SmallRig Cage for Sony FX30 FX3 Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your SmallRig Cage for Sony FX30 / FX3 (Model 3278-SR). This camera cage is designed to enhance the functionality and protection of your Sony FX30 or FX3 camera, offering multiple mounting points for accessories and improved handling.

Image 1.1: SmallRig Cage (Model 3278-SR) installed on a Sony FX30/FX3 camera, showcasing its form-fitting design and integrated features.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• Cage x 1
• HDMI Cable Clamp x 1
• 1/4"-20 Screw x 2
• NATO Rail x 1
• Magnetic Wrench x 1 (integrated into the cage)

Image 2.1: Exploded view of the SmallRig Cage components, showing the main cage body, removable NATO rail, HDMI cable clamp, mounting screws, and the integrated magnetic wrench.

3. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to properly install the SmallRig Cage on your Sony FX30 or FX3 camera.

3.1 Attaching the U-shaped Cage Module

1. Align the U-shaped cage module with your Sony FX30 or FX3 camera.
2. Secure the cage to the camera using the 1/4"-20 screws on both sides and the bottom. This multi-point attachment prevents twisting and ensures a stable fit. A magnetic wrench is integrated into the cage for convenient assembly.

Image 3.1: Illustration of the anti-twist design, highlighting the three screw attachment points (left, right, and bottom) for secure camera mounting.

3.2 Installing the NATO Rail Module

1. Position the NATO rail module on the top of the cage.
2. Secure it using the two 1/4"-20 screws provided.
3. Note: If you intend to use the original Sony XLR top handle, the NATO rail module must be disassembled first.

Image 3.2: Modular design components, including the removable NATO rail and HDMI cable clamp, ready for installation.

Image 3.3: Example setup demonstrating compatibility with the original XLR handle, noting the requirement to remove the top NATO rail.

3.3 Attaching the HDMI Cable Clamp

1. Locate the dedicated HDMI cable clamp.
2. Attach the clamp to the side of the cage, aligning it with the camera's HDMI port.
3. Insert your HDMI cable and tighten the clamp to secure it, preventing accidental disconnections and protecting the port.

Image 3.4: Detailed view of the cage features, including the HDMI cable clamp for secure signal transmission, the hinge arm for battery access, and precise cutouts for power cables.

4. Operating the Cage and Accessories

The SmallRig Cage provides numerous options for expanding your camera rig.

4.1 Utilizing Multiple Mounting Points

The cage features various mounting points for attaching accessories:

• 1/4"-20 Threaded Holes: Located throughout the cage, these are suitable for attaching accessories like the SmallRig Magic Arm 3873 or quick release plates.
• ARRI Locating Holes: These 3/8"-16 holes with anti-twist pins are designed for accessories such as the SmallRig Top Handle 3765.
• NATO Rail: The side NATO rail allows for quick attachment and detachment of accessories like the SmallRig Side Handle 3813.
• Cold Shoe Mount: An integrated cold shoe mount is available for microphones (e.g., SmallRig Microphone 3468) or LED video lights (e.g., SmallRig LED Video Light 3286B).
• Strap Holes: Located on both sides and the bottom, compatible with hand straps (e.g., SmallRig Hand Strap 3848) or shoulder straps (e.g., SmallRig Shoulder Strap PSC2428).
• QD Socket: A Quick Detach (QD) socket on the bottom allows for quick attachment of QD shoulder straps.

Image 4.1: Overview of the multiple mounting points available on the cage, detailing their types and locations for accessory attachment.

4.2 Quick Release Plate Compatibility

The bottom of the cage features a quick release plate compatible with Arca-Swiss standards. This allows for quick mounting onto:

• DJI RS 2, RSC 2, RS 3, RS 3 Pro gimbals.
• Arca-Swiss compatible tripods (e.g., SmallRig Arca Quick Release Plate 3154).

Image 4.2: Close-up of the Arca-Swiss compatible quick release plate at the base of the cage, facilitating rapid transitions between stabilizers and tripods.

4.3 Battery Access and Grip

The battery compartment features a hinge arm design, allowing full access to the battery without removing the cage. This design also improves the grip experience for the user.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the cage with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Inspection: Periodically check all screws and connections to ensure they are tight. Use the integrated magnetic wrench for tightening as needed.
• Storage: Store the cage in a dry, clean environment when not in use.

6. Troubleshooting

• Issue: Accessories do not fit the top NATO rail.

  Solution: The spacing between the 1/4"-20 holes on the top NATO rail is 27mm. Ensure your accessories are compatible with this spacing. Accessories designed for 18mm spacing will not fit.

  

  Image 6.1: Illustration highlighting the 27mm hole spacing on the NATO rail and demonstrating incompatibility with accessories requiring 18mm spacing.
• Issue: Original Sony XLR handle cannot be attached.

  Solution: The top NATO rail module must be removed before attaching the original Sony XLR handle.

• Issue: Cage feels loose or twists on the camera.

  Solution: Ensure all three 1/4"-20 screws (two on the sides, one on the bottom) are securely tightened using the integrated magnetic wrench.

7. Specifications

Image 7.1: Dimensional drawing of the SmallRig Cage, showing key measurements for width, height, and depth.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official SmallRig website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Manufacturer: SMALLRIG

Website: www.smallrig.com