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Optics Techniques | |
| Tile-On-Plaster Tools | Rather than using a glass tool for grinding and polishing, try using a plaster or concrete based tool. |
| The "Dykem Test" | 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. |
| Fast Grinding and Polishing | There are a number of unusual techniques that are used to make grinding and polishing a mirror faster and easier. Presented here are a few of the techniques I have tried. Some worked for me, some didn't. Some may be of interest to other amateurs. |
| Making A Pitch Lap | There are as many ways to make a pitch lap for polishing as there are ATMs. This article describes the method that works best for me. It is a variation of the Hot Channel Pitch Cutter method. |
| Testing Quality Of Polish | This article describes the three most common amateur tests for determinig when polishing is complete for a mirror surface. Described are the methods of direct inspection, the sun test, and the laser test. |
| The Matching Ronchi Test | This article serves as a guide to the beginner in learning how to set up, use, and interpret the results of the Matching Ronchi Test. The Matching Ronchi Test is an ideal starting point for the beginning mirror maker. Here you can learn how to apply this simple test to your mirror. |
| Understanding The Foucault Test | Guest author David Harbour provides a clear introduction to the Foucault Test for beginners using illustrations that make the test simple to understand and master. |
| The Dall Null Test | 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. |
| Setting Up The Dall Null Test | 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. |
Woodworking Techniques | |
Router Circles
 | ATM's often use a router for cutting circles, giving very smooth, clean cuts. Here are some additional tips to make the job easier. |
Metalworking Techniques | |
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Telescopes Techniques | |
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Polar Alignment
| This article describes the method I have found useful for quick, accurate alignment of the Meade LX-50. |
Electronics Techniques | |
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Programming Techniques | |
| Simulating The Ronchi Test | 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. |
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Common ATM Formulae
| Here are some common formulae that ATM's often need. |