ARRI’s new Camera Control Monitor (CCM-1) is a 7-inch onboard monitor that includes full camera control and menu access for the ALEXA 35 and ALEXA Mini LF, ARRI’s latest cameras. Added to make new camera configurations possible, the CCM-1 combines ARRI’s colour accuracy and a bright display with customisable controls and a rugged build.
ARRI developed the CCM-1 for camera operators who prefer to judge framing and exposure with an onboard monitor rather than a viewfinder. ARRI collaborated with SmallHD to build the CCM-1 as an alternative control, menu and image interface to the existing MVF-2 viewfinder. Users can either replace the MVF-2 entirely, or work with the CCM-1 alongside it.
The CCM-1 displays a bright, high-contrast HD image on the 7in IPS LCD screen that is viewable in daylight from within a wide viewing angle. Like the MVF-2, it connects via the camera’s VF connector and shows an image that accurately follows ARRI colour management.
The CCM-1 on the ALEXA 35
The user interface of the CCM-1 is flexible and suits professional environments. All functions are adjustable via the touchscreen or via buttons and a joystick that are positioned on one side of the monitor and can be operated with one hand, leaving the other hand free. The power and back buttons have tactile indicators that make them easy to find without looking, or with gloves on.
The dedicated menu button gives fast access to the familiar menu of the MVF-2. Four user buttons allow personalised settings, and a lock slider disables the touchscreen and all buttons, preventing users from accidentally triggering functions.
Sensor-level monitoring functions make use of the sensor’s full resolution, for example, zooming into the image for more accurate focus checking. The false colour tool on the CCM-1 is simpler to work with than on standard SDI-connected monitors because it affects only the image from the camera, and not the status overlays.
By using the camera’s VF connector, the CCM-1 leaves both of its SDI outputs free for other uses. VF cables measuring up to 10m in length are supported, to allow flexibility in tight spaces, cranes, dollies and car rigs. The CCM-1 can alternatively be connected via SDI like a normal onboard monitor, allowing application of ALF-2 and ALF-4 look files, full access to the SmallHD toolset, and use with third-party cameras. Various other connection options support different camera configurations and use cases.
With the monitor’s interactive graphic overlays to show camera status, users can adjust the settings without interrupting the live view, and a new playback screen can be accessed through the menu or assigned to a user button. The large clip list on the playback screen includes metadata display and remains visible during playback, helping smaller crews who want to relay on the CCM-1 for reviewing takes. The home screen will be familiar to ARRI users, and the SmallHD PageOS user interface allows detailed customisation of live view pages.
The CCM-1 comes with a scratch-resistant sun hood that snaps onto the monitor like a protective case on a smartphone, without Velcro or straps. The hood’s soft but rigid side and top flaps are held in place with magnets and can be folded flat. The monitor’s two-axis MAC-1 monitor arm for rapid positioning does not affect the horizon relative to the camera. The MAC-1 features an adjustable friction system for one-handed repositioning and inserts for different mounting standards.
Scratch-resistent sunhood.
Constructed from aluminium, the CCM-1 is durable, weather-sealed and temperature-resistant, ready to go on set. Mechanical interfaces using the new ARRI Pin-Lock standard allow flexible mounting options.
The CCM-1 can be ordered now and will be supported in the upcoming ALEXA 35 SUP 1.2 and ALEXA Mini LF SUP 7.3 software update packages. www.arri.com
