SteadiHub
2010Batteries/Power forum

Powering a Sony EX-3 camera from a steadicam rig battery system

16 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • The Sony EX-3 uses an EIAJ-4 connector for power, which is the same type found on various Sony consumer products including Vaio laptops and other camcorders.
  • Ready-made power cables connecting Sony EX-3 to 4-pin XLR are available from commercial vendors and can be adapted or used as reference for custom builds.
  • Powering the camera from the rig's main battery system via a lemo connector requires splicing or purchasing the appropriate Sony power connector and soldering it to the desired power distribution system.
  • The Sony EX-3 power connector can be sourced affordably from electronics supply stores, often at minimal cost, and can be attached to various power distribution solutions like powertap multi-connectors.
  • Routing camera power through the rig's battery system rather than using the camera's built-in battery allows operators to adjust weight distribution for proper gimbal balance and performance on smaller rigs.
  • Custom power cable solutions are particularly useful when the camera is heavily accessorized, requiring ballast weight at the rig's base rather than on top of the camera.

Depends on

  • Solutions described are from 2010 and may not reflect current product availability.
  • One participant reported a commercial clamshell-style connector that was poorly manufactured and failed before use.
  • The specific lemo connector setup requires professional soldering skills or professional cable assembly services, which adds expense.
  • Weight distribution benefits depend on the specific camera configuration and rig setup, and may not be necessary for simpler mounting arrangements.

Gear in this thread

BFD

Same gear or parts

  1. 2025History of wireless focus and lens control systems for Steadicam®: from cable-based Cinema Products and Seitz to Preston digital, and European solutions by Chrosziel, cmotion, and ARRI.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  2. 2018Identifying polarity of 2-pin Lemo power cables for BFD and Teradek unitsFollow Focus
  3. 2018Compatibility between analog Bartech follow focus handsets and digital motor systemsFollow Focus
  4. 2016Payment collection challenges in equipment rental and cable supply servicesLegal / Business Practices
Read the original threadAsk about this threadThe answer cites the archive