that same "issue" also permits easy field repairs, simple drive system upgrades, and it virtually eliminates the need to ship the mount someplace far away if repairs are required.
I guess that one person's issues are another person's features.


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Advice needed...
Posted 29 January 2013 - 10:44 AM
I have been a long time lurker and of these forums and like many sit by the hours looking at what all you guys accomplish with your gear.
I have dabbled with astrophotography with an old Meade DS2114 and a canon 40d/7d through a usb cord onto a laptop and also with my DSLR alone. I've taken pictures of the moon and jupiter but with no tracking.
I will be in a position soon to get some gear. It's really a two year plan and I just want to make the right decisions out of the gate. Just like most of the beginners, we want everything and we want our gear to do everything from viewing to astrophotography and I know the gear for both is not the same. Hence, my 2 year plan. I'm planning on spending $2500 per year on the big items.
First year I plan on buying the Orion Atlas mount. I've really struggled with this decision because I know this is the mount I should get long term. However, I'm also, concerned about the weight and taking it outside when I want to play. I don't see myself taking it anywhere often or at all. so Maybe this won't be an issue.
I've also considered the Orion Sirius mount but I just know that by year 2, I need to stay with the Atlas mount.
So I am at this point.
Now the scope. I haven't decided on these yet:
AT65EDQ - This one I've really started to consider and am leaning towards it.
Skywatcher Pro 80 ED
Orion ED80T CF
Orion ED80
I'm also looking at getting teh Orion Awesome Autoguider.
Those three items complete year one.
My plan would be to add a C9.25 or a C11 in the second year. Or if things are going well the first year, I might put that off and get a good CCD imager.
So, will that gear run on an Atlas mount? One of those scopes, with a 7d back to a laptop with the autoguider.
I know the ED80 and the Atlas mount are pretty popular on here. I was leaning towards the ED80 but I have read about the focusing problems. I'm concerned about the 7d hanging from it and if it will be a problem I could address. So with the possible need to upgrade the focuser would I be better off getting the ED80T CF or the Sky Watcher or even now the AT65EDQ. Seems like the AT65 has alot of value for the money and based on what I have seen on here picture wise, you can get some good results.
I'm open to suggestions. I have about a month before I make any firm decisions.
After year two, do you see any problems putting a c9.25 or a c11 on there?
Thanks as always for your comments.
Posted 29 January 2013 - 11:37 AM
I don't think you can go wrong with the Atlas as long as you are up for toting it around. I do recommend that you not wait too long to ditch the SynScan hand controller and use EQMOD. The autoguider package will work fine. As far as scopes, the Skywatcher and Orion ED 80 are identical except for the focuser and other incidentals that the Skywatcher come with. That stuff is servicable but not of the highest quality. If there is one thing I've learned about AP is that, most times, trying to save money by buying the cheaper stuff isn't the best approach. With a DSLR, 600mm is a good spot for many objects and those both have FPL-53 glass. As you've noted, the focuser isn't the best and many of us replace those with a Moonlite. Many use the stock focuser on the other scopes but I also read about unhappy people with those too. My view is that many scopes come with focusers not designed for AP and should be replaced with one that is. Good luck with your choice. Looking forward to seeing your images.
Posted 29 January 2013 - 11:47 AM
Posted 29 January 2013 - 12:16 PM
Posted 29 January 2013 - 12:31 PM
My only concern would be your second OTA. I think the 9.25 is pushing it for AP, and I doubt it could handle the
Posted 29 January 2013 - 12:32 PM
I was saying, the 11 is beyond the Atlas for AP. I am on a similar track, and will be mounting the 8" edge on it....I think that is about as far as one could go, but others may and will have other opinions.
Posted 29 January 2013 - 01:05 PM
Terry - EQMOD - I've read some about that but haven't really gotten into it. I would like to use my laptop to drive the scope...I've read a little on the Backyardeos, which i'm also interested into looking into.
So far the comments on the scope selection are I have several that are compariable. I guess I am looking to see if I should get the AT65 or one of the ED80's. The AT is f6.3. I think the Triplet Ed 80 is f6 and the Ed80 is 7.5. 65 vs 80 would be the next debate for me.
Like I said, I'm pretty sure I'm sticking with the Atlas, unless someone says a c9.25 and an 80mm won't run on it.
Fog - I've read about the moonlite focusers....just MORE money to add to the project. Thats why in my comparison between the AT65 and the ED80's, I haven't read that much about people replacing the focusers in the AT65's. Maybe I just haven't seen it.
I think for my plan its important for me to look at all aspects as to what I would like so I can make sure that it all works together and that the people currently using the equipment will second that whole deal. I don't want to purchase items that in a month, I realize that if I would have asked, I would get real world knowledge on the functionality of it.
As for the guider, is that the one to get, or is there a better one that works better? I know they also have the mini guider as well. I know this is an after thought, and getting the right scope and mount is my first priority. But since it is in the 300 range, it might be a piece of the puzzle I can get during year 1.
Thanks for teh comments.
Posted 29 January 2013 - 01:18 PM
There is another option for the mount, the iOptron iEQ45. It's a bit more expensive than the Atlas mount, and not as well proven in the field, but it is definitely lighter (the Atlas EQ head is 41 lbs, the iEQ45 is 25 lbs). I've never used one of these myself, but you might add it to your list for research and comparison.
I'm definitely biased towards the AT65EDQ. You can follow the link in my signature to see what I've done with it. Having the flattener built in makes life a lot easier, and the 422mm focal length is very forgiving of tracking error, wind, etc. The focuser is ok, but I did have flexure. It wasn't an issue with just my ATIK 314E on there unless I tried to take 10+ minute exposures, but once I added an OAG, 9 position filter wheel and guide camera it just couldn't handle the load. I eventually put a MoonLite focuser on mine. I know this is a shameless plug, but I will be selling mine soon as I recently upgraded. PM me if you are interested.
Both the Skywatcher Pro 80 ED and the Orion ED80 are doublet instead of triplet designs, which means you may see blue halos around brighter stars as the blue frequencies don't quite come to the same focus point as red and green. The Skywatcher has a better focuser, but otherwise have the same optics (I can't remember, but the SW may have a collimatable lens cell as well). Since you are planning on using a DSLR, at least initially, I would recommend a triplet refractor over these doublets.
For the triplet design, several manufactures make 80mm clones. Orion, Explore Scientific, Meade, and many others I'm sure. I've only used the Explore Scientific carbon fiber version ($1000 new), but I can say it was very well made and had a solid focuser. They also sell a non carbon version for $800 new. It's a little heaver at 7.5 lbs instead of 5.5, but any of these would do well on an Atlas class mount.
As far as the c9.25 or 11. Both would work well visually atop an Atlas or iEQ45, but may be difficult to use well for astrophotography. SCTs have a lot of mirror flop that shows up when using a guide scope rather than an off-axis guider. I would personally recommend you go with either the 8" or 9.25" EdgeHD scopes. They have mirror locks and native flat fields, making them much better for astrophotography and great performers visually as well. I recommended staying at or below the 9.25" for a few reasons: weight (the 9.25" is 21 lbs which is already pressing it for an Atlas mount doing astrophotography), focal length (at 2350mm any tracking errors will be noticeable and the Orion guider may have too much of an image scale difference to accurately track) and cost (new the 8" EdgeHD costs about the same as the standard 9.25").
I think the Orion mini guider package is better for the small refractors and is easier to mount as it just fits in the finder scope slot. With the Orion Awesome AutoGuider package you have to find a way to mount the guide scope on top of your imaging scope or get a side-by-side saddle.
If you want to save money and make your budget go further, definitely look at buying used. In my experience, the astronomy community is very good at taking care of their equipment and are happy to see it go to a good home when they upgrade.
These are of course, just my opinions, but I hope it helps.
Posted 29 January 2013 - 01:51 PM
The standard, excellent, advise is to start off with a small refractor. How small will influence what you can reasonably expect to image. Get CCDCalc, add your camera specs and try different scopes. If you add the extra images there will be lots to make comparisons with.
Sign up on Astrobin and look around at results with the camera and scopes that interest you. Pay attention to the image and try to determine if it has been cropped or not. Pay attention to star shapes in the corners.
All refractors need a field flattener. Make sure you are getting a scope and flattener that are proven to work together with an APS-C chip in the mix.
I hate to disagree with David above but don't be put off by the doublets. The ED80 and ED120 are good imaging scopes because they are slower. Short, fast scopes have their own issues although the ones you are looking at are widely used so there are plenty of images to examine.
Posted 29 January 2013 - 02:59 PM
No worries. I have no problem being disagreed with. I try to talk from personal experience unless a discussion is intentionally theoretical in nature. I will occasionally make comments about equipment I haven't used, especially if I don't see it come up and I feel it might be useful information (as I did with the iEQ45), but I try to indicated that I have no direct experience.
The problem with personal experience is that, being amateurs with limited budgets, most of us only get to use a piece of equipment in one configuration. For example, I used a friends ED80 with my DSLR and did experience blue halos around very bright stars. For me, it was more than I could tolerate and so I went in a different direction. Having said that, when I did this test I was very inexperienced and will certainly admit that the halo-ing could have been from my specific DSLR, poor focus which would exaggerate the halos (I had not learned about Bahtinov masks yet), non-orthogonal image plane or any number of other issues I didn't know about at the time.
So, feel free to add your experiences and correct me if I'm wrong. I don't offend easily.
Good suggestion on CCDCalc. There's also this online version: http://www.skyatnigh...view-calculator
Posted 29 January 2013 - 04:39 PM
I think for the mount, I am going to stay with the Atlas...because it is a proven mount. I don't want to be some new guy, getting the latest, and being one of the first to figure something out when I don't know what I'm doing.
For the year 2 upgrades, I was thinking that I would use the c9.25 or the c11 just for viewing and the ED80 or At65 for imaging. I just can't get all three for 2500 in one year. So I was going with the ED80 and the mount for the first year. Then get the viewing hardware the second year.
Also I think when I get there, I will be looking at the EdgeHD scopes. Whatever I can get for $2500 or less when I get to that point.
I'm not at all opposed to going used. I have done that with my camera gear and I know I take good care of my items and usually people spending this kind of money for toys usually do too. The only problem is, not knowing what you are looking at and if there are any problems with it, and also, the stuff GOES so quick once it is posted.
I will look there.
Terry - thanks for all the information as well. I have done alot of research up to this point and take everyone's points and then conduct more research. Finding out what is going to work for me is what I'm trying to determine. If I can get real world experience from people on here, I can only better my judgement in making a large decision like this. Its all good.
I've been through all the ED80 photos on Astrobin, I know it can be done with that scope. I just want to get the right one.
Also, guys, being amateurs and on fixed budgets with little experience, we sometimes only get one shot to get the right stuff.
Interesting comments on the Mini-auto-guider. Should I be looking at an OAG instead withe an Edgehd in the future? Or will the Mini work for both the Edge and the Ed80/at65?
Thanks again....off to do more research...
Posted 29 January 2013 - 04:54 PM
Have fun!
heh, heh, I spent my first year imaging with an Orion StarBlast on a DS-2000 mount. It was a lot of fun and I learned quite a bit from that experience.
My starter kit...
Attached Files
Posted 29 January 2013 - 04:55 PM
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Posted 29 January 2013 - 05:39 PM
You can see what I have been able to capture with that setup at my Astrobin site in my signature. I would suggest holding off on the larger OTA and get a good CCD camera as there are a lot of objects you can practice on with the smaller scope.
Posted 29 January 2013 - 11:17 PM
Warren - WOW - your photos are very cool. The pictures of the sun, I've never seen anything like that. That is just incredible. So for me it looks like I am trying to set up my first rig very similar to what you are using. Looks like from your stuff and a couple others that I have seen, I need to add that Atik 314 on my list of wants. I am leaning towards the AT65EDQ instead of the 80ED.
For year two, I think I am leaning now towards the 8in Edge HD. Thats quite a ways off.
Thanks for all the help.
Posted 30 January 2013 - 09:00 AM
Posted 30 January 2013 - 05:55 PM
Posted 30 January 2013 - 09:53 PM
I have the AT65 and love it. I will say I wish I had gone with and 80mm. Though for the the price and fact it has a built in flattner it cant be beat.
Posted 30 January 2013 - 10:34 PM
Posted 30 January 2013 - 10:36 PM
Posted 30 January 2013 - 11:54 PM
Posted 31 January 2013 - 09:24 PM
Posted 02 February 2013 - 09:28 AM
Another thing I learned the hard way - the CCD shipped with a stripped down version of Maxim, a capture/calibrate/initial processing program. It made initial capture and calibration pretty easy, but what was missing IMO was pretty huge in the initial processing - to the point where it wasn't much different than DSS. I'd seen some fantastic results using the full program package (which is capture/calibrate/process/post process/guide/ ...) and mine were nowhere near. So in purchasing my next CCD (the one I have now) I saved and ponied up for the full version of MaximDL - it is quite expensive and it took a while to save for. Sorry for long way down the trail with this but it's just that the software you use can have a lot to say about what you can pull out of the data you do get.
So in ways I'd recommend to keep in mind the possibility of purchasing something on the used market to get started, and what software you will need to get the most from it.
We don't get a lot of imaging time here, and so it took a long time (far longer than it might have in a better area for this) for me to understand just what I was up against in terms of limiting exposure times, different type objects, 'da woyks'... and what I wanted to try and get from my imaging. I image from a 'white' LP zone and that adds a significant amount of difficulty.
So I think choice of a camera or CCD has a lot to do with your particular area and climate, and expectations beyond the initial euphoria of getting an image or two. I used to describe the process for me as one of excitement, enthusiam, reality, panic... Sorry for the long and wandering response, but I think there is a lot to consider here that only you can determine.


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Mach1 Over Kill
Posted 23 April 2009 - 03:14 AM
I got the notification. Now I am wondering if a Mach1 GTO is simply over kill for my needs. Am a visual observer with a 4" refractor who might go up to 5 or so inches but nothing larger to mount on the Mach1 (if I am gonna go bigger Im gonna go Dob). I dont plan on doing imaging for a number of reasons and I generally prefer simpler mounts (alt az) over GEMs. However, I would like the ability to track and goto with a mount that is solid. Plus I am one of the crazies that will go out and actually observe in the negative degrees of winter that the Mach1 and its electronics can tolerate.
I signed up for it as it exceeded what I wanted in a mount at the time, but now that its within reach I feel somewhat guilty for perhaps purchasing such a mount for only visual use when its seems so obviously directed towards what some may consider "higher end" use. Its not a question of money but it just feels like I might be buying a Ferrari just to drive to the post office and back, but still, its a Ferrari...
Am I crazy? I still got some time to think about it. On the flip side, if I didnt go for it I might be kicking myself later. Shouldnt I be happy that I got through one of APs waiting lists and can actually afford the thing I was waiting for? This should be a no brainer yes/no?
I welcome any thoughts, comments, derisive laughter, etc.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 04:18 AM
Posted 23 April 2009 - 05:23 AM
Mach1GTO on AP wooden tripod
Posted 23 April 2009 - 05:35 AM
Posted 23 April 2009 - 06:13 AM
Another way to look at this is that unless you decide to build an observatory or start lugging realy big scopes out, once you buy the Mach1 you are probably done as far as mounts are concerned - it could easily be the last mount you'll need to buy.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 06:35 AM
As for the overkill issue for visual - I agree with Paul and the other recent posts.
Paul - is that your own mount? It looks like a pro stock photo that I haven't seen before. I really like the add on tray arrangement and the Baader tripod. What a great visual set-up.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 06:51 AM
A lot of Mach1GTO owners are strictly visual. You don't need to be an imager to appreciate a mount that is portable, well built, needs no tinkering, is extremely stable and accurate, has a versatile and easy to use hand controller, and gives you the flexibility to go to a larger scope or image in the future if your needs or desires change.
Paul describes my situation perfectly.
I used to do film A-P, but got frustrated and quit. I came back to astronomy as a visual observer, but I appreciate quality and put my name on the list. I was also forced to pass the first time around, but not this time.
Like Doug says, if you decide to pass just get back on the list. My chance came up again and this time I said "Yes". I still think the Mach1 is the perfect solution for a solid, yet lightweight, accurate mount. It can carry any scope I can carry - and like Charlie says, I expect it to be the last mount I have to buy.
Best of luck with your decision,
Posted 23 April 2009 - 07:48 AM
Posted 23 April 2009 - 08:59 AM
Good advice. There are many other good choices for a visual mount that will be MUCH cheaper.
I have been a visual observer for over thirty years. I put my money into quality optics, eyepieces and accessories. We tend to forget about the many accessories. Yes, a scope is only as good as its mount to a degree, but for visual on a 4" or 5" inch scope, a Mach 1 is overkill IMHO. Put that money into a good comparison mount(G-8, CGEM,CGE, TAK) and have the additional funds left over for any accessory you might desire! There are many facets beyond imaging in the hobby that are worth a try. The high end mounts are intended for imaging and you pay for that level of quality...
Posted 23 April 2009 - 10:51 AM
How do you like that CGEM?
Posted 23 April 2009 - 12:24 PM
Posted 23 April 2009 - 12:32 PM
Ordered the 1st week of March...still enroute! I do believe it would be fine for your TEC140. I bounced back and forth between it and the CGE. I think it was Fred at Astronomics said I wouldn't need the CGE for the C11 and for visual the CGEM would fit the bill nicely...
I was very impressed with the CGEM I saw at NEAF. It reminded some of us of the Atlas and should do fine with your C11.
Back OT - to the OP: If you decide to pass on the Mach1, the Atlas or CGEM would be close matches for capacity and the GM-8 would be a close match for machined quality, IMHO.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 01:29 PM
I have been a visual observer for over thirty years. I put my money into quality optics, eyepieces and accessories. We tend to forget about the many accessories. Yes, a scope is only as good as its mount to a degree, but for visual on a 4" or 5" inch scope, a Mach 1 is overkill IMHO. Put that money into a good comparison mount(G-8, CGEM,CGE, TAK) and have the additional funds left over for any accessory you might desire! There are many facets beyond imaging in the hobby that are worth a try. The high end mounts are intended for imaging and you pay for that level of quality...
You also pay for reliability and after sales service. Something the Mach1 won't give you that the CGEM will:
CGME love
Posted 23 April 2009 - 01:37 PM
Posted 23 April 2009 - 02:12 PM
Buy what you feel will do the job you are asking.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 02:51 PM
Paul - is that your own mount? It looks like a pro stock photo that I haven't seen before. I really like the add on tray arrangement and the Baader tripod. What a great visual set-up.
Thanks! It's mine, all tricked out with accessory trays and control box holder:
Posted 23 April 2009 - 02:59 PM
Sorry - don't mean to hijack the thread. I'm fine with a PM response....
Posted 23 April 2009 - 05:11 PM
I really like the AP/Baader wood tripod, use it primarily with the Traveler and the 130 f6 for visual. It will carry the 155 f7 and the 10" mak as well when I don't feel like hauling out a bigger mount, again I don't do imaging (burned out in the old days with hypered tech pan).
The only thing I don't like about the wooden tripod is the tray/spreader. I replaced it with the Lapides folding spreader, beautifully designed and machined, allows the tripod to fold down completely.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 05:23 PM
I could buy a "lesser" mount, put money elsewhere into the hobby, but the things is I kinda have everything else EP, telescope, accessory wise that I actually want (although one could always buy more EPs) so the mount is the last step to round it out. It would be a mount meant for long term use and I do think that if I made the purchase I would be happy in that I cant really do much better within its capability range.
Thinking about it more I do appreciate a well thought out product and have based a lot of my previous gear decisions on reliability, quality of manufacture and reputation of the company involved - cant really go wrong with AP there. Also, in a somewhat reversed view from t.r., I am not interested in having to tinker much, I accept a basic amount of maintenance and set up time, but I am not interested in having to fine tune a product to meet my needs when something else might be available "out of the box" that can. The same job that allows me to be able to afford a Mach1 doesnt always allow me the time to view the sky as much as I would like and I would like those times to be as trouble free as possible.
So basically I have decided to go for it, now I am stuck in somewhat the same position as Doug D in that I have to figure out if I want a tripod or pier or just want to hire a couple of guys to hold the equatorial head steady.
Not to hijack the thread; although, I think I can since Im the OP, what are people using for legs for the Mach1. Im leaning towards the wood tripod but the Eagle portable pier seems nice. Ive never really used piers and am wondering about the portability and set up, the AP ones do seem rather amenable to transport and easy setup.
Once again, thank you all for your comments, they actually did help.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 05:34 PM
I've been using the A-P Portable Piers for a couple years and they are incredibly solid for their weight. They are also fairly easy to break down and transport if you must.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 05:50 PM
' You also pay for reliability and after sales service. Something the Mach1 won't give you that the CGEM will:
Is the after sales and reliability on the Mach 1 not so good then compared to Celestron? I would have thought AP were good on aftersales but have no idea ...it's just for future reference.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 07:02 PM
Paul G.
' You also pay for reliability and after sales service. Something the Mach1 won't give you that the CGEM will:
Is the after sales and reliability on the Mach 1 not so good then compared to Celestron? I would have thought AP were good on aftersales but have no idea ...it's just for future reference.
Sorry I wasn't clear. The second sentence refers to the following link, not to the previous sentence.
AP is superb on after sales service. You don't wind up with threads like the one I linked where someone is waiting for a replacement for his first defective mount, or this one:
Linky link
Posted 23 April 2009 - 07:14 PM
So basically I have decided to go for it, now I am stuck in somewhat the same position as Doug D in that I have to figure out if I want a tripod or pier or just want to hire a couple of guys to hold the equatorial head steady.
Great - if ok with you it is ok with me. Lets talk legs. BTW, congratulations on your decision.
I've been thinking a lot about legs for the Mach 1. Here are a few things to think about.
AP/Baader wood tripod: tried and true, good enough for visual and imaging according to Roland and others, probably ideal for scopes like Paul's (Traveler and 130). Advantages include good damping times, relatively light in weight, adjustable to sitting and standing heights and in between. A lot cheaper than Eagle and other quality portable piers. To me, it is a winner for stability and portability.
Eagle: Snazzy looking - looks like it means business. Fully machined and anodized and very steady by all accounts. However, it is heavy and it is wide when folded (more than 12" I think when taking into account legs). It folds up fairly compact lengthwise if the center tube is fully seated at lowest position (only way it fits in its Lightware case - as an aside, you can get this case from B&H for a lot less). If you have any of the brackets attached for accessories, they would need to be removed if you want to seat the tube at lowest position (unless use use it only in seated position). It takes a while to figure it all out but another advantage is the accessories - lots of them. Not as adjustable obviously, as the wood tripod, more limitations in height. Some of the height can come from drawing legs inward (less spread) and therefore, theoretically less stable in this stance. Nice 8" extension available but again another thing to carry. If you are primarily imaging there is a lot to be said for the Eagle. A lot pricier than tripod but obviously well made and probably well worth it. Some love the looks - I like the looks but feel so-so about the big "AP" carved into the legs. But if you got it, flaunt it I guess.
There are several fixed height tripods (including APs) but on uneven ground I think leveling can be a challenge but others can chime in here with their opinions.
I have a PWT Pinnacle on order - PWT makes the Monolith. It is a very nicely engineered and fully machined adjustable pier available in fixed height (with extension) or manual/motorized adjustable versions (actually more pictures and info on Company 7 site than the PWT site). Expensive relative to Eagle and esp. AP wood tripod. It is supposedly rock solid with very impressive weight capacity. Available in 7, 10 and 12" versions and at various heights. Long wait times. One really nice feature is the "full index adapter" at top to which mount is attached. It is rotatable and has built in compass and spirit levels. The Pinnacle is a real looker too - if that is important to you. You won't be fitting it easily into a carrying bag and if you order one of the higher length versions just make sure it will fit in your trunk or back seat when folded! ATS also makes a very well regarded portable pier.
I own a Berlebach UNI24, which I think is probably on the same scale of quality and rigidity as the AP/Baader tripod but I can't easily adapt the 6" mount platform for the ADATRI adapter. So, I've also been looking at the Berlebach Planet, which costs about the same as the AP/Baader but it is has more than a 200 lb capacity !! Berlebach makes beautiful wood tripods. The Planet is pretty heavy though (24lbs I think).
A lot of people using the Mach 1 swear by the Losmandy G11 tripod as the best and most reasonably priced option. This is certainly a good option to consider.
Well - that should get us started. Lots of other options out there but I am a very firm believer that the very last thing to skimp on here is the legs. If you are going to get a Mach 1 it would be silly, IMO, to go for less than at least the G11 or Baader tripods.
But bear in mind - I don't yet have any of my "recommendations" so I probably don't know what I'm talking about. ....but why should I let that stop me, LOL.
Posted 23 April 2009 - 07:25 PM
And to some that is certainly worth the $ but for me, I'm okay with a new products glitches and having to "fine tune" its performance to my needs. They are crude and a work in progress, I accept that and save the other $5000+ dollars for other things...YMMV.
Nothing wrong with that approach. Some people love to tinker and tweak, but I'm not good at either. Like Clint Eastwood said in a movie, a man's gotta know his limitations, and I know mine. Fortunately my job allows me to get nice toys, unfortunately it leaves me little time to play with them so I want to maximize my time observing. Next time around I'm going for a 40 hour work week and a C-8 in Arizona!
Posted 24 April 2009 - 12:20 AM
I've got a Losmandy HD (G11) tripod boxed in storage waiting for the Mach1GTO to arrive. Picked it up second hand. I spent a ton of time researching the topic and found that the HD is best for my needs - keeps price down (vs. Eagle), adjustable legs for all terrain (vs. AP's solid portable pier), and it's really, really stable (vs. AP's wood tripod, which is stable - but less than the HD).
The only (slight) downside I could think of at the time was transportability - it seemed a bit cumbersome.
But then I found this link for a do-it-yourself G11 HD tripod case and now the transportability is a non-issue.
Your needs/budget/etc. may be different and your research might lead you a different solution.
Just my 2 cents.


text:
Join Counter Culture for Pro Dev on Wednesday, May 28, at 3 p.m. in our Training Centers as we explore espresso extraction using tools that have become industry standard: the VST coffee and espresso refractometer and the Extract Mojo app.
We'll discuss how these tools and other VST technology contribute to our understanding of espresso, and why/how Counter Culture uses these tools to objectively measure brewed coffee.
Of course, we'll be tasting as we go, so come prepared to consume some espresso!
Counter Culture Regional Training Centers host monthly Pro Dev sessions the last Wednesday of the month. Free and open to all coffee professionals.


text: You still got one more shot, the E3 is not too difficult. If you are comfortable taking your ps3 apart completely then you should not have problems. Depending if your PS3 has NAND or NOR you will have to determine this yourself... soldering is not required for the NOR flashing as there is a device that hugs the chip. as for the usb device I am not sure how it works i believe it has some of their own code that allows you to actually do the downgrade.


text:
Quiz for Write an Equation Given the Slope and a Point.
A list of student-submitted discussion questions for Write an Equation Given the Slope and a Point.
To activate prior knowledge, make personal connections, reflect on key concepts, encourage critical thinking, and assess student knowledge on the topic prior to reading using a Quickwrite.
To build a step-by-step description of a sequence for analysis, discussion, or communication using a Sequence Diagram.
Students will apply their understanding of linear relationships to how much garment workers earn in Bangladesh.
This study guide looks at finding equations for lines (in slope-intercept form, point-slope form, and standard form). It also looks at equations for parallel and perpendicular lines.


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Many questions on flood maps
(Page 2 of 2)
Another question that must be answered is, What was the methodology used by FEMA to come up with these new flood maps? It was intimated that scientific data was used but what exactly does that mean? We heard the words "cutting-edge technology" used for the maps instituted in September 2009, which we found out later could not have been further from the truth. It is imperative that we know what, exactly, was done to determine who was left in the flood zone. The Biggerts-Waters Act, signed into law on July 6, 2012, mandated FEMA to revise the flood maps in Valley Stream using local data. It does not appear that they used any local data for these proposed maps. If Gibson did not flood during Irene and did not flood during Sandy, not to mention the records the village has showing that there has not been flooding in Gibson going back to 1938, how come so many homeowners — approximately 1,500 — are still in the flood zone?
It is understandable that the mayor does not want to challenge the maps so that those who have been removed from the flood maps can be taken out, but once those maps are approved, it becomes law. It took us three years and a lot of help from Senator Schumer to get a law passed so that the inaccurate maps of 2009 could be revised. Let's not make the same mistake twice.
FEMA needs to explain to the homeowners and the village how these new maps were drawn up and what data was used, before they become law. We need to find out exactly what FEMA considers local data because these maps do not make sense.
The premiums of $400 will soon be gone, according to Tim Crowley of FEMA, and the premiums are now $3,300 for the high-risk zone and $1,800 for the "X" zone if you decide to buy the insurance. It is of the utmost importance to make sure that the proposed maps were done correctly this time. Until these questions can be answered and the inconsistencies eliminated, it looks like they are trying to pull another fast one on the homeowners of Gibson. Hopefully the village will investigate these proposed maps and get answers to these questions for the homeowners of Valley Stream.
Carol Crupi
Valley Stream Community Association
KeywordsValley Stream, Letter to the Editor, Carol Crupi, Flood Maps
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Bellmore-Merrick Central District must cut $2.2M from 2013-14 budget
(Page 2 of 3)
"We have been cutting as closely as we can without impacting program," said Trustee Janet Goller. In the future, she said, programs might be eliminated if the district does not exceed the cap, which is on the property-tax levy –– the total amount in taxes that a district must collect to meet its expenses. The state has capped the levy increase at 2 percent, though most districts exceed that by about 1 percentage point, because they are allowed to exempt a certain amount for contributions to the Teachers Retirement System, the Employees Retirement System and capital costs. When exemptions are factored in, Bellmore-Merrick's total allowable tax-levy increase for 2013-14 is just over 3 percent.
If it exceeds the allowable cap, a district's budget must be approved by at least 60 percent of voters. If it fails, it can be put up for a vote once more as is, or with reductions. If it fails a second time, spending is capped at the current year's budget –– meaning spending can not increase at all. That, said Trustee George Haile, would be "a disaster."
Over the past two years, many school district officials have been reluctant to offer a budget that exceeded the cap for a public vote, fearing that residents would shoot it down and deeper cuts would follow. But, Haile said, further cuts in the future would mean the elimination of "the things we're so proud of" in Bellmore-Merrick.
Regal said that it is tough to make cuts. "It hurts…," she said. "We suffer. We suffer."
Community's viewpoint
Caitlyn O'Hara, a Calhoun High School student-athlete, made an emotional appeal to the Board of Education to preserve the Athletes Helping Athletes program, for which high school athletes make presentations in the elementary schools about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. "It's amazing to see how much they enjoy this program," O'Hara said.
The Board of Cooperative Educational Services runs the program. District officials said they are looking at the possibility of instituting a local, less costly Athletes Helping Athletes program in place of the current one.
"We are looking at something so that it will continue in some form…," said Goller. "We, too, recognize the importance of this program."
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Did they already increase the drop rate? I've had 2 Tomes drop for me in the same day.
Did they already increase the drop rate? I've had 2 Tomes drop for me in the same day.
Quick question:
Those still on the quest - can you enter regular Black Temple? Cause that's a bug I experienced, I couldn't.
Those who finished it - when you enter regular Black Temple, is it bugged for you? Cause I just did and it's completely empty, no mobs, no bosses, nothing. And I hadn't been in there yet this id.
Just finished this on my warlock, 487 ilvl. My god, the adrenaline was pumping on that kill attempt! When I beat him my hands were actually shaking quite a bit. I'm amazed I finished the fight because I could actually feel myself shaking my mouse and keyboard. DEFINITELY my most satisfying kill on this game since I started playing. I'm glad I don't have to do it again, though. I think that fight gave me an ulcer. lol
my guild is making me get rid of green fire because of melee on Horridan and it makes me sad.
I beat it on Monday. I must have attempted about 40 tries all put together. It really was a great feeling when I finally did it. My winning kill was the following:
I would abuse the charge at the beginning, and get as much damage as I could before felhunter phase. I even ignored imps a little at first to get some charged chaos bolts in. I used the gateway on cooldown to avoid all chaos bolts. When Felhunters came I would hide the Pit Lord, and just nuke them down without using CDs on the first set, and using all available CDs on the second set. I would re-enslave just after the cata on Felhunter phases. Doomlords would just be tanked by the Pit Lord. Soulshatter was always saved for felhunter phases to ensure I don't eat a chaos bolt. By the third imp phase I would have him killed. With only seconds left on the doom timer, as I didn't use a purification potion.
It works, and it is tough, but IMO, once you get the felhunter parts down, it's GG. Also I noticed that I lost my Dark Intent, and still beat the fight not even knowing it was gone, so that alone should prove that Ilevel has less to do with it and even if you got more powerful gear, careless mistakes would just as quickly lead to disaster. Yeah it will probably be a lot easier with higher Ilevel, but you won't REALLY overpower it until the next xpac.
my Ilevel at the finishing kill was 496. Keep in mind I lost Dark Intent without realizing so I was doing most of the fight with 10% less spell power and stamina. Which is probably like lowering my ilevel had I kept it on the entire time.
Blargh! Got him down to about 7%. Tried to burn him down with soul burn while spamming rain of fire on the imps, and the imps got mad destroyed me in a manner of seconds. If only I had played it safe!
I'll also add, that the way I did it I used soul link.*Not saying you should do this, but it is worth a shot. And only worth it if you can keep aggro off of Kanethrad. I missed one and ate a CB, but with Unending Res and Twilight ward I was able to eat most of it. Brought me down way too low for my comfort though.
Last edited by Seezer; 2013-03-28 at 07:59 AM.
"The truth is like poetry. And most people hate poetry."
I dont know if you have noticed guys, but when you get Green Fire for your warlock, and you use Demonology spec, the form itself is bugged :P By myself I can say his mouth is too wide and his hands are just not in the right place... I feel like I were handicapped warlock atm :P
Been fighting this boss 4-5 days now (I think)
It took me awhile to get the mechanics down, and I think it´s working better now .... I need to get better at dps-ing in the chaos :/
Got through the 2 puppie phases many times now. A few times the boss has been under 20 % *cry*
My Purification potions haven´t worked 3 times , which has enraged the boss ..... (Sometimes I remember earlier in the fight, then it works)
Which CD´s can interferre with the purification pot? I havent used any other pots/flasks etc, just so the pot is not on CD ... So it seem to be one of the spells?


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posted Nov 8 2013 7:40AM
Brooke Mueller and Denise Richards were actually friendly with each other during a mandatory sit-down with the L.A. County Department of Children and Family Services but the drama is far from over! Denise Richards and Brooke Mueller met with Medical Director Dr. Charles Sophy. Charlie Sheen refused to come. After a 4 hour session, Denise Richards is still debating whether or not she'll continue to serve as temporary guardian for Charlie Sheen and Brooke Mueller's twin boys. In the meeting, the medical director made it clear that the goal is not for Denise Richards to have permanent custody over the twins, and that her role would be gone once Brooke Mueller became stronger and able to provide parenting. There was also an acknowledgment that the twins have been psychologically damaged from the experience and that there's no evidence that Brooke Mueller has started using drugs again. No follow-up meetings are scheduled but social workers will now take over and the process of Brooke Mueller gaining full custody will be slow. The odd part? Charlie, Brooke and Denise all live in the same exclusive gated community, including the medical director! That's LA for you!
It hasn't been the easiest year for Paula Deen, and now things looked a bit worse. A report came out that Paula Deen kicked out her husband, Michael Groover, for having a secret mistress. But my sources are denying these claims, saying that this story is absolutely not true and that Paula Deen and her husband have never been closer. They are completely fine. This isn't the first time that there's been reports of the couple splitting. In July the rumor was that Paula Deen and her husband were headed towards a $17 million divorce battle. Clearly, they never filed for divorce. Paula Deen has yet to officially comment on the latest report on her personal life.
Beyonce is just too cool! She shows nothing but LOVE for her fans! Recently at a concert she photobomed a fan's selfie in the middle of her concert! Well now, Queen B took it up a notch! During her concert, one of her fans was FaceTiming with a friend during the concert and Beyonce surprised everyone by taking the phone, saying "this was a first," and said hello to the person the fan was FaceTiming with! OMG! How excited would you be to be the person on the other end of that phone!
It's been about a year and a half since Katie Holmes surprised the world with a divorce and now Tom Cruise is finally admitting what many of us assumed: that Katie Holmes did it so that she and her daughter Suri could leave the church of Scientology! During Katie Holmes' marriage to Tom Cruise, she was a practitioner of the church, but as soon as Katie Holmes left him, she left Scientology too! When lawyers first asked Tom Cruise about claims that Katie Holmes divorced him "in part to protect Suri from Scientology," he lashed back and said, "Listen, I find that question offensive. Like with any relationship, there are many different levels to it... There is no need to protect my daughter from my religion." The lawyers pushed back, asking if Katie Holmes ever told Tom Cruise why she left him and if she ever said it was to protect Suri from Scientology. Tom Cruise said, "Did she say that? That was one of the assertions, yes." Well, Suri is now no longer practicing Scientology. So, you do the math J
What does Rihanna and Elvis Presley have in common? Well, as of this week Rihanna ties Elvis Presley for eighth place for the most top 10s in the billboard chart's history! Rihanna also beat out Madonna to become the woman to reach 25 top 10 hits the fastest! Rihanna ranks in the top tier just eight years and four months after her first hit, "Pon De Replay," back in 2005. Rihanna got her 25th top 10 the second most quickly among all acts. Now that's something to be proud of!
Yesterday a video went viral of a woman that videotaped Justin Bieber sleeping on a bed! The woman was rumored to be one of the many prostitutes that Justin Bieber has apparently been hooking up with in Brazil. Turns out, not true! Ever since the video came out, everyone wanted to know who this woman was. Well, I'm being told that Justin Bieber had rented a home outside of Rio to stay at during his concert in Brazil. After his show, Justin Bieber threw an after-party and invited around 50 people. At some point during the party, Justin Bieber fell asleep on a couch and one of the partygoers shot footage of the singer sleeping. Justin Bieber is telling friends that he's completely creeped out by the video and is disappointed that he now has to defend himself against false stories like paying for prostitutes! Rough life!
I can't say I'm surprised because I don't know who else could take home this honor! During the 15th Annual
Awards, David Beckham personally accepted this year's style award. David Beckham took home the top honor for this ability to successfully bridge the gap between style and sport. David Beckham has gained as much attention for his fashion endeavors as he has for his successful athletic career. The editor-in-chief of GQ Germany said, "Like no other athlete, David Beckham represents style and fashion influence. With his trendsetting and sometimes daring appearances he has created a bridge between the world of design, models, and photographers, and the world of world-class sports, and brought glamour back to a male sport." Maybe David Beckham gets his sense of style from his wife Victoria, who is also a designing diva with a fashion empire that supposedly earns the family $160,000 a
. Make that money and congratulations to David Beckham for being rewarded for being sexy!
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These steaks take the cake. This combo of six rib eyes plus eight steakburgers is sure to make mouths water. And, with plenty to share, you can double the fun with friends. From Kansas City Steak Company.
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M28095 — Kansas City (6) 9 oz. Ribeye and Bonus (8) 4 oz. Steakburgers
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Kansas City Steak
Kansas City Steak Company (20) 4.5 oz. Steakburgers
Kansas City Steak Company (12) 3.2 oz. Hot Dogs
Kansas City (4) 1 lb. Beef Tenderloin Tips and 1 lb. Bonus Tips
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Religious figures from Moses to Jesus, Mohammed and the Buddha all found great value in solitude.
In this wired age of non-stop communication with little time for reflection and contemplation, many find it vital to carve out time in order to have time to be creative, innovative, and imaginative.
Octavio Paz Mexican writer, poet, and winner of the Nobel Prize for literature said "Solitude is the profoundest fact of the human condition."
"I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude. We are for the most part more lonely when we go abroad among men than when we stay in our chambers."
– Henry David Thoreau, Walden
"A man can be himself only so long as he is alone; if he does not love solitude, he will not love freedom; for it is only when he is alone that he is really free. " – Arthur Schopenhauer
My pictures on people reading around the world will be featured at the Frankfurt Book Fair on October 5.


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Various gourmet paths lead from one alpine hut to the next and to mountain inns, where local delicacies are served in taster portions. Depending on your appetite and mood, you can choose between the Little Gourmet, Family and Panorama Paths: everyone is guaranteed to have their fill – not least of the fabulous views.
Children also love the original and fun recreational area in the centre of the resort, devoted to local animal life – complete with giant board games and of course an animal enclosure. Other activities and facilities on offer include riding, tennis, mountain-biking, Nordic walking, exercise trails and a swimming pool.
Les Paccots is a small holiday village in the Alpine foothills of Fribourg. Situated 15 minutes from Vevey and 30 minutes from Fribourg, it is an ideal place for snowshoeing enthusiasts. Two signposted circuits of 3 and 4 km are a great way to discover the snow-covered forests and meadows. The resort has 11 ski lifts and two baby lifts. Youngsters can have fun learning to ski in the snow garden, or the whole family can enjoy themselves on the ice rink.


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I have sharepoint calendar and I want the entries to be in color based on status. If user add one entry and status is initially pending then that task would be in green, later it get changed to 'in progress' then task color should change to yellow and blue for resolved. Resolved=blue in progress=yellow pending=green
How can i acheieve this, can anyone provide me javascipt code for same


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Wave Rebel Hawaii Bodyboard
|Eligible for Free Shipping on Orders $39 or More! (see promotion details)
|Members of The League get 5% back when you spend $100! (see promotion details)
Product Details
The Wave Rebel Hawaii bodyboard is designed for beginnners with an EPS core, an EVA deck and a polypropylene bottom. This board comes with a straight fabric leash.
- Rider Level: beginner
- Tropical bottom graphics
- Deck: EVA
- Core: EPS
- Bottom: polpropylene
- Includes a straight fabric leash
- Length: 36 in
- Widest Point: 19.25 in
- Tail Width: 15.25 in
- Nose Width: 11 in
- Thickness: 5.0 cm
Product Recommendations
Product Reviews
Reviewed by 2 customers
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Best Uses
Comments about Wave Rebel Hawaii Bodyboard:
I couldn't find the rider weight range for this any whwere, including manufacturers site. Almost all the standard charts available say 42" is for weight range 145-180lb. When I received the product I found that it is for 80-100lb riders. This is very strange because the recommended height range for 42" boards is 5'9" - 6'. Just for the fun of it I checked the BMI for potential riders and it is 11.8 - 13.6. This is below 5th percentile including kids of any age. So the bottom line is: Go for this if you are stick figure. but I wonder if there is enough wind to make waves would it be safe for this kind or rider to be outdoors.
As for me, it was just wasted time and postage for returning the board. Luckily I ordered it early enough before the vacation to get a different board.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Durable
- Fast Ride
Best Uses
Comments about Wave Rebel Hawaii Bodyboard:
I recently purchased three of these boards for my children (ages: 8, 6 & 3). We spent an entire day at the beach this past weekend and these were a total hit. They were out riding the waves within minutes of our arrival and they had a blast all day. My husband and I even got in on the fun for a while! My youngest "rider" actually had it made with his. He would lay on it let the current take him out a little ways and then a wave would wash him right back! He never even had to get up. :)
- Weight:
- Light


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Seagate Savvio ST9300605SS Enterprise Plus 10K.5 300GB 10K 6Gbps SFF Serial SCSI / SAS Hard Drive - Refurbished OEM
Capacity: 300GB
Spindle Speed: 10,000RPM
Interface Type: SAS Serial Attached SCSI
Disk Size: 2.5inx15mm SFF Server Drive
Sustained Throughput (MBps): 168 to 93
Average Seek Time (read/write ms): 3.4/3.8
Electrical Interface Speed: SAS-2 Serial Attached SCSI v2 - 6.0Gbps
On-Board Cache: 64MB
Improves Storage Efficiency
The Savvio® 10K.5 drive is the highest-capacity 2.5-inch, 10K drive and the first SFF drive platform to offer four capacity points on a single SFF platform. This drive enables OEMs, system builders and end users to improve storage efficiency by providing up to 900GB in a single drive, helping data centers manage more data without increasing the number of drives, all while increasing sustained data rates by 18% (over previous generation) and maintaining favorable power consumption rates. Seagate PowerChoice™ technology enables OEMs and data centers to tailor systems for performance and power consumption, enabling green IT initiatives. The 2.5-inch small form factor allows end-user enterprises to solve space constraints through higher-density storage.
Reduces Costs and Complexity
The Savvio 10K.5 drive reduces system complexity by standardizing on a common form factor, storage interface and encryption technology. This means fewer device types, form factors, interfaces and security technologies need to be deployed, inventoried and managed.
Enables Smoother Transitions
OEMs and data centers have the flexibility to maintain or upgrade capacity, transition from 3.5-inch to 2.5-inch form factors, and/or migrate from Fibre Channel to SAS drives in one or more steps. With four capacity points on the same drive platform, the Savvio 10K.5 drive enables easier support for current systems and optimized return on existing investments.
Protects Data
Protection Information and Self-Encrypting Drive options protect data from corruption during the storage process and from exposure should the device by lost, stolen, or retired—helping organizations meet compliance and data security objectives.
1 The Savvio 10K.5 is available only through designated OEMs.
DPNs: 745GC 0745GC W6J6V 0W6J6V
All SAS compatible servers including (This list is not all inclusive):Dell PowerEdge R710, R510, R910, 1900, 1950, 1955, 2900, 2950, 6900, 6950 Servers and MD1120 Storage Arrays. Compaq/HP Proliant:BL20p G4, BL460c, BL465c, BL480c, DL360 G4p, DL360 G5, DL380 G4, DL380 G5, DL385, DL385 G2, DL580 G3, DL580 G4, DL585, DL585 G2, ML350 G5, ML370 G4, ML370 G5, ML570 G3, ML570 G4
Seagate ST3300657SS SAS Hard Drives
Seagate ST3300555SS SAS Hard Drive
Seagate Cheetah 15K.7 ST3300657SS SAS Hard Disks
Hitachi Ultrastar 15K450 0B23460 / HUS154530VLS300 SAS Hard Drives
Maxtor Atlas 8J300S0 SAS Hard Drives
Hitachi 0B22132 SAS Hard Drive


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We're preparing to migrate our users from the Sun Java Calendar system to Zimbra. I am testing calendar migrations.
I was able to export my Sun calendar to a .ics file and then imported it into Zimbra using the information provided in the Wiki.
The events now appear in Zimbra, but when I right click these imported events I get this.
So the events all imported in a state where they haven't been confirmed/accepted. If I choose to OPEN, it just opens the event in a window but I can't edit it. If I choose to ACCEPT/DECLINE/TENTATIVE I get the following error.
I am not able to edit any of these imported events. Anyone know why?


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Joined IHG® Rewards Club at a Hotel?
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Contact your local IHG® Rewards Club Customer Care to source your PIN and to update your profile with your email address. When you receive your PIN you can also update your email address via www.ihg.com/updateemail.
Reward Nights
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Once you complete your Reward Night reservation you will be given the option to duplicate this reservation.
* Requires affiliation in the respective organization.
** Best Available Rate Search does not include affiliation rates.
To book more than 9 rooms for one stay or request a quote, please use our Easy Meetings tool, call 1-800-MEETING (in United States, Mexico and Canada) or contact a Global Sales Office.
Our Park Stay and Go Package includes one night accommodations at the hotel and eight days of convenient parking in Qwik Park; Qwik Park is located directly behind our hotel. This package is perfect for stress free travel accommodations.
Along with our featured amenities we also provide complimentary 24 Hour shuttle service to and from Detroit Metro Airport, our shuttle service is operated by Qwik Park. Shuttle service picks up and drops off from DTW located at Ground Transportation level, located at either terminal.
We look forward to having the Holiday Inn Express Romulus MI as your next stop on your travel itinerary!


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New Female Speed Record on El Cap's Nose by Smith-Gobat and Sauter
Mayan Smith-Gobat of New Zealand and Libby Sauter of the U.S. broke the female team speed record on the Nose of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park on Sunday, September 29. The women managed to shave nearly 2 hours off of the previous record of 7 hours and 26 minutes which was set last fall by Smith-Gobat and Chantel Astorga. This year, Smith-Gobat and Sauter climbed the 3,200-foot granite monolith in 5 hours and 39 minutes.
"In rock climbing, women are close to men, if you look solely at pure difficulty, but rarely do they compete on the same level as the guys," Smith-Gobat told The New Zealand Herald. "I want to show that we women are just as capable, on any terrain."
Smith-Gobat also managed another record the previous week, Hans Florine told Rock and Ice, by climbing the Nose faster than any female ever, when she teamed up with Yosemite veteran Sean Leary for a 3-hour and 30-minute blitz up the formation. Her next goal, she told The New Zealand Herald, is to become the first women to free-climb a link-up of both El Cap and the 2,400-foot and Half Dome in under 24 hours.
Smith-Gobat made headlines in October 2011 when she free-climbed El Cap via the Salathe Wall (VI 5.13b). Her ultimate goal, however, is to break the speed climbing record for both men and women. The current record stands at 2:23.46 and was set by Alex Honnold and Hans Florine on July 17, 2012.
Check out this video of Mayan Smith-Gobat free climbing on the Salathe headwall.
Mayan Smith-Gobat climbing the Salathe Headwall from Andy Bardon on Vimeo.
Reader's Commentary:
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Then the world changed. Doctors, feeling hounded, began cutting off reps' access. Congress fumed about the nation's drug bill. Managed care got ugly. And pharma, with too many mouths to feed and not enough new products to detail, started laying off employees by the thousands. It became obvious that the next generation of drugs, when it finally arrives, isn't going to be dominated by the kind of mass-market products that made the primary care sales force such a useful tool.
Product portfolios are changing, patents for a bevy of blockbuster drugs are expiring, and many companies are trending toward small, specialty drugs rather than the mass-market blockbusters of the past. Sales force reorganizations are inevitable. The job loss for so many companies is difficult to stomach. But these reorganizations are also disruptive to customer relationships; the simple act of "re-drawing" territory boundaries can often lead to the loss of quality sales personnel—the top-performing reps who drive much of the value and whom companies can't afford to lose.


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Your daily beauty routine likely focuses on your skin. You cleanse, tone, moisturize and then apply makeup to create a flawless look. When your makeup routine takes you to your lips, you might notice that your lip gloss or lipstick does not apply perfectly or smoothly. Chances are, if you notice this, your lips are in need of some pampering and repair. First Aid Beauty Lip Products are designed with your lips—and their issues—in mind. Often, the lips are forgotten about during your daily beauty routine, and they can suffer as a result. Your lips are susceptible to drying out and chapping, which can be unsightly and, in some cases, even painful. First Aid Beauty Lip Products help treat these problems and more, giving you to more perfect pout.
First Aid Beauty Lip Products rely on natural, paraben-free ingredients to keep your lips looking healthy and hydrated. These products are gentle on your delicate lips, making them suitable for daily use. First Aid Beauty Lip Products deliver a number of benefits to your lips, leaving them hydrated, nourished, and protected.
Before you apply lip gloss for shiny, sultry lips or lipstick for a pop of color, you need to ensure that your lips are properly treated and hydrated. If you are not pampering your lips every day, you aren't showcasing the most beautiful lips possible. First Aid Beauty Lip Products nourish and pamper your lips with intensive treatments that are gentle enough to use every day. Add a product to your daily beauty routine, and enjoy the results.
With just one purchase, you can intensely nourish, hydrate, and repair your lips, giving them a hydrated, refreshed look every day. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Lip Therapy is an intensely hydrating and nourishing lip treatment that works well for all skin types. This petroleum-free lip treatment brings the impressive healing powers of First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream to your lips, giving them the same treatment that your skin enjoys. Several proven, powerful ingredients combine to make this therapy especially effective. Colloidal oatmeal heals and soothes your lips, while glycerin and shea butter combine to moisturize and protect your pout. Dimethicone softens, and FAB Antioxidant Booster helps to combat free radicals, which can damage your lips.
If dry, chapped lips plague you and you cannot find a long-term solution, First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Lip Therapy is for you. This nourishing treatment repairs you dry, chapped lips without petroleum, parabens, chemicals, or colorants. Since it is so gentle, you can apply this therapy as needed throughout the day, ensuring that your lips remain moisturized.


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One Direction? Cue the screaming girls
The world's hottest boy band will descend on Chula Vista's Sleep Train Ampitheatre on Sunday
Justin Bieber is falling apart by the day. Miley Cyrus is begging for attention with one identity crisis after another. The Jonas Brothers are scrambling to make a comeback.
But just days after their third anniversary as a group, the boys of One Direction don't seem to have changed a bit — and don't seem to care to either.
Their momentum just keeps building. Want proof?
One Direction
When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday
Where: Sleep Train Amphitheatre, 2050 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista
Tickets: Sold out
How about that music video for their latest single that just broke the record for the most views on Vevo, the record industry's official music video platform, in 24 hours? Forty-eight hours after its release, it has been viewed more than 22 million times.
Or their 3-D movie, "This Is Us," that comes out next month?
Or their world tour set for 2014?
Even a protest by the Westboro Baptist Church at the Kansas City, Mo., stop of their current tour didn't seem to fluster the group.
"Despite the company outside, I believe in equal rights for everyone. I think God loves all," the group's youngest member, Harry Styles, tweeted before going on stage. "Thanks for coming to the show though."
Moving right along.
Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and Liam Payne make up the U.K. pop group that seems to be almost more popular in the States than it is across the pond, or even worldwide. The young men are currently on their North American "Take Me Home Tour" and will be stopping at Chula Vista's Sleep Train Amphitheatre on Sunday.
Still don't know who they are after all that?
They've done something that U.K. groups like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones weren't even able to do: They were the first British band in history to enter the U.S. charts at No. 1 with its debut album.
Formed on the British show "The X Factor" in 2010 with a lot of help from Simon Cowell, One Direction has a dedicated following — mostly teen girls, self-named "Directioners" who don't mind that the band just kind of runs around on stage with no choreography acting like any teenage boy would.
They performed at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics and combine for more than 60 million Twitter followers. And they are performing for larger crowds and on bigger stages this year than ever before.
This will be their second time in San Diego. Last year, they performed at the Viejas Arena to a sold-out crowd of about 12,000. This year, they'll do the same to a crowd of almost 7,000 more than that.
And if their show last year was any indication, the boys love San Diego. They got some free time here and went deep-sea fishing — one of the group members bragged about catching a shark.
Even before they arrived here, they were excited about coming, thanks to the city's unofficial mascot, "legendary anchorman Ron Burgundy," whom they impersonated onstage here last year. "You stay classy, San Diego," they wouldn't stop saying.
Will One Direction get a chance to explore the city again this year? If they're able to sneak away from the thousands of girls who will inevitably search from the sea to the mountains for them, they just might stick around after the show.
After the San Diego stop, the band has two days off before it ends its tour with a few shows in Los Angeles. So if packs of screaming girls are running around the city this weekend or standing outside area hotels, don't worry. It's just a hunt for the world's hottest boy band.


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End of year message from the DG
19 December 2007 | News story
IUCN Director General, Julia Marton-Lefèvre, has sent her end of the year message to all IUCN members, staff, Council and Commission members. In it, she looks back at the past year and ahead to what 2008 will hold. The full message is available in the three official IUCN languages.


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All branches closed for Memorial Day, May 30th.
Kimball Library Sparkles
Kimball's National Honor Society adopted the library as one of their service projects this school year. On December 29, ten students arrived at the library ready to work. They removed books from the library shelves and dusted before returning the materials to their clean home. The walls above the bookshelves and every flat surface were dusted in less than two hours, leaving the library sparkling clean.
The National Honor Society organizes and completes a variety of service projects throughout the year. This fall they cleaned road ditches and raked lawns. In the spring they will collect food for the local food shelf and sponsor a seventh- and eighth-grade dance. To raise money for the boys and girls basketball teams, they preside over a Half Time Shoot Out, which allows fans to purchase chances to win cash. To raise funds for their organization, a delicious spaghetti dinner is planned January 12, at the High School.


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KARA BEAL OF WATERBORO ASKS: "I get a lot of condensation on my windows in winter. How can I stop that from happening?"
TOM CARON OF NORTHEAST INSPECTIONS RESPONDS "the condensation is also a relatively common problem, and wiping those windows down is a good idea, because you can get minute or small amounts of mold on the bases of the windows and on the sills, so wipe them down later on. Probably another tip would be to go to Radio Shack and get a hygrometer. That's a thing that measures humidity. Put that in your house, and if you humidity is over 55%, then in general you have a humidity issue. If that becomes... if it gets to that point, I would recommend you call somebody in."
This story was originally posted on November 20, 2008.


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See All Contributors »
Anyone have an insider view of why McKnight can't get on the floor in games? I really thought going into the season that he would be a good fit for this offense as a finisher on fast breaks and a weakside shot blocker on defense. Is it academics, slow development, lack of system knowledge? It can't be something as simple as a numbers game; they don't have the depth for someone to just get lost in the shuffle.
Oh goodie--another "Why isn't Eric McKnight Playing" thread!
The immediate answer is--your expectations were both too high, and unfounded.
The reason Eric was signed was that he is very athletic--despite also being very raw. Personally, I thought that everyone understood that he would be redshirting if Fred had a choice. Once he starts to develop some skills, and understanding of the game to go with that length and athleticism--watch out!
I suppose that if he works hard and keeps learning, he might see some spot/emergency duty late in the conference season--but I'm not etching that in stone.
Go Cyclones!
In the situation we were in, I understand why we took him. He does have potential.
Maybe a one year detour to a JC, next year?
Originally Posted by Rural
In the situation we were in, I understand why we took him. He does have potential.
Maybe a one year detour to a JC, next year?
No. Eric McKnight would be better off taking a RS next year and have 3 left to play rather than blow a year at a JC. Playing on the Scout Team against the likes of White and Co. will improve his game immensely.
Originally Posted by Rural
In the situation we were in, I understand why we took him. He does have potential.
Maybe a one year detour to a JC, next year?
Eric M has more than just potential. He has a HUGE upside. He was wanted by us as well as numerous other programs even though he did not put up big numbers in HS. The reason: the potential. So yes he is raw. The problem is that, as mentioned here and numerous other threads, is that right now we don't need potential. We need bodies inside to bang, rebound, and play defense. Like Calvin is doing. Eric will be able to do this but its asking a lot from him right now. Yes, he needs a redshirt year. And he needs to gain 20-30 pounds of muscle. And more of an attitude. He is a little soft and frankly he would get pushed around alot inside against stronger players. It would be best if he were to redshirt this year. But he won't because we are so thin inside. What if JVB or Calvin got injured? Eric would play because he would have to; ready or not. My belief is that he will play this year and redshirt NEXT YEAR which is highly unusual but appropriate for the situation (assuming White and Booker are both available of course. Oh and Calvin and Railey both return too). I hope he doesn't go to a JC. Once gone, he may never make it back because it opens up a whole new world where other recruiters, schools, etc could get involved. Many of these people are pretty shady and could influence Eric to go elsewhere. So anyway, there is nothing wrong with Eric or his game that a little time and maturity won't fix. I hope that he sticks around because I believe 2 years from now he has the "potential" to be all B12. Really, he "could be" that good. Just give him some time.
Oh, and I echo the sentiment. Please no more ... what's wrong with McKnight threads.
Eric didn't start practicing until almost the first game because of something to do with his heart. So he missed all of that time where a lot of skills were developed.
I think Eric has a TON of potential and that's what the coaches have said. They've also said he is raw. Ideally he he would be redshirting this year, but we don't have the numbers.
I think if he keeps working hard and realizes that there are some freshman that don't get a lot of playing time, he'll be a successful player in this program.
If you've seen him play in the limited minutes that he has so far he needs to add a TON of weight and work on his offense. Ideally he would have redshirted this year just for that alone but we're not deep enough to be able to do that.
Go Cubs Go!
He's 115 pounds. Enough said.
Oh, and I echo the sentiment. Please no more ... what's wrong with McKnight threads.[/QUOTE]
Sorry, I'm new to the site. I didn't realize McKnight had already been dissected and fully evaluated by all of you experts in other threads. From now on I'll be very careful to only weigh in on new, relevant or topical matters.
Interesting he got that many bigtime offers being that raw. He must have the ideal body to grow into. I think alot of people were duped into expecting alot right away, because we were seeing such quotes as "he is the best recruit we've had since Brackins" type of thing. Too bad we had to be so thin the first year he came in though.
Originally Posted by IcSyU
He's 115 pounds. Enough said.
Originally Posted by Bigguns
a sarcastic "hes thin"
He reminds me a lot of Tyrus Thomas. No way near the player he was in college at LSU, but everyone saw the frame and athletic potential and fell in love with him. This led to us throwing on offer to him, despite not having great stats. This is also why the Bulls drafted Thomas at #4 overall despite not being a proven NBA prospect. It depends how he grows into his talent. I agree he could be really good, but he could also struggle for a few years, such as Thomas did in Chicago.
From what I have been told he is not what the staff expected, if we are looking for an open scholarship it might be his next year. Way overhyped and not a great ball player. Potential maybe, but this program needs guys who can play now, not later.
Many Years Of Cyclone Logos
For an "over-hyped" player he sure had some nice offers, based on the recruiting websites. Maryland, Wake Forest, Indiana, BC, Missouri? A bit surprising to now find out he's incapable of playing at ISU.
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Dell Powervault MD3200 Model E03J SAS Storage Array - Refurbished
The MD3200 Series storage array is designed for high availability, offering redundant access to data storage. It features support for both single and dual RAID controller configuration.
The Dell PowerVault MD3200 Series storage array provides 6.0-Gbps SAS connectivity to the host server and enables access for up to eight nonredundant servers or four redundant servers.
Depending on your configuration, your array either supports up to twenty four 2.5" SAS hard drives or up to twelve 3.5" SAS hard drives in internal drive bays. Hard drives are connected to a backplane through hard-drive carriers and can be configured as hot-swappable.
Expand up to a base of 120 hard drives with an optional Premium Feature Key to scale up to 192 total drives using MD1200 and/or MD1220 expansion enclosures.
3.5" Drive Performance and Capacities:
2.5" Drive Performance and Capacities
RAID Levels:
Power Supplies (per supply):
These items work with the Dell PowerVault MD3200.
Fujitsu MBE MBE2147RC SAS Hard Disk Drives
Western Digital S25 WD3000BKFG SAS Enterprise Hard Drive
Seagate Constellation ST91000640SS Serial SCSI / SAS Hard Disk Drive
Western Digital WD6000BKHG 600GB 10K SAS Hard Drive
Seagate Savvio 10K.5 ST9900805SS SAS Hard Disk


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Norway's King Harald V stepped in recently when a six-year-old boy sought to change his name to "Sonic X."
As reported by Gamezine, the lad, whose given name is Christer, wrote to the King with his request:
Sadly, the King could not change Christer's name, but not because the change would result in a child running around with a ridiculous video game character's title. No, the request was rejected for the sole reason that at six-years-old, Christer was not old enough to make such a decision. Thus, the boy must contact King Harald V in twelve years time once he's turned 18.
Christer admitted that he was disappointed…
Sega is apparently sending the lad some Sonic-themed swag to ease his disappointment.