The SCUBACAM SCU-50 is a flexible, lightweight, and watertight splash housing designed for both video and film cameras. It is intended for operation just above or just below the surface of the water, or in extremely dusty or dirty environments, while providing the camera operator full access to all lens and camera functions. It is crucial to note that these housings are not suitable for prolonged continuous underwater use and are not a substitute for more expensive solid aluminium deep-water housings.
Technical Specifications:
- Housing: Features an anodised aluminium frame with a black TPU structure bonded with high tenacity webbing to clear PVC viewing windows.
- Operating Temperature: Designed to operate within a range of -4°C to +40°C.
- Dimensions: Measures 500mm in length, 300mm in height, and 250mm in width.
- Weight: The housing weighs 3.5kg.
- Front Port: Equipped with a 150 x 120 x 6mm thick optical glass, coated with a non-stick polymer. It accommodates lenses with a maximum front diameter of 120mm and is designed to suit 19mm Studio rod spacing.
- Leak Alarm: Includes a 9-volt tone generator with a maximum output of 95dB to alert the user to any water ingress.
- Maximum Depth: Rated for a maximum depth of 4 meters.
- Video Output (Where fitted): Utilizes a LEMO coaxial underwater connector to a BNC video connector.
- LCS Input (Where fitted): Features a LEMO 5-pin underwater connector to a Fischer 5-pin connector or a LEMO 5-pin 1B type connector, as fitted.
- Power Input (Where fitted): Connects via a LEMO 2-pin underwater connector to a 3-pin XLR for 24V power.
- Ethernet Input (Where fitted): Uses a LEMO 8-pin underwater connector to an RJ45 connector, compatible with Cat-6 twisted pair cable.
- On-Off Input (Where fitted): Provided with a LEMO 2-pin underwater connector to a Fischer 3-pin connector, and a waterproof pistol grip for actuation.
- Mon Output (Where fitted): Features a LEMO 4-pin underwater connector, split to a BNC video connector for video and a D-Tap for power.
Usage Features:
- Camera Insertion: To insert the camera, the zip of the splash housing must be fully opened. The camera package is then gently eased into the housing and onto the internal dovetail plate. The lens should be positioned as close to the front port as possible, and the bridge plate locked. It is important not to force any part of this operation or put stress on the zip ends.
- Connector Insertion: Any required connectors from the housing are inserted into the camera assembly. SDI connections should be made last to prevent damage to the camera outputs.
- Zip Closure: The zip must be fully closed, ensuring the slider seats completely into the end of the zip. To remove the camera, these steps are reversed.
- External Mounting: If using an external base plate for mounting, ensure that any screws protrude no further than 9mm (~⅜").
- Buoyancy Control: The housing will likely have positive buoyancy with the camera enclosed. To position the lens below the surface, air can be released from the housing by rotating the adjustable dump valve anti-clockwise. Air will vent as the unit submerges; rotating the valve further will allow for deeper submersion.
- Cable Connection: When inserting connectors, align the key and push on the body. Connector plugs and caps MUST be mated when underwater to prevent water ingress. When connecting or disconnecting cables, grip the CONNECTOR BODIES and DO NOT pull on the cables to avoid damaging the connector assembly.
- French Flag Adjustment: The French flag can be repositioned by loosening the hand knob, moving it out of view of the shot (using MON or HD-SDI output), and then locking it in place with the knob.
- Monitor Setup: The monitor is positioned on the outside of the housing as desired, and the 4-pin LEMO connector is inserted. Blanking caps and plugs must be mated. The D-Tap connector is then connected to a battery or splitter box, and the monitor's power is checked. The BNC connector is connected to an SDI output on the camera, ensuring power is connected BEFORE video to prevent damage.
- Air Jet System: This system is designed for removing water droplets from the port glass and is not for use when submerged. The coiled hose is connected to the manifold on the housing, and the regulator to a standard diving bottle. The regulator should be set to provide a steady stream of air over the port glass.
- Internal Dovetail Adjustment: The internal dovetail can be adjusted to various positions within the housing using a 4mm allen key. Replacements screws MUST BE M6x12 Socket Countersunk A4 SS.
Camera Support Accessories:
The manual provides specific support accessories to ensure correct lens height inside the housing for various camera models:
- ARRI ALEXA Mini and Mini LF: Requires Camera Body and CBP-1 (or CBP-2 for 15mm Rods).
- ARRI ALEXA 35: Requires Camera Body, BUD-1, and CBP-5 (or CBP-6 for 15mm rods).
- RED DSMC2: Requires Camera Body, ARRI Cine Plate for RED DSMC2 or Wooden Camera Easy Riser, and ARRI BP-8 or Wooden Camera Unified Bridge Plate.
- V-Raptor XL: Requires Camera Body, RED V-Raptor XL Riser Plate, and ARRI BP-8 or Wooden Camera Unified Bridge Plate.
- Sony Venice (1 and 2): Requires Camera Body, ARRI Plate for Sony Venice 1/2, ARRI BPA-5, and ARRI BP-8 (or BP-9 for 15mm rods).
Maintenance Features:
- Pre-Use Inspection: Before every use, a visual inspection of the housing is required to check for any damage. The leak alarm probes should be inspected for cleanliness and obstructions. To test the leak detector, connect the battery and touch the probes with a damp finger; a tone will be heard if it's working correctly.
- Integrity Test: For total safety, the empty housing should be closed and submerged for 10 minutes. After this period, open and inspect the housing for water ingress.
- Post-Use Cleaning: After every use, wash the housing with salt-free water and dry it.
- Zip Care: Use the brush applicator on the Zip Care bottle to clean the zip and apply Zip Care as per instructions, waxing the outer teeth.
- Handling and Storage: Always handle the housing carefully and store it in a cool place. Keep it away from sharp or pointed objects.
- Environmental Precautions: DO NOT place the housing on or near hot objects or heat sources. DO NOT fold the housing tightly when storing in a flight case, and ensure it is not pinched between the lid and the box. DO NOT leave the housing for prolonged periods in direct sunlight.
- Cleaning Agents: DO NOT clean with strong chemicals.
- Front Port Maintenance: Clean the front port regularly with the supplied cleaner and re-coat with polymer.
- Annual Servicing: It is recommended to return the housing to Scubacam at least once per year to ensure it remains in acceptable condition.
Maintenance Products Supplied:
- Zip Wax: A two-part process product. After use, clean the zipper with fresh water and brush off debris. Apply zip wax sparingly to the outer elements of the zip, then open and close the zip a few times to aid application and smooth slider movement.
- Zip Care Fluid: The second part of the zip cleaning process. Use the brush applicator to clean debris from the teeth, then squeeze the bottle to allow the fluid to run along the inner elements. Leave the zip open when storing the unit.
- Front Port Polymer: A two-part application. Part one is a pre-cleaner that dissolves oils and solvents and cleans debris from the glass. Part two is the "sea through" polymer, applied to the front port as per bottle instructions. This polymer creates a fine clear film on the glass, causing water to run off instead of sticking. Regular use is recommended for consistent results.
The SCU-50 can be equipped with various optional extras, including:
- HD-SDI video cable
- LCS cable
- Power cable
- Ethernet Cable
- On-board HD Monitor
- Pistol On/Off grip
- Wrap around handle
- Air jet system
- French flag
The SCUBACAM SCU-50 is manufactured by Scubacam Ltd., located at Unit 8, Battlerswells Farm, Jackets Lane, Harefield, Middlesex UB9 6PZ. Contact can be made via Tel: +44 (0)1923 822 872, E Mail: sales@scubacam.net, or Website: www.scubacam.net. A digital (.pdf) version of the manual is available at www.scubacam.net/downloads.
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