Zeapon EVO D40/D60 Motorized Camera Slider

1. Introduction

The Zeapon EVO D40/D60 Motorized Camera Slider is a professional tool designed for filmmakers and photographers seeking smooth, precise, and versatile camera movements. It features an ultra-quiet brushless motor, seamless real-time speed control, and advanced capabilities for focus-locked orbital shots and 125-degree panorama rotation. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your EVO slider to achieve optimal performance.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealer.

3. Product Features

• Ultra-Quiet Brushless Motor: The EVO slider is equipped with a whisper-silent and rock-steady brushless motor, ensuring smooth operation without audio interference, even at high speeds. It is compact yet powerful, suitable for professional video production.
• Seamless Speed Control: Adjust speeds effortlessly from 0.5mm/s to 57mm/s in real-time. This feature is engineered for smooth, one-take speed-ramping transitions, allowing for dynamic and creative shots.
• Focus-Locked Orbital Shots: A mechanically controlled rotating pan head keeps your subject perfectly centered in every frame, simplifying complex orbital movements.
• Lightweight, High-Capacity Design: Despite its compact size (e.g., D40 at 1.5kg, D60 at 1.7kg), the slider supports a horizontal payload of up to 5kg and a vertical payload of up to 2.5kg, making it suitable for a wide range of cameras and accessories.
• Flexible Control Options: Set waypoints and loop modes with a single tap using the Zeapon Lab app or directly via the slider's control keys. The app also handles advanced filming techniques like time-lapse and stop-motion.
• 125 Degree Panorama Rotation: Achieve wide panoramic shots with precise motorized control.
• Magnetic Center Return: The focus handle features a built-in magnetic function, allowing it to instantly snap back to the center position when orbital shots are not required, saving time and eliminating the need for repeated adjustments.
• Side-Mounted Battery: The battery is mounted on the side to prevent conflict with control interfaces, removing the need for a ball head to elevate the camera and reducing instability risks.
• Auxiliary Device Mounting: A side-mounted 1/4" screw port allows for easy attachment of auxiliary devices such as monitors or LED panels, offloading the camera rig for significantly stabilized footage.

4. Product Overview and Parts

Familiarize yourself with the components of your EVO slider:

1. Focus Handle Release Latch
2. Spirit Level
3. Focus Handle
4. 1/4" & 3/8" Nested Screw Ports (for camera mounting)
5. Track Scale
6. Focus Handle Locking Knob
7. Power Button
8. Real-time Speed Adjustment Knob
9. Battery Lock
10. A Point Button
11. B Point Button
12. Cycle Button
13. Start/Stop Button
14. USB Type-C Port (for charging/power)
15. 2.5mm Shutter Cable Port
16. 1/4" Expansion Thread (for accessories)

5. Setup Instructions

5.1 Mounting the Slider

The EVO slider offers multiple installation methods:

• Horizontal: Place the slider on a flat surface or mount it horizontally on a tripod using the screw ports on the bottom.
• Vertical: Mount the slider vertically on a tripod for upward or downward camera movements.
• Inverted: The slider can also be mounted inverted for unique low-angle shots.

5.2 Attaching the Camera

1. Secure your camera to the 1/4" or 3/8" nested screw ports (4) on the slider carriage.
2. Ensure the camera is firmly attached and balanced.
3. For heavier camera setups, consider attaching optional AKH1 support arms (sold separately) to significantly enhance stability.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Power On/Off and Speed Control

1. Press the Power Button (7) to turn the slider on or off.
2. Use the Real-time Speed Adjustment Knob (8) to control the speed of the slider movement. Rotate clockwise to increase speed and counter-clockwise to decrease it.

6.2 AB-Point Setup and Loop Modes

The EVO slider allows for easy setting of start and end points for automated movements:

1. Manually position the camera carriage to your desired start point and press the A Point Button (10).
2. Manually position the camera carriage to your desired end point and press the B Point Button (11).
3. Press the Cycle Button (12) to enable continuous looping between points A and B.
4. Press the Start/Stop Button (13) to initiate or halt the programmed movement.

6.3 Focus-Locked Orbital Shots

To achieve focus-locked orbital shots, follow these steps:

1. After installing the camera, ensure it is positioned 90° vertical to the rail.
2. Align the red dot on the slider with the '0' mark on the rail.
3. Move the rail to center the subject in the frame.
4. Adjust the follow focus to center the subject in the monitor.
5. Press the "Point A button".
6. Press the "Point B button".
7. Press the "Loop button".
8. Press the "Start/Stop button" to begin looping movement.

6.4 Zeapon Lab App Control

The Zeapon Lab app provides extended control and advanced filming modes:

• Download the Zeapon Lab app from your device's app store.
• Connect your smartphone to the EVO slider via Bluetooth.
• The app allows for advanced functions such as time-lapse, stop-motion, and more precise control over movement parameters.
• Basic A-B point setting and orbital shots can still be performed directly from the slider's control keys without the app.

7. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Zeapon EVO slider:

• Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the slider tracks and carriage with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Storage: When not in use, store the slider in its dedicated carrying case to protect it from dust, moisture, and physical damage.
• Inspection: Periodically check all screws and connections to ensure they are secure. Tighten any loose parts gently.
• Environment: Avoid exposing the slider to extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your EVO slider, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Slider not moving:
  • Check if the slider is powered on and the battery has sufficient charge.
  • Ensure there are no physical obstructions on the track.
  • Verify that a movement program (e.g., A-B points) has been set and initiated with the Start/Stop button.
• Motor noise is excessive:
  • While the motor is designed to be ultra-quiet, ensure the slider is placed on a stable, level surface.
  • Check that the camera and payload do not exceed the specified load capacities.
  • Inspect the track for any debris that might be causing friction.
• Inconsistent or jerky movement:
  • Clean the slider track thoroughly to remove any dust or particles.
  • Ensure the camera is securely mounted and properly balanced on the carriage.
  • Check the slider belt for any damage or misalignment.
• App connectivity issues:
  • Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone and the slider is powered on.
  • Try restarting both the app and the slider.
  • Make sure your app is updated to the latest version.

9. Specifications

Detailed specifications for the Zeapon EVO D40 and D60 models:

10. User Tips

• Enhance Stability: For heavier camera setups or when shooting in challenging conditions, consider using the optional AKH1 support arms. These arms attach to the slider and tripod, significantly enhancing stability and reducing vibrations.
• Leverage App Control: While the slider offers robust on-board controls, the Zeapon Lab app unlocks advanced features like precise time-lapse intervals, stop-motion programming, and more detailed motion path adjustments. Explore the app to expand your creative possibilities.
• Quick Repositioning: Utilize the magnetic center return feature of the focus handle. When you don't need orbital shots, a quick snap will return the handle to the center, saving time on manual adjustments.
• External Accessories: Make use of the 1/4" expansion thread and side-mounted screw port to attach external monitors, microphones, or LED lights. This helps keep your camera rig lighter and more stable.

11. Warranty and Support

The Zeapon EVO D40/D60 Motorized Camera Slider comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase, covering manufacturing defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or to inquire about warranty services, please contact your authorized Zeapon dealer or visit the official Zeapon website for customer service contact information.