Fusion FP-188 and FPH-188 - Vinten Radamec

FP-188/FPH-188 Pedestals and Height Drives
Fusion FP-188
and FPH-188
Manual and Robotic
Pedestals and Height Drives
Operators Guide
Part Nos. V3952-0003
V4048-0003
V4049-0003
V4048-0004
www.vintenradamec.com

Fusion
FP-188 and FPH-188
Manual and Robotic
Pedestals and Height Drives
Operators Guide

Publication Part No. V3952-4985
Issue 3
November 2011
Published by
Vitec Group Videocom Division
Technical Publications Department
William Vinten Building
Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP33 3TB
UK
Email: technical.publications@vitecgroup.com
Copyright © 2011 The Vitec Group plc
All rights reserved throughout the world. No part of this
document may be stored in a retrieval system, transmitted,
copied or reproduced in any way, including, but not limited
to, photocopy, photograph, magnetic or other record
without the prior agreement and permission in writing of
the Vitec Group plc.
Trademark acknowledgements
Vinten Radamec Broadcast Robotics, Vinten and
Quickfix ® are registered trademarks of the Vitec Group plc.
Disclaimer
Camera Dynamics Limited reserves the right, without notice,
to revise this documentation and make changes in content
from time to time without obligation to provide notification of
such revision or change. Revised documentation may be
obtainable from Vinten Radamec or downloadable from the
website (www.vintenradamec.com). Camera Dynamics
Limited reserves the right, without notice, to make changes
in equipment design or performance as progress in
engineering, manufacturing or technology may warrant.

Safety – read this first
Understanding these instructions
English
The original instructions presented
in this operators guide were written
in English, and subsequently
translated into other languages. If
you are unable to understand these
instructions, contact Vinten or your
distributor to obtain a translation of
the original instructions (EU
Countries).
БЪЛГАРСКИ
Оригиналните инструкции,
представени в настоящото
ръководство на производителя,
бяха написани на английски език,
а след това - преведени на други
езици. Ако не разбирате тези
езици, свържете се с Vinten или с
Вашия дистрибутор, за да
получите оригиналните
инструкции (за страните от
Европейския съюз).
Česky
Dansk
Deutsch
Eesti
Pokyny uvedené v této operátorské
příručce byly původně napsány anglicky
a následně byly přelo_eny do
ostatních jazyků. Nerozumíte-li
těmto pokynům, kontaktujte
společnost Vinten nebo svého distributora,
abyste získali překlad
originálních pokynů (členské státy
EU).
De originale instruktioner, der
præsenteres i denne
betjeningsvejledning, er skrevet på
engelsk og derefter oversat til
andre sprog. Hvis du ikke forstår
disse instruktioner bedes du
kontakte Vinten eller vor forhandler
for at få en oversættelse af de
originale instruktioner (EU-lande).
Die Originalanleitung in diesem
Bedienungshandbuch wurde auf
Englisch verfasst und anschließend
in andere Sprachen übersetzt. Bei
Verständnisproblemen in einer der
übersetzten Sprachen kontaktieren
Sie bitte Vinten oder Ihren
Fachhändler; dort erhalten Sie eine
Übersetzung der ursprünglichen
Anleitung (EU-Staaten).
Käesoleva kasutajajuhendi algtekst
on koostatud inglise keeles ning
seejärel tõlgitud teistesse
keeltesse. Kui juhend osutub teie
jaoks arusaamatuks, võtke juhendi
emakeelse tõlke hankimiseks
ühendust Vinteni või kohaliku
esindajaga (Euroopa Liidu riigid).
Ελληνικά
Español
Français
Gaeilge
Italiano
Latviešu
Operators guide
Οι αρχικές οδηγίες αυτού του
οδηγού για το χειριστή
συντάχθηκαν στα Αγγλικά και
μεταφράστηκαν στη συνέχεια σε
άλλες γλώσσες. Εάν δυσκολεύεστε
να καταλάβετε αυτές τις οδηγίες,
επικοινωνήστε με τη Vinten ή το
διανομέα σας για να λάβετε μια
μετάφραση των αρχικών οδηγιών
(Χώρες ΕΕ).
Las instrucciones originales que se
indican en esta guía del operador
se han redactado en inglés y
posteriormente se han traducido a
otros idiomas. Si no entiende estas
instrucciones, póngase en contacto
con Vinten o con su distribuidor
para obtener una traducción de las
instrucciones originales (para
países de la UE).
Les instructions originales
présentées dans ce guide
d'utilisation ont été écrites en
anglais puis traduites dans d'autres
langues. Si vous ne comprenez pas
ces instructions, contactez Vinten
ou votre revendeur pour obtenir
une traduction des instructions
originales (pour les pays de l'UE).
Scríobhadh na treoracha bunaidh
don treoirleabhar oibritheora seo as
Béarla, agus aistríodh iad go
teangacha eile ina dhiaidh sin.
Mura bhfuil tú in ann na treoracha
seo a thuiscint, téigh i dteagmháil le
Vinten nó le do dháileoir, chun
aistriúchán de na treoracha
bunaidh a fháil (Tíortha an AE).
Le istruzioni originali presentate in
questa guida per l'operatore sono
in lingua inglese e
successivamente tradotte nelle
altre lingue. Qualora le istruzioni
non fossero disponibili nella lingua
desiderata, potete contattare
Vinten o il vostro distributore per
ricevere la traduzione delle
istruzioni originali (Paesi UE).
Šajā operatora rokasgrāmatā
iekļautie norādījumi sākotnēji tika
sarakstīti angļu valodā un pēc tam
pārtulkoti citās valodās. Ja nesaprotat
šos norādījumus
svešvalodā, sazinieties ar Vinten
vai tirgotāju, lai saņemtu
norādījumu tulkojumu (kādā no ES
dalībvalstu valodām).
3

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Lietuvių
Magyar
Malti
4
Šiame operatoriaus vadove
pristatomos pirminės instrukcijos
parašytos anglų kalba ir vėliau
išverstos į kitas kalbas. Jei šių
instrukcijų nesuprantate, susisiekite
su „Vinten“ arba savo platintoju
ir gaukite pirminių instrukcijų
vertimą (ES šalies kalba).
A kezeloi útmutatóban található
utasítások angol nyelven íródtak,
és utólag fordították azokat más
nyelvekre. Ha nem érti ezen
utasításokat, kérjük, vegye fel a
kapcsolatot a Vintennel vagy a
helyi képviselettel, és igényelje az
eredeti utasítások fordítását (EU
országok).
L-istruzzjonijiet originali
ippreżentati f'din il-gwida ta'
operaturi kienu miktuba bl-Ingliż, u
sussegwentement maqluba fllingwi
ohra. Jekk ma tistax tifhem
dawn l-istruzzjonijiet, ikkuntattja lil
Vinten jew id-distributur tieghek
biex tikseb traduzzjoni ta' listruzzjonijiet
originali (Pajjiżi ta'
UE).
Nederlands
De oorspronkelijke instructies in
deze bedieningshandleiding zijn
geschreven in het Engels en
vervolgens in andere talen
vertaald. Als het onmogelijk is deze
instructies te begrijpen, neemt u
contact op met Vinten of met uw
distributeur om een vertaling te
bemachtigen van de
oorspronkelijke instructies (EGlanden).
Polski
Português
Oryginalne instrukcje
zamieszczone w niniejszym
podręczniku operatora zostały
napisane w języku angielskim, a
następnie przetłumaczone na inne
języki. Jeśli nie rozumieją Państwo
tych instrukcji, prosimy
skontaktować się z siedzibą lub
dystrybutorem Vinten, aby uzyskać
tłumaczenie oryginalnych instrukcji
(kraje UE).
As instruções originais
apresentadas no guia do operador
foram escritas em Inglês e
traduzidas para outros idiomas. Se
não conseguir compreender estas
instruções contacte a Vinten ou o
seu distribuidor para obter a
tradução das instruções originais
(Países da UE).
Română
Slovensky
Instrucţiunile originale prezentate
în acest ghid pentru operatori au
fost scrise în limba engleză, şi
traduse ulterior în alte limbi. În
cazul în care nu înţelegeţi aceste
instrucţiuni, contactaţi Vinten sau
distribuitorul dumneavoastră pentru
a obţine o traducere a
instrucţiunilor originale (Ţările UE).
Pôvodné pokyny, uvedené v tomto
návode na obsluhu, boli napísané v
anglictine a následne preložené do
iných jazykov. Ak nerozumiete
týmto pokynom, obrátte sa na
spolocnost Vinten alebo vášho
distribútora, aby vám zaslal preklad
originálnych pokynov (krajiny EÚ).
Slovenščina
Originalno besedilo teh navodil za
uporabo je bilo napisano v
angleščini in prevedeno v ostale
jezike. Če ne razumete teh navodil,
se obrnite na podjetje Vinten ali
lokalnega zastopnika, ki vam bo
posredoval originalna navodila
(velja za dr_ave EU).
Suomi
Svenska
Tähän käyttäjän oppaaseen
sisältyvät ohjeet on kirjoitettu alun
perin englanniksi ja käännetty
sitten muille kielille. Ellet ymmärrä
näitä ohjeita, ota yhteyttä Vinteniin
tai jälleenmyyjään ja pyydä
alkuperäisten ohjeiden käännöstä
(EU-maat).
Instruktionerna i denna handbok
skrevs ursprungligen på engelska
och har sedan översatts till flera
språk. Om du inte förstår dessa
instruktioner, kontakta Vinten eller
din återförsäljare för en ny
översättning av originalinstruktionerna
(EU-länder).

Safety instructions
Please read this Operators Guide carefully
before attempting to operate the product.
Retain this guide for future reference.
Safety when working with the
product
!
Take heed of warnings and
instructions
You should read all of the safety
instructions in this Operators
Guide before attempting to
operate the equipment. Adhere
to all warnings in this guide and
on the equipment. Do not attempt
to operate this equipment, if you
do not fully understand how to
operate it.
Power sources
Connect the product to a power
supply of the type and voltage
rating described in the ‘Technical
data’ section of this Operators
Guide or as marked on the
product.
For an emergency power-down,
ensure all personnel are aware of
the location of the power switch
on the product and associated
equipment and power supplies.
Servicing
Do not attempt to service this
product. Opening and removing
covers may expose you to
dangerous voltages or other
hazards. Refer all servicing to
trained and competent personnel.
Contact Vinten Radamec to
arrange servicing of this product.
OFF
Operators guide
Water, moisture and dust
Protect the product from water,
moisture and dust. The presence
of electricity near water can be
dangerous. Do not use the
product near water and take care
that liquids are not spilled onto the
equipment.
Operating environment
The product should not be used
outside the operating temperature
limits. To prevent risk of
overheating, ventilate the product
correctly. Refer to the ‘Technical
data’ section of this guide for the
operating limits for the product.
Connections
Turn OFF before connecting or
disconnecting any equipment or
making any adjustments to the
camera or associated equipment.
Safety when working with robotic
equipment
In normal operation remote-controlled
equipment can move suddenly and without
warning. Since audible warnings are not
suitable for use within the studio environment,
it is recommended that only trained personnel
be allowed to work in the active areas where
remote-controlled heads and pedestals are
located. The safe operating zone is a minimum
of 1 m (3 ft). Do not operate robotic equipment
if you cannot see it.
Cables
Always ensure that all power and auxiliary
communications cables are routed so that
they do not present any danger to personnel.
Take care when routing cables in areas where
robotic equipment is in use.
5

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Warning symbols
Usage
6
!
CAUTION
finger trap
!
WARNING!
Where there is a risk of personal
injury or injury to others, comments
appear supported by the warning
triangle symbol. Where there is a
risk of damage to the product,
associated equipment, process or
surroundings, comments appear
supported by the word ‘CAUTION’.
ELECTRIC SHOCK
Where there is a risk of electric
shock, comments appear
supported by the hazardous
voltage warning triangle symbol.
FINGER TRAP
Where there is a risk of trapping
fingers within parts of the product
or other equipment mounted to
the product, comments appear
supported by the finger trap
symbol.
READ INSTRUCTIONS
On encountering the warning
triangle and open book symbols it
is important that you read this
operators guide before using this
product or attempting any
adjustment or repair.
These products are designed for use within
television studios to support a payload
weighing up to 85 kg (187.4 lb). The total
payload must not be exceeded. The FPH-188
and FPH-188 VR height drives can be moved
manually, while the FP-188 and FP-188 VR
pedestals allow operators to remotely control
their movements and positioning around the
studio.
The product is intended for use by television
camera operators, trained to use Vinten
Radamec robotic equipment. Do not use this
product for any other purpose other than that
specified in this usage statement.
WARNING!
1. DO NOT attempt to use
this product if you do
not fully understand
how to operate it.
2. DO NOT use this
product for any other
purpose than that
specified in the Usage
statement.
3. Maintenance beyond
that detailed in this
Operators Guide must
be performed only by
competent personnel.
Disposing of used electrical
and electronic equipment
When you see this symbol on a
Vinten Radamec product, it
indicates that this product must
not be disposed of with
household waste. In some
countries/EC regions, separate
collection systems have been
set up to handle electrical and electronic waste
products. This product must be disposed of at a
collection point for the recycling of electrical and
electronic equipment. For more information, visit
www.vintenradamec.com.
By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly,
you will help protect human health and conserve
natural resources and the environment.

Declaration of Conformity
In respect of the following equipment manufactured by Camera Dynamics Limited:
Model Part no. Description
manufactured in accordance with the following European Directives:
EU Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
EU EMC Directive 89/336/EEC
EU Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23/EEC
by application of the following Harmonised Standards:
Operators guide
Fusion FP-188 V3952-0003 Manual and robotic pedestal
Fusion FP-188 VR V4048-0003 Manual and robotic pedestal
Fusion FPH-188 V4049-0003 Manual and robotic height drive
Fusion FPH-188 VR V4048-0004 Manual and robotic height drive
EN 61000-6-4:2001 Electromagnetic compatibility-Part 6-4: Generic - Emission
standards for industrial environments.
EN61000-6-2:2001 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) Part 6-2: Generic -
Immunity standards for industrial environments.
EN 61000-3-2:2000 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) Part 3-2: Limits - Limits
for harmonic current emissions (equipment input current up to
and including 16A per phase.
EN 61000-3-3:1995
(+A1)
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 3: Limits -
Limitation of voltage changes voltage fluctuations and flicker
in public low voltage supply systems (for equipment with rated
current

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Technical data
Data characteristics that only apply to some of the equipment covered in this Operators Guide
are clearly marked in the following list.
Physical data
Payload capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 kg (187.4 lb)
FP-188 pedestal weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130 kg (286.6 lb)
FPH-188 height drive weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130 kg (286.6 lb)
Trim weights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 kg (6.6 lb)
Min. height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .660 mm (26 in.)
Max. height. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1430 mm (56.3 in.)
Ground clearance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 mm (0.75 in.)
Doorway tracking width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800 mm (31.5 in.)
Wheel diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160 mm (6.3 in.)
Steering ring diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .635 mm (25 in.)
Temperature range (operation). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0°C to +40°C (+32°F to +104°F)
Degrees of freedom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 DOF (X/Y/Z; except FPH-188, Z only)
FP-188 pedestal base movement data
Max. floor speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 300 mm/s (11.8 in./s)
Min. floor speed setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 mm/s (1 in./s)
Orientation accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Less than 0.75° (subject to floor)
Pedestal travel accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.5% of total floor run (subject to floor)
Repeatability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . X,Y = ±1.5% (e.g. ±100 mm after running a
36 m triangular test pattern)
Resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .X,Y =

Electrical data
Operators guide
Power consumption (peak). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 750 W
Power consumption (average) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200 W
Supply V (mains) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Autoranging 90–240V, 50/60 Hz AC
Power output socket (Head). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90–240V (supply V), 100 W
Power output socket (Aux) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90–240V (supply V), 50 W
Technical specifications are
subject to change without notice.
9

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Contents
Page
Safety – read this first . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Safety when working with the product . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Safety when working with robotic equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Warning symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Disposing of used electrical and electronic equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Technical data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Components and connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Introduction and description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Column. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Base. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
FP-188/FP-188 VR pedestal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
FPH-188/FPH-188 VR height drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
VR capability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Steering mechanism checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Pressurising the pedestal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Pressurising from an external pressure source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Pressurising the pedestal using a portable pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Fitting the load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Balancing the load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Electrical connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Power sockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Ethernet ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Connecting power and Ethernet to the Fusion head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
FVR interface connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
USB configuration port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Servo configuration port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Setting the pedestal number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Parking brake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Using the column lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Cable clamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Cable guard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
10

Operators guide
Height adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Switching on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Selecting manual or robotic mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Movement indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Emergency stops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Collision detection (FP-188 only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Adjusting bumper sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Referencing the studio datum position (FP-188 only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Transportation and storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Accessing the wheels and datum reference sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Routine checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Parts list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Main assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Upgrade kits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Optional accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
11

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Components and connectors
12
18
15
17
19
38
16
5
7
13
11
12
Fig. 1 Fusion FP-188 Pedestal (South East view)
39
1
9
3
2
38
6
8
4
7
10

Operators guide
[1] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pressure gauge
[2] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Head mounting plate
[3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Schrader valve and cap
[4] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Emergency stop button
[5] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weight tray
[6] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Column lock
[7] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lifting handles
[8] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alignment sensor/wheel access panel
[9] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Automatic/manual steering mode knob
[10] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bumper strip/collision detection
[11] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bumper manual reset
[12] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cable guard lowering buttons
[13] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bumper sensitivity potentiometer
[14] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trim weight stowage (with trim weights, 6 off)
[15] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cable clamps
[16] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power box (see Fig. 2)
[17] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CRAB/STEER mode changeover knob
[18] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parking brake slider
[19] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steering ring
[38] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Column bearing strip (3 per stage)
[39] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Double castor wheels (non-driven, 2 off)
13

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
[21] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Screw guides
[22] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power ON/OFF switch
[23] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cable clamp
[24] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ethernet port (Network OUT to Head)
[25] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power output socket 90–240V, 100 W (Head)
[26] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power output socket 90–240V, 50 W (Aux)
[27] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FVR connector
[28] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .For future use
[29] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuse
[30] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ethernet port (Network IN, floor cable)
[31] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power socket (mains)
14
31
21
30
29
22
23
Fig. 2 Fusion VR Power box connectors
Note that connectors [27] and [28] are not available on the FP-188 and FPH-188.
21
28 27 26 25 24

37
4
36
32
33
35
34
39
Fig. 3 Fusion FP-188 Pedestal (North West view)
Operators guide
[20] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Manual/automatic height mode knob
[32] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Moving column
[33] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Driven double-wheel sets (2 off)
[34] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . USB configuration port (with cover plug)
[35] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Servo configuration port (with cover plug)
[36] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pedestal movement indicator (3 off)
[37] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cable (height mode) release button
[39] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Double castor (non-driven wheels, 2 off)
20
4
15
14
33
17
18
10
15

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Introduction and description
This Operators Guide describes how to set up and operate the Fusion FP-188 range of
pedestals and FPH-188 range of height drives, including the FP-188 and FP-188 VR pedestals
and the FPH-188 and FPH-188 VR height drives.
The FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives have been designed for seamless integration
with all Fusion pan and tilt heads and Vinten Radamec Control Systems (VRC). Additionally, the
FP-188 VR and FPH-188 VR are designed to work with the Fusion Virtual Reality (FVR) box
(part no. V4078-1001).
Each product within the Fusion FP-188 range of pedestals comprises a central two-stage,
telescopic column mounted in a moveable base. The bases of the FP-188 and FP-188 VR
pedestals are motorised, while the FPH-188 base contains no drive mechanisms and can only
be moved manually.
The pedestals and height drives can be operated manually by a camera operator within the
studio or remotely operated in robotic mode from a Fusion control system. Pedestals and height
drives have a maximum payload capacity of 85 kg (187.4 lb).
Column
The telescopic column [32] is pressurised from an external pressure source. Six trim weights are
provided to allow the operator to easily compensate for pressure variation caused by temperature
variations in the studio. Controls on the column comprise a manual/robotic height mode knob [20],
height drive disengagement knob [37] and a column lock [6], which locks the column in the fullydepressed
position. The pedestal is provided with a standard four-bolt mounting interface [2].
Base
FP-188/FP-188 VR pedestal
The base is carried on four sets of wheels ([33], [39]), two of which are driven and two freewheeling,
mounted on a flexible chassis to accommodate uneven floors. A height-adjustable
cable guard is provided, which can be lowered by depressing the cable guard buttons [12]
located near each corner of the base. The guard can then be raised in predefined increments
as required. Stowage for the trim weights [14], emergency stop buttons [4], lifting handles [7]
and a wheel brake slider [18] are provided on the upper surface of the base. Rotary knobs allow
the operator to switch between conventional and crab steering [17] and manual and robotic
operation [9].
The cable clamps [15], main power switch [22] and both power ([25], [26], [31]) and data
connections ([24], [27], [28], [30]) can all be found on the South side (rear) of the base, with a
USB configuration port [34] located on the North side (front) of the base. The bumper strip [10]
running around the pedestal base contains collision detection sensors which arrest movement
on contact with an obstacle.
16

FPH-188/FPH-188 VR height drive
Operators guide
The base is carried on four sets of wheels [33] mounted on a flexible chassis to accommodate
uneven floors. A height-adjustable cable guard is provided, which can be lowered by
depressing the cable guard buttons [12] located near each corner of the base. The guard can
then be raised in predefined increments as required. Stowage for the trim weights [14],
emergency stop buttons [4], lifting handles [7] and a wheel brake slider [18] are provided on the
upper surface of the base. Rotary knob allows the operator to switch between conventional and
crab steering [17] and manual and robotic operation [9].
The FPH-188 height drive can be upgraded to a full FP-188 pedestal. This upgrade must be
carried out by suitably trained and qualified engineers, either at an authorised repair workshop
or on site.
VR capability
The FP-188 VR pedestal is designed to integrate with studio VR systems, transmitting positional
(X,Y) and height (Z) data to the FVR box mounted on the head. The FPH-188 VR height drive
only transmits height (Z) data to the FVR box. The data received by the FVR box is processed
and fed back with other head and lens data (PTZF) to the studio VR system.
A Fusion FP-188 pedestal or FPH-188 height drive can be converted to the VR version through
the use of an upgrade kit, which includes new VR power and control boxes to be fitted in the
base of the pedestal.
17

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Installation
Unpacking
Unpack the pedestal ensuring that all transport packing and retaining fixings are removed,
including the Velcro strap (part no. 3320-268) securing the column lock.
Steering mechanism checks
18
WARNING!
1. Heavy – DO NOT lift the pedestal unaided. This product weighs
up to 130 kg (286.6 lb).
2. DO NOT lift the pedestal by the steering ring—use the lifting
handles on top of the pedestal base.
3. DO NOT release the column lock, if the pedestal pressure
exceeds 7.2 bar (105 psi) without a balancing load installed.
Reduce pressure as necessary using the Schrader valve cap.
1. Rotate the CRAB/STEER knob [17] anti-clockwise to select CRAB (x4 wheels) and
turn the steering ring [19], until CRAB mode engages. Check that the pedestal
“crabs” correctly, freely moving as directed by the steering ring without any rotation
of the pedestal base.
2. Rotate the CRAB/STEER knob [17] clockwise to select STEER (x1 wheel) and turn
the steering ring [19], until it locks in position and STEER mode engages. Check that
the pedestal turns freely, rotated by the locked steering ring.
Pressurising the pedestal
The pedestal or height drive may be pressurised from an external pressure source (see page 20)
or by using a portable pump (see page 21). Six trim weights are provided for compensation of
pressure variation.
CAUTION! This pedestal must be pressurised with nitrogen or clean, dry air only to
prevent internal corrosion.
A correctly pressurised pedestal will balance its payload—allowing movement over the full onshot
stroke of the moving column with minimum effort—and maintain its position when the
steering ring is released. The balance can be adjusted by adding/removing trim weights to/from
the weight tray pockets [5] or by venting some of the internal pressure.
CAUTION! Do not reduce pedestal pressure below 3.5 bar (50 psi). This ensures
that the elevating mechanism remains in tension, preventing damage to
the pedestal.

Operators guide
Ascertain the payload to be fitted to the pedestal (payload = pan and tilt head, camera, lens and
any other ancillary equipment). Referring to the balance graph (Fig. 4) mark the payload on the
horizontal axis, then strike a vertical line from the load figure to the balance line. At the
intersecting point strike a horizontal line to the vertical axis and read off the required pressure.
The pedestal pressure must not exceed 7.2 bar (105 psi), check the pressure before fitting the
pan and tilt head (refer to Fitting the load on page 21 for more details).
psi bar
260 18
240
220
200
180
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
WARNING!
DO NOT pressurise the pedestal beyond the maximum safe working
pressure indicated by the leading edge of the red sector on the gauge.
Fusion FP-188 Pedestals Balance Graph
Maximum payload 85 kg (187.4 lb)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 kg
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 lb
Fig. 4 Balance graph

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Pressurising from an external pressure source
A pressure-reducing valve must be fitted between the gas cylinder and the outlet connection of
the hose. The maximum pressure on the outlet side of the reducing valve must not exceed
18.9 bar (275 psi).
To pressurise the pedestal from an external pressure source, proceed as follows:
20
WARNING!
DO NOT adjust the pressure relief valve. Personal injury and pedestal
damage may occur.
(a) (b)
Fig. 5 Column lock
(a) locked/ON position, (b) unlocking/OFF position
1. Set the column lock [6] to the ON position and fully depress the moving column [32]
until the column lock engages (Fig. 5).
2. Rotate the steering ring [19], so that the pressure gauge [1] is visible through the
window (remove a trim weight, if necessary).
3. Remove the Schrader valve cap [3] and connect the charging line from the pressure
source.
4. Turn on the pressure supply and slowly increase the pedestal pressure to the
required pressure. Do not exceed the maximum working pressure indicated by the
leading edge of the red sector on the gauge [1].
WARNING!
DO NOT exceed 7.2 bar (105 psi) without a balancing load installed.
5. Disconnect the charging line, but do not refit the Schrader valve cap [3] at this stage.

Pressurising the pedestal using a portable pump
Operators guide
A portable pump (part no. 3357-21) is available to pressurise the pedestal manually. To
pressurise the pedestal using a pump, proceed as follows:
1. Set the column lock [6] to the ON position and fully depress the moving column [4],
until the column lock engages (see Using the column lock on page 26).
2. Rotate the steering ring [19] so that the pressure gauge [1] is visible through the
window (remove a trim weight, if necessary).
3. Remove the Schrader valve cap [3].
4. Set up the pump following the manufacturer’s instructions. Connect the hose to the
charging valve on the pedestal.
5. Using full, steady strokes pressurise the pedestal to the required pressure. Do not
exceed the maximum working pressure indicated by the leading edge of the red
sector on the gauge [1].
6. Disconnect the hose from the pedestal charging valve, but do not refit the Schrader
valve cap at this stage. Remove the pump.
Fitting the load
The pedestal is fitted with a standard Vinten four-bolt mounting plate [2] for direct mounting of
Fusion pan and tilt heads or for use with a Quickfix adaptor. The mounting bolts are captive in
the pedestal and the bolt heads are accessible from the underside of the mounting plate when
the column is fully extended.
Directly mounting a Fusion head to the pedestal or height drive
WARNING!
1. DO NOT release the column lock, if the pedestal pressure exceeds
7.2 bar (105 psi) without a balancing load installed. Reduce as
necessary, using the Schrader valve cap.
2. DO NOT lean over the pedestal. A pressurised pedestal could rise
rapidly when the column lock is released. ALWAYS restrain the
column by hand pressure on the weight tray.
To fit the pan and tilt head and payload, proceed as follows:
1. Rotate the steering ring [19] so that the pressure gauge [1] is visible through the
viewing window (remove a trim weight, if necessary).
CAUTION! Do not reduce pedestal pressure below 3.5 bar (50 psi). This ensures
that the elevating mechanism remains in tension, preventing damage to
the pedestal.
21

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
22
2. Depress and rotate the automatic/manual height mode knob [20] anti-clockwise to
select manual operation. Depress and rotate the cable release button [37] clockwise
to disengage the robotic height drive.
NOTE: It is only possible to depress and rotate the cable release button when the column
is fully depressed.
3. Push down on the steering ring [19] against residual pressure and release the
column lock [6]. Allow the column to extend under hand restraint.
4. Fit the pan and tilt head to the four-hole mounting plate [2] and tighten the bolts
supplied with the head securely using a flat-bladed screwdriver or a spanner of the
correct size. A Vinten spanner (part no. J551-001) is available for this purpose.
5. Set the column lock [6] to the ON position (see Using the column lock on page 26)
and lower the moving column under hand restraint until the column lock engages.
6. Fit the camera and accessories. Ensure that all equipment (incl. pan bars,
prompters, lenses, etc.) has been securely fitted. Attaching equipment at a later
stage can upset the pedestal balance.
7. If the pedestal or height drive is being used manually, install three trim weights in
the weight tray [5].
Mounting a Quickfix ® adaptor
In situations where heads are often interchanged on pedestals and tripods, it is recommended
that a Vinten heavy-duty Quickfix adaptor (part no. 3490-3) is used. The adaptor provides an
easier and quicker method of mounting and removing heads from a pedestal or tripod. Mount
the adaptor onto the pedestal or tripod mounting plate and secure into position following the
installation instructions in the Operators Guide supplied with the adaptor (part no. 3490-8).
Fig. 6 Mounting a Vinten heavy-duty Quickfix adaptor on an FP-188 pedestal

Operators guide
The Quickfix adaptor has a safety latch mechanism that is used to secure the head into position
on the Quickfix base.
Safety
button
UNLOCKED
Electrical connections
Fig. 7 Vinten heavy-duty Quickfix adaptor safety latch
All of the pedestal’s main external ports are located on the VR power box at the South side of
the base, below the trim weight stowage slots [14] (see Fig. 1). Additional system configuration
ports are located on the VR control box at the North side of the base.
Power sockets
External mains power is connected to the power input connector [31].
WARNING!
It is recommended to use a residual current device (RCD) to protect
personnel should the power cable become damaged.
The pedestal also has two power output sockets ([25], [26]).
Red safety
latch
LOCKED
• The Head power output socket [25] supplies power to a Fusion head (for more
information consult the relevant Operators Guide). This socket is controlled by the
pedestal, it is switched [22], fused and isolated on activation of an emergency stop.
• The auxiliary (Aux) power output socket [26] is protected by a system fuse, but is
permanently live and intended to supply non-moving auxiliary devices, such as
monitors.
WARNING!
DO NOT plug moving devices into the auxiliary (Aux) power port.
This port cannot be switched off at the pedestal and is not affected by
an emergency stop. Devices plugged into the auxiliary port must have
an independent isolator switch.
23

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Ethernet ports
The Ethernet cable from the studio network connects to either of the two Ethernet ports ([24],
[30], see Fig. 2). The Ethernet port [24] can be connected via a short cable to the Fusion head,
if required (consult the relevant Fusion Operators Guide for more information).
Connecting power and Ethernet to the Fusion head
If you are using the FP-188 pedestal or FPH-188 height drive with a Fusion head, power and
Ethernet can be connected from the pedestal or height drive to the head using a Head
communication cable (part no. V3990-5055).
FVR interface connection
The FVR interface connector [27] is connected to the Ped connector on the FVR box using the
interface cable (part no. V3990-5197).
USB configuration port
The USB port [34] is located beneath a protective cover on the North side of the base. This port
allows external connection to a pedestal configuration software tool.
Servo configuration port
The servo configuration port [35] is located beneath a protective cover beside the USB port [6]
and allows trained service engineers to configure servo motor settings.
Balancing the load
The pedestal can be accurately pressurised to balance the full payload after installation of the
camera, camera accessories and all ancillary equipment, such as pan bars.
To balance the full payload, proceed as follows:
24
1. Press and rotate the height mode knob [20] anti-clockwise to select manual
operation MAN.
NOTE: It is possible to extend the column while AUTO is selected. However, the robotic
drive gas-struts will remain engaged, upsetting the column balance.
2. Press and rotate the cable release button [37] clockwise to disengage the robotic
height drive.
NOTE: It is only possible to push and rotate the cable release button when the column is
fully depressed.
3. Rotate the steering ring [19] so that the pressure gauge [1] is visible through the
window (remove a trim weight, if necessary). Check that the pedestal pressure
approximately matches the estimated payload (see Fig. 4).

Operators guide
CAUTION! Do not reduce pedestal pressure below 3.5 bar (50 psi). This ensures
that the elevating mechanism remains in tension, preventing damage to
the pedestal.
4. Push down on the steering ring [19] against residual pressure and release the
column lock [6]. Allow the column to extend under hand restraint.
5. Exercise the moving column [32] over its full travel at least twice, then position the
column in the mid-height position.
• If the column tends to fall, remove a trim weight from the weight tray [5] or
increase the pressure.
• If the column tends to rise, reduce the pressure in steps of 0.15–0.2 bar (2–3
psi) using the Schrader valve cap [3].
NOTE: The Schrader valve cap forms a primary pressure seal. Always replace the cap
and screw it down finger-tight.
6. A correctly pressurised pedestal will balance its payload—allowing movement over
the full on-shot stroke of the moving column with minimum effort—and will maintain
its position when the steering ring is released.
For manual operation fine-tuning the balance and temperature correction may be achieved by
adding or removing trim weights.
Configuration
Setting the pedestal number
Each pedestal in a system is uniquely identified so that when a pedestal channel is selected at
the control panel, communication is established with the correct channel. This identification is
factory set, but may be reassigned later if required. Contact Vinten Radamec or your local Vinten
Radamec distributor for details on resetting the pedestal number.
Operation
Parking brake
The pedestal base is provided with a parking brake [18] on one wheel. The brake is not designed
to slow the pedestal while in motion.
CAUTION! Do not apply the brake while the pedestal is in motion. The pedestal
may become unstable and the brake may be damaged.
Rotate the slider [18] anti-clockwise to engage the brake or clockwise to release it.
25

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Using the column lock
The column lock [6] locks the column in the fully depressed position.
26
• To release the column lock, push down on the steering ring [19] against residual
pressure and rotate the column lock catch [6] downward into the OFF position.
• To engage the column lock, rotate the column lock catch [6] upward into the vertical
position. Fully depress the column [32] until the lock engages.
Cable clamp
WARNING!
1. DO NOT release the column lock, if the pedestal pressure
exceeds 7.2 bar (105 psi) without a balancing load installed.
Reduce as necessary using the Schrader valve cap.
2. DO NOT lean over the pedestal. An over-pressurised pedestal
may rise rapidly when the column lock is released, causing
personal injury.
CAUTION! Do not reduce pedestal pressure below 3.5 bar (50 psi). This ensures
that the elevating mechanism remains in tension, preventing damage to
the pedestal.
Fig. 8 Column lock release
A cable clamp is provided on the base [15] and the power box [23] (at the South side of the
pedestal, see Fig. 2).

Cable guard
Operators guide
The height-adjustable cable guard is lowered by depressing the recessed cable guard buttons
[12]. These buttons are located on the side of the base, near each wheel. Once lowered, the
cable guard can be raised in predefined increments as required.
CAUTION! Cable guards should be set to the minimum height possible, to prevent
the pedestal damaging studio power and data cables.
Height adjustment
The column has an on-shot stroke of 770 mm (30 in.) and the load can be moved over this
distance in perfect balance by raising or lowering the steering ring [19].
CAUTION
finger trap
Steering
Directional manual control of the pedestal is achieved by turning the steering ring [19]. The
steering system is geared, so that the skid wheels turn by the same amount as the steering ring.
This ensures, for example, that when the pedestal is set to CRAB, turning the steering ring by
90° will also cause the pedestal to change direction by 90°.
The pedestal has a changeover mechanism to switch between STEER and CRAB mode.
Rotating the knob [17] anti-clockwise selects CRAB mode and rotating it clockwise selects
STEER mode. Although the CRAB/STEER knob [17] can be switched with the pedestal wheels
in any position, the changeover will not occur until the steering ring [19] is rotated, allowing the
mechanism to engage.
Refer to Steering mechanism checks on page 18 for details.
Switching on
WARNING!
1. ALWAYS collapse the moving column and engage the column
lock, when wheeling the pedestal across uneven/sloping
surfaces between shots with the full payload fitted, to prevent
loss of stability (toppling hazard!).
2. Take care not to trap fingers under the steering hub or between
column elements while the pedestal height is being reduced.
When the complete system is ready, ensure that all external cable connections are complete,
observe the height and steering mode knob settings ([20], [9]) and turn on the power switch [22].
The pedestal will not suddenly move when switched on.
27

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Selecting manual or robotic mode
On the FP-188 pedestal robotic control is independently selected for vertical (Z) column
movement and horizontal (X and Y) pedestal movement. On the FPH-188 only the vertical (Z)
column can be controlled robotically, X,Y movement is manual.
To engage the automatic height mode, proceed as follows:
28
WARNING!
1. Display prominent warning signs in studios alerting personnel
that robotic equipment is present and may move without
warning.
2. Only operate the pedestal remotely if you are able to see it, to
avoid obstacles and collision hazards.
3. Only operate the pedestal on stable studio floor surfaces.
DO NOT operate the pedestal near floor edges over which the
pedestal may fall, as this can cause personal injury and/or
damage the equipment.
NOTE: Movement indicators will flash to warn when an FP-188 pedestal moves across
the floor.
1. Rotate the cable release button [37] anti-clockwise and fully depress the moving
column [32] under hand restraint to engage the robotic height drive.
2. Depress and rotate the height mode knob [20] clockwise to select robotic operation.
The column will remain depressed under the control of the robotic height drive.
CAUTION! Ensure that the pedestal load is balanced before driving the column
remotely, to prevent damage to the drive system (see Balancing the
load on page 24 for instructions).
To select manual column operation, proceed as follows:
1. Fully depress the moving column under hand restraint and depress and rotate the
height mode knob [20] anti-clockwise to select manual operation.
2. Depress and rotate the cable release button [37] clockwise to disengage the robotic
height drive.
NOTE: It is only possible to depress and rotate the cable release button when the column
is fully depressed.

Selecting/deselecting robotic steering on the FP-188
Operators guide
To engage robotic steering mode on an FP-188 pedestal, rotate the steering mode knob [9] fully
anti-clockwise to the AUTO position and set the changeover knob to CRAB.
NOTE: When automatic steering mode is selected, the steering ring rotates freely and
cannot be used for manual steering.
To select manual pedestal movement/steering on an FP-188 pedestal, rotate the steering mode
knob [9] clockwise to the MAN position and rotate the steering ring [19] to re-engage the
pedestal wheels.
Movement indicators
On FP-188 pedestals the movement indicators [36] will flash to warn when the pedestal moves
across the floor. The indicators also flash when the camera unit is initialised by the control
system, to confirm the correct unit has been selected. Consult the relevant Vinten Radamec
Control System Operators Guide for further information.
Emergency stops
If the EMERGENCY STOP button [4] is pressed, power to the pedestal is immediately cut and
a moving pedestal will come to a halt. This loss of power will also affect any device plugged into
the Head power socket [25], such as the Fusion pan and tilt head.
CAUTION! Power is not disconnected from the auxiliary (Aux) power socket.
To reset the emergency stop mechanism, twist and lift the STOP button [4]. Power will be reinstated
immediately, but the FP-188 pedestal will need re-initialising from the control system.
Consult the relevant Vinten Radamec Control System Operators Guide for more information on
re-initialising the pedestal.
Collision detection (FP-188 only)
If an FP-188 pedestal collides with an obstacle when in robotic mode, sensors contained in the
bumper strip [10] immediately halt the pedestal (see Fig. 9).
Adjusting bumper sensitivity
Collision detection excludes the area of the power box on the South side of the pedestal as
shown in Fig. 9 below. Bumper sensitivity can be adjusted for the bumper strip [10] using the
bumper sensitivity potentiometer [13] (see Fig. 1).
NOTE: Bumper sensitivity at the control box/alignment sensor is factory set and cannot
be adjusted.
29

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
To adjust the bumper sensitivity, proceed as follows:
30
Collision detection area
Bumper sensitivity at the
control box/alignment sensor
is factory set.
Fig. 9 Bumper collision detection
1. Ensure that the pedestal is fully prepared with the payload correctly fitted and
balanced. Power up the pedestal.
2. Check the sensitivity of the bumper sensors by tapping the bumper lightly. The
bumper manual reset [11] illuminates when the sensors have detected a collision.
3. To change the sensitivity of the bumper, remove the plastic cap covering the
bumper sensitivity potentiometer [13] and using a small screwdriver adjust the
potentiometer. Turning the potentiometer clockwise increases bumper sensitivity
and turning the potentiometer anti-clockwise will decrease bumper sensitivity.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the correct adjustment is made.
5. To commence operation of the pedestal, press the bumper manual reset [11] on the
pedestal and then re-initialise the pedestal from the control panel.
Consult the relevant Vinten Radamec Control System Operators Guide for more information on
re-initialising the pedestal.
Referencing the studio datum position (FP-188 only)
To maintain positional accuracy for an FP-188 pedestal within the studio, it is necessary to
periodically reference the absolute datum—a target permanently fixed to the studio floor. For
instructions on how to reference the studio datum, consult the relevant VRC Operators Guide.

Transportation and storage
Operators guide
WARNING!
1. Heavy – DO NOT lift unaided. This product weighs up to 130 kg
(286.6 lb).
2. DO NOT lift the pedestal by the steering ring—use the lifting
handles only.
Local, national or international regulations may apply to the transport and storage of pressurised
pedestals.
To prepare the pedestal or height drive for transportation and storage, proceed as follows:
1. Apply the parking brake by rotating the slider [18] anti-clockwise.
2. Set the column lock [6] to the ON position (see Using the column lock on page 26)
and lower the moving column under hand restraint until the column lock engages.
3. Using the Schrader valve cap [3], reduce pedestal pressure to 7.2 bar (105 psi).
4. Remove the camera and ancillary equipment.
CAUTION! Do not reduce pedestal pressure below 3.5 bar (50 psi). This ensures
that the elevating mechanism remains in tension, preventing damage to
the pedestal.
5. Depress and rotate the height mode knob [20] anti-clockwise to select manual
operation.
6. Depress and rotate the cable release button [37] clockwise to disengage the robotic
height drive. It is only possible to depress and rotate the cable release button when
the column is fully depressed.
7. Push down on the steering ring [19] against residual pressure and release the
column lock [6] allowing the column to extend under hand restraint (see Using the
column lock on page 26).
8. Undo the four mounting bolts and remove the pan and tilt head.
9. To avoid dust or abrasive particles collecting on moving components, set the column
to minimum height and re-engage the column lock.
10. Fit the Velcro strap to secure the column lock in place.
11. Place any trim weights in the trim weight stowage [14].
12. Select manual pedestal movement/steering by rotating the steering mode knob [17]
clockwise to the MAN position and rotating the steering ring [19] to re-engage the
pedestal wheels.
NOTE: Reduce pedestal pressure to the minimum operating pressure (3.5 bar/50 psi)
prior to transport or storage.
31

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Maintenance
General
This pedestal is robustly made to high engineering standards and little attention is required to
maintain serviceability. Attention to the following points will ensure a long and useful service life
with minimum need for repair.
Cleaning
During normal studio use, the only cleaning required should be a regular wipe over with a
lint-free cloth. Dirt accumulated during storage or periods of disuse may be removed with a
vacuum cleaner.
Particular attention should be paid to the bearing strips [38] on each stage of the column, the
wheels [33] and datum reference sensors [8.2] (see Fig. 10).
CAUTION!
1. Do NOT use oil or grease on any exposed part of the column. This is unnecessary
and traps dirt which acts as an abrasive.
2. Do NOT use solvent- or oil-based cleaners, abrasives or wire brushes to remove
accumulations of dirt as these damage the protective surfaces. To clean
mechanical surfaces, use only detergent-based cleaners.
Accessing the wheels and datum reference sensors
To gain access to the wheels [33] and the pedestal datum reference sensors [8.2], it is
necessary to remove the two access panels [8] on opposite sides of the pedestal base, below
the lifting handles [7] (see Fig. 10 below).
To remove these panels, proceed as follows:
32
1. Switch OFF power to the pedestal [22] and disconnect the power lead [31] (see
Fig. 2 on page 14).
2. Unscrew the four fixing screws [8.1] and lift off the panel [8] to expose the internal
mechanisms.
Routine checks
During use, check the following:
1. Check the balance of the pedestal. Rebalance as necessary.
2. Check the data communication with the control panel. Refit cables, if necessary.
3. Check for radial or side play in the moving column.

[8.2]
Adjustments
Fig. 10 Accessing wheel and datum referencing sensors
Operators guide
If excessive radial or side play is apparent in the moving column, wheel alignment is poor or any
other defect is apparent, contact Vinten Radamec or your Vinten Radamec local distributor.
Adjustments and repairs should only be carried out by a trained and competent service engineer.
[8.1]
[8]
33

Fusion FP-188 pedestals and FPH-188 height drives
Parts list
The following list includes the main assemblies, upgrade kits and optional accessories. For
further information regarding repair or spare parts, contact Vinten Radamec or your local Vinten
Radamec distributor.
Main assemblies
FP-188 manual and robotic pedestal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V3952-0003
FP-188 VR manual and robotic pedestal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V4048-0003
FPH-188 manual studio pedestal with manual and robotic height drive . . . . . . . . V4049-0003
FPH-188 VR manual studio pedestal with manual and robotic height drive . . . . . V4048-0004
Fusion pedestal-to-FVR cable (for VR models) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V3990-5197
Upgrade kits
FPH-188 to FP-188 upgrade kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V4049-0004
FP-188 to FP-188 VR upgrade kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V4078-0002
FPH-188 to FPH-188 VR upgrade kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V4078-0004
Optional accessories
Portable pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3357-21
Vinten spanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J551-001
Quickfix ® adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3490-3
Cables
Contact Vinten Radamec or your local distributor for information about our range of studio floor
cables, camera lens cables (for use with the Fusion heads) and a Head communication cable
(to allow direct connection to a Fusion pedestal or height drive).
34

Vinten Radamec Offices Worldwide
BRAZIL
Vitec Group Brazil
Vitec Brazil Tecnologias Ltda.
Rua Quintana, 950 – cj.32
Brooklin
São Paulo, 04569-011
Brazil
Tel. +55 11 5102 4001
Fax +55 11 5103 1164
CHINA
Vitec Group plc China
Rm 706, Tower B
Derun Building
YongAn Dongli A No. 8
Jianwai Ave, Chaoyang District
100022 Beijing, China
Tel. +86 10 8528 8748
Fax +86 10 8528 8749
FRANCE
Vitec Group Videocom Division
171 Avenue des Grésillons
92635 Gennevilliers CEDEX
France
Tel. +33 8 20 82 13 36
Fax +33 8 25 82 61 81
GERMANY
Vitec Group Videocom Division
Gebäude 16
Planiger Straße 34
55543 Bad Kreuznach
Germany
Tel. +49 671 483 43 30
Fax +49 671 483 43 50
Vitec Group Videocom Division
Erfurter Straße 16
85386 Eching
Germany
Tel. +49 89 321 58 200
Fax +49 89 321 58 227
Vinten Radamec
A Vitec Group brand
JAPAN
Vinten Japan KK
P.A. Bldg. 5F
3-12-6 Aobadai
Meguro-ku
Tokyo 153-0042
Japan
Tel. +81 3 5456 4155
Fax +81 3 5456 4156
SINGAPORE
Vitec Group Videocom Division
6 New Industrial Road
#02-02 Hoe Huat Industrial Building
Singapore 536199
Tel. +65 6297 5776
Fax +65 6297 5778
UK
Vitec Group Videocom Division
William Vinten Building
Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP33 3TB
UK
Tel. +44 1284 752 121
Fax +44 1284 750 560
USA
Vitec Group Videocom Division
709 Executive Blvd
Valley Cottage
NY 10989
USA
Tel. +1 845 268 0100
Fax +1 845 268 0113
Publication part no. V3952-4985/3