Equatorial platforms

If you haven't already found it, look he

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/eqplatforms/

Good luck - Chris

Jeremiah J. Burton wrote:
It seems to be that there are a lot of different designs for equatorial
platforms, like a poncent platform, two tangent, or cylidrical bearing
platform. What I don't understand, is the differences between them.
What are the pros and cons of each design?

I have an 8" Meade Dob, that I want to build an Equatorial platform for.
I want to use the platform for nothing more than tracking an object at
high power, such as planets or the moon. I'm on a budget, so a cheap
design would be great. I also do not have a lot of tools, or experience
in making stuff, so an easy design would be good too. Ease of setup and
use are nice too, but take back seat to price and ease of construction.
I live at a lattitude of about 42* North, and most of the time would be
less than 1* north or south of that. Ocasionally I might go south by 2*
or so.

What design would you recomend for me, and WHY? Next, where do I find
plans and construction help for that design.

Thanks

jjb