Q: How smooth is the video used with the Camera Trolley?

A: The video quality is a direct result of the ride of the Camera Trolley on the cable. This can vary greatly based upon the quality and smoothness of the cable used. We use a custom cable created just for use with the Camera Trolley. It is double covered, providing a smooth surface without actual machining of the cable, plus the covering provides traction for the Trolley's drive wheel.

Q: Will you see any up and down or side to side movement on the recorded video from the Camera Trolley?

A: There are many environmental conditions that can affect the video quality, such as wind, stability of the cable attachment points, and the operator's skill in the use of the controls.  Also, please bear in mind that all cable acts much as a spring would. When you add weight and tension, or abrupt movement, it reacts like a piano string that has just been struck by the hammer. It moves and vibrates, and the greater the tension on cable, the longer it takes for the vibration to stop.  Any of these factors can cause movement in the video.

Q: Will I get the quality of video that is seen on high-end overhead cable systems such as Skycam or the Superfly system?

A: With the Noblét Camera Trolley, it is possible to achieve video of comparable quality. However it should be noted that these high-end systems use up to three gyros that stabilize the video head on all three axes. We use one gyro to stabilize the roll or sway of the Trolley on the cable in breezy conditions, but the Trolley can still be moved sideways and up and down by outside forces.

Q: Can you use the NCT-7 in breezy or windy conditions?

A: Yes. In the sample video you can see the branches blowing while the camera remains stable (doesn't swing). This was achieved with the use of a Kenyon Labs KS-8 gyro stabilizer in the overhead stabilization unit (the triangle shaped box with our logo on its sides and fastened above the Trolley - see picture.) Although the gyro will stop sway under reasonable conditions, it's not recommended to operate the Trolley outdoors in high winds.
 

 Q: Will the Noblét Camera Trolley move as fast as overhead cable systems such as Skycam or the Superfly system?

A: Skycam and Superfly use a sophisticated multiple cable system driven by a powerful motor located on the ground and using a standard electrical source to power it. We use a cost effective, self contained battery source to power the Trolley and wireless system, limiting the Trolley's speed to approximately 25 miles per hour.

Q: How can you see what the video camera on the Trolley is shooting or aiming at?

A: This is accomplished with a wireless video transmitter that sends the image to a receiver connected to a portable monitor. 

Q: How do I know if the walls or objects that I want to attach the cable to are sufficiently strong to withstand the 600 - 1,000 lbs. of tension that is required for installation of the NCT-7?

A: SAFETY IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE! We have, in our instruction booklet, guidelines, directions, and engineered drawings for permanent cable installation, including cable tensioning instructions. Please contact a qualified contractor, architect, and/or engineer with the information contained in the instruction booklet to assure safe installation in your unique site.

Q: What is the maximum weight camera I can use with the Camera Trolley?

A: The NCT-7 has been tested with up to a 20 lb. camera plus a 10 lb. gyro stabilizer on the overhead stabilization unit . The concern is not the strength of the cable or Trolley but the ability of the Trolley to move smoothly and efficiently with the added weight. Another thing to keep in mind is that when using a heavier camera, and or when operating on long runs(400 ft), with a heavier camera the amount of drop or sag between the two fixed end points increases greatly. The larger the drop the more of an uphill climb the Trolley has at each end, thus reducing speed, smoothness and efficiency. So the optimum conditions are to use the lightest camera possible, thus giving the best performance and a higher quality video.

Q: Does Noblét Camera Trolley offer a camera with their system?

A:  We currently offer a Canon HDV camera with HD-SDI output.