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Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual

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Roundshot VR Drive
Instruction Manual
Firmware version 2.023
Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023
23/05/2019
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  • Page 1 Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual Firmware version 2.023 Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 2 Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Editing in quality, speed and turntable modes Editing in timelapse and video modes Editing in HDR mode USB Settings Auto exposure settings Settings 4.6.1 Settings/general 4.6.2 Settings/database 4.6.3 Settings/service menu Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 4 CONTENTS Page 5. Workflow Nodal point adjustment procedure VR Drive image capture – speed vs. quality mode Creating HDRs – quality vs. HDR mode Roundshot Image Bundler Extracting xml files manually Stitching Masking the nadir Conversion to web formats 6. Tips and Tricks...

  • Page 5: System Overview

    1. System Overview 1.1 Hardware components + accessories The Roundshot VR Drive is delivered in a carton box with foam protection or in an optional explorer case and contains the following items: VR Drive VR Drive accessories release cable (connection...
  • Page 6 • y-motor on the right-hand side If the camera points to the ground after turning the VR Drive off, the nodal rail with the camera was attached from the wrong side. This will invert the image capturing sequence with the effect that the xml file for stitching will not be valid.
  • Page 7 (3/8’’) VR bracket lock VR Drive y-motor Ethernet (to VR bracket cable clips connect wifi nodal rail socket for radio control module) nodal rail clamp unit (receiver)+ for light meter Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 8 1.1 Hardware components + accessories (continued) Roundshot VR Drive “full” – with bottom plate for fixed centre point (adjustable) VR Drive with bottom plate, inverted y- VR Drive with bottom plate, standard motor (on left) and with slide cover to...
  • Page 9 1.1 Hardware components + accessories (continued) Roundshot VR Drive “semi” – with x-motor only and manual tilting y-clamp for manual tilting Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 10 Additional VR bracket – for example for video mode to attach the camera in landscape orientation VR bottom plate adjustable 32-70mm to fix center point cable clips to attach cables on VR bracket Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 11 USB cables for USB-compatible cameras (please check our website for list of compatible cameras) x-y motor cable Turntable with 28cm or 50cm diameter Extension cable (2m) for turntable Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 12 (smart phone, tablet, computer) External light meter – to automate image-taking process – requires USB- compatible camera Universal charger 110-220V Explorer case 4412 B Including VR Drive foam insert and explorer foam Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 13 1.1 Hardware components + accessories (continued) Overview of accessories y-clamp for manual tilting (VR Drive semi) spirit level linear rail roundshot USB key – for firmware updates Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 14: Software Components

    In "HDR mode" the camera is controlled by the VR Drive, enabling wider bracketing for 32-bit HDRs. The VR Drive "HDR mode" controls the camera software directly and allows a virtually unlimited bracketing range. It is an "all-in-one" solution - no additional devices are needed.
  • Page 15 1.2 Software components (continued) 1.2.2 VR Drive firmware upgrades Software upgrades can be ordered after initial purchase of your VR Drive from your distributor or directly from Seitz Roundshot on our website www.roundshot.com. Once your purchase is confirmed, we will send you a 16-digit key by email which is linked to the unique hardware ID (serial number) of your VR Drive.
  • Page 16 Drive product Roundshot Image Bundler The Bundler program is a free software tool which is available free of charge from the roundshot “club” as a download. Designed for USB-compatible cameras, it automatically groups images into projects and creates an xml file to support faster and more accurate stitching.

  • Page 17: First Steps With Your Vr Drive

    2. First Steps With Your VR Drive 2.1 Setting up the VR Drive hardware Your VR Drive is delivered in a compact shipping box with foam protection. The shipping box consists of five compartments: VR Drive VR Drive accessories release cable...

  • Page 18: Roundshot Vr Drive "Full

    Drive motor base. To avoid damage to the VR Drive gears we recommend that you attach the VR Drive gently by hand and then lock it using the allen key. The same is true when removing the VR Drive from the tripod.
  • Page 19 -90°. low as possible. Now connect the y-motor cable Connect the other end of the into the VR Drive x-motor. cable into the VR Drive y-motor (front or rear). Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 20 If the nodal rail is not long enough (or longer lenses) use a separate, longer nodal rail (available on request). Check that the rear of the camera is mounted straight at exactly 90° with the nodal rail: wrong correct Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 21 Now check that the camera is exactly Connect the release cable and /or the USB level using the spirit level. cable into the VR Drive x-motor Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 22 Program Wizard or in the program edit menu (USB parameters – USB cable connected: on – release with USB cable: on). If not, the images will be released via the electronic release cable. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 23 • No USB features and no Image Bundler • “Mirror prerelease” can be used, but no “permanent Liveview” (“mirror lock-up”) VR Drive full with motor, USB cable and electronic release cable Can be used in all modes to combine various features Advantages: •...
  • Page 24 When mounting the camera with nodal rail in the opposite direction, the xml file will not be correct and the stitching will not work. Please also check section “Frequently Asked Questions” for additional information on how to recover an incorrect xml. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 25: Attaching Y-Motor On Bottom Plate

    VR holder and with standard y-motor protect cables (on right) Requires inversion of y-motor at Seitz factory The VR Drive y-motor is attached on top of the bottom plate using two screws. These two screws can be placed in position “A” or “B” “B” “A”...
  • Page 26 If position “B” is used, read the value on the right of the 3/8’’ screw and the “B” symbol. Enter this value in the VR Drive program – as “A value”. Using the bottom plate is ideal when always using the same camera. On the other...

  • Page 27: Roundshot Vr Drive "Turntable

    2.1.3 Roundshot VR Drive “turntable” Assemble your VR Drive “turntable” in the following way: Lock the quick adaptor release and Attach the VR Drive x-motor remove the quick adaptor from the VR upside-down on the tripod. Drive x-motor by turning it anti-clockwise.
  • Page 28 Remove the protective foil on both sides of the turntable before use. Slide the turntable into the quick adaptor and lock it firmly. Your VR Drive “turntable” is now ready. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 29: External Light Meter

    Insert the lower screw Insert the upper screw pins into the plug and attach it with the and attach it with the marked with the allen key. allen key. antenna symbol: Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 30 2.1.4 External light meter (continued) Once the light meter sensor is attached, it will be automatically detected by the VR Drive. If the camera used is compatible with the VR Drive USB control, The program wizard will directly suggest automatic light metering options.

  • Page 31: Radio Control Unit

    With the VR Drive delivery the radio control place the radio receiver on the unit is already attached on the VR Drive. connector pins as they are fragile. It does not have to be removed. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 32 Then press the “OK” button of the radio pen) into the sync contact in the sender. This will synchronise the radio middle of the radio receiver. signal between sender and receiver. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 33 The red LED will turn on when a positioning command is received. The radio control unit allows to bridge a distance of about 30 metres (100 feet). Pressing a button continuously will accelerate the positioning speed. The VR Drive software allows to set certain parameters for the radio control unit in the settings/general menu: manual...

  • Page 34: Wifi Router For Remote Control

    YoYo router: Connect the Wi-Fi router with the VR Switch the wifi router on Drive using a short Ethernet cable. Finally attach the Wi-Fi On the back of the VR Drive Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 35 Then you can open any web browser from a smart phone or computer with wifi and type in the URL : http://192.168.169.15 (HAME) or http://192.168.1.15 (YoYo). You can see now the same screen content as on the VR Drive main unit and all functionalities are identical. Summary of default IPs: HAME router YoYo router Router: 192.168.169.2 192.168.1.2...

  • Page 36: Setting Up The Digital Camera

    1/3 steps. 1/2 steps the VR Drive can When selecting 1/1 steps the no longer set the correct VR Drive can no longer set the exposures. correct exposures. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 37: Setting Up The Vr Drive Software

    Setting up the VR Drive software Press the VR Drive “on/off” button to start the VR Drive: VR Drive New VR Drives are delivered with your language, time settings and camera favourites already set up. These steps are only necessary after a factory reset.
  • Page 38 If the HDR mode of the VR Drive is active, an HDR compatible camera needs to be selected in the favourite list. If it is not the case, the VR Drive will ask you to select one during the set-up process.

  • Page 39: Navigation

    Navigation The VR Drive starts up with the “home menu”: VR Drive idle VR Drive running active program + program management program program quality quality quality down Nikon D3 Nikon D3 focal length : 24 mm : 2/2 program A: 0mm B: 0mm position X : 60°...
  • Page 40 (cancel) or “home”. “home” back one menu level Click on the “x/y” button to manually control the position of the VR Drive x and y motors. position release Select “x/y position” to define the VR Drive 0 point. y-align x/y repeat Select “x/y release”...
  • Page 41 [1-999.9..999.9] “X” sets the angle in horizontal, “Y” the angle in vertical direction. Position the VR Drive to the desired position by using the arrows up/down/left right. For example, for image sequences which always start with the sky (zenith) shot, it is possible to define the starting position as X= 0°...
  • Page 42 • when the nodal rail no longer aligns with the y-motor when the VR Drive is off To follow this procedure, the VR Drive needs to be turned on and the y- motor connected with the x-y motor cable. message °...
  • Page 43 For this row, select the position to repeat. [1…10] [0…0] elev. : 66 elev. : 55 Press “start”. images : 30 images : 30 The VR Drive will now repeat the selected position of the program. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 44 : 30 images : 30 Press “start”. The VR Drive will now restart the program from the selected position. When using “repeat” and/or “resume” with USB feature “Write IDs”, the Image Bundler will recognise the repeated/duplicated images and will use these images to replace previous images released from the same position.
  • Page 45 This menu also allows to access the VR cylindrical 0/0mm Drive settings menu. 360° 73° For more information about the “program edit” menu please refer to chapter 4. Return to the “home menu” by clicking “X” (cancel). Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 46 Navigation (continued) The following is an overview of the VR Drive navigation: Program Wizard Program management mode quality speed delete copy move turntable timelapse export P1 export P1 video Papywizard Seitz Start-up Home Program edit Edit P1 / page 1...

  • Page 47: Starting/Stopping The Vr Drive

    In the “Home” menu click on “start” to launch your first VR Drive image sequence: The VR Drive will start executing the active program – in this example “P1” in “quality mode”. In this example it will rotate 360° horizontally to take 10 images spaced at exactly 36°.

  • Page 48: Program Management

    Clicking the “new” button will launch the Program Wizard to set up new VR Drive programs using various modes. The program wizard helps to set-up program parameters in a logical sequence, based on the VR Drive mode of operation. See next section for more details about the workflow for each mode.
  • Page 49 “P7” will now become “P8”. Export a program in Papywizard format. The file will be written on the export P1 connected USB stick provided with the VR Drive. You can use this file with Papywizard stitching software to define image positions and their sequence.

  • Page 50: Program Wizard

    By default the new program will get the next available number after the last program. Confirm with “next”. mode As a first step select the VR Drive mode which you would like to use for the program. quality speed All active modes are displayed in the list.

  • Page 51: Wizard Workflow For Quality, Speed And Hdr Modes

    VR Drive releases the camera at predefined position. The main differences between these 3 modes are: • “quality” is the basic mode of the VR Drive. In this mode the VR Drive stops and releases the camera in every position.
  • Page 52 3.2.1 Wizard workflow for quality, speed and HDR modes (continued) Cylindrical Spherical Manual Visual Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 53 3.2.1 Wizard workflow for quality, speed and HDR modes (continued) Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 54: Wizard Workflow For Turntable Mode

    • In “Video” mode the VR Drive is used as a pure motorised arm. No image is captures and the camera needs to be set to capture a video. This section presents the parameter workflow generated by the wizard when selecting “timelapse”...
  • Page 55 3.2.3 Wizard workflow for timelapse and video modes (continued) Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 56: Program Editing

    360° 73° Editing in quality, speed and turntable modes Click on “mode” to change the VR Drive mode. mode quality It is possible to switch from “Quality” to “Speed” mode and vice-versa. mode Changing to “Speed” mode does not change the calculation of...
  • Page 57 Select the camera to be added in the P65+ favourite list. Confirm the choice of camera with “OK”. The rows (elevation, number of images) will now be automatically recalculated. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 58 Please make sure that these values are correct. When setting the camera at wrong rotation or nodal points the stitching of images will not work. [1..999] [1..999] Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 59 In angle mode “cylindrical” and “spherical” the existing rows will be overwritten. In angle mode “manual” the change of camera has no consequences. Here the rows must be edited manually. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 60 The number of images per row will now be automatically recalculated. Enter the “Y” angle (vertical angle). ° [1.0..180.0] Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. The rows (elevation, number of images) will now be automatically recalculated. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 61 (elevation/images) or number of images By changing this value per row for the program. you will overwrite the rows. Continue anyway? Continue with “OK” or cancel with “X”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 62 • Select fix to have the same number of images for all rows. Select this option when using vertical sequences to optimize VR Drive movements. However the number of images will be higher.
  • Page 63 If none of the 10 sequence presets are ideal, use the “manual” angle mode. In this mode the rows (elevation in °, number of images) and their sequence can be customised. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 64 Editing in quality, speed and turntable modes (continued) Click on “speed” to change the rotation speed for the VR Drive. speed Enter the “X speed” for the horizontal movement. Enter the “Y speed” for the vertical movement. [6..9999] [8..9999] The minimum speeds are: •...
  • Page 65 The acceleration values range from 1% (slow speed adaptation) to 100% (fast speed adaptation). For programs with heavy cameras and bulky lenses (for example: gigapixel projects) lower the acceleration to avoid vibrations. Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 66 The bracketing of the camera in “quality mode” is limited to +/- 2 EVs (f-stops). For 32- bit HDR photography this is insufficient. With the VR Drive “HDR mode” it is possible to eliminate this limitation. In the “HDR mode” the VR Drive controls the camera software directly, allowing much larger bracketing steps and a larger dynamic range.
  • Page 67 To use “mirror release” in HDR mode, it is necessary to release the images with the electronic release cable and not with USB. Please use the USB cable for camera control functions (HDR bracketing) only. Click on “orientation” to change the direction in which the VR Drive orientation orientation turns.
  • Page 68 Editing in quality, speed and turntable modes (continued) When “floor patch” is set to “on”, the VR Drive will display a floor patch -45.0° message at the end of the program to move the tripod by approximately 1m sideways. floor patch angle elev.

  • Page 69: Editing In Timelapse And Video Modes

    Click on “start” to change initial position from which the VR Drive launches the video sweep. [-999.9..999.9] [-90.0..90.0] By default, the VR Drive starts from 0° / 0° to reach the first point defined in the “Program Wizard”. Enter the “X” and “Y” coordinates of the starting point. Confirm with “OK”.
  • Page 70 Use the arrow keys to navigate. edit delete [-999.9..999.9] The X and Y coordinate can be either degrees or centimeters depending on the hardware configuration (360, linear or dolly) Confirm with “OK”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 71 Confirm with “OK”. In “timelapse” mode the “image release mode” parameter One image every … degrees (seconds or position) sets the VR Drive to release one image every few seconds or degrees. [1..9999] Enter the number of seconds or degrees at which one image is to be released.

  • Page 72: Editing In Hdr Mode

    The bracketing of the camera in “quality mode” is limited to +/- 2 EVs (f-stops). For 32-bit HDR photography this is insufficient. With the VR Drive “HDR mode” it is possible to eliminate this limitation. In the “HDR mode” the VR Drive controls the camera software directly, allowing much larger bracketing steps and a larger dynamic range.
  • Page 73 HDR steps. Continue For example, with 5 images the VR anyway? Drive will release one image at average exposure speed, 2 underexposed and 2 overexposed images. Confirm with “OK”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 74 – slow - slow fast For example, “middle-fast-slow” will first release the image with average exposure, then the fastest, 2 fastest, etc., then the slowest, 2 slowest etc. Confirm with “OK”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 75 5.6 Confirm with “OK”. 3.2s 2.5s f 11 Select a new aperture (f- f 16 1.6s f 22 stop) in the list. 1.3s Confirm with “OK”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 76 With aperture compensation set to “on”, the VR Drive will compensate with f-stops in case an exposure limit is reached (exposure slower than, for example, 30s, or faster than 1/8000s). Confirm with “OK”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 77: Usb Settings

    USB settings By default, the images are released automatically by the VR Drive using the camera release cable. This is the most stable and reliable way to release the images. For the cameras compatible with HDR mode it is possible to use the USB cable for image release and for other useful features.
  • Page 78 Set the “release control” to on when a high number of images are release control release control to be captured in a short time. The VR Drive will make sure that every image is released. If not a warning message will be displayed: “cannot reach exposure time”...
  • Page 79 As there is a great variety of USB features and the firmware of every camera model reacts differently to USB commands, we recommend that you carefully test these USB settings for your specific application. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 80: Auto Exposure Settings

    When the VR Drive light meter sensor is connected to the VR Drive, and the camera is compatible with VR Drive USB control, it is possible to use the VR Drive in a fully automatic way. This option is only available for “Quality” and “HDR” modes The VR Drive is able to measure the light before starting the image taking.

  • Page 81: Settings

    Settings Click on “settings” to access the VR Drive settings menu. settings The “settings” menu is divided into 3 submenus: settings general database • general • database service menu • service menu 4.6.1 Settings/general Click on “general” to access the “general” submenu.
  • Page 82 [1970..2100] [1..31] [1..12] Set the year, month and day Confirm every entry with “next” or cancel with “X”. Click on “time” to set the hours and minutes of your VR Drive. time Enter the hours and minutes. hours minutes Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”.
  • Page 83 Enter the delay (in s). reduce screen brightness Beschleunigung Beschleunigung acceleration If setting this value to 0s the VR Drive will never reduce the screen 0..60 brightness. This might be useful outdoors, but will use more battery. The standard value is: 30s Confirm with “OK”...
  • Page 84 “speed”, “turntable”, “video”, “timelapse”, “HDR”). A983BB9CD73A98CD This key is specific to the VR Drive hardware ID. It will be delivered with your VR Drive or when upgrading to a new software mode. If you received a new key after upgrading, enter it here.
  • Page 85 (“Y”). [-999.9..999.9] [-90.0..90.0] For example, to tilt the camera 90° down (for transport), enter: • X: 0° (or any value) • Y: 90° Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 86 The manual movement speed and acceleration parameters are used when the VR Drive is moved with the remote radio release or with the touch screen unit for point definition (video mode). Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 87 • >50mm: 20% Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. The standard movement speed and acceleration is applied when the VR Drive moves from zero position to start a program, back into zero position after a program or from/into a parking position.
  • Page 88 Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. The linear rail and dolly parameters might change according to the delivered material. Please make sure to enter the correct values and check with Seitz team if not sure. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 89 4.6.1 Settings/general (continued) Click on “wake on radio” to activate / deactivate the wake-up remote radio function of the radio release unit for the VR Drive remote control. Deactivate the wake on radio with “no”. remote radio Activate the wake on radio with “yes”.
  • Page 90 Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. 1.3s The auto exposure ranges are applied for all automatically computed values. If a parameter is set manually in the VR Drive these limits are not applied. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 91 “Press to “simplified gui” view settings section” during start up. VR Drive settings general manual Simplified gui general database movement service menu (Press to view settings) press Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 92: Settings/Database

    Fuji Finepix PhaseOne Nikon D700: P65+ SONY DSC Olympus Leica Panasonic Nikon my cameras / page 1 Nikon D700 Canon Nikon 5D mk 2 D300 PhaseOne Nikon P65+ D700 D70s D200 Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 93 23.9 0.0..400.0 0.0..400.0 To delete a camera from the list, select the camera and click delete The camera will still be in the database, but removed from the “favourites” list. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 94 Nikon type Nikon Nikon X (mm) Y (mm) 36mm 23.9mm Enter the camera brand, camera type and X/Y (mm). Confirm with “OK”. Y (mm) X (mm) 23.9 0.0..400.0 0.0..400.0 Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 95 This way, this value will always be automatically loaded every time a new program is created. The table on the following pages summarises all program parameters created in the “Wizard” or loaded as “presets” for the different VR Drive modes. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 96 ✓ seconds Duration of release signal (electronic cable, not USB) time Number of times a program is repeated with offset X, degree repeat ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ angle Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 97 Liveview auto exp. ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ variation Select automatic or fixed exposure time, automatic settings strategy aperture or automatic ISO/ASA Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 98 (degree points ✓ ✓ seconds of speed adaptation), pause at every point seconds/ image every release of images between points in timelapse mode ✓ degrees ... sec/deg Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 99 “P1”. The settings (general (time settings etc.) and database (camera, presets) will be created from factory settings. Do you really want to reset to factory settings? Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 100 Back up your programs in the Seitz format from time to time. This ensures that no program data is lost in the case that the VR Drive has to be reset to factory settings. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023...

  • Page 101: Settings/Service Menu

    4.6.3 Settings/service menu The service menu is only used for factory maintenance. service menu password Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 102: Workflow

    It is used – together with the camera sensor size – to automatically calculate the number of rows and images. Confirm with “next”. The VR Drive will now ask the user whether it should move the warning camera 90° downwards for setting the centre point of rotation (A value).
  • Page 103 [1..999] Enter the exact A-value (in mm) in the software. [1..999] When the camera was moved 90° down with a VR Drive “full”, it will be lifted back up into the 0° position after confirming with “next”. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023...
  • Page 104 + lens combinations yourself. There is a simple practical procedure to determine the nodal point: Open the quick adaptor release so that the VR bracket and camera can be moved sideways: Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 105 If the distance between the two lines moves, the camera is not at the correct nodal point. If the distance between the two lines remains constant, the camera is in the correct nodal point. Close the quick adaptor release. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 106 – larger – nodal bench rail for long lenses and attach the camera always at the very rear metal base. This avoids any potential error when using different cameras/lenses. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 107: Vr Drive Image Capture - Speed Vs. Quality Mode

    VR Drive image capture – speed vs. quality mode In “quality” mode the VR Drive stops and releases the camera in every position. In “speed” mode the VR Drive releases the camera “on the fly” without stopping in every position. “quality” mode: “speed”...

  • Page 108: Creating Hdrs - Quality Vs. Hdr Mode

    • By VR Drive HDR mode VR Drive (3, 5, 7, 9 or “bracketing special”) bracketing • Camera-internal, limited to +/- • By VR Drive, no limits, only limited by Bracketing 2EVs and max 3-7 images exposure range of camera limits •...
  • Page 109 [0.0..999.9] Confirm with “OK” or cancel with “X”. When using a fixed number of VR Drive bracketing releases (3, 5, 7…) the VR Drive will know the number of exposures and will correctly generate the xml file. However, when using “bracketing special”, this information is not available to the VR Drive and it will output an xml with only one image per position (bracketing=1).

  • Page 110: Roundshot Image Bundler

    Roundshot Image Bundler After few hours of work with the VR Drive the memory card of your camera will contain a large number of images belonging to different programs. The Roundshot Image Bundler is a dedicated software able to group all images taken with the VR Drive by project.
  • Page 111 When the watch folder option is active it is not possible to keep the images in the input folder. This folder is used as “hot folder” and any incoming new image will be sorted and moved to the output folder. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 112 Papywizard xml file. The “UngroupedImages” folder contains all images that could not be grouped (for example images taken manually with your camera without VR Drive). To make sure that the image grouping process works correctly, make sure to copy all files on disc rather than selecting an external drive or flash card as input source.

  • Page 113: Extracting Xml Files Manually

    “Write IDs”. This is the case when using quality mode, camera-internal bracketing and quality mode bracketing (either a fixed number of images or “HDR special”). In this case, export the xml file by inserting the roundshot USB stick, clicking on the relevant program (for example: P1) and “export P1 Papywizard”:...

  • Page 114: Stitching

    Make sure that all images are available by checking the Image Bundler log file and that the images are in vertical rather than landscape orientation: Step 2: Import images by pressing button «load images» Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 115 To directly create tonemapped panoramas (for example for virtual tours), select “activate HDR mode” and “exposure fusion”. When creating 32-bit HDR models select “True HDR” as this will allow to output a 32-bit file using the .exr or .hdr format. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 116 Align the panorama by pressing “align images” If the stitching is successful, a preview image is displayed: This preview windows enables setting the centre, centering, straightening or showing the blending seams between images. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 117 Step 7: create panorama When all edits are done, close the preview and click on «create panorama»: Adapt the size, quality, file type and path for the final image, then click «create panorama». Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 118 This is done by opening two adjacient images and dragging a rectangle over the relevant area with SHIFT + left mouse click – right mouse click «generate control points here» When finished, optimise the panorama again and render a new file. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 119: Masking The Nadir

    Open this image and edit it in Photoshop (or similar) then load the patch by clicking on insert. The image is now corrected and can be exported again into a tiff file. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 120: Conversion To Web Formats

    Conversion to web formats After stitching the image out of the VR Drive, the resulting panorama is a tiff or jpeg image displayed using the selected projection model. The next step is in general to display this image on a local or online viewer. To achieve this the image needs to be converted either into flash, into html5, in QTVR or other web compatible formats.

  • Page 121: Tips And Tricks

    The nodal rail is now again in the correct (parallel) position. Reassemble the VR Drive x and y motors by connecting the x-y motor cable and verify if the y- motor initialises and if the nodal rail is moved to the correct starting position (normally at 0°).

  • Page 122: Reducing Vibrations: Mirror Prerelease + Liveview Mirror Lock-Up

    Set Liveview to “permanent”. Setting Liveview to “permanent” means that the mirror will be locked up from the start to the very end of the program, allowing a significant reduction in vibration. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 123: Gigapixel Photography

    • When the size of the camera + lens exceeds the size of the L-bracket of VR Drive, it is very important to switch on the VR Drive before attaching the camera and never create a program capturing images close to the nadir or the zenith.

  • Page 124: Selective Image Release + Program Resume: X/Y Repeat Or X/Y Resume

    For this row, select the position to repeat or from which to resume. [1…10] [0…0] Press “start”. Elevation: 66.0° Degree: 0° No. Positions: The VR Drive will now repeat the selected position of the program or resume. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 125: Creation Of Object Movies

    Creation of object movies Creating an object movie using the VR Drive for capturing the images is very simple and allows perfect positioning of the object. The system is totally automated from object rotation to image capture, which allows to optimise all parameters of the object movie. You can find below some recommendations for setting-up your system in turntable mode and for compiling the images into an object video.
  • Page 126 • Set the resolution and the image sequence of the object movie. By default the image sequence should be correct. • Export the object movie in flash, html5 or QuickTime format. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 127: Using Long Exposure Times

    Using long exposure times When using long exposure times on your camera in quality, HDR, turntable or timelapse modes, it is very important to make sure that the image is captured and saved before the VR Drive is moving to the next position.

  • Page 128: Using The Vr Drive Light Meter

    One of the most critical parameter when using the VR Drive is the camera exposure. Usually it is set manually on the camera, but it is also possible to use the VR Drive light meter for a fully automatic process.
  • Page 129 Setting it to “6”, for example, will measure – for a 360° panorama – at every 60°. When starting a program, the VR Drive will create a measurement rotation. For panoramas < 360°, it will center the measurements within the relevant angle of the panorama.
  • Page 130 • Exposure/aperture: both exposure and aperture can be changed by the VR Drive according to light. The wizard will ask to define the ISO/ASA in the next step. • Exposure/ISO: both exposure and ISO/ASA can be changed by the VR Drive according to light.
  • Page 131 Using the VR Drive light meter (continued) HDR steps / page 1 In HDR mode, after setting the exposure strategy and the corresponding parameters manually, the VR Drive shows the HDR f-stop (-2) average sequence without definite exposure values. f-stop (+2)

  • Page 132: Video Vs. Timelapse Mode

    The images will later be compiled together and accelerated to get a timelapse movie. • In “Video” mode the VR Drive is used as a pure motorised arm. No image is captured and the camera needs to be set to capture a video.
  • Page 133 Video vs. timelapse mode (continued) The main advantages of using the VR Drive to generate timelapse or video sequences are: • 360°x180° full spherical field of view • Fully automated process thanks to horizontal and vertical motors • System flexibility with several hardware options allowing several camera motion types •...
  • Page 134 [-999.9..999.9] Use the arrow keys to Move the VR Drive right/left/up/down. When the start position is reached confirm with “next”. Define the next point in the sequence using the arrow keys or enter the angle directly in the X and Y fields -45.0...
  • Page 135 They can either be defined in degrees or in cm depending on the configuration. The VR Drive is delivered with the correct parameters for your hardware configuration. However if the dolly or linear rail are ordered later, it is possible to adjust their dimensions on the VR Drive.

  • Page 136: Working With Presets

    Working with presets The VR Drive has a default value (preset) for every parameter of every mode. When creating a new program these values are always suggested by default, and needs to be adapted each time to the hardware setting currently used.

  • Page 137: Frequently Asked Questions

    (especially for “speed” mode), fixed white balance. Q: I have a VR Drive “full” but the vertical motor does not respond. What can I do? A: Please check if the cables are correctly plugged and if the vertical motor is activated in the software (settings/general/”has y motor: yes”).
  • Page 138 We will then include it in the camera database and provide the updated file (.csv) as a download in the “Club VR Drive”. It is then possible to update the factory list of cameras by a software update.
  • Page 139 You have most likely mounted the camera on its nodal rail in the opposite direction on the VR Drive. To check, please turn off the VR Drive. The camera should point up +90° to the sky (zenith) and not -90° down to the ground (nadir).

  • Page 140: Maintenance & Warranty

    When transporting the VR Drive from one location to the next, either disassemble the unit and use a bag for transport or make sure to turn off the VR Drive into parking position -90° or +90°. When turned off no damage can be done to motor and gears.

  • Page 141: Touch Screen Calibration

    When the touch screen positioning becomes less VR Drive precise, it is possible to calibrate it. After start-up of the VR Drive, double click anywhere on the touch screen. For maximum precision use a sharp item such as a pen.

  • Page 142: International Warranty

    ID (serial number) and is stored in our database. If there is any malfunction or defect of the equipment we will repair the VR Drive at no cost. The warranty extends to technical defaults that are not caused by careless use, damage by transportation or other defaults not related to the manufacturing of the equipment.

  • Page 143: Software Update: "Club Vr Drive

    Connect to the “Club” website at www.roundshot.ch. Please change your password on your first visit. The “Club VR Drive” contains your registered product(s), the latest instruction manuals as well as the up-to-date VR Drive software for download. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023...
  • Page 144 The .csv file contains the camera database. As camera brands/models are in continuous evolution, we update the camera database regularly. The .vrd file contains the VR Drive software. This software will also be updated to include new features and enhanced usability.
  • Page 145 Keep it pressed until the green Firmware update progress bar is displayed: The VR Drive will now load the new software from the USB key. This is confirmed with the status: “Firmware update / v xx.xxx”. • Please wait until the camera...
  • Page 146 Drive will go into normal start-up mode. This is confirmed with the start-up screen. The software updates are now complete. All previous programs and settings remain intact. It is now safe to remove the USB stick. Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

  • Page 147: Upgrades: Adding New Software Modes

    Once your purchase is confirmed, we will send you a 16-digit key which is linked to the unique hardware ID (serial number) of your VR Drive. This key activates the software modes. Click on “settings” to access the VR Drive settings menu.

  • Page 148: Return Of Equipment / Recycling

    Should you nevertheless want to dispose of your Roundshot equipment one day, it should not be placed in normal waste. The correct disposal of your old equipment is a contribution to preventing possible negative causes for the environment.

  • Page 149: Technical Data

    8. Technical Data Technical changes reserved Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...
  • Page 150 Impressum Copyright 2019 by Seitz Phototechnik AG Frauenfelderstrasse 26 8512 Lustdorf / Switzerland ph: +41 52 369 68 00 email: info@roundshot.com www.roundshot.com Technical changes reserved March 2019 Roundshot VR Drive Instruction Manual – Firmware Version 2.023 23/05/2019...

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