Used Celestron MD-4 Dual Axis Motor Drive with Hand Control for CG-4 Mounts and Advanced C4 R, C6 N (with CG-4 mount).

2024-01-01T14:17:23

The motors work well, most of the time. Although at times they will act non responsive when attempting to make small Dec adjustments, and then they'll "take off". Some reviewers have complained about the speed being too slow when making corrections, but they're listed as having an 8X top speed, so don't expect any more than that. They do track quite well if you're properly polar aligned. The biggest complaint I have is the flimsy looking battery pack and cheap wiring. It wouldn't take much to pull the wires loose, so make sure the battery pack is mounted solidly on something. I used velcro strips on one of the tripod legs to fasten it down. As for the battery life. Celestron claims 20 hrs on a set of four D cells. I've put about that much on mine so far and the batteries haven't died. All in all I think these motors are worth the additional cost. I've been able to track planets and keep them perfectly centered and taken long exposure photos of star clusters without trailing.

GLENN N.

2021-03-30T09:41:43

Great product, however, it could use some more in-depth instructions. The install instructions are great, however, being novices in astrophotography, there is no resource for how to effectively use this kit well. Other than that, it is a great setup!

Gary B.

2021-02-18T08:21:30

I would love to but the mount that it is to be used on, I won’t receive till September ! I’ll be glad to submit an opinion later this year.

REX S.

2021-01-21T07:53:27

Controller malfunction, Dec control only works on 2x and 4x no 8x stays at 4. RA is fine works as it should, luckily I had extra controller that I acquired awhile back. Product should be tested before being shipped as is definitely a wiring problem in controller, hence the 1 star rating.

WILLIAM R.

2019-03-09T12:37:44

Will not work even after troubleshooting. User manual worthless. Changed batteries checked voltage and ran heavier cables to the controller. Motors buzzed but would not turn. Many others on Cloudy Nites had similar problems. Why hasn't Celestron fixed this glitch when it's so common and the product has been around so long???

Herbert L.

2014-02-17T19:00:00

Tracking is surprisingly good with very low battery drain (don't use rechargeable batteries though - they don't supply enough voltage). However the circuit boards are exposed to the elements and can be easily damaged or broken off even with careful use. The battery holder is especially cheap in construction with very fragile soldering connections. Despite the accurate tracking, this unit is very overpriced due to poor construction.

JimB

2013-02-05T19:00:00

Does what it's supposed to, and has a clutch release for DEC adjustments via knob. However, doesn't allow for using RA knob to do any adjustments (requires use of controller).

John

2007-03-25T21:00:00

These motors are the best investment I made for my new Omni XLT 150. They make your viewing sessions so pleasing. When sharing the night with others such as friends and family these motors are priceless. Allows me to even use 4m with a 2x barlow (highest magnification I have) and still stays right on taget while everyone takes a peak. Not to mention when viewing at this magnification and trying to use the manual knobs you get some vibration and shakiness. I highly recommened this to anyone buying a cg-4 mount.

Michelle