ZWO AM3N with TC40 Tripod

ZWO AM3N with TC40 Tripod: A Compact and Ultra-Portable Strain Wave Mount

The ZWO AM3N with TC40 Tripod represents the latest generation of ZWO's renowned AM series. This kit was specially designed for astrophotographers looking for a maximum precision, great ease of use, and excellent portability. While the AM3 already offered a compact solution using a distortion-wave gear mechanism, the AM3N further enhances the user experience thanks to an optimized design and deep integration into the ZWO ecosystem.

Associated with TC40 tripod, the mount is particularly well-suited for portable astrophotography. The entire setup is easy to transport and set up, while offering sufficient load capacity to accommodate a wide range of telescopes and photographic equipment.

A design intended to minimize the number of cables

One of the main advantages of the AM3N is its tight integration with the control system ASIAIR. This design reduces the number of adapters and cables needed for installation and results in a particularly neat setup.

With only two power cords, one for the mount and the other for the ASIAIR, the setup can be completed quickly. This approach is particularly useful for deep-sky astrophotography, where efficient cable management reduces the risk of snags and makes it easier to move the equipment.

Strain Wave Gear Technology

At the heart of the ZWO AM3N is a Strain Wave Gear specially developed by ZWO. This technology combines a compact design with high torque, while maintaining low periodic error and quiet operation.

The internal structure combines a Strain Wave gearbox with a synchronous belt drive, to achieve a gear ratio of 300:1. This design contributes to precise motion and the tracking of celestial objects—essential features for astrophotography.

Each AM3N is individually tested at the factory and comes with a Periodic Error (PE) Curve Ratio. The measured differences range from ±15 arcseconds, providing precise information on the tracking performance of each mount.

A lightweight kit with a TC40 tripod

Weighing just 4.1 kg for the frame, the AM3N is particularly well-suited for mobile setups. When paired with the TC40 tripod, it offers a practical solution for astrophotographers who want to be able to easily transport their equipment to observation sites with darker skies.

The mount's compact design also makes it easy to install and store. The TC40 complements this philosophy by offering a mounting solution suited for portable use, without turning the entire setup into heavy, bulky equipment.

A load capacity of up to 13 kg

Despite its light weight, the AM3N offers an impressive load capacity. It can support up to 8 kg without a counterweight, which is ideal for keeping the setup lightweight and easy to transport.

For heavier setups, adding a counterweight allows you to achieve a load capacity of up to 13 kg. The AM3N can therefore be used with a wide variety of telescopes and astrophotography accessories, while maintaining excellent versatility.

Equatorial and altazimuth modes

The AM3N is not limited to equatorial use. It can be easily configured for equatorial or altazimuth mode, which makes it adaptable to various observation and imaging needs.

You can change the mode using the’the SkyAtlas app or a remote control. The latitude scale is adjustable from 0° à 90°, thus offering great flexibility in use in both low and high latitudes.

Wireless Control via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

The ZWO AM3N can be controlled directly from a smartphone thanks to its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The control app provides access to various handy features designed to simplify the preparation and execution of an observation or astrophotography session.

In particular, it offers a virtual joystick, the GOTO function, Tonight’s Target, and Live Preview. These features make it easy to control the mount's movements and select celestial objects directly from a mobile device.

The AM3N is also compatible with ASCOM, INDI, ASIAIR and other control systems, making it possible to integrate it into a wide range of astronomical setups.

Connectors built directly into the frame

The new case design also improves cable management. A USB Type-C port and a 12 V output are directly integrated into the dovetail clamp. This design brings the connections of the equipment mounted on the mount closer together and eliminates the need for certain additional cables.

This integration helps create a cleaner and more convenient setup, which is especially beneficial when the AM3N is used with an ASIAIR and several astrophotography accessories.

Full integration into the ZWO ecosystem

In conjunction with a ASIAIR, the AM3N can be controlled either both wired and wireless. The mount thus integrates seamlessly with the other components of the ZWO ecosystem to centralize control of the setup.

This integration provides a more seamless astrophotography experience, with minimal setup and components designed to work together. For astrophotographers looking for a complete yet easily transportable setup, the combination of the AM3N and the TC40 tripod is a particularly attractive solution.

Technical specifications

The ZWO AM3N with TC40 Tripod It thus combines a modern Strain Wave mount with a compact, easily transportable support system. With its 4.1 kg, a capacity of up to 13 kg with a counterweight, and a periodic error of ±15 arcseconds With its quiet operation, the AM3N offers an excellent balance between performance and portability. Its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth control, ASCOM/INDI/ASIAIR compatibility, and built-in connectivity make it a mount that is particularly well-suited for astrophotographers who want to build a portable, clean setup that is fully integrated into the ZWO ecosystem.

Documentation and Compatibility: ZWO official data sheet.