9
Getting Started
3. Getting Started
Unfolding the Merlin
2®
into Flying Mode
The Steadicam Merlin 2 is shipped to you in its compact
Folded
or
Travel Mode
.
It is important to unfold and fold the unit in the proper sequence, to avoid accidental
damage. There are only two positions.
Begin by unfolding the unit into
Flying Mode
as follows:
Position the Merlin 2 as shown. Hold the
Stage
and the
Grip
together with your hand.
Folding the Merlin
2®
into Travel Mode
Check that the
Caliper Hinge
Release
is open and out of the way.
With the other hand, swing down the
Lower Spar
sideways
until it clicks into the fully opened position.
If you plan to use a heavy camera, get into the habit of
locking the
Caliper Hinge Release
when the Merlin 2 is
unfolded into Flying Mode.
The Steadicam Merlin 2 is now in Flying Mode. When a camera is
properly mounted on the Stage, you will be able to hold the unit by
the Grip and the camera will “float” in balance above it.
Note the storage position of the
Grip
in the folded unit,
secured up under the stage alongside the folded lower spar.
Unlock the
Caliper Hinge
Release
by pulling back the
lock ring ring and rotating it
counter-clockwise.
‘Dock’ the
Gimbal
under the stage by pressing the
hook and loop fastener patch on the
Grip
to the
matching patch under the bubble level.
Grasp the
Stage
and the
Grip
with one hand and swing
up the
Lower
Spar
until it clicks into the ‘Travel’
position under the stage alongside the grip.
Practice folding and unfolding the Merlin
2®
between Flying Mode and Travel Mode.
