Freefly Systems Ember Cheese Plate

Description

Freefly Systems Ember Cheese Plate

The Freefly Systems Ember Cheese Plate (often referred to as the “Universal Cheese Plate”) is a critical rigging accessory designed specifically for the rear of Freefly Ember S5K and S25K high-speed cinema cameras. Its primary function is to provide a versatile and robust mounting platform for various power solutions (like V-mount or Gold mount battery plates) and other camera accessories, while maintaining crucial space for the camera’s heat dissipation.

Ember cameras are compact and powerful, and efficient power management is key to their operation. The Ember Cheese Plate acts as an expansion hub, allowing users to attach external batteries, wireless video transmitters, or other necessary equipment to the back of the camera, optimizing the camera’s footprint and balancing the rig.

Features:

• Dedicated Ember Camera Mounting: Attaches securely to the offset mount brackets included with the Freefly Ember S5K/S25K cameras using M3 fasteners. This ensures a seamless fit and, crucially, leaves adequate space for the camera’s heat dissipation, preventing overheating issues.
• Universal Battery Plate Compatibility: Designed with a variety of mounting points to accommodate most standard battery plate mount hole patterns, including:
  • FXLION Nano V-Mount: A very common pairing for compact power.
  • IDX Micro V-Mount Adapter Plate.
  • Wooden Camera Universal Micro Battery Plate (V-Mount or Gold Mount). This versatility allows users to leverage their existing battery ecosystems.
• Multiple Accessory Mounting Points: The plate is covered with a generous array of threaded holes for attaching various accessories:
  • 1/4″-20 threads: Abundant throughout the plate, ideal for monitor arms, wireless receivers, focus motors, etc.
  • 3/8″-16 threads: Fewer but present, often used for heavier accessories or specific rigging components.
  • M3 threads: For direct attachment of smaller Freefly accessories or custom builds.
  • Side-facing 1/4″-20s: A full row of these threads allows for rigging in the horizontal plane, providing even more flexibility.
• Rugged Machined Aluminum Construction: Made from high-quality, precision-machined aluminum. This ensures exceptional durability and rigidity, capable of withstanding the demands of professional film sets.
• Lightweight Design: Despite its robust construction and extensive mounting capabilities, the plate is relatively lightweight (approx. 55-59g / 1.9-2.1 oz). This is important for maintaining the overall balance and maneuverability of the Ember camera rig, especially when used on gimbals.
• Compact Dimensions: Its physical dimensions (approx. 69 x 85 x 12.5mm / 3.3 x 2.7 x 0.5″) are designed to be low-profile and integrate cleanly with the Ember camera.
• Enhanced Rigging Versatility: By providing a centralized mounting hub, the cheese plate allows cinematographers to build more complex and tailored rigs around the Ember camera without stressing the camera body’s native mounting points.

Applications & Use Cases:

• Battery Mounting: The most common application is to attach a V-mount or Gold mount battery plate to power the Ember camera and connected accessories.
• Wireless Video Systems: Mounting transmitters like Teradek or Hollyland units.
• On-Board Monitors: Attaching articulating arms and monitors for convenient viewing.
• Custom Power Distribution: Serving as a base for custom power solutions.
• Accessory Organization: Consolidating various smaller accessories onto a single, robust platform on the camera’s rear.

The Freefly Systems Ember Cheese Plate is an indispensable Ember camera accessory that provides a versatile and secure battery mounting solution and accessory rigging hub. It is essential for cinematographers looking to expand the capabilities of their Freefly Ember high-speed camera with external power and additional production tools in a clean, balanced, and professional manner.