ARRI ALEXA Mini User Manual
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ARRI ALEXA Mini User Manual

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ALEXA Mini
ALEXA Mini
Software Update Packet 3.0
Software Update Packet 3.0
U S E R
U S E R
M A N U A L
M A N U A L
Date: 02 November 2015
Date: 02 November 2015

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  • Page 1 ALEXA Mini ALEXA Mini Software Update Packet 3.0 Software Update Packet 3.0 U S E R U S E R M A N U A L M A N U A L Date: 02 November 2015 Date: 02 November 2015...
  • Page 2 Arnold & Richter Cine Technik GmbH & Co. Betriebs KG. Specifications are subject to change without notice. Errors, omissions, and modifications excepted. AMIRA, ALEXA, ALEXA XT, and ALEXA Mini are trademarks or registered trademarks of Arnold & Richter Cine Technik GmbH & Co. Betriebs KG. All other brands or products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders and should be treated as such.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Contents For your safety / 为了您的安全..............7 Risk levels and alert symbols / 危险级别和警示标志......7 Vital precautions / 重要安全措施............8 General precautions / 般安全措施............9 Audience and intended use............... 11 Scope of delivery and warranty............12 New features and changes in SUP 3.0..........13 Camera layout..................
  • Page 4 Contents 10.3 Diopter adjustment................48 10.4 Adjusting the monitor................48 10.5 Changing the monitor mode..............49 10.6 Live monitor..................50 10.7 User monitor..................51 10.8 Adjusting the monitor brightness............52 Overlay menu..................53 Web remote..................55 Home screen..................57 13.1 Status section..................59 13.2 ALERT messages................61 13.3...
  • Page 5 Contents Camera menu..................101 MENU > Recording................102 15.1 Recording Codec................102 15.2 Resolution..................102 15.3 Project settings.................. 103 15.3.1 Project rate..................103 15.3.2 Next reel count.................. 104 15.3.3 Camera Index..................104 15.3.4 Camera ID prefix................104 15.4 Record mode..................104 15.5 Rec beeper / tally................
  • Page 6 Contents 18.6 WiFi....................134 18.7 Wireless remote system..............135 18.8 Camera update..................136 MENU > Setup..................137 MENU > User buttons............... 138 MENU > Metadata................141 Camera preparation................142 22.1 Adjusting the MVF-1................142 22.2 Mounting to a bridge plate..............143 Assembly and retrofits..............146 23.1 MVF-1 and EVF cable...............146 23.2...

  • Page 7: For Your Safety / 为了您的安全

    For your safety / 为了您的安全 For your safety / 为了您的安全 Before use, please ensure that all users comprehensively read, understand, and follow the instructions in this document. / 使用前，请确保所有的用户都已经阅读、理 解，并遵循本文档内的操作说明。 Risk levels and alert symbols / 危险级别和警示标志 Safety warnings, safety alert symbols, and signal words in these instructions indicate different risk levels: DANGER! DANGER indicates an imminent hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will...

  • Page 8: Vital Precautions / 重要安全措施

    For operation, always use a power source as indicated in the instructions. Always unplug the power cable by gripping the power plug, not the cable. Never try to repair. All repair work should be done by a qualified ARRI Service Center.

  • Page 9: General Precautions / 般安全措施

    Protect the sensor: Always keep a lens or protective cap on the empty lens mount. Change lenses in dry, dust-free environments only. Always clean the sensor cover glass according to ARRI instructions. Only use the tools, materials and procedures recommended in this document. For...
  • Page 10 For your safety / 为了您的安全 提示 即使本摄影机非常坚固，也是由敏感的组件所组成的，请谨慎使用。 当改变摄影机安装支撑设备或系统时（特别是更换电缆），请务必断开摄影机电源。 注意保护光学系统和影像传感器：切勿将摄影机或取景器直接面朝直射阳光。 避免对影像传感器造成永久性伤害：切勿让任何来自高能量光源（例如激光）的直射 光或反 射光进入摄影机的光路系统。 注意保护影像影像传感器：空镜头卡口上务必安装镜头或保护盖。更换镜头时，务必 在干燥、 无尘的环境中进行。 请完全并仅按照用户手册中所描述的方法来清洁影像传感器保护玻璃。若清洁不成 功，请咨 询ARRI 维修中心。切勿尝试打开保护玻璃。 清洁影像传感器保护玻璃时，务必遵守ARRI说明书中描述的方法。 仅使用本文档中建议使用的工具、材料和操作方法。若要正确地使用其他设备，请参 阅其制 造商的说明书。...

  • Page 11: Audience And Intended Use

    Use the product only for the purpose described in this document. Always follow the valid instructions and system requirements for all equipment involved. The ALEXA Mini is a 35 mm digital camera solely and exclusively for recording images at various resolutions suitable for a variety of distribution formats: ProRes 422, ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 4444, ProRes 4444 XQ, and ARRIRAW* •...

  • Page 12: Scope Of Delivery And Warranty

    ARRI offers an increasing variety of product bundles and additional accessories. For details, please consult our website or your local ARRI Service Partner. Warranty For scope of warranty, please ask your local ARRI Service Partner. ARRI is not liable for consequences from inadequate shipment, improper use, or third-party products.

  • Page 13: New Features And Changes In Sup 3.0

    Scope of delivery and warranty New features and changes in SUP 3.0 This list is valid for cameras upgraded from SUP 2.6 to SUP 3.0. See previous user manuals for a list of previous new features and changes. New features Multicam interface •...

  • Page 14: Camera Layout

    Camera layout Camera layout Right Fan intake LBUS connector integrated WiFi antenna I/O panel...
  • Page 15 Camera layout Left Function button Camera buttons 1-3 Recording button Status LED...
  • Page 16 Camera layout MAP-1 MVB-1 MVF-1 buttons Record button...
  • Page 17 Camera layout Bottom MVF-1 type label PLAY button Camera type labels LBUS connector...
  • Page 18 Camera layout Front RMB-3 Lens mount (here: titanium PL) LBUS connector Audio connector...
  • Page 19 Camera layout Back Fold-away monitor (MVF-1) OLED eyepiece Timecode connector White radio antenna I/O panel Media panel (CFast 2.0 card slot, USB) Ethernet connector Boot status LED Power button Recording status LED Fan outlet CAUTION! Hot surfaces! Risk of injury and damage! During extended operation or operation in high ambient temperatures, the fan outlet at the camera rear, the CFast drive and the CFast card can get hot.

  • Page 20: Product Identification

    Camera layout Product identification The FCC conformity label and the CE type label with serial number (1) are on the camera bottom. The serial number consists of the last 5 digits of the equipment number K1.0003873-XXXXX.

  • Page 21: Power Supply

    Power supply Power supply The camera power is supplied by external power sources only. NOTICE If the power supply is interrupted with the camera switched on, the camera will automatically repower and boot-up on reconnection. Use the 8-pin LEMO connector and a KC50-S or KC50-SP-S ca- ble to supply the camera with 10.5 to 34 V DC.

  • Page 22: Switching On/Off

    For mounted MVF-1 only: During the boot process, the ARRI logo appears in the monitor of the MVF-1 (4). To switch off the camera: ► Press and hold the power button (1) until the camera has switched off and the boot status LED (2) turns off.
  • Page 23 Switching on/off To check the recording status The recording status is indicated as follows: Record status LED (3) is... Camera is... solid green ready for recording solid red recording not ready for recording. Check, if the CFast 2.0 card is valid. If not: Insert a valid CFast 2.0 card.

  • Page 24: Connectors

    Connecting or disconnecting devices or cables while recording can disturb the audio/image signal due to static electricity. Front connectors Audio in L-Bus Audio in (5-pin LEMO) 2-channel line level audio input. LBUS (4-pin LEMO) LBUS output for daisy-chainable active lens motors. Supports CMotion cforce motor and ARRI cforce mini motor.

  • Page 25: I/O Panel

    Connectors I/O panel NOTICE If the power supply is interrupted with the camera switched on, the camera will automatically repower and boot-up on reconnection. Timecode connector BAT main power in White radio antenna EXT connector MVF-1 Ethernet connector HD-SDI image out 1 & 2 TC (5-pin LEMO) The TC connector is a 5-pin LEMO socket.
  • Page 26 ETH (10-pin LEMO) Standard Ethernet connectors don't deliver the durability and re- liability required by ARRI, so ALEXA Mini uses a 10-pin LEMO connector. A special cable, available from ARRI (model KC-153- S), is required to connect the Ethernet connector to a standard...

  • Page 27: Media Panel

    Connectors Media panel Status LED CFast 2.0 card slot Card (CFast 2.0) Storage media slot for CFast 2.0 recording cards. Interface for USB memory sticks with FAT file system. Can also be used to charge USB devices. Supplies 5V with a maximum current of 500mA.

  • Page 28: Preparing A Usb Memory Stick

    Connectors 7.3.1 Preparing a USB memory stick USB memory sticks for the ALEXA Mini must have a specific folder structure which can be created with the camera. 1. To prepare a USB memory stick: Open the media lid (1). 2. Connect a FAT-formatted USB stick (3) to the camera (2).

  • Page 29: Changing A Cfast 2.0 Card

    NOTICE ALEXA Mini does not accept ALEXA-formatted CFAST 2.0 cards, and vice versa. Before using a CFAST 2.0 card with ALEXA Mini, you must erase it in-camera to create the required file system Avoid damage to the contacts of both camera and card. Always insert cards as described in this document.
  • Page 30 Connectors 5. For card removal: Open the lid (1). 6. Push the card in until it audibly unlocks (2). 7. Remove the card.

  • Page 31: Lens Mount/Filters

    For detailed info, please contact Cooke Optics directly. ND filter module NOTICE ALEXA Mini uses FSND (Full Spectrum Neutral Density) filters, which are linear across the full spectrum of the camera sensor. This prevents artifacts from infrared wavelengths and the need for additional IR filters.

  • Page 32: Changing A Lens

    Lens mount/filters Changing a lens NOTICE Protect the sensor: Always keep a lens or protective cap on the empty lens mount. Change lenses in dry, dust-free environments only. Never exceed the maximum lens dimensions. Have every lens properly shimmed as prescribed by the manufacturer. PL mount Note: Please use a lens support system for EF lenses above 3 kg/6.6 lbs.

  • Page 33: Lens Control

    Lens mount/filters EF mount Note: Please use a lens support system for EF lenses above 3 kg/6.6 lbs. 1. Observe maximum lens dimensions. 2. Turn the lever counter-clockwise (1) to unlock the mount. 3. Either: Remove the cap. 4. Or: Press and hold the button (2) to unlock the lens. 5.
  • Page 34 Lens mount/filters Pressing the wheel (1) changes the step size between full and sub-stops (2). Note: Sub-stop precision depends on the lens type and is automatically set by the camera. On the live screen, you can activate and deactivate iris adjustment (1) by short- pressing the lower round (not oval!) button (2).

  • Page 35: Iris Control Via User Button

    Lens mount/filters 8.3.2 Iris control via user button MENU > User button > Button X For iris control, assign one user button each with Open Iris and Close Iris. See page 138.

  • Page 36: Auto Iris

    Lens mount/filters 8.3.3 Auto iris HOME > EI > IRIS > OPTIONS Via jogwheel (1), you can define the auto iris behavior. Auto iris mode: Defines the iris calculation: Integral: Iris is calculated based on full image content. • Center: Iris is calculated with higher priority on image center. •...

  • Page 37: Camera Controls

    Camera controls Camera controls Function button with status LED Camera buttons 1-3 with status LEDs Recording button Recording status LED Function button FN and camera buttons 1-3 Camera buttons as user buttons: By default, the camera buttons 1-3 function as user buttons. 1.
  • Page 38 Camera controls Camera buttons to control standard camera functions: ► Press and hold the function button (1); then press a camera button (2). If a simultaneous press cannot be performed, the FN button can be pressed twice within 0.5 seconds to bring the camera buttons into function selection mode for 2 seconds.

  • Page 39: Recording Button

    Camera controls Overlay menu The overlay menu allows the user to control the basic camera parameters FPS, Shutter, Exposure Index, ND filter and WB. It can be activated and deactivated by pressing the buttons FN+1. The overlay menu is active on the EVF and monitor images of the MVF-1, as well on the SDI out (if SDI processing is activated).
  • Page 40 Camera controls Recording status Camera is... LED (2) is... flashing green/red not ready for recording due to an error. alternaterly 3. For mounted MVF-1 only: Press REC (1) on the MVF-1: NOTICE Never change memory cards when recording - this may damage the recorded clip. NOTICE Connecting or disconnecting devices or cables while recording can disturb the audio/image signal due to static electricity.

  • Page 41: Controls

    The sensor is placed either on the bottom left-hand side of the viewfinder (Generation 1), or it is integrated in the eye cup (Generation 2). The Alexa Mini MVF-1 contains the generation 2 proximity sensor. NOTICE...

  • Page 42: Evf Image/Monitor

    MVF-1 controls 10.1 EVF image/monitor When you look through the eyepiece, the proximity sensor (3) activates the EVF display (2). You can add status data from the home screen (1) to the MVF-1 image (2). If activated, overlays around the EVF image show essential camera, audio, and recording statuses.

  • Page 43: Buttons

    MVF-1 controls Safe mode In Safe mode, all status bars appear in a black frame (1) outside the active MVF-1 image. Note: If surround view is active, the area is marked by a surround mask. NOTICE When using overlay mode without surround view, the status is overlayed to the recorded image with a semi-transparent background.

  • Page 44: Exp Exposure Tool Button

    MVF-1 controls 10.2.2 EXP exposure tool button The EXP button (2) activates the set exposure tool on the monitor (1) and EVF image (3). Use the tool for evaluation of the image exposure levels. An activated tool lights up the button (2). For EXP setting: Go to MENU >...

  • Page 45: Vf1 & Vf2 User Buttons

    MVF-1 controls 10.2.3 VF1 & VF2 user buttons 1. Via the user button menu (see "Presetting user (and VF) buttons"), you can assign a function to both VF1 and VF2 buttons (1). 10.2.4 PLAY button 1. Press PLAY (1) for one second to see the last clip of the active CFast 2.0 card. Playback is active on monitor, on EVF and on SDI out.

  • Page 46: Playback Screen Controls

    MVF-1 controls 10.2.4.1 Playback screen controls Playback loads the last active clip (paused on the first frame). • Press ARROW (7) to hide/show button info overlays • To toggle between PLAY/PAUSE: Press the lower mid screen button (5) or the •...
  • Page 47 MVF-1 controls 3. Additional information on the selected clip shows (3): Codec: ProRes codec of clip recording. ° HD/2K/3.2K/4K UHD: Clip format. ° Duration: Clip duration at playback speed. ° Rec FPS: Sensor frame rate of clip recording. ° Project rate: Playback frame rate of clip. °...

  • Page 48: Diopter Adjustment

    MVF-1 controls 10.3 Diopter adjustment ► Twist the ring left or right for diopter adjustment (1). 10.4 Adjusting the monitor ► Fold (1), swivel (2) and flip (3) the monitor according to your needs.

  • Page 49: Changing The Monitor Mode

    MVF-1 controls 10.5 Changing the monitor mode 1. To change the monitor mode between live view and user interface: Press M (1). 2. In live mode, toggle the status bar content (1) via the lower buttons. 3. Via the camera menu, you can activate a location sensor that automatically flips the user interface to match a left- or right-sided monitor position (3).

  • Page 50: Live Monitor

    MVF-1 controls 10.6 Live monitor Below the camera live image, the live screen shows image and camera status. You can toggle the bar's content via the left or right oval button below. The center oval button returns you to the main status bar. Surround mask Exposure index Camera temperature warning (warning=red) 7...

  • Page 51: User Monitor

    MVF-1 controls 10.7 User monitor Screen buttons and jogwheel There are eight screen buttons, four above (2) and four below (3) the display (4). Their function depends on the screen content (4) and is labeled directly above or below each button. Unlabeled buttons have no function for that screen.

  • Page 52: Adjusting The Monitor Brightness

    MVF-1 controls 10.8 Adjusting the monitor brightness 1. Open the home screen. 2. Via jogwheel (1), open MENU > Monitoring > EVF/Monitor > Settings. 3. Scroll to Monitor brightness. 4. Press the jogwheel. 5. Adjust the brightness by scrolling to the required value: 1 (= minimum) to 10 (= maximum).

  • Page 53: Overlay Menu

    Exit the overlay menu by pressing FN + 1. Transvideo StarliteHD5-ARRI The Transvideo Starlite HD5-ARRI monitor (K2.0006960) is a 5" 3G-SDI Oled monitor with an integrated H.264 recorder, a touchscreen and a special ARRI bus interface to communicate with the camera.
  • Page 54 Connect the bus interface cable to the EXT port of the camera. Activate the overlay menu by pressing the "ARRI" touch icon on the monitor. Select a parameter with arrow icons of the monitor.

  • Page 55: Web Remote

    Web remote Web remote ALEXA Mini has a web remote function for full remote control of the camera with a web browser (tested with: Google Chrome 39 and Mozilla Firefox 34). It requires a connection to the camera via WiFi or Ethernet (with ALEXA Ethernet/RJ-45 Cable KC-153-S, K2.72021.0).
  • Page 56 Web remote MAIN: Contains the same UI as the camera monitor (no live screen). Click/tap the screen button tabs to enter a screen/trigger a function. Menu items can be clicked/ tapped directly. PLAY: Starts playback on the camera. Provides the same controls as the MVF-1, but no video signal.

  • Page 57: Home Screen

    Home screen Home screen The home screen gives access to essential camera parameters and statuses. Oval screen buttons and a jogwheel allow quick parameter editing. To return to the home screen from any other screen: Press HOME. MENU jogwheel WB button ALERT message button LOOK button FPS button...

  • Page 58: Info Button

    Shows the current EI rating and active ND filter value. Allows you to set the exposure index in ASA. Base sensitivity for the ALEXA Mini is 800 ASA. The EI rating can be adjusted from 160 to 3200 ASA. Note: ASA and ISO ratings are identical.

  • Page 59: Status Section

    Home screen 13.1 Status section The status section on the home screen shows key data on recording, voltage, lockings, etc.: Status icons Card status Audio meters Recording status Codec/resolution Battery voltage Camera status WiFi, CAL and LDS icons WiFi: Camera WiFi is active. CAL: Info on lens motor calibration: Orange: Lens motor calibration required •...
  • Page 60 Home screen Camera icon White camera icon: Grab is active. Orange camera icon: Grab failed. Typically cause by missing USB. GEN icon Visible if Genlock is activated via MENU > System > Genlock. Icon color shows the Genlock status. White: Genlock active •...

  • Page 61: Alert Messages

    Home screen 13.2 ALERT messages NOTICE ALERT messages communicate critical system states to the user. They require immediate action and remain active until the critical state changes back to normal. 1. A red exclamation mark, visible on the homescreen, the monitor, EVF or SDI overlays (if active), indicates available alert state messages.

  • Page 62: Info Screens

    Home screen 13.3 Info screens HOME > i Pressing the [i] button opens the INFO list that offers access to detailed information / subscreens: Version info • System info • CARD info • USB info • Network info • Lens data •...
  • Page 63 Home screen Lens mount version: SW version of lens mount. System info Time + Date: Current system time and date of camera. Camera serial no.: Serial number of camera. Operating hours: Total operational time of camera in hours:minutes. Sensor temperature: Current temperature of image sensor. Sensor temp.
  • Page 64 Home screen USB info USB Status: Status of USB medium. Storage free/total: Shows free and total available storage on USB medium in megabyte. Frame line files: Shows the number of frame line files on the USB medium, and the maximum number of files recognizable by the camera. License files: Shows the number of license files on the USB medium, and the maximum number of files recognizable by the camera.
  • Page 65 Home screen Lens data Lens status: Status/type of lens connected to camera. Model: Lens model name according to manufacturer. #SN: Serial number of lens Focal length: Focal length of lens in mm. May change with a zoom lens. Focus: Current focus distance value of lens according to user preference setting of distance unit (metric/imperial), which can be changed with the FOCUS UNIT button on the bottom of the screen.
  • Page 66 Home screen Export logfiles Logfiles help the camera service to analyze problems. Under normal circumstances, logfile export is not required. Export update logfiles Similar to normal logfiles, update logfiles help the camera service to analyze problems during the update process. Under normal circumstances, their export is not required. Export user manual This screen allows to export the camera quick guide and user manual in .pdf format to the USB stick.

  • Page 67: Fps Settings

    Home screen 13.4 FPS settings NOTICE Always use CFast 2.0 cards with maximum write rates. 60-GB cards are slower than 120-GB cards and may limit the fps (depending on the currently set codec). The maximum possible frame rate may be limited by the set recording codec, recording resolution and CFAST card model.

  • Page 68: Deleting An Fps Value

    Home screen 3. Upon pressing ADD, an editor opens. 4. Create a value with the jogwheel (1): Scroll up or down to increase/decrease. ° Press the wheel to select the next digit (2). ° For the previous digit: Press ARROW (5). °...
  • Page 69 Home screen 3. The list turns red. 4. Via jogwheel (1), select the obsolete entry. 5. Note: You cannot select a currently active value. 6. Press DELETE (2). 7. Press CONFIRM (1). Cancel with BACK. 8. The entry is deleted.

  • Page 70: Tc Settings

    Home screen 13.5 TC settings 1. Press TC (1) on the home screen. 2. Current timecode and project rate show. 3. To change the active format: Press OPTIONS (2). 4. To change the project rate via the recording menu: Press PROJECT RATE (3). 5.
  • Page 71 Home screen 7. For TC = 00:00:00:00: Press RESET (3). 8. For TC = current system time: Press SET TO TIME (4). 9. Via jogwheel (1), you can change each value: Scroll up or down to increase/decrease. ° Press the wheel to select the next digit pair (5). °...
  • Page 72 Home screen TC options Run mode Rec run: Timecode increases during recording only. Free run: Timecode increases with every new frame. Note: Only possible if sensor fps = project fps. Otherwise, the camera temporarily switches to Rec run. Mode Note: You can edit Timecode only in Preset mode. The Regen mode disables EDIT. Preset: The camera uses its internal counter.

  • Page 73: Shutter Settings

    Home screen 13.6 SHUTTER settings You can select your preferred shutter unit: Shutter angle converts exposure time into the angle of a virtual rotating mirror shutter as in film cameras. Note: A fixed angle creates varying exposure times with varying frame rates. You can set angles from 5.0 to 356.0 degrees.

  • Page 74: Setting/Adding A Shutter Value

    Home screen 2. Confirm with OK (1). 3. The camera returns to the home screen. 4. The shutter unit has changed (e.g. from time to angle). Note: How to adjust the shutter for filming a monitor 1. Set unit to angle. 2.
  • Page 75 Home screen SHUTTER list 1. Via jogwheel (1), scroll to the required value. 2. Press the wheel (1) to activate the value. If the value is not listed: Press ADD (2). Note: ADD is disabled on reaching the maximum number of 16 list entries. 3.

  • Page 76: Deleting A Shutter Value

    Home screen 13.6.3 Deleting a SHUTTER value 1. Open the SHUTTER list (here: angle). 2. Press DELETE (1). 3. The list turns red. 4. Via jogwheel (1), select the obsolete entry. 5. Note: You cannot select a currently active value. 6.
  • Page 77 Home screen 7. Press CONFIRM (1). Cancel with BACK. 8. The entry is deleted.

  • Page 78: Wb Settings

    Home screen 13.7 WB settings 13.7.1 Setting/adding a WB value 1. Press WB (1) on the home screen. WB list 1. Via jogwheel (1), scroll to the required value. 2. Press the wheel (1) to activate the value. If the value is not listed: Press ADD (2). Note: ADD is disabled on reaching the maximum number of 16 list entries.

  • Page 79: Renaming A Wb Value

    Home screen 3. Upon pressing ADD, an editor opens. 4. Create the WB and CC values with the jogwheel (1). Scroll up or down to increase/decrease. ° Press the jogwheel to select the next digit. ° 5. Press ADD TO LIST (2) to save the changes. Cancel with BACK. 13.7.2 Renaming a WB value 1.

  • Page 80: Deleting A Wb Value

    Home screen 5. An editor opens: Aa (7) toggles between upper/lower case. ° ERASE (3) deletes the selected character. ° ARROW buttons move the cursor back (2) and forth (4). ° 6. Via jogwheel (1), select/confirm characters to form a name. 7.
  • Page 81 Home screen 3. The list turns red. 4. Via jogwheel (1), select the obsolete entry. 5. Note: You cannot select a currently active value. 6. Press DELETE (2). 7. Press CONFIRM (1). Cancel with BACK. 8. The entry is deleted.

  • Page 82: Wb Options

    Home screen 13.7.4 WB Options Press OPTIONS on the WB switch screen. Auto WB mode: Sets the calculation method of auto white balance. "AW auto white balance button". Matrix analyzes the full image and uses the image part best suited for WB calculation, while Center uses the image center area only.

  • Page 83: Look And Gamma Settings

    (skintone protection). ALEXA Classic 709 (requires premium license): Matches the color reproduction of ALEXA Mini to the ARRI ALEXA. To create look files for the camera, download the free Mac OS utility ARRI Color Tool from the ARRI website: https://www.arri.com/camera/amira/tools/arri_color_tool/ 13.8.1 Setting the LOOK file...
  • Page 84 Home screen 2. Press the jogwheel (1).

  • Page 85: Setting Gamma

    Home screen LOOK list 1. Via jogwheel (1), scroll to the required look. 2. Press the jogwheel (1) to activate the look. If the look is not listed: Press ADD (2). For details, see page 87. ° Note: ADD is disabled on reaching the maximum number of list entries. °...
  • Page 86 (LUT). Create preview LUTs with the ARRI LUT Generator at www.arridigital.com. LOOK Applies a video display gamma to camera images. The default ARRI 709 look complies with the ITU.R-BT709 standard for display on standard broadcast monitors.

  • Page 87: Adding A Look File

    1. Save all look files to be added on a properly prepared USB memory stick, in the folder /ARRI/A-MINI/LOOKFILES. 2. Open the media lid (1). 3. Connect the USB memory (3) to the camera (2).

  • Page 88: Deleting A Look File

    7. A list of default look files appears. 8. If sufficiently licensed: Press USB (2) or DEFAULTS (3) to select a file source: DEFAULTS: ARRI default look files delivered with the camera. ° USB: User look files on the camera USB stick.
  • Page 89 Home screen 1. Open the list of installed looks. 2. Note: REC 709 is pre-installed and non-deletable. 3. Press DELETE (1). 4. The list turns red. 5. Via jogwheel (1), select the obsolete entry. 6. Press DELETE (2). 7. Press CONFIRM (1). Cancel with BACK.

  • Page 90: Exporting A Look File

    Home screen 8. The entry is deleted. 13.8.5 Exporting a LOOK file...
  • Page 91 Home screen 1. Properly prepare a USB memory stick. 2. Open the media lid (1). 3. Connect the USB memory (3) to the camera (2). HOME > LOOK > SET LOOK 4. Open the list of installed looks. 5. Press EXPORT (1). 6.

  • Page 92: Duplicating/Renaming A Look File

    Home screen 13.8.6 Duplicating/renaming a LOOK file NOTICE By duplication you can create a new look based on an existing one. For a new look from scratch, duplicate REC 709 and edit its parameters. Except for REC 709, you can rename all look files. 1.

  • Page 93: Look Editing

    Home screen 1. Open the list of installed looks. 2. Via jogwheel (1), scroll to the required file. 3. Confirm by pressing the jogwheel. 4. Press DUPLICATE (2) and/or RENAME (3). 5. An editor opens: Aa (7) toggles between upper/lower case. °...
  • Page 94 Home screen 1. On home screen, press LOOK (see above) 2. Press LOOK PARAM. (1). 3. All look parameters appear. 4. For details, see page 96. 5. Look files with a 3D-LUT offer no VIDEO parameters. 6. Press EDIT (1).
  • Page 95 Home screen 7. A warning on file overwriting appears. 8. Press OK (1) to close the warning. 9. An editor opens. 10. Via jogwheel (1), scroll to the required parameter. 11. A black frame (2) marks your selection. 12. Pressing the lower right screen button (3) toggles the edit step size between 0.001, 0.01, and 0.1.

  • Page 96: Look Parameters

    Black Gamma, Gamma, Knee, Saturation, Saturation by Hue affect VIDEO images. ASC CDL parameters are applied to the image before VIDEO parameters. Please refer to the ARRI white paper on color parameters (for download at www.arri.com). Note: All look transforms, including ASC CDL, are applied in the conversion from Log C to Video color space.

  • Page 97: Asc Cdl Transforms

    CDL), they offer an exchange format for basic look transformations between color correction systems and editing tools by different manufacturers. The ALEXA Mini image processing applies ASC CDL transforms to the Log C encoded image. This allows manipulations such as exposure correction or bringing down highlights, before the picture is converted to the display color space with its steeper contrast curve.

  • Page 98: Ei Settings

    Home screen Black gamma The black gamma controls the shadow detail in the image. Values below 0.5 (default) bring down, higher values brighten the blacks. Black gamma is applied as master control. It only affects the mid gray level for very high values. Gamma This setting can be used to brighten or darken the mid tones, while leaving the black and white level unchanged.
  • Page 99 Home screen 2. Select a value with the jogwheel (1): Scroll up or down to increase/decrease. ° Press the jogwheel (1) to confirm. Cancel with BACK. ° In this screen, the ND filter can be set via screen buttons. No confirmation necessary.

  • Page 100: Ei Technical Details

    Due to its high dynamic range, the ALEXA Mini's sensitivity can be set from 160 to 3200 ASA in steps of 1/3 stops while maintaining high image quality: Applying the exposure indexes at the extremes of the range will nonetheless have an influence on the images.

  • Page 101: Camera Menu

    Camera menu Camera menu The camera menu on the monitor gives access to all camera functionalities not on the home screen. 1. To access the menu: Press the jogwheel (1) while on the home screen. 1. Via jogwheel (1), scroll up or down to the required entry (3). 2.

  • Page 102: Menu > Recording

    MENU > Recording MENU > Recording 15.1 Recording Codec MENU > Recording > Recording codec Allows you to select one of the following recording codecs: Recording codec Color coding Bit rate * ProRes 422 LT 10 bit YCbCr 90 Mb/s ProRes 422 10 bit YCbCr 125 Mb/s...

  • Page 103: Project Settings

    MENU > Recording 15.3 Project settings 15.3.1 Project rate MENU > Recording > Project settings > Project rate Offers the following options for setting a Timecode time base and playback frame rate: Project rate Scan format Sensor real-time recording 23.976p Progressive 23.976 fps Progressive...

  • Page 104: Next Reel Count

    MENU > Recording > Project settings > Next reel count Sets the reel number assigned to the next new internal recording medium. A new medium is either a blank card or a card with reels of other ALEXA Mini cameras. 15.3.3 Camera Index MENU >...

  • Page 105: Rec Beeper / Tally

    MENU > Recording Interval recording parameters Interval length The duration the camera waits between every burst of images it captures. Set in hours:minutes:seconds. Maximum interval length is 2:00:00. Burst length The number of frames that are captured by the camera for each burst. Maximum number of frames is 2000.

  • Page 106: Pre-Recording

    MENU > Recording 15.6 Pre-recording NOTICE Pre-recording requires the assignation of a user button to activate Pre-recording buffers images for up to 20 seconds of real-time instead of recording them to the CFast cards. When pre-recording is activated, pressing REC writes the buffered images to the CFast card.
  • Page 107 MENU > Recording ProRes 4444 XQ buffer durations 4K UHD 25 fps 9.0 s 2.1 s 29.97 fps 7.5 s 1.7 s 100 fps 2.1 s 0.8 s (at maximum frame rate of 60 fps) 200 fps 1.8 s (at maximum frame rate of 120 fps) ProRes 4444 buffer durations 4K UHD...

  • Page 108: Audio Recording

    MENU > Recording 15.7 Audio recording 1. Audio recording: Sets audio recording On or Off. 2. Channel 1/2 control: Sets control mode of channel to Manual, Manual+Limiter or Auto. 3. Channel 1/2 gain: Sets gain of channel in Manual and Manual+Limiter control mode between 0 and +30 dB.

  • Page 109: Menu > Media

    MENU > Media MENU > Media In the media menu, you can erase the CFast card, delete footage, and prepare correct ALEXA folders on USB memory sticks. 16.1 Erase CARD NOTICE Irreversibly erases all data from the CFast 2.0 card. Requires prior confirmation. Card ejection during erasure, or interrupting the camera power supply, may render the card unusable.
  • Page 110 MENU > Media 4. Wait for card to erase. 5. Successful erasure creates a green message. 6. Failures create a red message.

  • Page 111: Delete Last Clip

    MENU > Media 16.2 Delete last clip MENU > Media > Delete last clip Deletes the last recorded (not always the last listed) clip on the CFast 2.0 card. Requires prior confirmation. Note: On a card recorded with two different cameras, the last recorded clip might be listed in the middle of the clip table.

  • Page 112: Prepare Usb Medium

    MENU > Media 5. If required: Delete another clip. 16.3 Prepare USB medium NOTICE You can add all user-defined files only from a correctly prepared USB memory stick with a proper folder structure. This action will not alter existing folders and files. Before use with the camera, prepare all USB memory sticks as described in this document.
  • Page 113 MENU > Media MENU > Media > Prepare USB medium USB memory sticks for the ALEXA Mini must have a specific folder structure which can be created with the camera. 1. To prepare a USB memory stick: Open the media lid (1).
  • Page 114 MENU > Media 5. A message asks for your confirmation. 6. Press CONFIRM (1) to create the required ALEXA Mini folder structure: ARRI / A-MINI / FRAMELINES: for frame line imports to camera GRABS: for grabbed still frames LICENSES: for license file installation...

  • Page 115: Menu > Monitoring

    MENU > Monitoring MENU > Monitoring The monitoring menu covers all settings related to EVF, Monitor and SDI, as well as frame lines and other overlays on these outputs. Color bars: Activates a SMPTE color bar on SDI outputs. 17.1 EVF/Monitor MENU >...

  • Page 116: Zoom Position

    MENU > Monitoring 17.1.2 Zoom position MENU > Monitoring > EVF/Monitor > Zoom position Sets the sensor image area to be magnified by zoom. Activation by user button. Centered: For zooms into the image center. Eye level: For zooms into the upper image which, e.g. in a close-up, typically contains a person's eyes.

  • Page 117: Peaking

    MENU > Monitoring MENU > Monitoring > Exposure tools > Zebra setup Zebra mode: Sets the zebra mode to High, Mid, or both. High zebra level: Sets the exposure level (in %) above which high zebra is active. High zebra color: Sets the pattern color. Mid zebra range: Sets the active range (in %) around a mid zebra level.

  • Page 118: Settings

    MENU > Monitoring Peaking mode: Toggles between color peaking (to overlay in-focus areas with a color), and aperture peaking (to enhance object edges only). Peaking level: Sets a peaking strength from 1 (= minimum) to 20 (= maximum). Peaking offset shift: Adjusts the threshold for color peaking to set in, relative to the peaking level.
  • Page 119 MENU > Monitoring These almost identical menus overlay the monitor, the viewfinder, and the SDI with essential visual tools. Note: The illustration shows the menu for the viewfinder. Frame lines: Sets frame lines On or Off. Used as a framing reference tool with typically an image frame, a center mark, and aspect ratio.

  • Page 120: Sdi

    MENU > Monitoring 17.2 SDI MENU > Monitoring > SDI UHD mode: MENU > Monitoring > SDI * Configures the SDI outputs (based on 1920x1080 image raster). In 4K UHD and 3.2K modes, SDI 1 and 2 can be configured independently. SDI format: Toggles the SDI signal between different formats, sampling structures and color modes: 422 1.5G: 4:2:2, YCbCR, 1920x1080...
  • Page 121 MENU > Monitoring Progressive (p): Transmits images line by line starting at the top-left pixel • Progessive segmented frame (psf): Splits progressive images into fields (odd • lines and even lines). Transmits these (all odd before all even) line by line Interlaced (i): Creates two fields from two adjacent progressive frames (odd •...

  • Page 122: Frame Lines

    The camera contains a set of default frame lines with standard aspect ratios. You can also create import external frame lines in XML format. Try the frame line composer on the ARRI website. MENU > Monitoring > Frame lines Frame line: Sets the aspect ratio of a frame line.

  • Page 123: Setting/Adding A Frame Line

    1. Via jogwheel, open MENU > Monitoring > Frame lines > Frame line. 2. A list of installed frame lines appears. 3. Scroll to the required entry (here: ARRI 1.66). 4. Confirm by pressing the jogwheel (1). 5. If a required entry is not listed: Press ADD (2).
  • Page 124 MENU > Monitoring 10. For external frame files: Store the required file(s) into ARRI/A-MINI/ FRAMELINES on a properly prepared USB memory stick. See page 114. 11. Open the media lid (1). 12. Connect the memory stick (3) to the camera (2).
  • Page 125 MENU > Monitoring 13. Only then, press USB (2). 14. Via jogwheel (1), select and install all required frame lines.

  • Page 126: Deleting A Frame Line

    MENU > Monitoring 17.3.2 Deleting a frame line MENU > Monitoring > Frame lines > Frame line 1. Via jogwheel, open MENU > Monitoring > Frame lines > Frame line. 2. Press DELETE (1). 3. The list turns red. 4. Via jogwheel (1), select the obsolete entry. 5.

  • Page 127: User Rectangle 1 & 2

    MENU > Monitoring 6. Press CONFIRM (1). Cancel with BACK. 7. The entry is deleted. 17.3.3 User rectangle 1 & 2 MENU > Monitoring > Frame lines > User Rectangle 1 & 2 Configures Width, Height and Offset (= position from left/right screen edge) in per mille.

  • Page 128: Color Bars

    MENU > Monitoring 17.4 Color bars Activates a SMPTE color bar on SDI outs. Note: Recording deactivates the color bar.

  • Page 129: Menu > System

    MENU > System MENU > System The system menu organizes the general camera setup. Sensor: Sets sensor related parameters. Fan mode: Adapts the camera cooling to several shooting situations. Power: Edits the thresholds for critical voltage levels and other warnings. System time + date: For synchronizing the system to timezones etc.

  • Page 130: Fan Mode

    NOTICE User pixel masks can be created with the ARRIRAW Converter for Mac and Windows, available for download from the ARRI website. Please refer to the ARRI website and the ARRIRAW Converter documentation for additional information. 18.2 Fan mode MENU >...
  • Page 131 MENU > System Regular: Creates a balance between fan noise and camera temperature. Rec low: Increases fan speed during standby to pre-cool the camera. Minimizes fan speed/noise during recording. Note: Ideal in an environment warmer than 25 °C (77 °F). Low Noise: Minimizes fan noise during both standby and recording.

  • Page 132: Power

    MENU > System 18.3 Power MENU > System > Power BAT in warning: Sets the voltage level that triggers a power warning for external batteries on the BAT connector. 18.4 System time + date MENU > System > System time + date Note: Timezone and Daylight savings time do not change time and date settings.

  • Page 133: Buttons + Display

    MENU > System 18.5 Buttons + display MENU > System > Buttons + display Display style: Changes the display style between Day and Night mode. Button brightness: Sets the brightness of the button illumination in a range of 0 to 3.

  • Page 134: Wifi

    MENU > System 18.6 WiFi MENU > System > WiFi Power: Sets power of camera WiFi on or off. WiFi password: Sets the WiFi password. Note: WiFi passwords must be 8-32 characters long. Wireless region setting:Navigates to a sub-screen, where the wireless region setting can be set.

  • Page 135: Wireless Remote System

    MENU > System 18.7 Wireless remote system The wireless remote system menu screen controls the WRS white radio settings. The WRS system connects the camera to electronic accessories like the WCU-4 for wireless camera and lens remote control. Power: Switches white radio module power on or off. Channel: Sets the channel of the WRS module.

  • Page 136: Camera Update

    MENU > System CAUTION! Wireless region settings specify where the wireless function can be used in compliance with local regulations . It may be illegal to use the wireless function in a region other than specified in the setting. Please ensure that the region is configured correctly (e.g.

  • Page 137: Menu > Setup

    MENU > Setup Setups allow you to store/load full camera configurations. Save current setup to USB: Stores the configuration on the USB stick (ARRI/A-MINI/ SETUPS). You can rename this user setup file beforehand. Save current setup as default: Stores the current configuration on the camera.

  • Page 138: Menu > User Buttons

    Lens RET: RET button of ENG lens. Requires special lens. If not supported by lens, "(n/a)" is shown benhind menu entry. * Configuration valid for WCU-4 connected to ALEXA Mini. WCU-4 with sw version 2.0 does not support smart behavior of buttons.
  • Page 139 MENU > User buttons MENU > User buttons > WCU user buttons User/VF button functions The following user and VF button functions are available: Off: Disables the user button • EVF+Mon. Zoom: Switches the viewfinder zoom function on or off*. Supports •...
  • Page 140 GPIO box The ARRI GPIO box (GPB-1, K.2.0007642) can be used as an interface to the camera for external user buttons. It connects to the camera via the EXT connector and has a 37-pin D-Sub connector carrying 14 GPI (General purpose input) connections plus 2 outputs (camera power status and camera recording status).

  • Page 141: Menu > Metadata

    MENU > Metadata MENU > Metadata Allows you to enter static production metadata to the recorded Quicktime files. Production: Field for the name of the production • Prod. Company: Field for the name of the production company • Director: Field for the director’s name •...

  • Page 142: Camera Preparation

    Camera preparation Camera preparation 22.1 Adjusting the MVF-1 1. Place the camera bottom-up. 2. Slightly loosen the clamp (1) to move the MVF-1 (2) left/right and up/down. 3. Unclamp the hinge (3) to swivel the MVF-1 horizontally. 4. Close all clamps (1, 3) when the MVF-1 is in the desired position (2).

  • Page 143: Mounting To A Bridge Plate

    Camera preparation 22.2 Mounting to a bridge plate To mount the camera to a bridge plate, you need the following accessories and tools: Step Accessory Mount to Tool MAP-2 camera (bottom) 3.0 mm Allen key BAP-4 MAP-2 Flat screwdriver (no coin!) BP-8 BAP-4...
  • Page 144 Camera preparation Step 2: Mounting the BAP-4 to the MAP-2 1. Place the BAP-4 (2) exactly above the mounting points (3) of the MAP-2 (2). 2. With a flat screwdriver, attach the screws (1) to the MAP-2 and tighten. NOTICE Always use a flat screwdriver to connect the BAP-4 to the MAP-2.
  • Page 145 Camera preparation Step 3: Mounting the BP-8 to the BAP-4 1. Place the BP-8 (2) exactly above the mounting points (3) of the BAP-4 (2). 2. With a flat screwdriver, attach the screws (1) to the BAP-4 and tighten. NOTICE Always use a flat screwdriver to connect the BP-8 to the BAP-4.

  • Page 146: Assembly And Retrofits

    Work on an unpowered camera only. 23.1 MVF-1 and EVF cable Connecting the EVF cable to the camera Note: Use original ALEXA Mini-EVF cables only. ► Connect the EVF cable (1) to the camera (16-pin ODU connector (2) on the I/O panel).
  • Page 147 Connecting the EVF cable to the MVF-1 1. Switch off; interrupt the power supply. Note: Use original ALEXA Mini-EVF cables only. 2. With your fingers, unscrew and remove the MVF-1’s lid (1). 3. Connect the cable (2) to the EVF port.

  • Page 148: Camera Handle

    Assembly and retrofits 23.2 Camera handle Tool needed 3.0 mm Allen key • 1. Place the camera handle (1) exactly above the mounting points (3) of the camera. 2. With the Allen key, attach the screws (2) to the camera and tighten. NOTICE Always ensure a proper lock.

  • Page 149: Antenna

    Assembly and retrofits 23.3 Antenna 1. With your fingers, thread the antenna for white radio (1) onto the camera. 2. To unmount: Unthread the antenna (1) with your fingers.

  • Page 150: Changing A Lens Mount

    After each lens mount change, always check the back focus of the camera. Have the back focus always corrected by properly skilled personnel. Back focus correction requires special tools and training that meet ARRI guidelines. For all back focus issues, contact a qualified ARRI Service Center.
  • Page 151 Assembly and retrofits Deinstallation (here: a PL mount) 1. Perform task with care to protect optical surfaces. 2. Crosswise, loosen all four screws (2) with an Allen key. 3. Carefully remove the mount (1). 4. Store the mount in a case for dust protection. Note: To protect the sensor (3), immediately install another original ALEXA lens mount.
  • Page 152 Assembly and retrofits 1. Properly align the two guiding pins (1) for correct lens mount fit (2). Note: Never apply force, align the guiding pins instead. 2. Crosswise, hand-tighten all four screws (1). 3. Only then, tighten all screws crosswise with the Allen key. Note: Always store the camera with a lens mount properly installed and capped.

  • Page 153: Licensing

    Licensing Licensing Currently, ALEXA Mini has all features included in the SUP. For this reason, the licensing menu can be ignored.

  • Page 154: Appendix

    140 mm Width 125 mm Weight 2.3 kg / 5 lbs (camera body with titani- um PL mount) Sensor 35 mm format ARRI ALEV III CMOS with Bayer pattern color filter array Sensor photo HD 16:9 2880x1620 sites 2K 16:9 2867x1613 2.8K 4:3...
  • Page 155 Appendix Titanium PL mount with L-Bus connec- tor and LDS EF mount PL mount with Hirose con- nector and LDS B4 mount with Hirose connector Recording media CFast 2.0 memory cards Sound level < 20 dB(A) at standard frame rates Environmental -20°...

  • Page 156: Electrical Data

    Appendix 3.2K 16:9 ProRes 422 LT ProRes 422 ProRes 422 HQ ProRes 4444 ProRes 4444 XQ 4K UHD 16:9 ProRes 422 LT ProRes 422 ProRes 422 HQ ProRes 4444 ProRes 4444 XQ Electrical data DC power input 10.5 to 34 V Operation temperature -20 to +45°C (-4 to +113 °F) Audio data...

  • Page 157: Dimensional Drawings

    Line 1 (+) Line 1 (-) Line 2 (+) Line 2 (-) Audio cable K2.0006171 ARRI offers a cable with a matching connector to create audio adapters. The following table shows the wire assignments of this cable. Function Wire Shield...
  • Page 158 Appendix RXD (Mount to Lens) TXD (Lens to Mount) Ethernet Connector ID: LEMO EEG.1B.310 MX-1P CTS (white-orange) MX-1N DTR (orange) MX-2P GND (white-green) MX-2N DCD (green) MX-3P TXD (blue) MX-3N RXD (white-blue) MX-4P DSR (white-brown) MX-4N RTS (brown) Propietary - do not use...
  • Page 159 Appendix Connector ID: LEMO EEG.1B.307 Can1 H Can1 L Can2 H Can2 L VBat (1A max) LBUS (on PL lens mount titanium) Connector ID: LEMO EEG.0B.304 Can L VBat Can H Timecode Connector ID: LEMO EEG.0B.305 LTC in - (no tuning) - (no tuning) LTC out...

  • Page 160: Declarations Of Conformity

    Appendix 25.4 Declarations of conformity EC Declaration of Conformity The product ALEXA Mini conforms with the specifications of following European directives: Directive 2014/30/EU of the European parliament and the Council of 26 • February 2014 on the harmonization of the laws of the Member States relating...
  • Page 161 2.45” Optical Center 42.16 mm 124.83 mm 1.66” 4.91” ALEXA Mini Length Width Height Weight ALEXA Mini (camera body with titanium PL lens mount) 184.75 mm - 7.27” 124.83 mm - 4.91” 140 mm - 5.5” ~ 2.3 kg/5 lbs...
  • Page 162 4 mm 2.38” 0.63” 0.16” M4 (8x) 4.4 mm deep ALEXA Mini Length Width Height Weight ALEXA Mini (camera body with titanium PL lens mount) 184.75 mm - 7.27” 124.83 mm - 4.91” 140 mm - 5.5” ~ 2.3 kg/5 lbs...

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