Varizoom FLOWPOD User Manual

extra screws

handle

Gimbal

FLOWPOD (VZ-FP)

OWNER’S MANUAL

X-Y Assembly

Brake

C-handle

Knurled knobs

for locking

Aluminum shaft

for counter-

weights

Monopod

3 counter-

weights, hex

key, FPB,

Operating Instructions

Thank you for purchasing the FlowPod, our versatile patented stabilizer/support. The FlowPod will
provide you with several shooting options that will help to improve and distinguish your productions.
Before you begin using the FlowPod, please read the instructions below.

The FlowPod can be used in at least three distinct operating modes: stabilizer, monopod, and low­flow (for low-level shots). Since the FlowPod was designed with versatility in mind, you may discover

other creative ways to use it, but first read these WARNINGS:

- We do not suggest running at full speed with the FlowPod, as you could be distracted and trip or
collide with something, possibly resulting in injury or damage to your gear.

- Do not use it in stabilizer mode with the monopod section extended.

- Exercise caution when operating in low-flow mode to ensure that you do not strike the camcorder or

FlowPod on the ground, other objects or your feet and legs.

- Do not overload the FlowPod or lean on it like a walking cane.

- Do not subject the FlowPod to excessive moisture or submerge it in water.

- Do not overtighten the knurled handle-lock knobs. Tighten only enough to secure the handle.

- When using the supplied hex key to tighten or loosen the counter weights, grip firmly, insert the hex

head thoroughly, and do not overtighten.

- To prevent damage, hold on to the camcorder while adjusting the mounting plate (X-Y plate) to ensure
that it doesn’t slide and fall.

It may take a little while to learn how to use the FlowPod properly, so please read the instructions
thoroughly before attempting to use it. As packed, the unit is configured for basic stabilizer mode,
and you will have to complete a few steps before you will be ready to shoot.

STABILIZER MODE

Attachment and Balancing

1. The first step is to attach the camera to the mounting
plate (the top section of the X-Y assembly). Detach
the mounting plate by removing the 3 side screws (with
lock washers). Find the lengthwise center of gravity of
your camera. Do this by balancing the camera on top
of a pen or pencil oriented perpendicular to the
camera’s length. The spot at which the camera comes
closest to balancing is the lengthwise center of gravity.
Position the center of gravity at the center of the
mounting plate, then fix the camera to the plate using
the closest available hole. Put the mounting plate back
onto the X-Y assembly and attach it with the 3 screws
w/ lockwashers. Now you are ready to start balancing the unit.

On stabilizer balancing

The basic idea of stabilization is to enable the operator to keep the camera level and to move it fluidly. This is achieved
through careful re-distribution of mass and a friction free pivot point (the gimbal). In practice, this means you want the
section of the FlowPod below the gimbal to be effectively heavier than the upper section (vertical balance), and you want
the camera’s mass to be centered on the rotating axis of the gimbal to keep the camera level (horizontal balance).
Vertical balance is adjusted by attaching counter-weights (usually on the lower section of the FlowPod), while horizontal
balance is adjusted by positioning the X-Y plate side-to-side and front-to-back.

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2. In order to center and balance the camcorder you will have to unlock the handle. Do this by

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adjusting the two knurled metal knobs directly under the handle. The locking system operates by
screwing the knurled knobs in opposite directions so that the thinner one butts up against the
handle and the thicker one lodges against the base of the C-handle (1).

To free the handle you need to screw the thinner knob all the way down (clockwise from top - 2)
so that it sits directly on top of the thicker knob (completely flush), and then screw both all the way
up into the handle (counter-clockwise from top - 3). When the knobs are screwed all the way into
the handle, it should be free (4). The handle should be free when operating in stabilizer mode.

If you have difficulty loosening the knobs, you can turn the handle in the opposite direction
(clockwise from top), but make sure the brake is loosened, too. To lock the handle back in place,
screw both knobs down to the base (clockwise from top) and then screw the thinner knob up
against the handle until tight. You should also tighten the brake when locking the handle.

3. Now that the handle is free (4, above), you can begin balancing. In order to balance the unit
properly, you need to have the camera set up exactly as it will be used. For example, you should
remove the lens cap, flip out and position the LCD monitor, and add on any accessories prior to
balancing the unit. The smallest change to the weight distribution on the camera can significantly
affect the balance of the FlowPod.

4. If you have a very small camera, you may not need to use the
included counter-weights, but if you have a medium to large
camera, we recommend that you initially attach some counter­weights prior to balancing the FlowPod. Most cameras above

2.5lbs will require you to add at least one counter-weight to make
the lower section of the FlowPod heavier (pictured at right).
Because of the variety of accessories and configurations available
for DV cameras, it isn’t possible to prescribe an exact weighting
guide. See section 6 to determine how much counter-weight you
need.

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