Operate a minitower pro on batteries – iOptron SmartStar MiniTower Pro User Manual
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and accurate GOTO and tracking. The 
heavier the OTA, the more necessary it is 
to use a CW. For lightweight OTAs, i.e. 5-6 
lbs, however, the CW may not be necessary. 
If you have a secondary OTA on the 
secondary dovetail holder, make sure you 
align it with the primary OTA. This alignment 
is done easier during the daytime. Point the 
primary telescope to a target at a remote 
building or flagpole and center the target in 
the eyepiece. Loosen the secondary 
dovetail holder lock (#15). Rotate the 
secondary OTA around the counter balance 
shaft (#18). Center the object in the 
eyepiece of the secondary OTA. If the 
secondary OTA is tilted, it can be adjusted 
by two tilting adjustment screws as shown in 
Figure 15 (M6 x 12mm Allen set screws, not 
supplied). 
Figure 15. Secondary Dovetail and set
screws
A combination of a light OTA and a CW can 
be used to balance a heavier primary OTA. 
2.3. Operate a MiniTower Pro on 
Batteries 
To install batteries open the battery 
compartment door. Pull the battery holder 
out from the mount carefully making sure 
not to pull the wires loose. Insert 8 AA 
batteries (not included) according to the 
diagram on the holder. Replace the battery 
holder back to the battery compartment and 
replace the cover. (See Figure 16) 
Figure 16. Battery compartment for
MiniTower Pro™
The mount will draw a significant amount of 
current when performing GOTO and slew 
operations. The battery operation time 
varies depending on the battery quality and 
operation conditions. It could last from 
couple of hours to tens of hours. Use only 
fresh batteries and do not mix fresh and old 
batteries. Insufficient battery power may 
cause error messages. 
M6 set screws
