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2007Steadi-Newbies forum

Powering accessories on Sony DSR-450 camera and balancing weight on steadicam rig

19 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • The DSR-450 has a 12V D-tap connector located behind the viewfinder on the right side, with an on/off switch on the opposite side offering auto and manual modes.
  • When a 4-pin XLR power connector is plugged into the camera battery mount, the D-tap and battery mount become isolated from the external rig power supply to prevent charging the camera battery.
  • Running focus motor and follow focus units simultaneously from the camera D-tap can cause the camera to shut down temporarily as a protective measure, requiring the operator to cycle power back on.
  • The DSR-450 with viewfinder, lens, follow focus, Modulus unit, and onboard battery typically weighs 11 to 12.5 kilograms, providing sufficient counterweight for a 3A steadicam rig.
  • A powertap multi adapter with multiple D-tap female connectors can be used to power multiple accessories from a single D-tap source when only one tap is available.

Depends on

  • User experience with Modulus power requirements was limited in the discussion.
  • The temporary shutdown behavior when running multiple high-draw accessories was described as occurring on Sony 450 and 750 models but potential effects on DSR-570 and XDCAM cameras were noted as untested.
  • Practical workarounds such as using separate battery belts for follow focus units may be necessary depending on power demands during complex shots.
  • Discussion reflects 2007 technology and may not apply to current camera models.

Gear in this thread

Moduluscatalog

Parts

Follow Focus

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