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SmartSystem SmartCAM ARM X1 Quick Reference Manual

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Summary of Contents for SmartSystem SmartCAM ARM X1

  • Page 1 v1.2...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Indice generale Introduzione..........................2 Overview..........................4 Sostituzione e regolazione delle molle..................4 X-TUNE..........................7 Regolazione dell'inclinazione del braccio................8 Cambio del verso del braccio....................10 Bloccaggio Arm Post......................11 Manutenzione........................12 Materiali utilizzati........................12 Smaltimento.........................12 Avvertenze di carattere generale..................12 Garanzia..........................14 General Index Overview..........................17 Springs substitution and setting...................17 X-TUNE..........................21 Tilt Adjustment........................22 Left / Right handed set up....................23 Arm Post Locking.........................24 General Checklist ........................25...

  • Page 3: Introduzione

    Introduzione Congratulazioni per l'acquisto di SmartCAM ARM X1 Prima di poter usare il braccio SmartCAM ARM X1, è necessario aver compreso appieno tutte le regolazioni ed il principio di funzionamento dello stesso. Il braccio di stabilizzazione SmartCAM ARM X1 è stato progettato con l’unico scopo di sostenere carichi provenienti da attrezzature cinematografiche installate su di uno sled con attacco standard da 5/8”.

  • Page 4: Overview

    Overview Sostituzione e regolazione delle molle All’inizio ed al termine di ogni sessione di lavoro, è consigliabile assicurasi che le molle del braccio siano scariche. Arm X1 viene fornito di serie con 2 kit di molle a costante elastica differente: Medium (per carichi medio-leggeri) [COLORE BLUE] ·...
  • Page 5 dell’attrezzature e massimizzare lo sfruttamento della molla stessa. La sostituzione / rimozione delle molle è un procedimento semplice e veloce. Per una maggiore rapidità si consiglia di seguire questa procedura: Adagiare Arm X1 su un piano possibilmente pulito ed asciutto Tramite la chiave a brugola n.5, ruotando in senso anti-orario, procedere ad allentare le vite di precarico della molla fino al completo disimpegno dalla struttura Sfilare la vite di precarico...
  • Page 6 Avvitare la vite di regolazione del precarico fino ad allineare il piattello della vite stessa con il primo riferimento presente nell’indicatore di precarico (come mostrato in figura) L’allineamento del piattello della vite di registro con il primo riferimento dell’indicatore di precarico garantisce il corretto inserimento ed installazione della molla all’interno dell’alloggiamento.

  • Page 7: X-Tune

    (cioè con braccio correttamente installato sul Vostro corpetto e Sled collegato al perno 5/8" del vostro SmartCAM Arm X1). Nel caso in cui, precaricando al massimo le molle, il braccio non dovesse trovarsi nella condizione di parallelismo rispetto al terreno, è...

  • Page 8: Regolazione Dell'inclinazione Del Braccio

    X-TUNE provoca uno spostamento dello stelo della relativa molla. E’ sempre necessario rieffettuare una calibrazione del precarico una volta modificato il settaggio di X-TUNE Regolazione dell'inclinazione del braccio E’ possibile variare l’angolazione di tilt del braccio SmartCAM ARM X1 grazie alle due viti presenti nel mating block. Tale regolazione è...
  • Page 9 in qualsiasi posizione si renda necessaria. Ipotizziamo che il braccio sia configurato per essere collegato ad un corpetto con attacco sul lato destro dell’operatore. Nel caso in cui, una volta installato il braccio sul Vostro corpetto (Vest Lite o equivalente) ed assunta una postura eretta, il braccio dovesse: Tendere verso destra : Allentare la vite superiore ed avvitare la vite inferiore fino a quando non...

  • Page 10: Cambio Del Verso Del Braccio

    Cambio del verso del braccio Il cambio del verso del braccio si rende necessario qualora l’attrezzatura debba essere utilizzata da operatori destrorsi o sinistrorsi allo stesso tempo. Questa operazione può essere compiuta in brevissimo tempo e con estrema facilità. Svitare con la chiave in dotazione la vite che tiene il mating block serrato al resto del braccio.

  • Page 11: Bloccaggio Arm Post

    Bloccaggio Arm Post Prima di iniziare una sessione di lavoro si consiglia sempre di verificare il corretto serraggio pomello bloccaggio degli Arm Post di X1. Tale sistema, permette un rapido cambio tra differenti Arm Post. Checklist generale Prima di iniziare il proprio lavoro, è consigliabile verificare la seguente checklist: Assicurarsi di aver indossato correttamente il Vostro Corpetto (SmartCAM Vest lite o simile) Verificare di aver precaricato correttamente le molle del Vostro Arm X1 secondo la...

  • Page 12: Manutenzione

    Vostro Arm X1 Avvertenze di carattere generale Tutte le volte che intendete utilizzare il sistema di stabilizzazione SmartSystem dovete prima ispezionare attentamente ogni singolo componente per assicurarvi che la Vostra sessione di lavoro sia sicura per Voi e per la Vostra attrezzatura.
  • Page 13 Solo quando sarete sicuri che tutto il sistema sia perfettamente operante, allora potrete iniziare la Vostra sessione di lavoro. Questa pre-ispezione deve essere condotta tutte le volte che intendete utilizzare il sistema di stabilizzazione SmartSystem. SmartSystem consiglia l’acquisto della Docking Bracket per il parking e per il bilanciamento dello Sled. In caso abbiate deciso di non utilizzare la docking bracket per bilanciare e preparare lo sled all’aggancio al braccio, siate molto accorti nell’alzare ed abbassare lo sled.

  • Page 14: Garanzia

    Garanzia La ditta SmartSystem Srl Unipersonale, con sede in Via del Commercio, 22F, 61032 FANO (PU) - ITALY - Proprietaria del marchio SmartSystem e dei brand ad essa collegati, accorda una garanzia limitata territorialmente di 24 mesi sui prodotti a partire dal giorno di consegna al cliente finale (compratore).
  • Page 15 Introduction Congratulations on the purchase of SmartCAM Arm X1 Before using SmartCAM Arm X1, you must have fully understood all the information about the adjustment and the operating modes of our product. SmartCAM Arm X1 has been specifically designed for the purpose of supporting video accessories installed on a sled with a standard 5/8"...

  • Page 16: Overview

    Overview Springs substitution and setting At the beginning and at the end of each session, you have to make sure that the arm springs are unloaded. As standard, Arm X1 provides two springs kits with a different spring rate: Medium (for medium-light loads) [BLUE ] ·...
  • Page 17 Arm X1 is equipped with four spiring lodgings, giving to the user the freedom to operate as he prefer, referring to the load applied to the Arm itself. It's also possible to work with only one spring for every parallelogram, in order to minimize the total weight of the equipment and to maximize the use of the spring force.
  • Page 18 Remove the preload screw. Remove the spring you'll find in the lodging. Insert the more suitable spring (read and follow the load diagram). Put back and tighten, clockwise, the preload screw previously removed. Tighten the preload screw until the small plate of the screw itself will be aligned to the first mark in the preload indicator.
  • Page 19 Please follow the load diagram attached to your X1 to create the best spring combination in relationship to the weight to hold up. Arm X1 doesn't need an equal preloading of the 4 springs used. http://download.smartsystem.it/Load_Diagram_X1_v2019.pdf...

  • Page 20: X-Tune

    X-TUNE The SmartSystem Arm X1 equipped with exclusive tuning system called X-TUNE. It let to change dynamic behaviour of the Arm itself. X-TUNE works in synergy with the springs that are installed in the arm. Thanks to the X-TUNE system the steadycam operator will be able to decide if configure the arm to be reactive or soft, quasi-isoelastic.

  • Page 21: Tilt Adjustment

    Tilt Adjustment Thanks to two screws on the mating block, you can change the tilt-on angle of your Arm X1. The tilting adjustment is closely related to the operator posture. If you need to adjust it, use the Allen Key number 5. The two screws can lock the arm in any required position.

  • Page 22: Left / Right Handed Set Up

    Remember that the 5/8" pin-axis of your arm must be as much parallel as possible to your body axis. Left / Right handed set up The arm can be used either by right or left-handed operators. For this reason, it is possible to change the arm's working side very quickly and easily. Using the supplied key n.5, loosen the tilt adjustment screws and remove the screw that holds the mating block bolted to the Arm.

  • Page 23: Arm Post Locking

    bent braket [A] on the opposite side. Holding the joint slightly inclined in the arm's way, insert the screw and tighten it to the mating block. Here you are a simple video about this section. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waYNCr1qN3o Arm Post Locking Before starting a working session, please be aware to check if the locking knob of the X1 Arm post is correctly tightened.

  • Page 24: General Checklist

    General Checklist Before starting your working session, make sure: To wear properly your SmartCAM Lite Vest (or similar). To preload properly the springs of your Arm X-1 in accordance to the procedure described above To check that the Sled is properly fastened and the electrical elements. To check that the 5/8”...

  • Page 25: General Warnings

    Please, contact our technical department for any doubts or questions concerning the disposal of your Arm. General warnings Whenever you want to use your Smartsystem stabilization system, you must first carefully check out each component and make sure that your session is safe for you and your equipment.

  • Page 26: Warranty

    Warranty SmartSystem Unipersonale Srl headquarter is located in Via del Commercio, 22F, 61032 FANO(PU), ITALY. Smartsystem main brand and all the other brands associated with it are property of Smart-System Srl Unipersonale. Your SmartSystem equipment is guaranteed against any manufacturing or material defects for 24 months from the date of delivery to the customer.

  • Page 27: System Manual

    Steadicam System Manual ® ™ LIT-888000, RevA...
  • Page 29 Table of contents Evolution of the Steadicam M-Series Steadicam modular components map Stage components Inputs and outputs Camera dovetail clamp Balance drives Tilt stage Volt system operation Adjustments and maintenance Installing Volt electronics Installing or moving Volt control boxes Post components Post lock adjustment Separating and connecting modular parts Gimbal components...

  • Page 30: Evolution Of The Steadicam M-Series

    Evolution of the Steadicam M-Series he Steadicam M-2 is the most integrated and adaptable Steadicam system ever created. Not only does the M-2 offer a lighter weight and lower cost high-end system, it also features the revolutionary Steadicam Volt™ technology built right in for a sleeker, more versatile rig! The Volt electronics are seamlessly integrated into the low-profile top stage, and inside the all-new gimbal, to decrease the distance between the top of the gimbal and the top of the stage, as well as reduce weight.

  • Page 31: Steadicam Modular Components Map

    Steadicam modular components map M-1 FLAT M-1 FLAT TOP STAGE WITH VOLT M-1 TILT M-1 TILT TOP STAGE WITH VOLT TOP STAGE CONTROL BOX TOP STAGE CONTROL BOX M-2 FLAT M-2 FLAT M-2 TILT M-2 TILT TOP STAGE TOP STAGE & VOLT TOP STAGE TOP STAGE &...

  • Page 32: Stage Components

    Stage components Dovetail Plate Clamp Lever Maximum rigidity and mounting options Safety latch design with drop-in loading Index marks for repeatability Adjustable tension M-1/Ultra compatible Front Electronics Power, Volt and tally ports Balance Drive Knobs Side-side and fore-aft adjustment Volt Switch Box Accessory Rod Mounts For optional VOLT electronics LWS 15mm by 60mm spacing...

  • Page 33: Inputs And Outputs

    Inputs and outputs Front Electronics Volt gimbal connector Tally IN/OUT port Triple 12/24V ports LEMO® 8-pin 1B connector LEMO® 4-pin 0B connector LEMO® 3-pin 0B connectors Rotates 90˚ for cable routing Use with available tally sensor Outer port rotates 90˚ Included on ALL top stages 12 volts supplied at all times 12 and 24 volts simultaneously...

  • Page 34: Camera Dovetail Clamp

    Camera dovetail clamp he dovetail lock system is designed to ensure reliable camera safety. Mounting and removing the camera on the M-Series stages encourages you to keep at least one hand on the camera at all times, until it is securely fastened. With your camera mounted to the dovetail plate, follow these steps: The stage is ready for the camera Place the dovetail against the The weight of the camera will...
  • Page 35 Removing the camera is basically Open the clamp lever. Push and hold the safety latch to the reverse. Secure the camera The dovetail is still retained by the right. with your left hand. the safety latch. Keeping the safety latch held to Close the clamp lever so nothing the side, tilt the dovetail plate out catches on it! To reinstall the...

  • Page 36: Balance Drives

    Balance drives ach knob has a twin on either side of the stage so you can adjust the balance from either side of the rig. With the coarse balancing done, and the camera locked in place, fine balancing can be finished with the adjustment knobs.

  • Page 37: Tilt Stage

    Tilt stage he tilt stage option enables you to easily tilt the camera relative to the post, which allows you to maintain dynamic balance while panning, and helps control headroom. It’s also very useful in low mode. The tilt stage of the M-2 offers 10˚ of upward or downward tilt. Unlock both tilt lock clamps.

  • Page 38: Volt System Operation

    Volt system operation he optional, integrated M-2 Volt takes the groundbreaking electronic assistance to the next phase of integration with professional mechanical stabilizers. If you’re already familiar with the Volt, the same parts are there. The same adjustments are there. The same transparent assistance is there. Included below are some basics, but read the Volt manual to get the full picture: Tiffen.com/pages/volt-system.
  • Page 39 LONG pressing the gimbal thumb Normal mode simulates a Friction mode holds the sled tilt, button switches operating modes traditionally balanced Steadicam, and requires force to change tilt from normal to friction, and back returning to a trimmed tilt angle. position, like a fluid head.
  • Page 40 he three dials on the dial box allow you to customize the behavior of the Volt in two axes, roll and tilt, independently. Additionally, the damping dial controls how the system returns the sled to vertical. Here are some general guides to the three knobs. The ROLL dial controls the Damping works like friction to The TILT dial controls the strength...
  • Page 41 ry these settings for the different situations listed. These recipes are just a starting point; experiment with reduced strength and work up to exactly what works best for you, and for each shot. TYPICAL MODE Every day operating, easy tilt. ROCK AND ROLL Free to tilt or roll Dutch angles.

  • Page 42: Adjustments And Maintenance

    Adjustments and maintenance he dovetail clamp creates tremendous clamping force with very little pressure at the clamp lever. When the rig is new, get accustomed to the feel of each mechanism so that you can determine if one needs attention later. The ideal adjustment will not allow the dovetail to slide, even with the heaviest camera, but remains easy to close fully.
  • Page 43 f the fore/aft or side-to-side drive knobs exhibit free play, your balancing accuracy may be compromised. However, over-tightening can be worse than being a little loose, so approach these adjustments with care. Tighten the stage drive knobs in pairs; BOTH fore/aft or BOTH side/side knobs. Each pair of knobs share an axle and should be tensioned evenly.

  • Page 44: Installing Volt Electronics

    Installing Volt electronics he Volt electronics are hidden inside the top stage, just beneath the dovetail clamp. All M-2 sleds are pre-wired to easily upgrade to Volt. Factory installation is recommended, but it’s not too difficult. CAUTION: Take proper ESD protection when installing the Volt control board into the stage, and confirm that no batteries are installed on the sled at time of installation.

  • Page 45: Installing Or Moving Volt Control Boxes

    Installing or moving Volt control boxes nside the stage nose are connectors for the Volt control boxes. Installation is straight forward, as shown. Or, you may wish to swap sides of the boxes, so the dials face an operator with regular or goofy stance. Remove the four screws, and Unscrew the two hex screws in Choose which side for each...

  • Page 48: Post Components

    Post components he new modular 1.58” posts for the M-2 system offer maximum rigidity whether they’re built short, or at full extension, and they’re compatible with the M-1 stage and base. This modularity allows users quick access to the stage, gimbal and base components for future upgrades, mods and maintenance. Stage Connector Electrical and mechanical junction to the stage Removable to allow access to gimbal...

  • Page 49: Post Lock Adjustment

    Post lock adjustment he low-profile post clamps are easy to use and offer a positive lock. You should occasionally test to ensure the gimbal and post are being clamped fully by trying to move the components with the clamps closed. If the components slide with a camera on board, it will affect your drop time. IMPORTANT: Do not over-tighten post clamps! They are strong enough to distort the carbon fiber post sections, but do not need to be that tight to hold.

  • Page 50: Separating And Connecting Modular Parts

    Separating and connecting modular parts he three major components —the stage, post and base— all connect through the post connectors. You can easily gain access to your gimbal by removing the stage. Here’s how it works: If you have a tilt stage, start with Use a 7/64”...
  • Page 51 einstalling the stage is easy, but remember to only use the provided high-strength screws. All twelve in the clamp and stage connector are the same size and spec. Spares are available. Align the stage connector’s red Align the center of the stage with Install the six screws with a 7/64”...
  • Page 52 emoving or replacing the base is easier than the top stage, because there are fewer parts, and fewer of those high-strength screws. The base connector is the same as the stage connector. For years of trouble free use, don’t force anything, and keep them clean while separated. To remove the base, start by Use a 9/64”...

  • Page 54: Gimbal Components

    Gimbal components he new M-2 gimbal builds upon the M-1 gimbal design, and integrates the Volt pan encoder ring within the gimbal body. This saves you precious gimbal height, and makes all M-2 gimbals even easier to upgrade and service later. With compatibility in mind, the gimbal fits 1.75”, 1.58” and 1.5” post diameters. Pan Bearing Volt Pan Encoder Ring Inside outer ring...

  • Page 55: Gimbal With Volt Components

    Gimbal with Volt components ere we’ve added the Volt components. This is just the basics, so please refer to the Volt manual for the whole story; it’s available at Tiffen.com/pages/volt-system. The gimbal is designed to work with the new Padded Docking Bracket to gain more gimbal height, protect the Volt hardware, and be easier on bearings. Belt Tension Screw Trunnion Adjusts trunnion belt...

  • Page 56: M-2 Volt Compared To M-1 Volt

    M-2 Volt compared to M-1 Volt olt integration into the new M-2 gimbal differs from an installation on an M-1 gimbal in two practical ways: the pan encoder is now internal, and the trunnion pulley has a different mechanism (similar to previous “upgrade kits”...

  • Page 57: Gimbal Clamp Adjustment

    Gimbal clamp adjustment he low-profile gimbal clamp is easy to use and offers a positive lock. You should occasionally test to ensure the post is being clamped fully by trying to move the gimbal with the clamps closed. If the gimbal slides with a camera on board, it will affect your drop time.

  • Page 58: Pan Bearing Removal And Cleaning

    Pan bearing removal and cleaning he modular nature of the M-2 encourages operators to take excellent care of their rigs. Cleaning the pan bearing from time to time will keep your M-2 performing at its best. Start by removing the gimbal from the post (see page 24), then grab the included Blue Whale tool (305-7115-02).
  • Page 59 ith the pan bearing removed, spend an adequate amount of time to carefully clean out any contaminants within the bearing. Warning: our recommended solvent is 100% acetone, so take the necessary precautions to keep it off of sensitive items (such as paint, plastic and skin) and always follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations.

  • Page 60: Pan Bearing Replacement

    Pan bearing replacement ith everything inspected and cleaned, it’s time to put it all back together. Don’t remember where everything goes? No problem, just follow along: Carefully insert the pan bearing Install the pan bearing lock until Slide the inner ring into the pan into the outer ring using light finger tight to ensure proper bearing.

  • Page 62: Monitor Mount Components

    Monitor mount components Universal Monitor Mount Adjustable width and height Monitor Pivot 180˚ range for unobstructed views Adjustable friction Pivot Clamp Knob Monitor Rods Secure tilt angle of mount LWS 15mm by 60mm spacing Standard 1/2”-13 threaded ends Rod Clamp Levers Post Clamp Lock or release the monitor rods Hinged quick-release...

  • Page 63: Monitor Mount Positioning

    Monitor mount positioning he M-2 monitor mount is intended to allow practically limitless mounting positions. The monitor can be positioned close to the post or far away. The mount can attach to either post. The monitor can be tilted to any angle and arched from upright to inverted. Many of the possibilities take mere seconds to achieve and none take more than a minute.

  • Page 64: Clamp Operation

    Clamp operation ou can easily move the monitor mount from the lower post to the gimbal post. While the mount is off the post, you may also flip it over so the monitor will be upright in low-mode. IMPORTANT: support the monitor with one hand while disengaging and engaging the clamp. Open the clamp lever, and then Pull the monitor away from the Reposition the monitor mount...

  • Page 65: Monitor Yoke Adjustment

    Monitor yoke adjustment he universal monitor mount offers versatility and convenience to mount a variety of monitors near the monitor’s center of gravity, and allows tools free adjustment once it is fitted. NOTE: Contact Tiffen for a selection of monitor blocks to fit your choice of professional monitor when upgrading or buying a spare.

  • Page 66: Adjusting Monitor Clamps And Hinge Brakes

    Adjusting monitor clamps and hinge brakes hough the levers only have a short 45˚ throw, the rod clamps hold the monitor rods securely when properly adjusted. If they slide with a camera on board it will affect your static balance. Adjust the clamp locks with the Turn each locknut a small amount Test the holding power of the...

  • Page 68: Base And Battery Mount Components

    Base and battery mount components Front Battery (#2) With 12V P-Tap V-lock or Gold Mount Battery Pivot Adjustable friction 180˚ range Clamp Levers 3rd Battery Switch Lock or release the battery rods Choose 12V or 24V when running 3rd battery Front Electronics High-definition video ports Power ports...

  • Page 69: Base Electronics

    Base electronics Front Electronics Triple HD video ports Monitor Port Double 12/24V ports HD-SDI compatible LEMO® 5-pin 1B connector LEMO® 3-pin 0B connector Direct connections to the stage Power and tally signal 12 volts supplied at all times Color coded at each end No SD video signal 12 and 24 volts simultaneously when in 24V mode...

  • Page 70: Battery Positioning

    Battery positioning he battery mount can be brought in tight to the base for a whippy feel and plenty of leg clearance for switches. Or, the battery mount can be elongated to increase pan inertia and to balance a monitor placed way out front.

  • Page 71: Installing The 3 Rd Battery Mount

    Installing the 3 battery mount he optional 3rd battery mount has integrated wiring, so it doesn’t use one of your power ports. Once you install the included short dovetail, the 3rd battery mount can slide on and off as needed. Remove the screws holding on the Reposition the pre-wired multi-pin Install the dovetail with the screws.

  • Page 72: Three Batteries, Three Switches

    Three batteries, three switches ou’re in full control of how batteries are combined on the M-2. The main ON-OFF switch turns power ON or OFF, except for P-taps on each battery mount. The main 12V/24V switch adds the #2 battery in series or parallel with battery #1.

  • Page 74: Connector Diagrams And Warnings

    Connector diagrams and warnings Pin2 Pin1 Pin12 Pin12 Pin1 Pin2 Warnings: • When mounting “sandwiched” accessories to a battery mount with a battery on its back, in 24Volt mode, do so ONLY on the REAR #1 battery mount. Mounting it to the front #2 battery mount (closest to the post when upright) will damage the equipment in 24V mode.

  • Page 75: M-1 And M-2 Features And Specs

    M-1 and M-2 features and specs...

  • Page 76: M-1 And M-2 Part Numbers

    M-1 and M-2 part numbers...

  • Page 78: M-1 And M-2 Accessories List

    M-1 and M-2 accessories list...

  • Page 80: Contact Tiffen

    Contact Tiffen The Tiffen Company 90 Oser Avenue Hauppauge, NY 11788 Phone: (631) 273-2500 or 1(800) 645-2522 Fax: (631) 273-2557 Tiffen-Steadicam 2815 Winona Avenue Burbank, CA 91504 Phone: (818) 843-4600 or 1(800) 593-3331 Fax: (818) 843-8321 Tiffen International Ltd. Pinewood Studios Pinewood Road Iver Heath SL0 0NH United Kingdom...

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