BlackBird Elevation Systems

The Ross family of BlackBird PTL (Pan/Tilt/Lift) Pedestals combine robotic elevation with a pan and tilt head for cameras that are typically left in the same floor position for the duration of a show. They provide the flexibility to remotely adjust camera height in an automated environment, as well as combine smooth vertical movement with pan, tilt, and zoom to create dynamic on-air moving shots. All Ross PTL systems are built on the revolutionary BlackBird base, which provides a smooth, ultra-stable platform for both the 2-stage S2 and C2 Lifts, and the 3-stage SE Lift, with either a 600PT or VR-series head.

More Shots

Adds smooth vertical movement to on-air shots, along with the flexibility to remotely vary the height of the camera, making it perfect for automated production environments.

Fills the Gap

Provides cost-effective alternative to Furio SE Dolly or CamBot free-roaming XY pedestal systems, with greater flexibility and efficiency than a fully manual tripod.

Perfectly Stable

BlackBird base provides a solid, stable foundation for shake-free on-air camera moves, while ensuring that shot recalls are accurate and repeatable.

Easy Glider

Ultra-stable platform allows the system to be safely moved around the studio, even at maximum payload and full extension – without risk of injury or damage to equipment due to tipping.

Powered by MotionDirector

The S2/SE models unleash the full power of MotionDirector, combining the unequaled beauty of naturally smooth and synchronized key-frame moves, with the flexibility to make in-flight manual corrections from the joystick panel. Create even more unique signature shots by recording manual (joystick) movements overtop of keyframed moves.

Common Spares

Simplifies spare parts management – same spare electronics module can be used for both SE Dolly, SkyDolly and BlackBird pedestal.

Features

Tip-Proof

Unique outrigger feet, stability weights in the base, and adjustable cable guards integrated in casters make BlackBird pedestals virtually immune to tipping.

Foot-Locker

Foot-activated wheel locks (both on wheel axles and caster direction) securely lock the pedestal into position on the studio floor.

Feature-Packed

Field replaceable electronics module based on the Furio SE dolly design provides the Furio BlackBird pedestal with all the same features: auto-sensing power supplies, protection circuits on all inputs, status LEDs, Motion Indicator Light bar, E-stop.

Models

BlackBird C2

BlackBird S2/SE

BlackBird C2

Our entry-level system, the C-Series BlackBird 600PTL is based on the C2, 2-stage lift, and provides our most cost-effective robotic elevation solution. Featuring the CamBot 600PT head with proprietary anti-backlash technology, it delivers an industry-leading 57 kgs / 125 lbs payload capacity and an unbeatable combination of smooth and accurate movements at a very competitive price.

BlackBird S2/SE

The S-Series BlackBird adds several convenience and safety features, enabled by an advanced, field-replaceable electronics module that is based on the same design used in the Furio SE dolly. In addition, all S-Series models output accurate and reliable Virtual Tracking data for virtual and augmented reality, and include laser alignment aids to ensure the base is accurately positioned on floor.

S-Series BlackBirds are available with two choices of lifts: the S2, 2-stage lift that is based on CamBot S2 lifts, and the top of line, 3-stage carbon fiber SE Lift that delivers dramatic increases in both maximum height and elevation range. These can be mated with either the VR100 or VR600 head depending on payload requirements.