2012Steadi-Newbies forum
Essential power cables and accessories for Steadicam operators starting with the Archer 2
14 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The specific power cables needed depend on the type of work and cameras you will operate, so purchasing every possible cable upfront is wasteful
- A 4-pin XLR female cable is the most commonly used power solution for broadcast cameras from major manufacturers, and buying at least two is recommended
- An Anton Bauer SO-XLR plate enables powering cameras equipped with Anton Bauer plates using standard 4-pin XLR female cables
- An Anton Bauer P Tap male to 4-pin XLR female cable allows tapping additional 12-volt power from Anton Bauer plates for accessories or monitors
- For RED camera jobs, the Anton Bauer SO-XLR plate and standard XLR cables often work, though a dedicated RED-to-Archer cable may be preferred for frequent RED work
- For Alexa 24-volt camera jobs, straight and 90-degree Alexa-to-Archer 24-volt cables provide flexibility when bracket geometry is restrictive
- Buying cables gradually as specific jobs arise is more cost-effective than building a complete collection immediately
Depends on
- Advice is based on camera models and standards common in 2012 and may not reflect current professional practice
- Recommendations assume the Archer 2 supports 24-volt operation where mentioned
- Specific cable lengths and exact model availability may vary
- The discussion reflects one operator's preferences rather than universal requirements