Steadicam Merlin Setup And Operation Manual page 15

2. Adjusting the Caliper Hinge
The second method of balance – for a finer adjustment of bottom-heaviness – involves expanding and
contracting the angle of the Merlin's lower spar. This adjustment raises or lowers the weights relative to
the camera.
Caliper Hinge Locking
Identify the
the connection between the upper and lower spar and keep
the Merlin rigid to prevent vibration.
Loosen both Locking Knobs.
Identify the Caliper Adjusting
of the lower spar.
Notice the graphic on the knob. It tells
you which direction to turn to expand or
contract the
Counterclockwise contracts.
If weights have already been added, support the lower
spar rest on the surface of the table to make the
Adjusting Knob
easier to turn. Turn the knob clockwise to
increase bottom-heaviness.
Continue until you reach the maximum expansion of the
Arc Size between the upper and lower spars – almost 13
inches (33cm) – but don't force this adjustment further.
Use this maximum Arc Size for cameras weighing much
above two pounds (.9kg), so you can use as few weights as
possible.
Adjusting Knob
Turn the
Arc-Size. You will reach the minimum arc size at just under
7 inches (17cm) This size is only used for the lightest 1/2 lb
(227g) camcorders.
If your camera is listed in the Online Cookbook, note the
Arc Size distance specified again here:
Arc Size
for your camera:
The distance is measured from the lower weight to the top of the Stage.
Knobs. They tighten
Knob. It adjusts the angle
Arc Size
. Clockwise expands.
Caliper
counter-clockwise to reduce the
inches.
Basic Set-up
1