2004Cameras (Film/Video/HD) forum
Mounting an A-Minima camera on an Ultra steadicam for music video production
22 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The Ultra steadicam can power both 12 volt and 24 volt devices simultaneously through its DC to DC converter, which provides approximately 7 amps at 13.2 volts and can deliver 50+ amps at 28.8 volts for short periods.
- A newer Ultra model with two three-pin Lemo connectors in the back can deliver either 12 or 24 volts depending on which pins are used, while older models may require custom junction boxes or Y-cables to split the voltages.
- Mounting motorized lens accessories on an A-Minima requires a low mode plate with rods, and the rental house version used a screw-on adapter for 15mm rods similar to Tiffen's design.
- Adding ballast weight to the steadicam rig is necessary, and this can be accomplished using diving weights, antlers, or a steel practice cage stripped down for the purpose.
- The A-Minima offers significant flexibility in achieving both high and low lens heights when used with an Ultra steadicam.
- Weight distribution affects handling characteristics; placing ballast at the base allows for higher or lower lens positioning, while weight near the camera provides a more normal operating range.
- The A-Minima produces minimal pan inertia, so extending the monitor and battery further than normal can improve the feel of pan movements to prevent the rig from feeling overly responsive.
Depends on
- The discussion does not resolve the specific technical issues the production company encountered previously when attempting to use the A-Minima on a steadicam.
- Experience described is anecdotal and limited to the participants in the thread.
- No testing results are documented to confirm whether the A-Minima and Ultra combination works without video interference or other DC to DC converter issues.
- Information about power delivery is based on specifications for the Ultra model available at the time and may not apply to all variants.
Parts
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