Aimed at reduced cost applications with lower speed and payload requirements, but with the same smooth precision movement as the DTA head.
Control options are also the same, so there are no compromises on ease of use. The multi-camera single operator functionality of the MCC controller drives costs even lower.
Standard ethernet network connectivity
Communication with the head is via ethernet, allowing it to connect to standard networks. The IP address can easily be set with the MCC Controller or our smart-phone app.
Pixel perfect frame accuracy
The position resolution is suitable for motion control, e.g. an object viewed from from 50m will be accurate to 1.0mm.
Smooth Motion
The high resolution of the absolute encoders, coupled with the near zero backlash of the gearboxes is primarily what gives the head its smooth motion, but you also need a robust motor feedback algorithm to take full advantage of these features. The powerful motors are finely controlled to manipulate the camera extremely smoothly, throughout the entire speed range, yet respond instantly to sudden demands for acceleration without jumping or shaking. The user can adjust the speed, acceleration and deceleration to suit the shot so the controls are easy to operate.
No Position Zeroing Required
All our heads are fitted with absolute encoders and are factory calibrated, so zero degrees pan and tilt will always point in exactly the same direction, every head, every time.
Interfaces with all popular digital lenses and lens control systems
Simply plug in your chosen lens cable, select the lens (Canon/Fujinon/C-Motion/RED etc) from the drop down list of the user interface, and you’re ready to go. If a particular lens isn’t available and you need it we are happy to add the protocol.
Mount any camera
The camera arm has many slots to accommodate a variety of camera configurations. For extra stability there are slots at the base of the arm which allow a strap to wrap fully around the camera and arm holding them firmly together.
Android phone app
Your smart-phone can be plugged directly into the head using our USB to serial cable. Having installed the Identical Catalyst app you will be able to: check the head is communicating with the controller, set the lens make, move all the head axes (pan/tilt/zoom/focus etc), and set the position soft-limits. The soft-limits can be set using the MCC controller, but using the Catalyst app you can set the soft-limits while you’re next to the head, avoiding the possibility of hitting a nearby object. The absolute position measurement means that the head can be power-cycled and still maintain the same position limits, the same applies for position presets (shotbox).
Acceleration expectations
A mid-sized camera of around 5kg will accelerate at 360°/s², this is the acceleration limit of the head; lighter cameras will also achieve this value. A camera with more inertia will take longer to get to the top speed of 100°/s.
Intelligent Communication
Safety critical design methods, similar to that used in aircraft software, have been employed in the design of the system. Strong error checking is performed on communication to prevent use of corrupt data and fail-safe mechanisms control the head movement. The communication is tolerant to data loss, filling in the gaps to allow smooth movement even when comms are unreliable.
Mounting
The base has a standard 3/8th Whitworth female thread in the center, a further four arranged in the Vinten four-hole layout and two M10 female threads to which scaffold brackets can be attached.
Adjustable Camera Arm
The height and angle of the arm platform can easily be adjusted to balance the camera or to have the axis of tilt passing through the centre of the lens optics.
Supports Virtual Graphics
Highly accurate head position data can be streamed from the Motion Control Centre. The position data can be output in a range of formats e.g. Free-D. The accuracy and timing of the position data make it suitable for third party virtual graphics software.
Withstands Harsh Environments
The head can withstand extremes of weather, it has been thoroughly tested and has an operating temperature range of -20°C (-4°F) to +60°C (140°F). The head casing is fully sealed (IP65), preventing the ingress of dust, sand and rain. Internal vibration absorbers protect the electronics from mechanical shock.
Wide supply voltage range
The head supply voltage operating range is 14V to 36V. The top-speed and acceleration of the head are proportional to the supply voltage, if the supply voltage drops, the top speed and acceleration will drop. The head monitors the supply voltage, limiting speed and acceleration demands to prevent the head from tripping. The controller will also automatically scale the controls so the operator inputs are always within the achievable range of the head. Long power cable runs will cause voltage drop which will limit the top speed, so it’s best to place the PSU close to the head. Running from batteries will mean that the top speed and acceleration decrease as the battery discharges.
Rugged future-proofed cables
All our cables are fitted with waterproof locking Lemo connectors, to ensure a strong and reliable connection. We have standardised all our connections so everything will fit and work now and way into the future, across all our product lines. We have made sure that it’s impossible to damage anything by plugging a cable into the wrong socket. All our connectors are keyed and pin numbers have been standardised. Pins for power and pins for comms are never mixed, so even if you manage to force a plug in, it wouldn’t cause any further damage.
Tethering
The camera arm and head base have two loop-though points for tethering.
Transport Cases
Our products can optionally be supplied in transport cases fitted with custom cut foam to securely and tidily store and transport your equipment.
