Video Tap on a Konvas

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Video Tap on a Konvas

Without a doubt, the two hottest topics regarding 2M mods are blimps and video assist. I have received many emails and have seen lots of queries posted on the Topica listserv regarding adding video assist to a Konvas. These examples illustrate that it can indeed be done, and the solutions are as vaired as the engineers that undertake the problem.

Konvas 2M with a Video Assist
Konvas 2M with a Video Assist

Konvas 2M with a Video Assist (top)
Konvas 2M with a Video Assist (top)

The above solution seems to be the most straightforward: tap through the viewfinder.

This is perfect for Steadicam or remote work, but is unsuitable for standard work as the operator cannot sight through the finder.

Arri with a video tap (for comparison)
Manzilview CCD camera fitted to an Arri IIc(for comparison)

For comparison's sake: a Manzilview CCD camera fitted to an Arri IIc. This generation of camera is perhaps better suited for the application stated above.

Anders Bankes video assist system on a Konvas 2M
Anders Bankes video assist system on a Konvas 2M

Anders Bankes' video assist system installed on a used 2M. It's a compact system featuring a b&w CCD camera (high resolution, high light sensitivity, can be used with both PAL and NTSC) with 30% of the light going to the video assist, and 70% to the viewfinder. It comes with a six month warranty; he will require your camera body to do the mod. He can't sell individual kits for owner installation as every Konvas differs slightly. If interested, please contact Anders via his link in the Services & Accessories page.

Konvas 1M with Internally Installed Camera
Konvas 1M with Internally Installed Camera

A Konvas 1M sold on eBay quite some time ago, sold by Doug Underdahl. The engineer of this camera kit was able to internally install the camera. A bit more about it in the engineer's words: "You can see the video camera has been built into the camera on the operator's left side just in front of the eyepiece tube. It is very unobtrusive and is housed in a box that was machined from a single piece of aluminum. The video out is via a RCA connector that can be seen at the top of the camera. To the right of this connector is a video on/off switch that supplies power to the camera, which runs on 9-14 volts."

Rafael Pankratau's small CCD on a Konvas 2M
Rafael Pankratau's small CCD on a Konvas 2M

A new solution on the market: Rafael Pankratau's small CCD camera that fits into the space normally occupied by the viewfinder. To obtain specs and purchasing info, please visit Rafael's site via his link in the Services & Accessories page.

Konvas 2M with a video tap Add-On port
Konvas 2M with a video tap Add-On port

Konvas 2M with a video tap Add-On port (side)
Konvas 2M with a video tap Add-On port (side)

Konvas 2M with a video tap Add-On port (CU)
Konvas 2M with a video tap Add-On port (CU)

Another interesting solution--an add-on port. Unless I'm mistaken, this camera was sold by Lael Camak. He can be reached via the Konvas Discussion List.

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