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 offer 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.
We are, at this time, a Kenyon Labs dealer and you can purchase a gyro from us or rent one from the Kenyon Labs website: http://www.ken-lab.com/html/pricing.html

 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 17 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.  We offer a small UHF video transmitter-receiver combo that is available as option 2 on our price sheet. As an alternative, we recommend a product called the Shotwatcher which sends an NTSC signal to a TV, such as a portable Casio. Available from: http://www.whatsnewatnab.com/search/code.php?code=20

Q: How can I adjust the focus and zoom on my broadcast Canon or Fujinon lens?

A: There are various wireless focus and zoom controllers available. You might check the following:
http://www.smsprod.com/products/lenses/preston.html
http://www.servicevision.net/scorpiofocus.html
http://www.prestoncinema.com/products_FI+Z.html
http://www.optexint.com/sales/production/chroszielmag.html
http://www.lemac.com.au/sales/PRESTON/PRESTON.html

At this time there are presently not any wireless LANC controllers available that we know of (other than the short range controller that comes with the camera). However, we currently have one under development. It will be added to our list of options as soon as it's available.

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: How do I know what the tension on my cable is and how do I tighten it to the recommended tension?

A: You can purchase a cable tension gauge from us.
In the future we hope to be able to provide installation services.

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 are working with a company that is building a custom combo enclosed Camera Head and Camera for use with our Camera Trolley System. It will be very light and compact, weather resistant and can be used in SD or HD mode. This new model will be the NCT-8. (with this system will also be a new fiber optic system for video transmission and camera controls)