VariZoom VZCROSSFIRE-FP - Manual (Page 5)

5
“The Drop Test”
(FlowPod shown for illustration - same concept applies to CrossFire FP)
To test the vertical balance, hold the unlocked grip straight up
and turn the CrossFire FP on its side to a horizontal position
(picture below), then let it fall back to the vertical position (the
“Drop Test”). It should fall gradually, taking 2-3 seconds to go
from horizontal to vertical. Note that it will swing past the
vertical position – you are only counting the time it takes to go
90 degrees (from horizontal to vertical).
If it does not swing down, adjust the
position of the tripod on the counterweight
adjustment shaft and or add/remove
weights from the shaft. If that doesn’t help,
add another weight and retest. If the
CrossFire FP swings down too fast, you
should remove weights or adjust the shaft
position upward, as necessary.
Vertical Balance should be fine-tuned
until the CrossFire FP stays completely
vertical when you move it around
without any significant swaying, so your
drop time may vary slightly depending
on how you fine-tune.
NOTES:
-With some very small cameras, you may need to add a weight above the gimbal to achieve a
good balance (attach weights to the ‘neck’).
–With some heavier cameras (over 5 lbs or so) you may need more than 3 counterweights on
the counterweight shaft. The XFFP extra weight kit is available for a nominal charge.
7. After setting your counterweight, you may want to fine-tune the X-Y adjustments. Once you’ve
achieved a good balance, you are ready to begin practicing with the CrossFire FP. There are
two important things to keep in mind at this point: (1) The CrossFire FP is designed to be
operated with two hands and (2) it requires practice to master (but it only gets easier with time).
Start = 0 Seconds
Finish =
2-3 seconds
Counting . . .
. . .still counting
Add or
remove
stainless
weights