Vinten®, a Vitec Group brand and a global leader in camera supports, introduces its new Vector 430. Developed in collaboration with leading global customers and bridging the gap between the Vision and Vector ranges, the Vector 430 is ideal for the growing number of applications that use both the compact box lens and large EFP barrel lenses.

This unique and lightweight pan and tilt head incorporates Vinten’s innovative Perfect Balance technology – into a previously unattainable compact package – while boasting an extremely large capacity range of 22 – 94.8 lbs (10 – 43 kg). This means that the Vector 430 provides a single choice for camera operators in the studio or out on the field, when two heads may have previously been required.

Simple to rig and convenient to transport, the compact design of the Vector 430 maintains the trusted performance and functionality of Vinten’s renowned Vector heads, including infinitely adjustable Perfect Balance and smooth TF drag technology.

Telegenic in the UK is one of the leading outside broadcast production companies, which Vinten worked closely with during the development phase of the Vector 430. “We were delighted when Vinten approached us to trial the new Vector 430,” said Telegenic’s head of cameras, Pete Bowen. “We were able to test the new head during the coverage of two rugby matches at Twickenham, where we used the Vector 430 to support the main cameras, which are critical in creating the most compelling coverage.”

“Working with Vinten ensured that the Vector 430 was tailored to meet our exact needs,” he added. “The result is a head with good physical size for our specific requirements, and excellent quality of movement,” concluded Bowen.

The Vector 430 controls have been ergonomically designed to ensure ease-of-use in any situation, whether in the studio or during an outside broadcast. The controls include a retractable counterbalance adjuster, backlit drag knobs and an illuminated LCD display for low-light situations. The base of the Vector 430 includes an integral Quickfix groove for fast and secure attachment. All of these features, combined with a Quickfit wedge adaptor, make the Vector 430 the perfect choice for busy multi-camera productions.

“The Vector 430 fills a hole in the market. In our trials with the prototype at the Dunhill Golf Championships in St Andrews in 2008 it showed its potential,” said Keith Gibson, freelance cameraman and camera supervisor on the European Tour Golf for European Tour Productions and CTV Outside Broadcasts.

Gibson subsequently had the chance to try out one of the first production models at the World Matchplay Golf in Spain in 2009. “It was used by various cameramen in different lens/camera configurations and the reactions were good. It is a flexible piece of kit covering a wide range of requirements making it very useful in the outside broadcast world,” added Gibson.

Peter Harman, Vinten product manager adds, “We are devoted to working closely with our users to understand precisely what they need from camera support in order to direct our R&D team. The new Vector 430 is a product of this process: uncompromised Vinten performance in a compact form with a wide capacity range; suitable for any EFP or LW studio camera combination; and the ability to have complete and perfect control of framing in any situation.”

The new Vector 430 is also available with an extremely high-quality, highly accurate encoder output, the Vector 430i, to meet the growing demand for virtual and augmented reality applications in outside broadcast and studio environments. This head incorporates a new Intelligence Module to provide precise, real-time digital electronic positioning of pan and tilt to enable graphics to be placed perfectly into the live environment. The new Vector 430i also includes a unique optional inclinometer feature developed to solve the challenge of platform movement and compensates any camera position. These features, combined with the functionality of the innovative Vector 430, make the Vector 430i an ideal choice for EFP camera set-ups where virtual reality is required.

For further information, please go to www.vinten.com or contact: Vinten, 709 Executive Blvd., Valley College, NY 10989, Phone: 1 888 2 Vinten, Fax: 845-268-0113, Email: [email protected]