VariZoom VZCROSSFIRE-FP User Manual
CrossFire FP
I
R
y
Multimode Stabilizer & Tripod
Tripod/Stabilizer Mode
w/ Canon 5D Mark I
System
PATENTED
Full Range Stabilizer Mode
w/ Canon 1D Mark IV
Full Range Stabilizer
Mode w/ Son
PMW-EX1
Lite Stabilizer Mode w/
Panasonic Lumix DSL
OPTIONAL LOW MODE on
Docking/Balancing Stand w/
Canon 5D Mark II
Lite Stabilizer Mode w/
Canon 7D
OPTIONAL DV SPORTSTER
Arm/Vest Upgrade w/ Sony
PWM-EX1
Lite Stabilizer Mode on
Docking/Balancing Stand w/
Canon 1D Mark IV
CrossFire FP Manual
Thank you for purchasing the versatile CrossFire FP, our patented stabilizer/tripod based on the bestselling FlowPod. The CrossFire FP offers several shooting options that will help to improve and
distinguish your productions. The CrossFire FP comes supplied with the following: Dockable
Lightweight Handheld Stabilizer, Removable 3-stage Tripod Legs, balancing plate (VZ-FPB), and
quick-release camera plate.
The CrossFire FP can be used in at least 6 distinct operating modes: 1) Lightweight, compact,
dockable handheld stabilizer for small cameras & DSLRs, 2) Full-range handheld stabilizer for larger
cameras, 3) Tripod Mode, 4) Low Flow Mode for moving low-level shots (w/ optional XFLF kit), 5)
Fixed Low Mode on Docking Stand for static low-angle shots, 6) Professional Arm & Vest Supported
Stabilizer (w/ optional DV Sportster or Navigator system). Since the CrossFire was designed with
versatility in mind, you may discover other creative ways to use it, but read this first.
WARNINGS:
- We do not suggest running at full speed with this unit
- Do not use it in stabilizer mode w/ legs fully extended.
- Do not overload the CrossFire FP or lean on it
- Do not over-tighten the grip/gimbal assembly – DAMAGE may
result
X-Y Plate
Gimbal / Grip
It may take a little while to learn how to use the
CrossFire FP 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’ll be ready to
Counterweight
Adjustment/Elevation
Shaft
shoot.
STABILIZER MODE
Attachment and Balancing
1. The first step is to attach the camera to the quick release plate (the
long top plate). Detach the quick release plate by loosening the
locking lever and depressing the red release button on the opposite
side.
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 (‘sideways’). The spot
where the camera balances best is the lengthwise center of
gravity.
Position the center of gravity at the center of the mounting
plate and fix the camera to the plate using the appropriate
size screw. Put the mounting plate back onto the X-Y
assembly and tighten the locking lever. Now you are ready to start balancing the unit.
3-stage Tripod
2
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 counterbalancing and a low-friction pivot point (the gimbal). In practice, this means you want the section
of the CrossFire FP 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 pan axis of the gimbal to keep the camera level (horizontal balance). Vertical
balance is adjusted by adjusting the position of the tripod and/or adding weights to the counterweight shaft, while
horizontal balance is adjusted by positioning the X-Y plate side-to-side and front-to-back.
2. In order to center and balance the camcorder you’ll have to unlock the
gimbal/grip assembly. It locks inline using a threaded knob that extends
downward from the grip and butts up against the base. To unlock the
assembly, you must thread the knob back into the grip. To do this, start by
loosening the black ‘brake’ knob above the gimbal, and then twist the
handle clockwise while turning the knob counter-clockwise.
Thread the knob into the grip until it is flush. Now the grip should move
freely at the gimbal mount. Notice the fluid motion of the gimbal and the
wide range of available motion. Also note that the knob below the grip may
strike the C-handle if the grip is released. Although this will not cause any
mechanical damage, the knob could scratch the body, so be advised.
3. Now that the grip is free, 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 CrossFire FP.
4. Operating Weight Range –
A) Full Range Mode (w/ tripod): The CrossFire FP can be operated in stabilizer mode with the
tripod attached when used with cameras weighing above 5 lbs. If the camera weighs less than 5
lbs., the only way to operate with the tripod attached and still achieve vertical balance is by adding
weight above the gimbal (such as a camera weight plate or our FP1 weights) or using a riser
below the camera.
A
3
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