The SkyWatcher 150i Strain Wave Mount is suitable for larger telescope setups, particularly for users who want a high-performance mount for astrophotography or visual observation with larger instruments.  It's maximum payload capacity of 55 lbs, allows it to carry large optical tubes and more heavily loaded imaging systems.  

• The Sky-Watcher 150i is modeled upon strain wave design, commonly referred to as harmonic.
• Wave 150i weighs only 12.8 lbs, yet can withstand a native payload capacity of 33 lbs and 55 lbs, without and with a counterweight respectively.
• Transmission ratio of 300:1.
• The maximum slew rate of 2400x (10° per second).
• The Sky-Watcher Wave 100i has a working latitude range of 0° to 90°.
• Sideral, lunar, and solar tracking supported.
• DC 12V power requirement.
• Comes with a single Vixen and Losmandy saddle.
• Compatible with dual AZ/EQ mode.

The Sky-Watcher 150i is modeled upon strain wave design, commonly referred to as harmonic. These type of mount mechanics come packed with a number of advantages for astrophotography, including very accurate precision tracking which is pertinent for longer exposure imaging, low backlash and smooth motion for stable tracking, compact designs for easier transport and a relatively high payload to weight ratio to accomodate a much wider range of equipment.

This design ensures highly precise tracking, crucial for long-exposure imaging, and significantly reduces backlash, leading to smoother and more reliable performance. The harmonic drive system also provides exceptionally smooth motion and minimizes vibrations, enhancing image stability. Additionally, the compact nature of the design makes the mount more portable and easier to set up. Its high payload to weight ratio means it can support a variety of telescopes and equipment, making it a versatile choice for astrophotographers.

The Sky-Watcher Wave 150i weighs only 12.8 lbs, yet it can withstand a native payload capacity of 33 lbs without counterweights, but up to 55 lbs with a counterweight.  The 150i Strain Wave mount is designed to support a larger payload than the 100i, typically up to 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs)depending on the configuration. This makes it ideal for medium to large telescopes, imaging cameras, and other accessories.

The Wave 150i has a transmission ratio of 300:1, which represents a relatively high level of tracking and slewing accuracy since motor torque and rotation is divided into smaller increments, lessening any impact of jolts between rotations that could be apparent the longer exposures become. The maximum slew rate of the 150i is 2400x (10° per second).

The Sky-Watcher Wave 150i has a working latitude range of 0° to 90°, meaning it can be operated successfully at any latitude and doesn't suffer from limitations on more traditional gear mounts with counterweight obstruction and zenith out-of-range.

Designed with astrophotographers in mind, the Sky-Watcher Wave 150i comes equipped with thoughtful cable management features to prevent those frustrating cable snags. The key ports for operating this Strain Wave mount are conveniently located on the mount head, ensuring that your cables remain stationary as the mount tracks or slews across the sky. This setup minimizes the risk of cables getting caught or tangled during long imaging sessions.

The dovetail saddle includes a ST4 port, USB 3.0 port, and two DC power ports, all of which route internally through the mount. These connections are neatly integrated into the mount head, keeping everything tidy and organized. To power the dovetail saddle, simply use the second power port located on the mount head, and for PC connectivity, you can connect your gear via the DEC USB port, also found on the mount head.

Note: The power outputs on the DEC saddle use the 5.5x2.5mm standard, commonly found on some iOptron and Meade mounts, so they are not compatible with the 5.5x2.1mm connectors typically used by devices like the ASIAir, cooled cameras, or other common accessories. Make sure your cables and power supplies are compatible with this configuration to ensure smooth operation.

The Wave 150i offers versatile tracking capabilities, supporting sidereal, lunar, and solar tracking modes. This means you can rely on it for a wide range of astronomical imaging tasks:

• Sidereal Tracking: Perfect for nighttime astrophotography, sidereal tracking allows the mount to follow the stars as they move across the sky, ensuring accurate, long-exposure imaging of distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters without trailing or distortions.
   
• Lunar Tracking: Whether you’re capturing the craters, maria, or mountain ranges on the Moon’s surface, the lunar tracking mode ensures that the mount keeps the Moon perfectly centered in your field of view, even as it moves through the sky. This makes it an excellent choice for detailed lunar photography and imaging.
• Solar Tracking: For solar imaging, the Wave 150i can track the Sun as it moves across the sky, allowing you to capture stunning images of solar phenomena like sunspots, solar flares, and prominences with ease. This feature is especially important for solar photographers, ensuring steady and accurate tracking throughout the day.

With these three modes, the Wave 150i can handle a wide range of celestial subjects, from distant stars to the closest solar features, making it a reliable and flexible tool for both night and day imaging. Whether you're shooting deep-sky objects or capturing the intricate details of the Sun and Moon, this mount provides the precision needed for stunning, high-quality results.

The Wave 150i can support large payloads while running on just 12V 2A DC power, supplied through a 2.1 mm barrel connector cable. Note: The mount does not include a power supply.Be sure to use a 5A AC adapter for reliable performance.  For wired PC control, it uses the standard USB-B connection, making it easy to find a compatible cable. The mount features a hand controller port compatible with the Sky-Watcher SynScan v5 (sold separately), and an ST4 port for use with many popular user-provided guide cameras. Important: The power input for the DEC saddle ports is 5.5x2.5mm, while the mount itself requires a 5.5x2.1mm power input.