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
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