What the thread found

• The Steadicam® T2 head does not achieve nodal alignment when using SAM-2 or SAM-6 plates with Mini LF or Alexa 35 cameras.
• SAM-6 plate performance varies by camera: operators report nodality issues primarily with Alexa 35, while SAM-2 is closer to nodal but still not optimal.
• The Alexa 35's height relative to the head design is the limiting factor, leaving insufficient space to move the camera closer to the nodal point.
• Shims placed under the top stage serve only to fill the gap between the dub and head, not to address nodal alignment.
• One operator found the SAM-6 system closer to nodal on the Trinity 1 than the SAM-2, and questioned whether this difference persists on the Trinity 2.

Depends on

• Findings depend on camera model: Alexa 35, Mini LF, and Alexa Mini.
• Findings apply to Steadicam® T2 and Trinity 1 heads.
• The physical constraints of plate thickness and camera height determine feasible nodal adjustment.

Gear in this thread

ALEXA 35catalog, Trinity 1catalog, Trinity 2catalog

Parts

Top Stage

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