User's Guide

two standard batteries in 5 hours, without any risk.
Beware of older, timed chargers manufactured when 1.2 and 1.4ah
batteries were the norm; these chargers were most likely rated for
the lower amperage batteries of that time and will consistently un-
dercharge the higher rated Nimh cells of today.
2.7.3 Other Power Options
Since the Xterà power input is a standard 4pin XLR type, a great
variety of 12-14 volt sources can be used to power the camera. This
includes AC power supplies, battery blocks, lithium cells and car
batteries.
Get into the habit of carrying a standard XLR4 powercable in your
package in case an alternative power source is needed. Regarding
AC power supplies, it is recommended that the unit you use be at
least 4 amps and 25 watts. Before connecting any non-standard
source, always make sure that the pin configuration of the unit is
correct. See the Technical Specifications chapter of this manual for
details for proper wiring.
2.8 MOTOR
The tri-phase samarium motor design of the Xterà provides low
power consumption and improved stability at high speeds. The body
is capable of speeds between 3 and 75 fps with a standard 12V bat-
tery.
2.8.1 Camera Speeds
The Xterà provides boths preset crystal speeds (in sync mode) and
specific crystal speeds (in variable mode) in .001 increments, all ac-
cessible from the LCD control panel. Available preset speeds consist
of 6, 12, 18, 20, 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 36, 40, 48, 60 and 75 fps.
The preset speed selector (SYNC) allows for quick access to these
frequently used speeds. If any other speed is desired, or if the cam-
era speed must match the frequency of a monitor to eliminate a roll
bar, the specific speed selector (EX/VAR) should be employed. The
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Nimh Batteries Tips
Follow a few simple rules to
insure the long life of your
Nimh cells:
• Allow batteries to run
through their normal cycle
of charging and use. Avoid
topping off partially full batter-
ies. Once every few months,
discharge cells to 8-10V using
a standard discharger to mini-
mize their memory.
• Do not rapid-charge your
cells more than necessary, as
the added heat will eventu-
ally shorten their life span.
Instead, recharge batteries at
a normal charging rate when
your schedule allows.
• If your batteries will not be
used for long periods of time,
always store them in a cool, dry
environment fully charged.