A
B
A2
C
Zero Gravity Rig Operating Instructions
Welcome to our new top-of-the-line shoulder support
system for cameras up to 15 lbs - the ZG Rig. In addition
to its totally unique vertical balancing mechanism, this
system is designed to be configurable to virtually any body
type or camera setup, so there are some adjustments and
operational parameters to discover before you begin using
the equipment. The Rig requires minor assembly (see
assembly diagram). It should approximately resemble the
picture at the right. Included are: 3-part shoulder rig,
support pod, belt, camera plate, accessory mount,
removable counterweight.
Read the instructions to
ensure that you don’t damage the system or camera.
1A – The first and most important element to understand
is the
Tilt Mechanism
. Look at the
safety lock (A)
, and notice how
it slides laterally when the red thumbscrew is loose. When the tilt
arm (w/ “Zero Gravity” label) is perpendicular to the horizontal
support member (w/ “VariZoom” label), the safety lock will slide into
the slot of the tilt arm. Once the red thumbscrew is tightened, the
safety lock prohibits the tilting action of the ZG Rig. The safety lock
allows you to set the ZG Rig down without the system inadvertently
tilting and flopping over, which could cause damage to your
camera. Always engage the safety lock before setting the ZG Rig
down. Conversely, while operating the ZG Rig, the safety lock
should be disengaged so you can tilt freely.
1A2 – Always keep the
tensioner knob (A2)
tightened close to the
max – only tiny adjustments are needed. The tilt mechanism
should never have any play/wobble, or damage may result.
1B – The
position lock lever (B)
for the vertical balancing
mechanism is essentially a stainless steel clamping lever. It is
VERY IMPORTANT that this lever is
tightened
while operating the
ZG Rig and
loosened
while adjusting the vertical balance. If the
position lock lever is loose while operating the ZG Rig, there will be
excess play in the tilt mechanism that can cause unwanted
shaking and even result in damage to the ZG Rig. If the position
lock lever is tight while you attempt to adjust the vertical balance,
you may cause irreparable damage. Loose = lever up; Tight =
lever down.
Basic rule of thumb: if it feels wrong, check your locks
and tensioner knob before proceeding.
1C – The
vertical adjustment knob (C)
will allow you to raise or
lower the camera platform precisely, but the position lock lever (B) and safety lock (A) must be
disengaged before you make this adjustment, otherwise
DAMAGE MAY OCCUR
.
WARNING: FOR OPERATION, THE LOCK LEVER (B) MUST BE FULLY TIGHTENED AND
TENSIONER KNOB (A2) MUST BE TIGHT ENOUGH TO REMOVE ANY SIDE-TO-SIDE
WOBBLE/PLAY IN THE TILT MECHANISM, OR SEVERE DAMAGE MAY RESULT!!!
Tilt Mechanism (front/side views)
