Minimizing ARRI ALEXA Mini LF total weight for Steadicam® operation by removing or relocating non-essential components.

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2023From a Facebook group: The Steadicam Group

DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.

The electronic viewfinder (EVF) can be removed if settings are pre-configured on the camera menu, with monitoring and playback then handled via the WCU-4 handset, ARRI Companion App (without live image), or the User button for playback function.
If an external viewfinder remains necessary for operation, the Hill-EVF-Bracket must be used to maintain balance and prevent the operator's knee from contacting the eyepiece.
The power distribution box can be omitted on the ALEXA Mini LF since the camera provides all accessory connectors; a single 24 V cable run from the Steadicam® sled is sufficient.
The MAP-2 mounting plate attaches to the top stage; the carry handle is removed and motors are repositioned to the sides of the cage on a 19 mm rod to minimize the base footprint.
Battery power strategy varies: some operators retain the onboard battery (adding gyroscopic inertia) and connect the sled cable only for hot-swap charging, while others draw power exclusively from the sled battery to reduce camera weight.
A minimal functional configuration tested in the field comprises camera body, battery, wireless focus transmitter, and remote control handset only.

Onboard battery retention increases dynamic inertia but simplifies power management; removing it saves weight but requires full power dependence on sled battery capacity and run time.
Balance characteristics depend on the specific accessory configuration chosen.