2009Steadi-Newbies forum
Balancing a Steadicam Pilot with an XH-A1 camera
17 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A recommended starting setup for the Pilot with XH-A1 involves approximately eight pounds on top and two pounds on the bottom with the battery.
- Additional one-quarter pound middle weights can be added to achieve proper balance, with typical configurations using two middle weights on each side of the bottom.
- Dynamic balance on a Pilot rig is best achieved by positioning the camera center of gravity slightly behind the post's center line because the monitor sits high and away from the post while the battery hangs lower and is heavier.
- One effective balancing procedure involves marking the camera's center of gravity, mounting it at a fixed distance behind the post center line, then adjusting the battery position while keeping the top stage fixed to achieve dynamic balance.
- The rig's dynamic balance changes when the center post length is extended, so post length should remain consistent when setting up a rig configuration.
- To verify dynamic balance, spin the rig and observe which direction it precesses; if it tips toward the nose, move the lower spar back and slide the camera forward; if it tips back, do the reverse.
- Raising or lowering the gimbal does not change dynamic balance.
- On rigs where the monitor is positioned high and far from the post with the battery below, the camera center of gravity must be behind the post for dynamic balance to be achievable.
Depends on
- These weight recommendations and procedures are described as working for the Pilot with IDX batteries specifically.
- The optimal balancing approach may vary depending on monitor and battery placement relative to the post.
- Specific accessory configurations or different cameras may require re-balancing the rig.
- The described methods rely on experimental adjustment rather than manufacturer specifications.
Parts
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