User manual VARIZOOM DV SPORTSTER

[. . . ] Included with the package are the vest (w/ arm bridge), spring arm, spool adapter for the UltraLite handle, adapter post for mounting either the Steadicam Jr. or Glidecam handheld units, and the padded carrying case. Although it is fairly easy to set up the DV Sportster, you must know how to use the handheld stabilizer before you get started, so read the instructions for the handheld unit first, if necessary. [. . . ] 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. -Fine-tuning of the balance adjustments may be necessary on occasion. -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 for at least 20 hours before attempting to acquire usable footage. -Seriously - practice, practice, practice. For more info, visit http://www. varizoom. com/flowcam/dvsportster. php Page 6 Adjusting the Arm The next step is to set the "float point". This is essentially the ideal point of spring tension, the state in which the sled rises and falls with slight force. At the end of the arm you will find a 3-prong knob for adjusting the spring tension. Clockwise turning increases tension while counter-clockwise turning decreases tension. You should adjust the tension until the camera base floats at a level below your collarbone, but the arm should not feel "spongy". Typically, the arm should be at or above the horizontal position, and you should adjust the tension to a point that minimizes bounce. The float point is not necessarily an exact setting, and you may find that what works for you may be slightly different than another person's preferred float point. The important thing is the end result: you have a sled that rises and falls with slight force and absorbs most of the shock imparted by walking. Page 3 The Handheld Stabilizer, or "Sled" On a professional stabilizer, the "sled" is the subsystem that holds the camera, viewing monitor, and battery. [. . . ] Connect the spring arm to the vest by sliding the rounded socket onto this stainless steel post. Finish by replacing the retaining screw Setting up the Arm Mount for the Sled *The spool adapter for the UltraLite comes mounted in place at the top of the arm, opposite of the 3-prong adjusting knob at the base (see picture below left). If you will be using the Sportster with an UltraLite, then all you have to do is remove the foam grip from the handle and slide the handle into the spool. See pictures below for illustration. ***If you will be using a Steadicam Jr. ® or Glidecam ® handheld stabilizer, you will need to replace the spool with the adapter post. [. . . ]