Getting Started - Steadicam Merlin Setup And Operation Manual

3. Getting Started

Unfolding the Merlin into Flying Mode
The Steadicam Merlin is shipped to you in its compact
It is important to unfold and fold the unit in the proper sequence, to avoid accidental
damage. There are only two positions.
Begin by unfolding the unit into
Folding the Merlin into Travel Mode
Caliper Hinge
Open the
Release
and swing it up
out of the way.
Practice folding and unfolding the Merlin between Flying Mode and Travel Mode.
Folded
Flying Mode
as follows:
Position the Merlin as shown. Hold the
together with your hand.
Note the storage position of the
velcro'd up under the stage alongside the folded lower spar.
Check that the Caliper Hinge
Release
is open and out of the way.
With the other hand, swing down
Lower Spar
the sideways until it
clicks into the fully opened position.
If you plan to use a heavy camera, get into the habit of
locking the Caliper Hinge Release
unfolded into Flying Mode.
The Steadicam Merlin is now in Flying Mode. When a camera is
properly mounted on the Stage, you will be able to hold the unit by
the Grip (with the Velcro side always forward and in contact with
your fingers) and the camera will "float" in balance above it.
Gimbal
'Dock' the
Velcro patch on the
the bubble level.
Grasp the Stage
Lower Spar
up the
position under the stage alongside the grip.
Travel Mode
or .
Stage and the
Grip in the folded unit,
when the Merlin is
under the stage by pressing the
Grip to the matching Velcro under
and the Grip with one hand and swing
until it clicks into the 'Travel'
Getting Started
Grip