MPG/ESO 2.2m Balancing Procedure

Checking the alpha and delta axis at the zenith:

Move the VME switch to analog position.
Switch on the hydraulics.
Switch on the amplifiers.
Move the telescope to the zenith until the encoders reach the positions:

1 for alfa axis.

3 for the delta axis.

Switch off the Main Drivers.
Move the lock pins to balance position.
Move worm gears out.
Check if the telescope remains in alpha and delta in the middle position.
Now, move the worm gear back in.
Move lock pins to the Release Position.
Turn ON the Main Drives (on the electronic rack).
Turn on the Amplifiers (down stairs at the Computer Room).

Checking the delta axis at the horizon:

"WARNING" This check should not be made when the dewar is full with LN2.
Remove alpha and delta lockpins.
Switch on the amplifiers.
Switch on Main Drivers.
Move the telescope in delta to the south horizon until the telescope reaches position 5.

If the balance is to the north Move the telescope in delta to the north until the telescope reaches position . 2 (two spaces before the two).

Switch off Main Drivers.
Move lock pins to balance position.
Delta Worm gear out.
Check if the delta axis of the telescope remains in the middle position.
Now, move worm gears back in.
Move lock pins to release position.
Turn ON Main Drives.
Turn ON Amplifiers (down stairs at the computer room).

These two procedures should always be performed with the assistance of MEC.