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2006Steadi-Newbies forum

Weight specifications and operational considerations for flying an AJ-HDC20A HD camera on a Steadicam Flyer

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

What the thread found

  • The listed weight of a camera should be verified with actual in-operation weight when equipped with batteries and accessories before attempting to fly it on a stabilizer
  • An AJ-HDC20A camera should be manageable on a Steadicam Flyer, though it represents a heavy configuration for that system
  • Using the camera's battery type and power supply on the sled can reduce overall weight compared to separate power solutions
  • HD cameras with fixed focal lengths require advance coordination with the director of photography regarding minimum focus distance and shot requirements
  • Wireless lens control systems should be considered if variable focus or iris adjustments are needed during shots
  • A wireless follow focus system may require multiple channels if significant iris pulls are planned, particularly for exterior daytime work with high dynamic range
  • A downconverter should be included in the package to enable proper monitoring on Steadicam equipment
  • Working tethered requires lightweight BNC cables to avoid excessive weight and cable management issues on the sled

Depends on

  • The thread discusses a specific 2006-era camera model; current HD or newer camera systems may have different weight characteristics and requirements
  • Advice assumes use of Steadicam Flyer system specifically; other stabilizer platforms have different weight capacities
  • No definitive answer was provided regarding whether the 15.4 lbs specification includes all operational accessories
  • Discussion does not include actual weight measurements from users who flew this specific camera configuration

Gear in this thread

BFD

Parts

Follow Focus

Same gear or parts

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  2. 2026Swapping an ARRI ALEXA 35 between tripod/studio and Steadicam® mounting: baseplate choice and fastest workflow.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  3. 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
  4. 2025LC-1 (Lens Control-1) follow focus system: wired architecture, motors, and early operational experience (1990s).FacebookThe Steadicam Group
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