VariZoom VZDVSPORTSTER - Manual (Page 3)

Page 6
Adjusting the Arm
The next step is to set the “float point”. This is essentially
the ideal point of spring tension, the state in which the sled
rises and falls with slight force. At the end of the arm you
will find a 3-prong knob for adjusting the spring tension.
Clockwise turning increases tension while counter-clockwise
turning decreases tension. You should adjust the tension
until the camera base floats at a level below your
collarbone, but the arm should not feel “spongy”.
Typically, the arm should be at or above the horizontal
position, and you should adjust the tension to a point that
minimizes bounce. The float point is not necessarily an
exact setting, and you may find that what works for you may
be slightly different than another person’s preferred float
point. The important thing is the end result: you have a sled
that rises and falls with slight force and absorbs most of the
shock imparted by walking.
Page 3
The Handheld Stabilizer, or “Sled”
On a professional stabilizer, the “sled” is the subsystem that
holds the camera, viewing monitor, and battery. With the
DV Sportster, things are a bit more simplified, as your
handheld stabilizer will become the sled, and your camera
has an onboard monitor and battery power. In tandem with
the spring arm, the sled creates a stabilizing or floating
effect by keeping the camera level, absorbing shock, and
allowing smooth panning action.
The basic principles of sled adjustment are that you want
the section of the sled below the pivot point to be effectively
heavier (slightly) than the upper section, and you want the
camera’s mass to be centered on the rotating axis. The
vertical and horizontal balance you need to achieve with the
sled should be explained in the instruction manual of your
handheld stabilizer.
For the DV Sportster, you want to keep your sled and
camera as light as possible, so try to minimize the total
weight. Following the instructions in your handheld
stabilizer manual, balance the unit with the camera mounted
before proceeding.