ZWO AM5 Strain Wave Equatorial Mount Head (Original Version)
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Please see the AM5N for a newer version of this mount.
- Ultra portable strain wave drive mount that weighs just 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
- Ability to carry up to 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweight, 44 lbs (20 kg) with counterweight
- Hybrid equatorial and alt-azimuth operation for excellent astrophotography and visual observing
- Wireless operation and seamless integration with the ZWO ASIAIR
- Tripod sold separately, available individually or as a bundle
The ZWO AM5 is a telescope mount featuring cutting edge strain wave drive technology for portability and ease of use. It can support telescope rigs up to 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweights, or up to 44 lbs (20 kg) with an additional counterweight, all while weighing only 12 lbs (5.5 kg). Though designed for astrophotography, the AM5 can operate in both equatorial and alt-azimute modes to be used for easy visual observing as well.
ZWO AM5 Review & ZWO AM5 Tutorial Video
Agena Astro Affiliate Peter Zelinka goes over everything you need to know about the ZWO AM5, including:
- How to set up the ZWO AM5
- ZWO AM5 app overview
- ZWO ASIAIR workflow with AM5
- Polar aligning the AM5
- Finding objects with Sky Atlas
- Using Guiding & Shooting Schedule in the app
Looking for a detailed written review? Agena Astro affiliate Galactic Hunter wrote a helpful written ZWO AM5 review on their website.
Strain wave drive Technology in the ZWO AM5
Unlike traditional worm gear equatorial mounts, the AM5's strain wave gears feature the unique ability to operate without counterweights. This makes the AM5 much lighter and more portable than traditional equatorial mounts with counterweights while still being able to support moderately sized telescopes. It also means you don't have to worry about the extra tedious step of balancing your mount each time before use.
Another huge benefit of strain wave drive mounts is that they have zero backlash, which traditional worm drive equatorial mount owners know can be an issue even in the best mounts. Though strain wave drive mounts do suffer from some periodic error, ZWO has made sure that the AM5 has less than ±20 arcseconds, and each mount comes with an inspection certificate to prove it. When autoguiding, the accuracy is an impressive 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds.
Note: Due to the design of strain wave gears, ZWO does not recommend using telescopes over 900mm in focal length for deep sky imaging on the ZWO AM5. There is no specified limit for planetary imaging.
ZWO AM5: High Payload Capacity, Low Weight Mount
The ZWO AM5 mount head on its own weighs just 12 lbs (5.5 kg), making it the ideal mount to transport to your favorite dark sky sites. It also comes with a premium soft shell case to protect the mount head during travel. Despite its light weight, the AM5 can carry an astounding 28 lbs (13 kg) without any counterweights. Medium refractors, large SCTs, and more are all within the range of the AM5 with no counterweights.
If you want to use an even larger telescope, you can increase the payload capacity to 44 lbs (20 kg) with the addition of a counterweight shaft and counterweight (both sold separately, see related products above). This makes the AM5 a highly versatile mount. You can leave the counterweight at home when traveling for a lightweight setup, or use a counterweight when imaging from home for imaging with larger telescopes. Please note that when using the counterweight shaft and counterweight, the largest counterweight allowed is 11 lbs (5kg).
ZWO AM5 Hybrid Equatorial & Alt-Azimuth Operation
The AM5 comes equipped with a 0-90 degree latitude range, meaning you can use it in both equatorial or alt-azimuth modes. This is a huge benefit to those who enjoy astrophotography and visual observing, as the AM5 can support both. Unlike most equatorial mounts, the full 0-90 degree latitude range also allows for imaging anywhere on Earth, as you can image from the equator or either pole.
Wireless Capability & ASIAIR Compatibility with the ZWO AM5
The AM5 can be operated entirely wirelessly through your phone or tablet. To do this, you must have the included hand controller connected, which is how your phone/tablet communicates to the mount. You will also need the ASI Mount app, which you can download on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
The AM5 also works seamlessly with the ZWO ASIAIR, which can allow you to control not just the mount but your ZWO brand camera, filter wheel, guide camera, EAF, and more. Please note that you will need a separate app, the ZWO ASIAIR App, to run the entire setup.
ZWO AM5 Hand Controller
The AM5 comes with a rocker style hand controller, which can be used to manually point the mount in any direction. As noted above, it also serves as the WiFi bridge between the mount head and your phone or tablet, so you will need it turned on to perform tasks like operating the mount wirelessly or updating the firmware.
Other ZWO AM5 Features
Without RA or Dec clutches on the mount, the AM5 is still protected from power failures by use of an internal brake that stops the gears and therefore prevents your telescope from falling on the mount.
The AM5 features four ports on the mount head itself:
- USB port for connecting accessories like the ASIAIR
- An ST-4 port for connecting guide cameras
- A hand controller port for the included hand controller
- A standard 12v DC power port (5.5x2.1mm) to power the mount
The mount saddle accepts both Losmandy (D style) or Vixen (V style) dovetail bars, which cover almost all consumer telescopes available.
ZWO AM5 Specifications:
- Mount type: strain wave drive (strain wave gear) equatorial mount
- Operating modes: Equatorial mode & Alt-azimuth
- Load capacity: 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweight, 44 lbs (20 kg) with counterweight
- Counterweight limit: 11 lbs (5kg) maximum, excluding counterweight shaft
- Weight: 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
- Drive: Strain wave gear + Synchronous belt (Reduction ratio: 300:1)
- Periodic error: Less than ±20 arcseconds
- Periodic error duration: 432 seconds
- Autoguiding accuracy: 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds
- Drive (RA): NEMA42 stepper motor + Model No. 17 (Reduction ratio: 100:1) + Brake
- Drive (DEC): NEMA35 stepper motor (Reduction ratio: 100:1) + Model No.17
- Latitude adjustment range: Full 0° to 90°
- Azimuth angle adjustment range: ±10°
- Dovetail: Losmandy & Vixen 500g
- Interface thread of counterweight shaft: M12
- Stepper motor resolution: 0.17"
- Max slew speed: 6° per second
- Slew rates: 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, 20x, 60x, 720x, 1440x
- Guide port: ST-4
- Communication interface: USB/WiFi
- Software Support: ASCOM/INDI/SkySafari
- Zero position: Mechanical
- Operating temperature: -15°C to 40°C
- Tripod Connection: Standard 3/8" thread
- Power failure protection: Yes, built in gear brake
- Power port: 12v DC 5.5x2.1mm (12V-3A)
- Power consumption: 12V / 0.386a (Standby), 12V / 0.58a (Tracking), 12V / 1.5a (Slewing)
- Power requirements: 12v (11v - 15v), 3 amp power supply
Additional Info
How to Set Up the ZWO AM5
ZWO has also released this official tutorial video that quickly goes over how to set up your AM5 out of the box:
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
The ZWO AM5 is a telescope mount featuring cutting edge strain wave drive technology for portability and ease of use. It can support telescope rigs up to 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweights, or up to 44 lbs (20 kg) with an additional counterweight, all while weighing only 12 lbs (5.5 kg). Though designed for astrophotography, the AM5 can operate in both equatorial and alt-azimute modes to be used for easy visual observing as well.
ZWO AM5 Review & ZWO AM5 Tutorial Video
Agena Astro Affiliate Peter Zelinka goes over everything you need to know about the ZWO AM5, including:
- How to set up the ZWO AM5
- ZWO AM5 app overview
- ZWO ASIAIR workflow with AM5
- Polar aligning the AM5
- Finding objects with Sky Atlas
- Using Guiding & Shooting Schedule in the app
Looking for a detailed written review? Agena Astro affiliate Galactic Hunter wrote a helpful written ZWO AM5 review on their website.
Strain wave drive Technology in the ZWO AM5
Unlike traditional worm gear equatorial mounts, the AM5's strain wave gears feature the unique ability to operate without counterweights. This makes the AM5 much lighter and more portable than traditional equatorial mounts with counterweights while still being able to support moderately sized telescopes. It also means you don't have to worry about the extra tedious step of balancing your mount each time before use.
Another huge benefit of strain wave drive mounts is that they have zero backlash, which traditional worm drive equatorial mount owners know can be an issue even in the best mounts. Though strain wave drive mounts do suffer from some periodic error, ZWO has made sure that the AM5 has less than ±20 arcseconds, and each mount comes with an inspection certificate to prove it. When autoguiding, the accuracy is an impressive 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds.
Note: Due to the design of strain wave gears, ZWO does not recommend using telescopes over 900mm in focal length for deep sky imaging on the ZWO AM5. There is no specified limit for planetary imaging.
ZWO AM5: High Payload Capacity, Low Weight Mount
The ZWO AM5 mount head on its own weighs just 12 lbs (5.5 kg), making it the ideal mount to transport to your favorite dark sky sites. It also comes with a premium soft shell case to protect the mount head during travel. Despite its light weight, the AM5 can carry an astounding 28 lbs (13 kg) without any counterweights. Medium refractors, large SCTs, and more are all within the range of the AM5 with no counterweights.
If you want to use an even larger telescope, you can increase the payload capacity to 44 lbs (20 kg) with the addition of a counterweight shaft and counterweight (both sold separately, see related products above). This makes the AM5 a highly versatile mount. You can leave the counterweight at home when traveling for a lightweight setup, or use a counterweight when imaging from home for imaging with larger telescopes. Please note that when using the counterweight shaft and counterweight, the largest counterweight allowed is 11 lbs (5kg).
ZWO AM5 Hybrid Equatorial & Alt-Azimuth Operation
The AM5 comes equipped with a 0-90 degree latitude range, meaning you can use it in both equatorial or alt-azimuth modes. This is a huge benefit to those who enjoy astrophotography and visual observing, as the AM5 can support both. Unlike most equatorial mounts, the full 0-90 degree latitude range also allows for imaging anywhere on Earth, as you can image from the equator or either pole.
Wireless Capability & ASIAIR Compatibility with the ZWO AM5
The AM5 can be operated entirely wirelessly through your phone or tablet. To do this, you must have the included hand controller connected, which is how your phone/tablet communicates to the mount. You will also need the ASI Mount app, which you can download on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
The AM5 also works seamlessly with the ZWO ASIAIR, which can allow you to control not just the mount but your ZWO brand camera, filter wheel, guide camera, EAF, and more. Please note that you will need a separate app, the ZWO ASIAIR App, to run the entire setup.
ZWO AM5 Hand Controller
The AM5 comes with a rocker style hand controller, which can be used to manually point the mount in any direction. As noted above, it also serves as the WiFi bridge between the mount head and your phone or tablet, so you will need it turned on to perform tasks like operating the mount wirelessly or updating the firmware.
Other ZWO AM5 Features
Without RA or Dec clutches on the mount, the AM5 is still protected from power failures by use of an internal brake that stops the gears and therefore prevents your telescope from falling on the mount.
The AM5 features four ports on the mount head itself:
- USB port for connecting accessories like the ASIAIR
- An ST-4 port for connecting guide cameras
- A hand controller port for the included hand controller
- A standard 12v DC power port (5.5x2.1mm) to power the mount
The mount saddle accepts both Losmandy (D style) or Vixen (V style) dovetail bars, which cover almost all consumer telescopes available.
ZWO AM5 Specifications:
- Mount type: strain wave drive (strain wave gear) equatorial mount
- Operating modes: Equatorial mode & Alt-azimuth
- Load capacity: 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweight, 44 lbs (20 kg) with counterweight
- Counterweight limit: 11 lbs (5kg) maximum, excluding counterweight shaft
- Weight: 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
- Drive: Strain wave gear + Synchronous belt (Reduction ratio: 300:1)
- Periodic error: Less than ±20 arcseconds
- Periodic error duration: 432 seconds
- Autoguiding accuracy: 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds
- Drive (RA): NEMA42 stepper motor + Model No. 17 (Reduction ratio: 100:1) + Brake
- Drive (DEC): NEMA35 stepper motor (Reduction ratio: 100:1) + Model No.17
- Latitude adjustment range: Full 0° to 90°
- Azimuth angle adjustment range: ±10°
- Dovetail: Losmandy & Vixen 500g
- Interface thread of counterweight shaft: M12
- Stepper motor resolution: 0.17"
- Max slew speed: 6° per second
- Slew rates: 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, 20x, 60x, 720x, 1440x
- Guide port: ST-4
- Communication interface: USB/WiFi
- Software Support: ASCOM/INDI/SkySafari
- Zero position: Mechanical
- Operating temperature: -15°C to 40°C
- Tripod Connection: Standard 3/8" thread
- Power failure protection: Yes, built in gear brake
- Power port: 12v DC 5.5x2.1mm (12V-3A)
- Power consumption: 12V / 0.386a (Standby), 12V / 0.58a (Tracking), 12V / 1.5a (Slewing)
- Power requirements: 12v (11v - 15v), 3 amp power supply
- AM5 mount head
- AM5 soft case
- 2m USB 2.0 cable
- Periodic Error Performance Chart
- Quick Guide Brochure
- Rocker hand controller
- 2m hand controller cable
- M4 & M6 Allen keys
- Please note: like most ZWO products, a power supply is not included but can be purchased separately.
Please see the AM5N for a newer version of this mount.
- Ultra portable strain wave drive mount that weighs just 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
- Ability to carry up to 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweight, 44 lbs (20 kg) with counterweight
- Hybrid equatorial and alt-azimuth operation for excellent astrophotography and visual observing
- Wireless operation and seamless integration with the ZWO ASIAIR
- Tripod sold separately, available individually or as a bundle
The ZWO AM5 is a telescope mount featuring cutting edge strain wave drive technology for portability and ease of use. It can support telescope rigs up to 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweights, or up to 44 lbs (20 kg) with an additional counterweight, all while weighing only 12 lbs (5.5 kg). Though designed for astrophotography, the AM5 can operate in both equatorial and alt-azimute modes to be used for easy visual observing as well.
ZWO AM5 Review & ZWO AM5 Tutorial Video
Agena Astro Affiliate Peter Zelinka goes over everything you need to know about the ZWO AM5, including:
- How to set up the ZWO AM5
- ZWO AM5 app overview
- ZWO ASIAIR workflow with AM5
- Polar aligning the AM5
- Finding objects with Sky Atlas
- Using Guiding & Shooting Schedule in the app
Looking for a detailed written review? Agena Astro affiliate Galactic Hunter wrote a helpful written ZWO AM5 review on their website.
Strain wave drive Technology in the ZWO AM5
Unlike traditional worm gear equatorial mounts, the AM5's strain wave gears feature the unique ability to operate without counterweights. This makes the AM5 much lighter and more portable than traditional equatorial mounts with counterweights while still being able to support moderately sized telescopes. It also means you don't have to worry about the extra tedious step of balancing your mount each time before use.
Another huge benefit of strain wave drive mounts is that they have zero backlash, which traditional worm drive equatorial mount owners know can be an issue even in the best mounts. Though strain wave drive mounts do suffer from some periodic error, ZWO has made sure that the AM5 has less than ±20 arcseconds, and each mount comes with an inspection certificate to prove it. When autoguiding, the accuracy is an impressive 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds.
Note: Due to the design of strain wave gears, ZWO does not recommend using telescopes over 900mm in focal length for deep sky imaging on the ZWO AM5. There is no specified limit for planetary imaging.
ZWO AM5: High Payload Capacity, Low Weight Mount
The ZWO AM5 mount head on its own weighs just 12 lbs (5.5 kg), making it the ideal mount to transport to your favorite dark sky sites. It also comes with a premium soft shell case to protect the mount head during travel. Despite its light weight, the AM5 can carry an astounding 28 lbs (13 kg) without any counterweights. Medium refractors, large SCTs, and more are all within the range of the AM5 with no counterweights.
If you want to use an even larger telescope, you can increase the payload capacity to 44 lbs (20 kg) with the addition of a counterweight shaft and counterweight (both sold separately, see related products above). This makes the AM5 a highly versatile mount. You can leave the counterweight at home when traveling for a lightweight setup, or use a counterweight when imaging from home for imaging with larger telescopes. Please note that when using the counterweight shaft and counterweight, the largest counterweight allowed is 11 lbs (5kg).
ZWO AM5 Hybrid Equatorial & Alt-Azimuth Operation
The AM5 comes equipped with a 0-90 degree latitude range, meaning you can use it in both equatorial or alt-azimuth modes. This is a huge benefit to those who enjoy astrophotography and visual observing, as the AM5 can support both. Unlike most equatorial mounts, the full 0-90 degree latitude range also allows for imaging anywhere on Earth, as you can image from the equator or either pole.
Wireless Capability & ASIAIR Compatibility with the ZWO AM5
The AM5 can be operated entirely wirelessly through your phone or tablet. To do this, you must have the included hand controller connected, which is how your phone/tablet communicates to the mount. You will also need the ASI Mount app, which you can download on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
The AM5 also works seamlessly with the ZWO ASIAIR, which can allow you to control not just the mount but your ZWO brand camera, filter wheel, guide camera, EAF, and more. Please note that you will need a separate app, the ZWO ASIAIR App, to run the entire setup.
ZWO AM5 Hand Controller
The AM5 comes with a rocker style hand controller, which can be used to manually point the mount in any direction. As noted above, it also serves as the WiFi bridge between the mount head and your phone or tablet, so you will need it turned on to perform tasks like operating the mount wirelessly or updating the firmware.
Other ZWO AM5 Features
Without RA or Dec clutches on the mount, the AM5 is still protected from power failures by use of an internal brake that stops the gears and therefore prevents your telescope from falling on the mount.
The AM5 features four ports on the mount head itself:
- USB port for connecting accessories like the ASIAIR
- An ST-4 port for connecting guide cameras
- A hand controller port for the included hand controller
- A standard 12v DC power port (5.5x2.1mm) to power the mount
The mount saddle accepts both Losmandy (D style) or Vixen (V style) dovetail bars, which cover almost all consumer telescopes available.
ZWO AM5 Specifications:
- Mount type: strain wave drive (strain wave gear) equatorial mount
- Operating modes: Equatorial mode & Alt-azimuth
- Load capacity: 28 lbs (13 kg) without counterweight, 44 lbs (20 kg) with counterweight
- Counterweight limit: 11 lbs (5kg) maximum, excluding counterweight shaft
- Weight: 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
- Drive: Strain wave gear + Synchronous belt (Reduction ratio: 300:1)
- Periodic error: Less than ±20 arcseconds
- Periodic error duration: 432 seconds
- Autoguiding accuracy: 0.5 to 0.8 arcseconds
- Drive (RA): NEMA42 stepper motor + Model No. 17 (Reduction ratio: 100:1) + Brake
- Drive (DEC): NEMA35 stepper motor (Reduction ratio: 100:1) + Model No.17
- Latitude adjustment range: Full 0° to 90°
- Azimuth angle adjustment range: ±10°
- Dovetail: Losmandy & Vixen 500g
- Interface thread of counterweight shaft: M12
- Stepper motor resolution: 0.17"
- Max slew speed: 6° per second
- Slew rates: 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, 20x, 60x, 720x, 1440x
- Guide port: ST-4
- Communication interface: USB/WiFi
- Software Support: ASCOM/INDI/SkySafari
- Zero position: Mechanical
- Operating temperature: -15°C to 40°C
- Tripod Connection: Standard 3/8" thread
- Power failure protection: Yes, built in gear brake
- Power port: 12v DC 5.5x2.1mm (12V-3A)
- Power consumption: 12V / 0.386a (Standby), 12V / 0.58a (Tracking), 12V / 1.5a (Slewing)
- Power requirements: 12v (11v - 15v), 3 amp power supply
Additional Info
How to Set Up the ZWO AM5
ZWO has also released this official tutorial video that quickly goes over how to set up your AM5 out of the box:
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
- AM5 mount head
- AM5 soft case
- 2m USB 2.0 cable
- Periodic Error Performance Chart
- Quick Guide Brochure
- Rocker hand controller
- 2m hand controller cable
- M4 & M6 Allen keys
- Please note: like most ZWO products, a power supply is not included but can be purchased separately.