Harmonic equatorial saddle SET ZWO AM7 with tripod TC40

The astronomical mount that evolves with you, with the precision demanded by modern astrophotography

Why choose the harmonic equatorial mount? ZWO AM7?

1. High load capacity, two actual configurations

Up to 20 kg without counterweights y up to 30 kg with counterweight, this allows to work both in portable configuration and in more demanding astrophotography setups.

Real benefit: you can start light and scale the equipment without changing the mount, this is key for advanced users.

2. Verifiable accuracy, not promises

The periodic error is controlled within ±10 arc seconds, and each AM7 includes its own periodic error measurement report (PE).

This is not marketing: it is a verifiable fact, fundamental for long exposure astrophotography.

3. Cleaner installation, fewer cables

The AM7 integrates uSB-C ports and DC power directly on the dovetail clamp, the cable management system facilitates an orderly and safe cable management.

Less jerks, fewer electrical failures and more reliability during long sessions.

4. Two modes in one mount

• Equatorial mode: precise tracking and astrophotography.

• Altazimuth mode: quick and comfortable visual observation.

A single mount for two real uses, no strings attached.

5. Works anywhere on the planet

Altitude range of 0 to 90 degrees, which allows its use in any latitude, from the equator to the polar regions.

Ideal for traveling users, expeditions or international installations.

6. Control the mount as you prefer

Compatibility with:

• Bluetooth

• Wi-Fi

• Control handle included

It adapts to both traditional users and those who work 100% with apps and software.

7. Prepared for really cold nights

Designed to operate up to -20 °C, maintaining mechanical and electronic stability.

It is not a "summer" mount: it is valid for serious winter astrophotography.

8. Proprietary control system, focused on reliability

The AM7 uses a control system developed internally by ZWO, optimized for stability and continuous operation.

Fewer external dependencies, fewer compatibility issues.

9. Portability without sacrificing performance

Despite its load-bearing capacity, the frame weighs approximately 6.5 kg.

One of the better weight/capacity ratios of the current market.

10. Backed by support and a global community

Saddles ZWO are used by astrophotographers from around the world, with an active community, abundant documentation and consolidated support.

Buying AM7 does not mean getting into a stand-alone product, but into an living ecosystem.

AM7: more capacity, more precision

The ZWO AM7 is the harmonic equatorial saddle with higher load capacity of ZWO, designed specifically for demanding astrophotography equipment.

It is designed to work with heavier image configurations, as long focal length telescopes, where the tracking accuracy is critical and makes a difference in prolonged exposures.

In this type of setups, every arc second counts, and the AM7 is designed to respond there, not in light or compromise scenarios.

Actual load capacity, designed to evolve

The ZWO AM7 supports up to 20 kg without counterweights y up to 30 kg with counterweights installed.
This allows you to work today with a serious astrophotography setup y scale up to larger teams in the future without the need to change frames.

It is not a "borderline" mount: it is designed to leave operating margin, critical for stability and accuracy.

* The load values are measured manually and may vary slightly.

Reliable tracking and GoTo under real load

The objective is clear:
solid tracking and reliable GoTo working with effective load, not under ideal laboratory conditions.

The AM7 is designed to allow you to devote less time to manage limits, corrections or mechanical problems, y more time to capture and enjoy the night sky.

This is especially important in long focal lengths, where any error is magnified.

A saddle for many years, not just for a single stage

The AM7 handles with ease both light configurations like heavy equipment, allowing you to move to larger aperture or focal telescopes without the frame becoming the bottleneck.

You invest once and you will not outgrow it in two years.

Professional-level precision with customized harmonic transmission

Fruit of years of internal development of ZWO, the AM7 incorporates a customized harmonic transmission system, specifically adjusted for astrophotography.

This design provides:

• Follow-up smooth and stable

• High torque

• Consistent performance even at high loads

It is not a generic adapted transmission: it is tuned for astronomical imaging.

Each saddle is measured and delivered with its actual report

Each ZWO AM7 is individually tested before leaving the factory.
It includes a exclusive periodic error (PE) report corresponding to your specific unit, where you can see your actual tracking performance.

Total transparency: you know exactly which frame you are holding.

Key specifications and tests

• System of customized harmonic transmission

• Total reduction ratio: 300:1

• Individual periodic error report included

• Controlled periodic error within ±10 arc seconds, ensuring high-precision and reliable tracking

(±10" is approximately equivalent to the thickness of a human hair seen at a distance of about 20 meters)

Cleaner wiring, fewer problems, faster assembly

Many astronomical configurations end up becoming a tangle of cables, adapters and dangling connections, one of the main sources of failures, jerks and disconnections during a session.

The ZWO AM7 is designed for simplify wiring at source.

Thanks to its uSB-C ports and power sockets integrated directly into the mount, you can bring data and energy exactly where you need them, without loose wires crossing the assembly.

Designed for complete astrophotography setups

Even in customized configurations with:

• main chamber

• motorized focuser

• guiding system

• additional accessories

aM7 helps to reduce clutter, improves the cable management and minimizes mechanical risks during monitoring.

Fewer dangling wires means:

• less jerks to the meridian

• fewer intermittent failures

• more stability in long sessions

More time capturing, less time riding

By maintaining the system orderly and consistent, the AM7 allows:

• faster assemblies

• safer disassembly

• higher nighttime reliability

The practical result is clear: less time adjusting and troubleshooting, y more time devoted to astrophotography.

Simplified cable management by design

The ZWO AM7 integrates uSB-C ports and DC power sockets directly on the mount, which allows channeling data and energy through one's own body instead of surrounding it with external cables.

The result is a much cleaner cable routing, without the typical "spider web effect" that complicates assembly, increases the risk of pulling and generates failures during tracking.

Fewer external cables means more mechanical and electrical reliability, especially in long sessions or with frequent changes of position.

Real portability without compromise

With a weight of only 6.75 kg, the AM7 is designed for:

• be easily transported

• to be assembled quickly

• work in both mobile and semi-permanent setups

The integrated dovetail plate directly incorporates the USB-C and DC ports, facilitating a tidy installation even in the most demanding complete astrophotography configurations.

Practical details that make a difference at night

For fine-tuning, the AM7 includes a magnetic Allen key that is stores directly in the frame body.

It may seem a minor detail, but in practice it avoids:

• losing tools in the dark

• interrupt sessions

• unnecessary improvisations at night

Dual-mode operation: one mount for observation and photography

The ZWO AM7 offers dual mode of operation, this makes it possible to use the same frame for both visual observation as for astrophotography.

• Equatorial mode (EQ): designed for precise tracking and astrophotography, especially in long exposures.

• Altazimuth mode (Alt-Az)Ideal for quick visual observation, informal sessions or outreach.

Switching between modes is done by means of a easy physical adjustment in the saddle position, followed by the selection of the corresponding mode on the control knob.

Real advantage: versatility without duplicating equipment

This is not intended for "all at once", but rather for users who alternate uses:

• nights dedicated to image

• visual sessions without station setting

• public events or quick outings

With AM7 you do not need two different mounts to cover both scenarios.

Equatorial mode (EQ)

The equatorial mode is suitable for precise monitoring of the sky, especially in astrophotography and in long sessions where stability and tracking accuracy are critical.

👉 This is the mode to be used whenever the target is long exposure astronomical imaging.

Altazimuth mode (Alt-Az)

The altazimuth mode is oriented to the visual observation, with a quick assembly, easy to use and intuitive aiming.

👉 Ideal for:

• short sessions

• informal observation

• public disclosure or use

It is not intended for long exposure astrophotography due to field rotation.

Visual operating mode indicators

The AM7 incorporates status indicator lights that allow the active mode to be quickly identified.

• Red light → Equatorial mode

👉 A practical detail that prevents configuration errors, especially at night or in poorly lit environments.

Visual mode indicators

The AM7 uses status indicator lights to quickly identify the active mode:

• Red light → Equatorial mode

• Green light → Altazimuth mode

👉 A clear visual reference that reduces setup errors, especially during nighttime setup.

Usable at any latitude of the planet

The ZWO AM7 offers a full altitude adjustment range of 0 to 90 degrees, which allows its alignment and use virtually anywhere on the Earth, from the equator to regions near the poles.

This makes it a particularly practical mount for both

• traveling users

• astronomical expeditions

• permanent installations, regardless of latitude

👉 You don't need special adapters or improvised solutions depending on your location.

Two-step adjustment for any latitude

The ZWO AM7 incorporates a two-stage altitude adjustment system, which allows a range of 0 to 90 degrees without compromising stability and ease of use.

Stage 1: standard setting

• It uses the altitude mandrel to adjust from 0 to 60 degrees.

• Perfect for regular mid-latitude setups and for most standard observations and astrophotography.

Stage 2: extended adjustment

• Moving the hexagonal screw to the second position, a range of 30 to 90 degrees.

• This allows the user to working near the celestial pole, ideal for expeditions, mobile observatories or setups at extreme latitudes.

Practical benefit

• Allows precisely align the mount without additional tools or complex adapters.

• The transition between stages is simple and fast, without affecting stability and maximum load.

• Ensures that the mount is truly global, ready for any location on the planet.

User-focused design: portable and refined control

The ZWO AM7 incorporates wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, offering two simple ways to control the mount, adapting to any user's style.

Bluetooth connection

• Allows quick sessionsOpen the app on your mobile, connect and control the mount without the need for the control unit.

• Avoid having to change the connection of your device to the mount's Wi-Fi network, making log in immediately.

Wi-Fi connection

• Ideal for remote control from tablet or laptop.

• Compatible with astrophotography software such as ASIAIR and other platforms, ensuring flexibility and versatility.

Practical benefit

• Faster and more convenientYou don't need to be glued to the mount or rely exclusively on the physical controller.

• Control versatilityFor both visual observation and advanced astrophotography, with direct integration into your workflow.

What's new in the latest version of the ZWO AM7

Enhanced Bluetooth control

• Now you can turn Bluetooth on or off holding down the BT button for 10 seconds.

• The configuration is automatically saved, even after turning off the mount.

👉 Real benefit: more control and flexibility, especially for users who alternate between mobile sessions and permanent setups.

More convenient indicator lights

• The new light guide column softens the brightness of the status LEDs.

• The lights are less intrusive to night vision y do not interfere with the camera, critical during astrophotography.

AM7 Smart Hand Controller: advanced control and thoughtful ergonomics

The AM7 includes a joystick controller that offers convenient, intuitive and precise control, becoming the center of the frame connection:

• Integrated Wi-Fi hotspotWireless control of the mount, manage settings from a wireless simple web interface and performs firmware updates of both the mount and the controller.

• Tailored Bluetooth: perfect for direct control from your smartphone in the open field, and easy to deactivate in environments that require tighter wireless control, as remote observatories or permanent installations.

Ergonomic and practical design

• The dovetail plate tension knob and the azimuth fine adjustment have a hollow structure.

• When manual rotation is limited, you can insert an Allen key to gain additional leverage by making adjustments easier, more accurate and safer with less effort.

Actual benefit

• Advanced and versatile control for observation and astrophotography.

• Ergonomics designed for long sessions and dense setups.

• Adaptable connectivity: portable, open field or fixed installation.

• Fast and reliable adjustments even in difficult conditions or at night.

Intelligent control and simple operation

The ZWO AM7 allows a full wireless control by means of the sky Atlas app (iOS and Android), designed to offer an intuitive and powerful experience, for both visual observation and astrophotography.

Sky Atlas: your sky in the palm of your hand

• Real-time star map for immediate orientation.

• Quick object search and tools such as Tonight's Best, goTo fast and precise aiming.

• Ideal for session planning and target tracking in astrophotography.

Integration with ASIAIR in Station Mode

• Support of Station Mode to connect the mount with controllers such as ASIAIR.

• Thanks to the Controller Wi-Fi, aSIAIR is connected to the frame without direct cables, achieving a clean, tidy and professional setup.

• Facilitates prolonged sessions and efficient remote control, ideal for fixed observatories or advanced setups.

Practical benefits

• Quick start and mobile control without relying on the physical controller.

• Professional session management with software integration and flexible connectivity.

• Compatible with advanced observation and astrophotography, maximizing comfort and efficiency.

Full and frictionless integration with ASIAIR

The ZWO AM7 is integrated in a complete and native with ASIAIR, the mount can be controlled both by means of the wireless connection like cable connection, adapting smoothly to a wide variety of configurations, from portable setups to fixed observatories.

A unique ecosystem, with no compatibility issues

AM7 and ASIAIR are part of the same ecosystem ZWO, this eliminates one of the major sticking points in advanced astrophotography:
drivers, compatibilities and software from various manufacturers.

👉 Here you are not "stitching together" solutions from different brands hoping that everything will work well:

• No driver conflicts

• No uncertainty in updates

• No half-implemented functions

Everything is designed to work together from the ground up.

Load capacity and use of counterweights: clear technical criteria

The load capacity of the equatorial mount ZWO AM7 is based on mechanical simulation calculations, taking into account the maximum output torque of the harmonic system.

Maximum capacity without counterweights

• Maximum load without counterweight: 20 kg

• Corresponds to a maximum output torque of 40 N-m

👉 This is the typical "pure harmonic drive" usage scenario, ideal for compact and portable setups.

Recommended use of counterweights

For more demanding configurations, ZWO recommends the use of counterweights of up to 10 kg, following these criteria:

• With a 10 kg counterweight, must be installed with a lever arm between 20 and 30 cm

• This keeps the working torque within a safe and optimal range for the mount

👉 The objective is not only to balance, but also to do not unnecessarily stress the system.

Calculation of the lever arm for other counterweights

For counterweights other than 10 kg, the correct position can be calculated with the following condition:

$$20\text{Ncdotpm}\le m\cdot g\cdot L\le 30\text{Ncdotpm}$$

Where:

• m = mass of counterweight (kg)

• g = acceleration of gravity ≈ 9.8 m/s² (can be approximated to 10 m/s²)

• L = lever arm (meters)

Practical example (very important)

With a 5 kg counterweight:

• L minimum = 20 / (5 × 10) = 0,4 m

• L max = 30 / (5 × 10) = 0,6 m

👉 I.e. the counterweight must be placed between 40 and 60 cm of the shaft.

What this means in practice (straightforward)

• The AM7 it can work with high loads, but well balanced

• The correct use of counterweights:

  • reduces mechanical stress

  • improves monitoring

  • extends system life

• It is not an "anything goes" mount: is designed to work within clear and well-defined boundaries

• 

Tripod ZWO TC40 for mount ZWO AM7

The tripod ZWO TC40 is a lightweight and robust model, equipped with carbon fiber legs, perfect for traveling amateur astronomers. Weighing only 2.3 kg, it can support a maximum load of 50 kg. Its size is small; it measures only 50 cm long when folded. Its top plate has a standard tripod threaded screw (3/8"), as well as several attachment points and threaded holes for attaching mounts of different brands such as iOptron, sky-Watcher or Rainbow Astro. It is therefore an excellent alternative to traditional tripods. for amateurs who want to build an ultra-portable setup.

General characteristics:

• A sturdy, lightweight tripod with carbon fiber legs, ideal for nomadic astrophotography.
• Weighs only 2.3 kg.
• 50 kg load capacity
• Versatile adaptor plate with 3/8" standard tripod thread
• Compatible with iOptron, sky-Watcher (AZ-GTi), Rainbow Astro, etc.

Technical specifications:

• Tripod ZWO TC40
• Weight 2.3 kg
• Load capacity 50 kg
• Length (legs bent) 50 cm
• Height adjustment from 47 to 80 cm
• Number of sections 2
• Diameter of sections 40 mm (upper section); 36 mm (lower section)

Tripod ZWO TC40 for mount ZWO AM7