February 19, 2007
JimmyBox (Large)
Light Weight Enclosure for FS-100 DTE
$185.00
JimmyBox
144 Old Post Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
http://www.jimmybox.com/
203-256-5798
Originally engineered
as a wireless audio receiver holder for professional digital
video cams, the JimmyBox (large) doubles as a lightweight, economical
and sturdy cage to house the FS-100
DTE (see review)) under a HVX200.
The enclosure weighs five (5) ounces and is constructed of extruded
aluminum in a black finish. Its deck is lined with soft Velcro
to simultaneously protect the FS-100 and hold it securely. The
company recommends attaching Velcro on the battery side of the
FS-100 to better fasten the DTE. At a diminutive 1.42" x3.65x
4.0", the JB(L) is a tight fit for the FS-100, but this
contributes to a more secure placement as well. I never was concerned
about having the FireStore slip out of the cage.
While Focus elects a topside placement for its camera mount, the JimmyBox is fastened to the cam's bottom. This arrangement facilitates a better-balanced marriage of the two devices. The company provides a one-page instruction sheet for attaching the cage, but everything is pretty self-explanatory. It does recommend, however, that users place a few strips of gaffers tape adjacent to the mounting holes at the cam's bottom.
The cage is aligned to the pin insert, and attaches with a supplied _-inch screw. Once secured to the cam, you can immediately attach your quick release plate, or install the support arm and then the plate to it. Either way, the configuration is solid and well balanced.
The arm provides additional support for run/gun or hand held shooting, and operates as separate arm for use with your tripod. It includes six separate mounting holes for positioning and a versatile handle that can be attached above or below the arm.
A fully attached JB(L) and arm is both lightweight and stable enough for hand held, and tripod use. It is strong and sufficiently rigid to remain attached when storing or transporting the cam. Focus has tested the JimmyBox and has approved its use with the FS-100.
The small size and extruded aluminum design makes the JB(L) is a solid, low cost and versatile device for mounting the FS-100. It is reasonably priced, well balanced, can house audio recording units as well, and was designed by a shooter to meet specific shooting needs. This is a nice accessory for anybody shooting with the HVX200 and FS-100.
Copyright ©2007 David A. Saraceno
David A. Saraceno is a motion graphics artist located in Spokane, Washington. He has written for DV Magazine, AV Video, MacHome Journal, and several state and national legal technology magazines. David also moderates several forums on 2-pop.com.
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copyright © David A. Saraceno 2007
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