iAFS2 - Uncategorized iOptron - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Star tracker / Equatorial mount
Brand	iOptron
Model	iAFS2
Dimensions (approx.)	200 mm x 150 mm x 100 mm
Weight	2 kg (approx.)
Power Supply	12V DC (optional battery pack or AC adapter)
Motor Type	Stepper motor with precise tracking
Tracking Modes	Sidereal, solar, lunar, and custom rates
Payload Capacity	Up to 5 kg (including camera and lens)
Main Functions	Astrophotography tracking, time-lapse, manual slewing
Control Interface	Hand controller with LCD display, optional app control
Polar Alignment	Built-in polar scope or optional iPolar electronic finder
Connectivity	USB (for firmware update and PC control)
Material	Aluminum alloy body, stainless steel components
Mount Type	German equatorial mount (wedge included)
Maintenance	Keep clean and dry; lubricate moving parts annually
Safety Precautions	Avoid pointing at sun; use proper filters; secure tripod
Spare Parts Available	Replacement cables, hand controller, polar scope
Repairability	User-replaceable parts; professional service recommended
General Information	Compact and portable design for field astrophotography

Frequently Asked Questions - iAFS2 iOptron

How do I set up the iOptron iAFS2 for the first time?

Unpack the mount, attach the wedge to a sturdy tripod, then mount the iAFS2. Balance the load, connect power, and perform polar alignment using the built-in polar scope or optional iPolar camera. Refer to the manual for detailed steps.

What power source does the iAFS2 require?

It operates on 12V DC, typically via an external battery pack (e.g., 12V rechargeable) or an AC adapter. Power consumption is low, around 0.5A during tracking.

Can I control the iAFS2 with a smartphone app?

Yes, the iAFS2 is compatible with iOptron's commander app via optional WiFi module or USB-to-serial adapter. It allows wireless control and firmware updates.

What payload can the iAFS2 handle?

The iAFS2 supports a payload up to 5 kg (11 lb), including camera, lens, and accessories. For best accuracy, keep the load under 4 kg.

How do I perform polar alignment?

Use the polar scope in the mount to align Polaris (or Sigma Octantis in Southern Hemisphere). Alternatively, use the optional iPolar electronic polar finder for precise alignment via software.

Does the iAFS2 have a built-in GPS?

No, the iAFS2 does not have internal GPS. You must manually enter your location (latitude/longitude) via the hand controller or an app.

What tracking modes are available?

The iAFS2 offers sidereal (for stars), solar, lunar, and custom tracking rates. You can select these from the hand controller menu.

How do I update the firmware?

Download the latest firmware from iOptron's website. Connect the iAFS2 to your computer via USB and use the provided software to upload the update.

What should I do if the mount makes noise or tracks inaccurately?

Check balance and tighten all screws. Ensure the power source is stable. If issues persist, clean the gears and apply a small amount of white lithium grease. Contact iOptron support for severe problems.

Is the iAFS2 weatherproof?

No, the iAFS2 is not weatherproof. It should be used in dry conditions and stored in a dry case. Dew formation may occur; use a dew heater if needed.

USER MANUAL iAFS2 iOptron

Electronic Inline Automatic Focuser With iLock™ Technology

Instruction Manual

Feb 2025, Version 1.0

iOptron reserves the rights to revise this instruction without notice. Actual color/contents/design may differ from those described in this instruction.

Introducing the most versatile inline auto focuser: the iOptron iAFS ^TM focuser with iLock ^TM technology! Utilizing a lead worm movement is the key to the iAFS focusers patented design; this method passively locks it at the exact position when movement is stopped, maintaining focus for most any sized payload even as the instrument angle is changed. The iAFS incorporates three movement control modes, USB (computer control), on board directional buttons (for powered manual adjustments) and a manual focus wheel to override the motorized adjustment. Other features include a built-in temperature sensor, dual USB-C ports, solid all metal body, fingerprint resistant surface, 0.6 micron resolution, and position limiters to prevent over runs. It comes standard with a 2 inch visual back, and optional telescope adapters to fit various OTAs are available. The iAFS focusers will be available as the iAFS2 two inch model and the iAFS3 three inch version.

Features:

• High precision stepper motor with position over-run protection
  • Built-in temperature sensor
• Built-in CAA
• Quiet, smooth operation
• Compact and lightweight
• Zero backlash
• Dual USB-C port for computer connection and firmware upgrade
  • ASCOM and INDI compatible
• Manual adjustment (powered or unpowered)
• Position memorizing during power off
• Compatible with most OTAs with proper adapter

Package includes:

• 1X FA20 iAFS2 2" auto focuser w/ 2" visual back or 1X FA30 iAFS3 3" auto focuser w/ 2" visual back
• USB-C cable

Accessories:

P-FA20-CA iAFS2 camera adapter M48X0.75
P-FA20-M0800 iAFS2 telescope adapter Askar/65PHQ and other M80X1
P-FA20-M0835 iAFS2 telescope adapter Celestron/C11 and other M83.5X1.5
P-FA20-M0900 iAFS2 telescope adapter GSO/RC6,RC8 and other M90X1
P-FA30-CA iAFS3 camera adapter M68X1
P-FA30-M1170 iAFS3 telescope adapter GSO/RC10,12,14,16 and other M117X1

Others are coming.....

iAFS Parts

Attach Focuser to Scope

1. Select a proper telescope adapter, such as FA20-M0900 for RC6 telescope.

Close-up of a black plastic cap with ridged edge and flared rim (no text or symbols visible)

1. Install telescope adapter. First, back out three (3X) Position Screws and the Locking Screw on the iAFS body.

Next, insert OTA Adapter (FA20-M0900 shown) into the focuser body.

Close-up of a hand holding a black optical instrument with a red arrow pointing to the lens (no visible text or symbols)

Thirdly, thread 3 Position Screws all the way in, then back out a quarter turn or so. The OTA adapter can be rotated freely but can not be pulled out from the focuser body.

Close-up of a black cylindrical device with a red arrow pointing to a small component, no visible text or symbols.

1. Thread the focuser onto the OTA (RC6 is shown here). Turn the adapter ring to secure the iAFS onto the scope.

Close-up of a black IAFS 2 mechanical device with red arrows indicating rotation and adjustment (no text or symbols on the device itself)

1. Tighten the Locking Screw to lock the focuser. Release the Locking Screw to adjust the focuser angle. Finally tighten three Position Screws after angle adjustment.

Attach Camera Adapter

1. If a visual back is used, thread it onto the focuser camera end.

1. If an optional camera ring (P-FA20-CA or P-FA30-CA) is used, thread it onto the focuser camera end.

Close-up of a black IAFS 2 optical sensor module with no visible text or symbols on the device itself.

There are three grub screws for fine angle adjustment between the focuser and an accessory, such as a filter wheel. A thread conversion adapter may be needed.

Close-up of a black camera lens with orange circular button and directional arrows, next to a digital camera (no text or symbols on the lens itself)

Adjust iAFS

1. Connect to a 5V power source via USB port, such as a SmartPhone charger.
2. Press arrow button to move the focuser forward or backward.
3. Short press the button for fine adjustment.
4. Turn the Manual Focusing Knob to adjust the focus, powered on not powered.

Connect to a Computer

1. Download and install USB-Serial PL2303 VCP driver
2. Download and install the iOptron Focuser ASCOM Driver Installer from iAFS product page and install it.
   https://www.ioptron.com/v/ASCOM/iOptron_Focuser_ASCOM_DriverInstaller.exe

1. Connect any one of the focuser USB2.0 port to a PC USB port using included USB-C cable. The focuser will get the power from the USB port.

2. Click iOptron Standalone Focuser icon located on your computer desktop to launch the focuser.

1. Connect the focuser by either "Auto Detection" or select a COM port. Click OK.

1. After the focuser is connected and a control interface is launched, you now can control the focuser.

Set how many steps you want the focuser to move in Nudge Steps, here is 100 steps. Press +100 or -100 button to manually move the focuser forward or backward.

You also can set up the Maximum Steps by click on Change button.

The other functions are self-explained.

1. When using an imaging software, choose "iOptron Standalone Focuser" from Image Software ASCOM Focuser setup menu to connect the iAFS to the Imaging Software.