Nodal Ninja Fanotec MECHA User Manual
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Nodal Ninja Fanotec MECHA User Manual

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USER'S GUIDE
October 10, 2020

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Summary of Contents for Nodal Ninja Fanotec MECHA

  • Page 1 USER’S GUIDE October 10, 2020...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 Contents Tests and useful information..........iv WARNINGS................6 Introduction................7 MECHA Single Axis Before first use ............Firmware update using the smartphone: method 1 ..... 16 Test using MECHA’s buttons ..........18 Panorama with automatic shooting pattern using only the MECHA’s buttons ..............
  • Page 3 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 MECHA MSA ............... MECHA Dual Axis Combo ‒ DAC DAC Firmware update using the smartphone ..... Pairing using MECHA’s buttons........zLM 2 ‒ Automatic pairing using two buttons ...... 54 DAC test using MECHA’s buttons ....... DAC test without camera - 1312 parked position ....
  • Page 4 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 Pairing PIN for more than 2 MECHAs ......... 97 Temporary pairing..............97 Automatic pairing using the UI ..........98 How to unpair MECHAs ..........MECHA’s Current Codes..........Current Codes list.............. 102 Tests and useful informa�on Splitting lights ‒ set MECHA in AP, STA, AP+STA mode ..10 Table of equivalences: LEDs ‒...
  • Page 5 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 MECHA User’s Guide Copyright © 2020 by Fanotec Interna�onal Limited www.nodalninja.com www.fanotec.com To report errors, please send a note to mecha@nodalninja.com. All rights reserved. No part of this guide may be reproduced or transmi�ed in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior wri�en permission of the publisher.

  • Page 6: Warnings

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 WARNINGS WARNINGS to dual axis MECHA users • Test MECHA WITHOUT a camera mounted first! • Please test for camera clearance before running any program. • Test any preset supplied or adjusted WITHOUT a camera mounted FIRST, especially when the clearance is not enough.

  • Page 7: Introduction

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 Introduc�on What is MECHA? In short, MECHA is a wireless controlled motor that can rotate and trigger a camera or other devices. In general, MECHA can rotate anything that can benefit from a controlled rota�on, not only cameras directly or mounted on a panoramic or ball- head, but also turntables holding objects to be photographed or filmed, as well as lights or stands for presenta�ons.
  • Page 8 Fanotec R1, or dual axis, like Nodal Ninja 3 and alike, reducing the panorama shoo�ng to a simple press of a bu�on, or two, regardless of its complexity, and to do that without flaws, again and again.
  • Page 9 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 About bu�ons The bu�ons [1], [2], and [3] are used to enter some numeric selec�ons, or to enter specific codes. The power bu�on, ⏻, is used to power ON/OFF MECHA, to con- ○ firm or cancel some opera�ons, and it is also the equivalent of the number 0 (zero) when power codes are entered.

  • Page 10: Splitting Lights - Set Mecha In Ap, Sta, Ap+Sta Mode

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 The zLM makes possible this scenario: User calling to or cha�ng with Support and tell: U: "I want my MECHA to shoot a panorama 10 shots around, 3 rows, nadir and zenith." S: "Please press ⏻, then �, the right bu�on." And MECHA will do just that.

  • Page 11: Table Of Equivalences: Leds - Characters

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 When MECHA is in AP or AP+STA, it broadcast a SSID with a specific name - the default name contains the word "MECHA" in it - to which the smartphone can be connected using a password, which is 12345678 by default.
  • Page 12 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 About the Firmware (FW) update. To benefit from all features implemented in MECHA, is recommended to update its firmware to the latest version available. There are a couple of ways to update the firmware, and the easiest is via Internet.
  • Page 13 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 In the case of using only one MECHA, a cylindrical panorama can be shoot automa�cally, and if the �l�ng is done manually, even a spherical panorama can be made using the code again for each row, a�er manual �l�ng. When two MECHAs are used, if they are wireless connected in DAC, the en�re spherical panorama can be done automa�cally, without the need for manual �l�ng, using...

  • Page 14: Mecha Single Axis

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Part 1 MECHA Single Axis © 2020 FANOTEC...

  • Page 15: Before First Use

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Before first use Before using MECHA, we recommend that you do specific checks and tests. • First, if you have an R1, or an NN3, mount the R1 or the NN3 on MECHA as shown in the images below: Power up MECHA •...

  • Page 16: Firmware Update Using The Smartphone: Method 1

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Quick panoramas using MECHA’s bu�ons • 1< – press the bu�on [1], which comes pre-programmed with 4 shots around, then the le� bu�on, �, to specify the direc�on of rota�on to the le�. •...
  • Page 17 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • First, set up a hot-spot with the name MECHA-UPDATE and password 87654321. • Press the power bu�on, ⏻, for about 3 to 5 seconds to power up MECHA, and wait un�l de spli�ng lights end: -=-=-=-= , there is no more LED ac�vity and you will hear two beeps.

  • Page 18: Test Using Mecha's Buttons

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Test using MECHA’s bu�ons A�er moun�ng MECHA on a tripod or on any stand with a moun�ng screw, you can perform a few tests, first without moun�ng the camera. NOTE. The following codes are used to tell MECHA what type of rotator is connected to it, if you purchased it separatelly, or changed the rotator type, or if you want to be sure MECHA has the correct one: Set the rotator using MECHA’s bu�ons...
  • Page 19 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Panorama with automa�c shoo�ng pa�ern using only the MECHA’s bu�ons Panorama with automa�c shoo�ng pa�ern for Single Axis This method requires firmware version 02118, or newer, and works for rec�linear lens from 10 to 200 mm (FF equiv). The shoo�ng pa�ern will be computed by MECHA based only on few presses of a bu�on without using the User Interface, as follows: •...

  • Page 20: Test Using The User Interface

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • the LEDs 1, 2 and 3, under the ba�ery symbol, will start flashing, and MECHA waits seconds) for one of the bu�ons [1], [2], or [3] to be pressed, to assign the computed preset to that par�cular bu�on. To cancel the assignment, the power bu�on, ⏻, can be pressed instead.

  • Page 21: Set The Rotator On Configuration Page

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Set the rotator on Configura�on page At the top of the New page, tap the [Config] bu�on to access the Configura�on page (192.168.8.1/config). The user and default password are: On this page you can make special se�ngs, as we will see later. For now, User: admin Password:...
  • Page 22 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis If we want to do the same tests that we did before with the bu�ons, we proceed as follows using the UI bu�ons: • Tap the [Load 1] bu�on to load the preset Bu�on 1, then tap the [LEFT] bu�on to execute the preset to the le�, or [RIGHT] bu�on to execute the preset to the right.

  • Page 23: Programming A Preset Using The Ui

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Programming a preset using the UI A custom number of shots around • To execute a custom number of shots around, tap the Shots field, then tap the Custom op�on, and enter the desired number of shots. In our example, the number of shots is 7.

  • Page 24: Presets For Mecha Single Axis

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Presets for MECHA Single Axis Downloading the presets from server You can make your own presets or download presets from server. To download presets from server, on Row page, select the op�on More from server from the Presets list, and follow the instruc�ons for downloading.
  • Page 25 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis To change some advanced se�ngs of the preset, such as speed, for example, from 6 RPM to 9 RPM, switch to A1 (Advanced 1) display level, as shown in the image below. Here you can tap the [Save 1] bu�on to save this preset to bu�on [1] of MECHA, then you can launch this preset by simply press the bu�on [1] then �...

  • Page 26: Programming A Preset Using Parameters

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis To create a new preset, select any preset from the Presets list, make any changes you want (or not), and save it with the [Save] bu�on. If you enter a new name, a new preset will be created, otherwise the current preset will be overwri�en.
  • Page 27 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • Star�ng with firmware version 02134, you can use h and v parameters to specify, in degrees, the area of a par�al panorama. For example: 192.168.8.1/preset?b=1&f=80&h=100&v=75 This is the url for a par�al panorama for 80 mm lens, 100° wide, and 75° tall.

  • Page 28: The User Interface (Ui)

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis The User Interface (UI) Access the UI with a smartphone • Press the power bu�on, ⏻, for about 3 to 5 seconds to power up MECHA, and wait un�l the spli�ng lights are displayed: -=-=-=-= •...

  • Page 29: Ui Controls

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis ◦ 2. Access the UI with a smartphone, as shown above (make sure MECHA is in AP+STA mode, started by pressing [3]), then access the Configura�on page, and scroll to the bo�om of the page. Note the sta�c IP address (192.168.8.1), and next to it, the dynamic IP address to access the User Interface on a computer.
  • Page 30 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • Next to the [info] bu�on there is a list of op�ons to set the level of complexity of the page, from the simplest (S1) to the most complex (A3), where all the controls are displayed. So, select A3 to show all the controls.
  • Page 31 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • [LEFT] bu�on - shoots a 360° panorama counter-clockwise. In our example, the panorama consists of 7 photos, and the first photo is taken in the current posi�on, followed by the second 51.43° apart, and so on. •...
  • Page 32 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • [goVM] bu�on - downloads a script (a goVM.py file) for the upcoming Virtual MECHA. Un�l Virtual MECHA will be available, this file can be also used for support and demo purposes. • [NPP Shots] bu�on - takes two shots for NPP (No-Parallax Point) check. •...
  • Page 33 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis 0.001 sec and B:5 sec, the result will be a shot at every 5 seconds. If movements are executed, the value of B needs to be large enough to cover the �me taken by the move. ◦...
  • Page 34 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • Speed - speed denoted by Revolu�ons Per Minute. Select an op�on from the list, or enter a value via Custom. If the value is too high, the device may stop, or move too fast, in which case be prepared to stop it by clicking/tapping the [Stop] bu�on.
  • Page 35 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis If MECHA is in pause mode and a preset is started, MECHA will pause before every posi�on, resul�ng in step by step movement. When MECHA runs a preset and is paused, pressing �, or [>||] on IR Remote, or [PAUSE/NEXT] on UI, MECHA will con�nue to the next posi�on.
  • Page 36 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • [Import] bu�on - imports a preset to list, or mul�ple presets at once, if all_presets(..).mps file is given when impor�ng. • [Export] bu�on - exports the selected preset, or exports all the presets, if Presets is selected.
  • Page 37 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis • [Reboot] bu�on - restarts MECHA, similar to restar�ng a computer. • Volume of Beeps - is a value from 0 to 250, and can be entered via Custom, or select another op�on from the list. •...

  • Page 38: Configuration Page

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Configura�on page The Configura�on page can be accessed at 192.168.8.1/config, using the following username and password: User: admin Password: Mecha Default mode. The possible values for default mode are: AP, STA, AP+STA. The default mode set here will be the current mode for MECHA a�er powering up.
  • Page 39 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Trusted IP(s): IPs added to this field will not be restricted in any way when accessing MECHA. Add the IPs of the personal devices with which you connect to MECHA. Using: this is the IP of the current device connected to MECHA. In our example, 192.168.2.187.
  • Page 40 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Fixed Se�ngs are se�ngs that overwrite the corresponding se�ngs on the Row/Ring/Turn page. For example, if the fixed Motor Speed is 7, the one provided by the preset will be ignored and MECHA will use 7 RPM as speed. If Power OFF a�er field is not empty, then the value specified in this field tells MECHA to power off if there is no ac�vity a number of seconds equal to this value.
  • Page 41 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis MCU i2c Speed: is the communica�on speed between MECHA's processors. Select Standard, as there are no major differences from the Fast and Turbo. Rotator: Set the rotator in use by selec�ng an op�on from the list, or using MECHA’s bu�ons, as follows: 23131<...
  • Page 42 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Use Nodal Ninja IR Remote: check this checkbox if you use an NN IR remote control, and connect the receiver to the AUX port. Double press the Nodal Ninja IR Remote Power bu�on for power OFF: check this checkbox to be able to power off MECHA pressing the power bu�on on...
  • Page 43 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Single Axis Switch the Le� - Right rota�on when done by MECHA’s bu�ons. Le� bu�on, for example, rotates the camera to the le�, and the controller to the right, when this checkbox is checked. Camera is in Portrait Orienta�on: this checkbox is checked by default. You can uncheck it if you want to specify that the camera is in landscape orienta�on.
  • Page 44 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Arrow bu�ons Interval 2: rota�on angle for the combina�on of le� / right bu�on and bu�on [2]. Arrow bu�ons Interval 3: rota�on angle for the combina�on of le� / right bu�on and bu�on [3].
  • Page 45 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Finally, several technical details are displayed, including the firmware version and the IP addresses to which the User Interface can be accessed: • the first is the sta�c address for access from smartphones: 192.168.8.1 •...

  • Page 46: Other Updating Methods

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Other upda�ng methods Firmware update using the smartphone: method 2 • Press the power bu�on, ⏻, for about 3 to 5 seconds to power up MECHA, and wait un�l de spli�ng lights are displayed: -=-=-=-= •...

  • Page 47: Mecha Msa

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis MECHA MSA MECHA MSA ‒ Manual Second Axis ‒ mode is when a single MECHA executes a dual axis script. For example, the case of a NN3, or other panoramic head, mounted on a single MECHA unit. In MECHA MSA, MECHA enters in pause at the end of each row and waits for the 2nd axis to be set/�lt manually.

  • Page 48: Mecha Dual Axis Combo - Dac

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Part 2 MECHA Dual Axis Combo ‒ DAC © 2020 FANOTEC...
  • Page 49 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Fanotec, the manufacturer of Nodal Ninja Branded Products, has over a decade of experience in building products specifically designed for panoramic and high-resolu�on photographers. The auto-rotator (E1) with the single axis controller (C1) are precision built with quality motors, components and circuitry.
  • Page 50 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis © 2020 FANOTEC...
  • Page 51 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis A term used quite o�en in the second part of this guide is pairing. Pairing MECHAs means preparing two, or more, MECHA units to work as a team. In general, the MECHA units can be both on your desk when you pair them, or even one in a room and the other in another room, and you can mount them as required, a�er pairing.

  • Page 52: Check If Two Mechas Are Paired

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Check if two MECHAs are paired How do you know that two MECHA units are already paired? If MECHA units are paired, you will no�ce - few seconds a�er both units are powered up - one unit has the middle LED turned on (MECHA-H), and the other has the two middle LEDs turned on (MECHA-V).

  • Page 53: Dac Firmware Update Using The Smartphone

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis DAC Firmware update using the smartphone This update method is available star�ng with firmware version 02118. For this simple method of upda�ng the firmware, we assume that you know how to set up a hot-spot on your smartphone, and the MECHA units are already paired.

  • Page 54: Pairing Using Mecha's Buttons

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Pairing using MECHA’s bu�ons zLM 2 ‒ Automa�c pairing using two bu�ons This is a zero learning method ‒ zero Learning MECHA ‒ for firmware 02057 or newer. 1. Power off both MECHA units in case they are running. To do that, hold down the power bu�on, ⏻, for 3 to 5 seconds.
  • Page 55 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis For those interested in technical details, see below zLM 2 explained. First, please read the chapter about the UI. MECHAs will be automa�cally paired and will remain paired a�er power OFF then ON. This procedure will create MECHA-H-DAC with password 12345678 and MECHA-V-DAC with password 12345678...

  • Page 56: Dac Test Using Mecha's Buttons

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis DAC test using MECHA’s bu�ons A�er pairing, every �me the MECHAs are powered up, you will no�ce they are connected as DAC (Dual Axis Combo). It’s recommended to power up the horizontal unit first, then power up the ver�cal unit. Wait un�l all LEDs are off, and perform the following tests without camera mounted.

  • Page 57: Dac Test Without Camera - 1313 Level Position

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis DAC test without camera - 1313 level posi�on DAC Test 1313 With ver�cal rail on level posi�on, as shown in the image to the right, enter the code 1313<, or the code 1313>, in MECHA- H, using the bu�ons of MECHA-H.

  • Page 58: Panorama With Camera Mounted

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Panorama with camera mounted If the above DAC tests are successful, you can repeat each test with camera mounted. Mount the camera on the upper rail, using the camera moun�ng knob, and plug in the Camera Port (CAM) a specific shu�er cable for the camera in use.
  • Page 59 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis • Place a sheet of paper in front of MECHA in such way to fill the frame. The frame can be viewed through viewfinder or through the live view. Instead of the sheet of paper, any well defined feature or image on screen, or other means, can be used.

  • Page 60: Dac Test Using The Ui

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis DAC test using the UI For this test, we assume that the pairing method was zLM2. Considering that both MECHA units are powered up and paired, to access the MECHA web User Interface (UI) using a device: •...
  • Page 61 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis • On Row page, tap Presets and select the preset DAC TEST 1312 Parked from the presets list, which is the panorama executed before, on chapter DAC test using MECHA’s Bu�ons (12 shots around, 3 rows ‒ at 0°...

  • Page 62: How To Change The Ssid Password

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis How to change the SSID password If your password is 12345678 (automa�cally created in zLM2 pairing, or in pairing using the UI), or 01231231 (from our zLM pairing example), now is �me to change the SSID password. •...

  • Page 63: Working With Presets

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Working with Presets How to create your own Presets Besides the very simple method with bu�ons only, described above (see Panorama with automa�c shoo�ng pa�ern), and the url with parameters method, like 192.168.8.1/preset?b=1&f=30&p=2 (see Programming a pre- set using parameters), the following is the method using the UI.
  • Page 64 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Out of the box, MECHA works in AP mode. Since it does not have a wire- less modem, it does not have Internet access. A device connected to it may also lose Internet access. Please, refer to MECHA Controller C1 Manual on STA mode for more details.
  • Page 65 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis • AF 0.01 sec - auto-focus 0.01 sec. If the value is nega�ve, the AF signal will be ON during the en�re image sequence. In order to trigger the camera, for some Sony cameras, you have to set an AF value greater than zero, even if the camera focus is set to manual.
  • Page 66 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis • P^-90,-45,45,1:90,-90,90° - the script that describes our preset. ◦ If the list of angles (which always refers to the MECHA-V) starts with "P^", MECHA-V rota�on angle is the specified angle, then the shoo�ng set follows.
  • Page 67 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis To get a preset with 6 shots and just 1 row, instead of 12 shots, select 6 shots: and instead of Repeat 4*1 sec, select No Repeat, as we have only one row. To save the preset, do one of the following: 1.

  • Page 68: Preset Power Code

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Preset power code Create a preset power code as follows: • the first digit must be 0 (zero) (remember that every power code starts with zero) • the next sequence of maximum six digits must be a combina�on of the digits 1, 2, or 3, so that two iden�cal digits are not in consecu�ve posi�ons.

  • Page 69: Mecha's Simple Scripting (Mss)

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis MECHA’s Simple Scrip�ng (MSS) Star�ng with firmware version 02116, MECHA’s Simple Scrip�ng (MSS) reached a level of flexibility that allows easy scrip�ng for common shoo�ng pa�erns, for both MECHA Single and MECHA DAC. In MECHA DAC, MECHA needs to know its star�ng posi�on.
  • Page 70 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Breaked down, you'll recognize the descrip�on above: • SL: Start Level • 0x12: at a �lt of 0°, one row of 12 posi�ons • 45x12: at a �lt of 45°, one row of 12 posi�ons •...
  • Page 71 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis NOTE. On the Configura�on page, there is also a checkbox that establishes if the le� is le�, or the le� is right, regarding the movements when the bu�ons are pressed. You might want to change its status, if you prefer a par�cular behavior over the other.
  • Page 72 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis For 2 Zeniths 90° apart, the ZZ conven�on can be used, or ^90 which tells to use 90° interval between Zeniths instead of the computed 360°/2. SL,0x12,45x12,-45x12,N,ZZ SL,0x12,45x12,-45x12,N,Zx2^90 The same way, for 2 Zeniths 120°...
  • Page 73 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis That pause can be used to adjust some camera se�ngs, like exposure, aperture, WB, focus, and more. SL,P0x12,45x10,-45x10,N,ZZ If you want a pause before each row, for focus, for example, then: SL,P0x12,P45x10,P-45x10,N,ZZ or even before Nadir and Zenith: SL,P0x12,P45x10,P-45x10,PN,PZZ To customize it even more, let's say we want an extra image at the beginning, a kind of clapboard you may want to use, for WB or even for...
  • Page 74 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis • SL: Start Level • 0x36: first row at a �lt of 0° (horizontally) made out of 36 posi�ons • 15x32: one row at a �lt of 15° of 32 posi�ons • 30x28: one row at a �lt of 30° of 28 posi�ons •...

  • Page 75: S-Language Inserts

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis SL,0x36,15x32,30x28,45x24,60x20,-15x32,-30x28, -45x24,-60x20,PN,Z S-Language inserts MSS language accepts S-Language inserts, for example: SL,0x11,-44.90x11,44.90x11,Z,N means that 11 shots are taken on each row, one at 32.72(72)°. With S-L insert, this can be wri�en as SL,0x11,_33,-44.90x11,_33,44.90x11,_33,Z,N which means that the first posi�on a�er the previous row is at 33°...

  • Page 76: Download More Presets From Server

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis ZZ,NN,HZ Example of par�al panorama with explicit intervals for H (24°) and V (36°) in Horizontal Zig Zag, 4 rows, 8 columns: SL,54x8^24,18x8^24,-18x8^24,-54x8^24,HZ Download more Presets from server In short, to download presets from server, make sure MECHA is connected to the Internet, then select the op�on More from server from the Presets list.
  • Page 77 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis This preset is suitable for mul�-row panorama, 10 shots around, for MECHA DAC, in A1-A3 mode. In A levels, select the presets, then click on [Load] to load it. Also, it can be deleted, and other opera�ons can be performed as well, but s�ll some are possible only a�er the preset is saved with [Save], and loaded with [Load] bu�on.
  • Page 78 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis And to change the degrees of �lt for row, for example, from 45° to 30°, click on P-45,45,1:90,-90,0°, then click on Dual. Click [Ok] to let the IP of the 2nd MECHA unchanged, then edit the list of angles as follows: ©...
  • Page 79 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis P-30,30,1:90,-90,0 then [Ok]. ------8<------------------- This preset uses the repeat feature offered by MECHA before the scrip�ng features were added. The list of angles explained P is a conven�on in which �l�ng is like pitch in Ptgui. A�er first row of 10 or 12 is made just like for a single MECHA, the repeat is called and the list says what changes are for each repeat: ◦...
  • Page 80 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis • then 2 Zeniths 90° apart • then 2 Nadirs 90° apart This is the script: P10:-12,8:-45,6:-60,10:12,8:45,6:60,2^90:90, 2^90:-90,0 A�er the first row of 14 is made just like for a single MECHA, the repeat is called and the list says what changes are for each repeat: •...
  • Page 81 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis • 8:45 ‒ 8 posi�ons from now on (2nd MECHA will �lt to 45°) • 6:60 ‒ 6 posi�ons from now on (2nd MECHA will �lt to 60°) Now, something different: instead of saying 2:90, which means two posi�ons at a �lt of 90°...

  • Page 82: Mecha's S (Shots) Language

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis MECHA’s S (shots) Language The S Language requires the firmware 02054 or newer. In this chapter we will explain how to make a script for your desired pa�ern of shoo�ng. The S language is Shots oriented, and it can be used for both Single MECHA and MECHA Dual Axis Combo, abbreviated MECHA DAC.
  • Page 83 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis In the case of DAC, we commonly have 3 possible start posi�ons: level, parked, and raised. The naming conven�ons for star�ng and ending posi�ons Level Parked Raised for MECHA DAC presets available via [ More from Server.. ] Adjust the posi�on using...
  • Page 84 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis There are a couple of conven�ons in S language, and the most important are: underscore refers to MECHA-H: 1 LED is ON when paired equal sign refers to MECHA-V: 2 LEDs are ON when paired double colon is equivalent to the equal sign round brackets indicate a loop caret means „rela�ve to the previous posi�on”, and can be used for...
  • Page 85 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis SR,Z,N,0x12,45x12,-45x12 If we want a pause before a row, we can add P in script before that row. For example, this will set a pause just before the row, at 0°: SP,Z,N,P0x12,45x12,-45x12 In the example above the pause is infinite, and to con�nue, you need to press �, the right bu�on of MECHA, or the equivalent UI bu�on, [RIGHT].
  • Page 86 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis A�er start posi�on, we have to specify the details for the first posi�on, as follows: {Number of posi�on un�l the changes occurs} ={MECHA-V posi�on}_{MECHA-H posi�on} 1=0_0 Next 1st posi�on for the change to occur MECHA-V at a �lt or pitch of 0°...
  • Page 87 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis As for the previous row, things goes the same for another 11 photos, and at the 12th photo MECHA-V has to rotate at -90°, which is the posi�on for nadir, so we have to add 12=-90, and the script becomes: S=90, 1=0_0, =_30, 11=45, 12=-45, 12=-90,...
  • Page 88 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis EXAMPLE 4 Spiral movement, camera in parked posi�on, say, 5 Shots. S=90,1=0*65_,=0*0.18R-65_4R2880,=0*9R90_,= means no photo taken. 0.18R values for speed for RPM. will change the speed for MECHA-V to 4 RPM from then on, while will change the speed for MECHA-H to 3 RPM from then on.
  • Page 89 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis �on for MECHA-H from the previous posi�on (return to the star�ng posi- �on). Remember that is level, is parked, =-90 is raised, as for the nadir. These sequences can be used for start and end posi�ons. EXAMPLE 5a Another example of shoo�ng star�ng from the parked posi�on.
  • Page 90 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis S=90,1=0_0,10=30_3,99=_0,10=_-3, The system will stay 10 seconds in the same posi�on, then again a�er 100. EXAMPLE 6 The �me-lapse list star�ng with T has to be entered selec�ng Dual, and let the IP unchanged, then enter: T50^@0.05,100^0.05,000^0,1100^@0 It should look like this:...
  • Page 91 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis In the loop, we have only the �l�ng of 3° for MECHA-V, and no changes for H interval. The above loop repeats with -3° instead of 3° for MECHA-V: =10(^-3_30, =^-3), EXAMPLE 8 Script for 28mm on a full frame camera: two images 90°...
  • Page 92 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Available via More from Server.. : DAC_28MM_FF_12_10_10_2Z_2N_Parked When the camera is facing down, and the bu�ons and display are not accessible in this posi�on, you can add P to the first shot: 1=P0_0, MECHA will pause before the first shot, and will con�nue only a�er you click the [PAUSE] bu�on in UI or press the bu�on �...

  • Page 93: How To Set Both Mecha And Smartphone To Have Internet Access

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis How to set both MECHA and smartphone to have Internet access In this chapter, we will explain how to do that and, also, how to enable updates, and how to use your device for usual Internet browsing, at the same �me.
  • Page 94 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis 5. Set it in STA mode and enter the following values in STA Mode fields: ◦ Sta�c IP: 192.168.43.102 ◦ Subnet: 255.255.255.0 ◦ Gateway: 192.168.43.1 ◦ DNS: 8.8.8.8 6. Tap on [Apply] bu�on. 7.

  • Page 95: Other Pairing Methods

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Other pairing methods zLM ‒ Automa�c pairing using bu�ons This is a zero learning method ‒ zero Learning MECHA ‒ for firmware 02011 or newer. As you already know, we communicate with MECHA through a web inter- face, or using its own bu�ons, especially to enter some codes.
  • Page 96 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Step 2 1. Power off both MECHA units in case they are running. To do that, hold down the power bu�on, ⏻, for 3 to 5 seconds. 2. Power up the horizontal MECHA (hold down the power bu�on, ⏻, for 3 to 5 seconds).

  • Page 97: Pairing Pin For More Than 2 Mechas

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 ‒ Dual Axis Pairing PIN for more than 2 MECHAs This sec�on should be read a�er you read DAC test using the UI, where we explain how to access the user interface. The Pairing PIN is an extra op�on you can use when the pairing method is zLM or zLM 2, to pair automa�cally at start more than 2 MECHAs connected to the same network or to the same hot-spot.

  • Page 98: Automatic Pairing Using The Ui

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 Automa�c pairing using the UI Power up horizontal MECHA and press [1] when LEDs shows spli�ng lights (- = - = - = - 1. Connect to horizontal MECHA with MECHA SSID and password. Refer to MECHA Controller C1 Manual if needed.
  • Page 99 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 To get presets from server, select [Connect to Wi-Fi] and enter SSID and password for the Wi-Fi network with Internet access. 14. Select [Presets], load [More from Server] to get some presets to test. You can ask for presets for your specific setup at forum.nodalninja.com 15.

  • Page 100: How To Unpair Mechas

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 How to unpair MECHAs Temporary Unpairing Power up MECHA-V and press MECHA-V bu�on [1] when LEDs show spli�ng lights (- = - = - = - =). It does not ma�er whether MECHA-H is on or off at this moment.

  • Page 101: Mecha's Current Codes

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 MECHA’s Current Codes P r o g r a m m a b l e Buttons Power/Status Left/Right Power LED Indicator Buttons Button MECHA’s bu�ons allow you to quickly perform some opera�ons, and they can be an alterna�ve to the web interface, in most cases. MECHA has 5 LEDs which show you the result of the performed opera�on.

  • Page 102: Current Codes List

    MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 Current Codes list 1< 1> Executes the Preset 1 to the le� or to the right. By default, Preset 1 consists of 4 shots around, or it is the preset saved with the [Save1] UI bu�on. 2<...
  • Page 103 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 1212< Starts an assembly of a team of MECHAs, can be canceled or ended with the power bu�on, ⏻, or [Team] bu�on on its UI (user interface). A�er 1212< code is entered, or a�er first tap/click on [Team] bu�on in UI, the LEDs will show scanning for any MECHA willing to join the team and be controlled.
  • Page 104 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 123< Shows the en�re MAC address like '123ABC123ABC'. 323< Shows the Full IP address like '192.168.0.100'. To avoid confusion, the IP address is shown only once, then it automa�cally exits from IP address display. 321< Shows the Last part of the IP address, star�ng with dot, like '.100'. If 'AAA' is shown, MECHA is in AP mode, and the IP address is 192.168.8.1 If !!! is shown, Wi-Fi is OFF.
  • Page 105 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 231< Everything OFF, for faster ba�ery charge. First, plug the charger cable, then enter the code. Press the power bu�on, ⏻, to show/hide ba�ery level on LEDs when charging. If it’s no power on charging cable, the code will be ignored. If the code is executed, the LEDs will show charging, then the cable has to be unplugged and MECHA has to be powered-up again to go back to normal use.
  • Page 106 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 In the (far) future, might be a simple add on to be a�ached to AUX port to do this completely automa�cally. TIP: If you have a R1 with camera in portrait mode, with grip up and no Live view, and you have to look through viewfinder to see when the small movement begins, you can look with the le�...
  • Page 107 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 3212< Show the firmware version on LEDs, then 32123< code can be used to update the firmware, provided MECHA has Internet access, or the Wi-Fi with Internet that MECHA was connected to before is on. 32123< Updates the firmware, if possible.
  • Page 108 MECHA User’s Guide v.05.4 23131< Sets E1 as preferred rotator. 23132< Sets E2 as preferred rotator. 23121< Sets P1 as preferred rotator. 231231231< Factory reset. The code need to be entered twice: enter 231231231< then a�er LEDs stop ligh�ng as ',', (one green...
  • Page 109 Fanotec Youtube Channel h�ps://www.youtube.com/user/NodalNinja Nodal Ninja Youtube Channel h�ps://forum.nodalninja.com/ Nodal Ninja's Panoramic Photography Forum h�ps://www.fanotec.com/ Fanotec Interna�onal Limited official website Developed and manufactured by Fanotec Interna�onal Limited. Address: Flat 2, 4/F, Kar Wah Indl. Bldg. 8 Leung Yip Street Yuen Long, Hong Kong ©...

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