Vinten Radamec Fusion FHR-100 - Manual (Page 27)

Operators guide
25
Balancing the head and payload
Ensure that the head and camera cradle are level before balancing. When the head is correctly
balanced, the robotic drives will need the minimum amount of even effort to move the head. A
correctly balanced head and payload can be set to any tilt position and the head will maintain
that position ‘hands off’.
Setting fore and aft balance
When positioning the payload it is important to be aware of the potential danger of an
unbalanced payload falling away suddenly. Always be prepared for this by maintaining a firm
hold on the payload, until the balance has been set correctly.
To set the fore and aft balance, proceed as follows:
1. Hold and steady the camera cradle [1], then disengage the tilt lock [7] (see Locking
the camera cradle on page 30). Carefully release the camera cradle and observe
how it moves and comes to rest.
• The horizontal balance is correct when the camera cradle comes to rest in a
horizontal position. Continue with step 2.
• If the camera cradle tilts forward (points downwards) move the camera towards the
rear of the head.
• If the camera cradle tilts backwards (points upward) move the camera towards the
front of the head.
2. Reposition the camera on the camera cradle as required and secure in position.
3. If there is insufficient movement within the camera cradle slots to achieve horizontal
balance, reposition the mounting plate (supplied with the camera) on the camera as
required and refit to the camera cradle.
4. If a teleprompter is attached to the mounting holes [2], it may be necessary to attach
counterbalance weights to the teleprompter extension arms.
CAUTION! It is important that the camera and payload (lens, viewfinder, prompter,
pan bars, etc., including cables) are fitted in their operational positions
BEFORE balancing the head. Any equipment fitted or adjusted later can
unbalance the head.
WARNING!
1. The total camera payload can reach 55 kg (121 lb). Take the
necessary precautions to safely handle this weight before
loosening the camera cradle fixing screws.
2. Switch OFF power before attempting to balance the head or
making any adjustments to the camera and accessory equipment.
3. DO NOT remove the camera cradle fixing screws when the camera
cradle is loaded.
4. Risk of finger trap in moving parts.
5. Be prepared to prevent the head falling away suddenly.
CAUTION
finger trap