Varizoom NAVIGATOR User Manual

Navigator can also be upgraded to a full professional

system by adding a GT sled in place of the FlowPod or

GlideCam® handheld units.

NAVIGATOR

Stabilizing Arm/Vest Manual

Thank you for purchasing the Navigator. Please read the
instruction manual thoroughly before operating it for the first
time.

The Navigator was designed to transform your FlowPod or
Glidecam® 2000/4000 handheld stabilizer into a fully
supported system.

Although it is fairly easy to set up the Navigator, you must

know how to use the handheld stabilizer before you get
started, so read the instructions for the handheld unit first, if

necessary. Operating the full system smoothly will require
practice.

Included with your Navigator are the Arm, Vest, and
Glidecam® adapter post with screw and washer for
attaching the post to the arm or for directly attaching the
FlowPod to the arm.

Page 2

The Vest

The purpose of the vest is to comfortably distribute the
weight of the camera and stabilizing system on your body.
To achieve optimal results, you should adjust the vest so
that it fits snugly.

Adjust the vertical fit by
adjusting the straps, pulling
the chrome release pin and
sliding the chest plate up or
down until you find the right
position.

Adjust the tightness of the
vest around your waist/hips
using the Velcro strap,
drawing it around evenly on
both sides of the lower vest
pad.

Adjust the tightness around your torso by positioning the
Velcro straps across the back of the vest and securing the
buckles to the chest plate. Make the vest as tight as
possible to maximize operational quality and comfort. Once
you’ve adjusted the vest, remove it for easy re-suiting by
unclipping the buckles & strap on one side only.

Page 7

Operation Notes

Generally speaking, you have to keep in mind that the
stabilizer will not work like a magic wand and instantly
transform your shots into brilliant footage. Operator skill is
critical, and it takes many hours of practice to master this
device, but the reward for all the practice will be substantial.
Here are a few simple quick-start guidelines:

-Controlling the orientation of the sled is essential, so
find the best control point on the sled, in close
proximity to the gimbal.

-Grasp the control point lightly with only your thumb
and forefinger – do not grab it like a handlebar.

-Practice good posture and hold the sled fairly close
to your body.

-Your other hand may be put to use in controlling the
rounded base section of the arm where it mounts to
the bridge, but this is up to your discretion.

-The way you walk will affect the quality of
stabilization, so you will need to develop a light­footed rhythmic pattern, and you may find that a
sideways step works better.

-Practice before attempting to acquire usable
footage.

-Seriously - practice, practice, practice.