2009Video Assist and Video Accessories forum
Archos recorder dock connector options for video input and output on Steadicam sleds
17 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The fifth generation Archos recorders use separate mini dock units for video output and a travel adapter for video input, with no single small unit combining both functions.
- Earlier generation Archos models like the 404 and 400 series use simpler connector designs with video output through the headphone jack, making them more practical for simultaneous input and output.
- A custom junction box can be constructed from the internal components of a DVR station to provide both input and output capability with improved connector durability.
- For fifth generation units, it is possible to modify a mini dock by combining the jack and electronics from both the playback and recording docks, paired with a three-pole switch modification on the sled to control video routing and power.
- The Archos 420 and 400 models can use a simple cable adapter solution that requires manual switching between input and output modes via the device's control button.
Depends on
- The fifth generation modification is complex and requires internal component work and sled rewiring.
- Fifth generation playback defaults to the onboard screen rather than external monitors unless manually switched.
- Power supply voltage affects audio quality during monitoring, with some configurations producing noise at certain voltages.
- Some users experienced poor user interface and performance issues with the travel adapter setup.
- Earlier generation models may be difficult to find as they are out of production.