DJI Ronin camera stabilizers Assessing Payload manual

ASSESSING PAYLOAD

FOR DJI RONIN CAMERA STABILIZERS

July 17, 2019 Version 1.0

A key parameter for camera stabilizers is the weight of the camera and lens, otherwise known as the

payload. A stabilizer’s rated payload alone can roughly indicate the overall performance of the

product.

Rated payload is subject to multiple factors and has complex evaluation criteria. This article will

elaborate on DJI’s definition of payload.

1. DEFINITION

Rated payload refers to the weight of the load on a gimbal’s three axes motors while maintaining

balance, making the motors run stably to ensure smooth footage as a result.

2. THE EFFECT OF PAYLOAD ON A STABILIZER

The rated payload of a gimbal should reflect actual use with functional cameras and lenses, rather

than ideal, controlled situations with simulated weights. The size of this figure is heavily influenced

by the gimbal’s structural design and algorithm’s optimization; therefore, the rated payload is a

reliable indicator of a camera’s design quality and overall performance.

A stabilizer that supports higher payloads during actual use is beneficial in many ways:

Wider equipment selection: The stabilizer supports longer, heavier lenses and cameras, as well as

other accessories such as microphones.

Increased tolerance to disturbance: The stabilizer is effective in scenes with more dynamic

demands, such as when mounted to a moving vehicle.

Consistent image stabilization: The stabilizer provides the same reliable stabilization for all

mounted equipment within the payload range.

3. FACTORS AFFECTING THE PAYLOAD

LOCATION OF THE CENTER OF GRAVITY

The actual load of the 3-axis gimbal must take into account the center of gravity of the mounted

equipment. For the same weight, the farther the center of gravity from the motor, the greater the stress

of the load. When shooting with longer lenses, the motors may become weaker, preventing its ability to