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2015Operating forum

Reducing payload weight on a camera gimbal sled to stay within operating limits

What the thread found

  • A gimbal with a stated 24-pound maximum should not exceed that weight, and exceeding it may cause mechanical failure.
  • Removing unnecessary accessories like studio mattebox base plates, filters, and heavy rods can significantly reduce sled weight.
  • A clip-on mattebox allows removal of base plates, reducing weight compared to a studio mattebox setup.
  • Using 15mm aluminum or carbon fiber rods instead of 19mm steel rods reduces weight while maintaining support.
  • The follow focus motor and transmitter can potentially be mounted to 15mm rods without needing a baseplate.
  • Battery weight can be positioned on the camera body itself to counterbalance lens weight on the sled.
  • A single rod mounted on top of the camera can substitute for full baseplate support in some configurations.
  • The RED Epic camera uses a proprietary Lemo power connector that differs from standard plugs.
  • Custom RED power cables can be sourced to allow powering the camera through the sled power distribution system.

Depends on

  • The specific load capacity varies depending on gimbal model and condition.
  • Custom rigging solutions may require specialized cables or modifications.
  • Interior or overcast shooting conditions allow omitting heavy matte box and filter systems, but these cannot be removed in other scenarios.
  • The exact positioning and balance method depends on the specific camera body and lens combination being used.
  • Some solutions discussed were based on the speaker's personal experience with a particular sled model and may not apply universally.

Gear in this thread

Zephyrcatalog

Parts

Follow Focus, Base Plate

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