TECHNICAL
NOTICES

Please check this page often for updates.

  

The golden rule applies to our gear inventory. You wouldn't want to be caught on a job without the proper tools so please help to make sure our gear is ready for use on the next job. Why? Because you may be the next person to use the gear. All gear should be kept ready to use, complete, functioning, and easy to deploy.

 CONTENTS

Storage

All gear is stored in the home of Peter Roof.

Transportation/packaging

Care should be exercised when transporting gear. Use hard-cases for most electronics. All locks and frictions on tripod heads are to be loose during transporation. Prevent tripods from falling when handling by laying on the ground or head-down. Do NOT wrap coiled cables around gear.

Load vehicles evenly and securely. Don't stack gear where it will fall during movement. Position cases so gear won't enter the driving compartment in the event of sudden braking. Tie down all awkward units to secure anchoring points. If possible, store gear off wheels or surrond wheeled cases with non-moving objects.

Malfunctions

Alt Gobo wants to maintain fully functioning gear. Gear used as often as ours will break down. Broken gear does not serve crews and clients and may negatively affect the project outcome. Please report and segregate any malfunctioning gear. Label unit using "NFG" tape (any tape you can write on) with the symptom and date. Also send us an email detailing the malfunction.

Cables

All cables are coiled using the "over/under" method. If you are not familiar with this technique please contact your crew chief.

CREATIVE VIDEO GEAR:

Cameras

Zebras
Zebra bars are set to 75% unless otherwise noted

DVcam DSR-1 monitoring
The DSR-1 VTR back when mounted on the Hitachi cameras produces an unusual effect on the video outputs. The setup menu should indicate a "Betacam" output. To monitor the camera while shooting use the spiggot on the side of the camera. To view tape playing back use the spiggot on the deck.

Hitachi Z-3000, Z-4000 and Panasonic D910 aspect ratio
These cameras can shoot in both 16:9 and 4:3. Before shooting, look at the viewfinder image and make sure it's in the right proportions for your assignment. There are no warnings or indicators as to which mode it's in. Adjust using system menu.

Hitachi Z-3000, Z-4000 and Panasonic D910 tripod plates
The tripod plate looks similar but is slightly longer than the other plates. It is labelled. The Panasonic camera takes the standard Sony snap mount.

Tripod plates
These are usually kept on the tripods but may be in a camera hard case for travel. Double check brand-specific tripod wedge plate.

ENG viewfinders
The Hitachi cameras have removable viewfinders. Do NOT over-tighten the mount. To remove, turn the locking ring counter-clockwise as you face the camera from the lens.

Tripods

Tripod plates
These are usually kept on the tripods but may be in a camera hard case for travel. Double check brand-specific tripod wedge plate. They are to be stored WITH the wedge plate in place, either with or without a camera plate.

Light kits

There are currently four light kits, two ENG kits, DP kit, and overseas kit.

ENG kits contents:


These two units are virtually identical. and are to be restored to original condition if mixed on a job. The one with 4 latches is called the "A" kit and the one with 3 latches is the "B" kit. The A kit has slightly better accessories.

Studio kits

There is one small kit for Hitachi/Canon studio controls. All parts are to be shipped in this case. Do not leave the focus block on the lens. Please do not tighten the arm clamps when storing the parts in the kit. Fuji lens controls have a separate kit. The Hitachi Z-3000 and Z-4000 have their own studio viewfinder case.

Headphones

Don't forget to take one on your next job. Check that it has a mini-to-1/4" adaptor. It is to be put away with that adaptor. Please do NOT wrap the coiled cable around the unit. Simply gather the cable and stuff gently in the pouch.

 

 

 

Field monitor

The field monitor is to be stored ready for use with a right-angle power cable and a medium length BNC video cable. Open vents on PortaBrace bag during use. Close vents when transporting in foul weather.

Updated: Sept. 2008