For your HDDC and DC-Slider
Finding the right fluid Head for the FloatCam DC-Slider:
The DC-Slider and Heavy-Duty DC-Slider require a flat base fluid head with a 3/8-16” threaded hole as the platform comes standard with a flat mount and 3/8”-16 threaded spud to mount the fluid head. As you can see in the example below, the fluid head does not have a ball, but a flat mount.
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When shopping for your flat base head, find one that has a low profile. You want to avoid using a head with a high profile as this will make your camera/fluid package top heavy on the slider which may result in unstable imaging. Some heads come standard with the flat base mount like the one in the example, or you may purchase adapters that will convert your head from a ball mount to the necessary flat base. When shopping for flat base adapters, make sure to get one that allows the removal of the ball. Buying adapters that mount to the bottom of the ball will result in a high profile, top heavy rig.
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The Libec RH 35 fluid head shown above, as well as most of the Libec heads, can be converted from a 75mm ball to a flat base with 3/8” threaded hole. The installation of the flat base is simple. Remove the set screws on the bottom of the ball, remove the ball and attach the flat base adapter in its place with the sets screws. The adapter can be purchased through Transylvania Film/TV in Burbank, CA (818-295-6972).
Fluid Heads for the HDDC-Slider:
The Heavy-Duty DC-Slider requires a flat base fluid head similar to the DC-Slider, but in a larger form as the HDDC can take packages up to 70lbs. Most of the larger flat base heads on the market will be Mitchell based, but many have the required 3/8” threaded hole in the middle of the Mitchell mount. Depending on the Flat base/ Mitchell head you are looking to use, you may have to remove the key on the bottom as it may interfere with the slider platform.
Below is an example of an O’Connor Mitchell based fluid head. If you need to convert your O’Connor 150mm ball fluid head to a flat base, below is the adapter you can use. Technical questions and purchase inquiries for fluid heads and adapters can be directed to Transylvania Film/TV (818-295-6972).
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Tripods:
There are hundreds of tripods in the market that work great with the DC and HDDC-Sliders. Make sure to use a tripod that will support the weight of your system, and be sure to have the correct mount. You also need to think about tripod spreader options, (floor or mid-level). Both styles work well, but you may have an easier time leveling your system using a mid-level tripod spreader.
You just spent between $6000 and $12,000 on your DC-Slider/HDDC-Slider, so don’t cheap out on the tripod and get something strong and sturdy. Flexing in the tripod legs will carry all the way into your camera lens.
DC-Slider Tripod Requirements:
- 100mm bowl
- Minimum 100lb payload
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HDDC-Slider Tripod Requirements:
- Mitchell Mount
- Minimum 200lb Payload
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The Matthews MT-1 Mitchell tripod has proven itself in the industry as strong, reliable and a perfect fit for the HDDC-Slider. If you’re looking for easy mobility and want to give your back a break, get yourself a tripod dolly. Matthews offers the DL7 dolly as an accessory to the MT-1 heavy duty tripod. Packages available for those purchasing the HDDC-Slider, MT-1 tripod and DL 7 dolly.
The Ultimate HDDC-Slider Package:
- HDDC-Slider
- MT1 Tripod
- DL-7 Dolly
Patent Pending, USA, EU, International
Posted by: TYLER PHILLIPS, Product Specialist
Matthews Studio Equipment, Inc.
Here we have added a couple pictures of the RH-35 per request:
Camera Support Platforms 