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For those who would like a printed version of the completed articles on this Web Site, the following files are available for download. They are printable Adobe Acrobat (PDF) versions of the articles found here. You will need a copy of the Adobe Acrobat reader to view or print these files. The Acrobat Reader is available for free download at the Adobe Web Site. To download these files, you may click the right mouse button on the link and select Save Link As... (for NetScape users) or Save Target As... (for Internet Explorer users). The Adobe PDF file will then be downloaded to your computer. Optics Related Articles | |
| The "Dykem Test" | (Technique) This is a variation on the "Sharpie Test" that I've developed to determine both quality of contact and number of pits remaining during fine grinding. [PDF file size = 122 KB.] |
| The Dall Null Test | (Technique) When making non-spherical optics, a null test allows you to directly see how close you are to finishing. The Dall Null Test is one of the easier null tests to set up and use effectively. [PDF file size = 131 KB.] |
| Setting Up The Dall Null Test | (Technique) Follow this tutorial to use the optical design program OSLO-LT to help you set up and simulate the Dall Null Test. Also use this powerful program to estimate the allowable tolerances in your test setup. [PDF file size = 560 KB.] |
| Tile-On-Plaster Tools | (Technique) Rather than using a glass tool for grinding and polishing, try using a plaster or concrete based tool. [PDF file size = 292 KB.] |
Woodworking Related Articles | |
| ATM's Grinding Barrel Top | (Project) This project describes the construction of a strong, stable top for the traditional mirror grinding barrel. [PDF file size = 142 KB.] |
Metalworking Related Articles | |
| Grizzly Radial Drill Press | (Review) A drill press is a useful accessory for the home shop. I purchased this radial drill press for the primary purpose of coring a 17.5" mirror for a telescope project. It has turned out to a very useful, versatile tool. [PDF file size = 149 KB.] |
Telescope Related Articles | |
| Meade 7" LX-50 Maksutov Cassegrain | (Review) This is a review of my Meade 7" LX-50 Maksutov Cassegrain telescope. It was written soon after I received the telescope in 1996. Though no telescope is perfect, this one performs very well, especially at lunar, planetary, and double star observing from the city. [PDF file size = 113 KB.] |
| Meade Field Tripod Modification | (Project) This project is a modification to the Meade field tripod which makes use with a wedge more convenient. [PDF file size = 100 KB.] |
| An Eyepiece Storage Case | (Project) This project describes a method for personalizing an aluminum utility case for storing eyepieces. [PDF file size = 182 KB.] |
Electronics Related Articles | |
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Programming Related Articles | |
| Simulating The Ronchi Test | (Technique) Learn the formulae and techniques for simulating the Ronchi Test. The information and techniques described here may be applied to other optical test simulations as well. [PDF file size = 202 KB.] |
| Simulating The Ronchi Test (Enlarged diagrams) | (Technique) These are enlarged versions of the diagrams and figures from the above article. [PDF file size = 371 KB.] |