2010Steadi-Newbies forum
Sourcing tally lights and fiber-optic jumpers for Steadicam camera operation
16 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Fiber-optic jumpers for Steadicam can be obtained from Mohawk, with typical cost around 600 dollars and a lead time of several weeks.
- External tally light boxes that mount to a camera's tally indicator are available from some manufacturers, though availability can be limited.
- A basic tally light can be constructed from common components including a 9-volt LED, battery case, light sensor, wire, and heat shrink tubing for approximately 15 dollars.
- Tally lights can be wired directly into a Steadicam sled using a 12-volt LED to eliminate the need for a separate cable running between camera and monitor.
- Components for DIY tally construction are available at electronics retailers like RadioShack.
Depends on
- Some commercial tally light manufacturers have discontinued production or changed business practices, making commercial options difficult to locate.
- The discussion involves equipment and practices specific to around 2010, which may not reflect current availability or technology.
- Fiber jumper lead times mentioned are lengthy, making rapid procurement challenging for urgent projects.
- Some suppliers mentioned may no longer be in business or contactable.