What is a T-Mount Adapter

This is one of a series of articles describing in depth the product that we sell. The reason for these articles is to help you make a more informed decision when purchasing accessories for your photographic needs. If you still have questions about this product after reading this article please feel free to contact us.
The T-Mount system was developed by Tamron in 1957. A common misconception is that the T stands for thread or threaded, but it actually stands for Tamron. The system was developed with the idea of standardizing the mount for 35mm SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras lenses. It was thought that the system would reduce costs because photograpers would need only a few lenses and a number of inexpensive adapters to be able to use these lenses on different brands of cameras.
While the idea sounded good on paper, it did not gain wide popularity among lens manufacturers, most likely because they did not like the prospect of selling fewer lenses. The system did catch on however as a way to attach SLR cameras to telescopes, microscopes, enlargers, and bellows attachments.
The thread used on T-Mounts, refered to as the T-thread, is a metric thread 42mm in diameter and having a pitch of 0.75mm. This diameter and pitch have become the industry standard. It should be noted the the T-Mount conection is only a mechanical connection; electronic connections such as autofocus ar not transmitted through a T-Mount adapter.
The T-Mount system is a two part adapter to attach your camera to a telescope or microscope. The first piece is specific to your camera and the second piece is specific to the piece of equipment you are attaching the camera to. Where the two peices join is the standardized 42mm thread. At Plumtree Photo we carry the first piece for your camera. It is recomended that you contact the manufacturer of your telescope or other equipment to find the part you will need to attach to that.