2008Operating forum
Setting up a Steadicam rig for live television work with Thomson GrassValley cameras and obtaining return video signal
18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Thomson GrassValley cameras do not provide a built-in return video signal and require external solutions such as wireless transmitters to send the camera feed back to the operator's monitor
- Return video can be obtained via the Triax connection on Thomson GrassValley cameras through the prompter BNC connector at the back of the camera
- A separate small monitor can be mounted below the main monitor on a Steadicam rig to display return video from the camera
- Zoom controllers can be mounted on a gimbal and configured with a switchable button to toggle between the operator's signal and the program feed
- For wide-angle shots, presetting focus at 2 meters with an ND filter set to achieve at least F8 provides sufficient depth of field for handheld camera operation
- A gimbal-mounted zoom controller allows quick focus verification before going live and during slower shots
- Wireless intercom systems with a focus puller mixing director audio into the operator's in-ear monitor enable better communication during live events
- Triax to BNC adapters are needed to connect Triax-equipped cameras to standard BNC connectors and cable
- A tally light for live camera operation can be constructed inexpensively from basic components including a 2-wire cable, 9-volt battery, light sensor, and LED
Depends on
- Wireless camera systems were not available within the budget for this particular job
- A malfunctioning J7 zoom controller that would not hold position was mentioned but not resolved
- Triax connection was available on this particular setup but may not be standard on all camera packages