Focuser Beta Baader Diamond Steeltrack BDS-NT 2 inch — 2" Crayford-style outboard focuser

The Beta Baader Diamond Steeltrack BDS-NT 2 inch is an outboard 2" Crayford-style focuser designed for visual observing and astrophotography. It accepts standard 2-inch eyepieces and accessories and provides a smooth manual focusing action with a stable drawtube to support cameras, diagonals or heavy eyepieces. The focuser's mechanical design emphasizes low backlash and reliable axial alignment, making it suitable for upgrading older focusers or integrating into new telescope setups where precision and repeatable focus are required.

Advantages

The focuser offers precise, low-friction focusing thanks to its Crayford-style mechanism with hardened steel contact surfaces that reduce wear and provide consistent performance. Its outboard 2" body allows easy access to eyepieces and accessories while maintaining a secure clamping system for 2-inch tools. The construction is aimed at mechanical stability to minimise flex and maintain focus during long exposures or when changing imaging equipment.

Suitable for

• Visual observing with 2" eyepieces
• Deep-sky and planetary imaging with cameras mounted at the focuser
• Use with diagonals and heavy eyepieces where stable support is needed
• Upgrading mechanical performance on amateur telescopes

Key specifications

• Focuser type: 2" outboard Crayford-style manual focuser
• Main interface: accepts 2" eyepieces and 2" accessories
• Focusing action: low-friction steeltrack mechanism for smooth movement
• Support: rigid drawtube designed to reduce flex under load
• Control: manual coarse focusing with fine mechanical stability

How to use

Install the focuser in place of the existing focuser or attach it according to the telescope manufacturer’s instructions for outboard 2" focusers. Insert a 2" eyepiece or camera adapter and secure it with the focuser's clamp. Achieve focus through slow, deliberate adjustments of the drawtube; avoid sudden movements and keep the imaging train balanced to minimise mechanical strain. For astrophotography, adjust focus while monitoring star sharpness on a live view or by using a Bahtinov mask or software-assisted focusing tool.

Usage recommendations

For best results, ensure the focuser is properly aligned to the optical axis and that all clamps are tightened without over-torquing. Use a counterweight or balanced mounting when adding heavy cameras or accessories to reduce stress on the focuser and maintain consistent focus during long exposures.