Product catalog 09/2012
FLM-Emblem A firm grip on everything, no matter what the situation In the beginning, the idea was to build ball heads that met the requirements of professional photography (F). In order to obtain optimal image quality, additional light (L), which must be exactly adjusted, is needed in many situations. Ball joints are also used in metrology (M) to hold sensors, light beam instruments, deflection mirrors and measurement optical systems to ensure they do not shake and cannot be displaced. This demanding and variable range of uses places high requirements on the products and requires multifarious knowledge of precision engineering. FLM, a family business, was founded in 1993 and the first ball joint series was developed with the aid of our customers: photographers. Close contact with photographers has meant that these products have been continually refined over the years and this has resulted in the unique characteristics and functions of our latest generation: Series II. True to this guiding principle, we strive to manufacture products of the highest quality and with innovative functions. Our high-tensile aluminum is lead-free and is shaped using the most modern CNC technology. Thanks to the extremely elaborate and high-precision computer-controlled material processing of components in one piece, we attain a hundredfold increase in precision and strength in comparison to costly casting processes. The willingness to make something better every day together with our love for detail and the high dedication of our employees have allowed FLM to establish itself in Germany and the company is well on its way to sell its products Made in Germany around the globe with success.
Series II Our newest product family from SN: 12/0001 and their most important highlights: - improved base bearing - increased load capacity - service-friendly construction - improved control elements - new design - non-deforming clamping technology
Innovations The patented changeover system incorporating a dovetail guide allows the camera to be changed really quickly for the first time. Attach the camera with the plate to the rear guide, one click downward and the camera is secured, but may still be displaced. By briefly turning the locking lever, the camera is immobilized in the desired position. The patented locking mechanism allows the ball s holding power to be increased manifold. The friction of the ball is continuously adjustable by using the black stop ring. A thought-out and solid hot shoe adapter system made by light aluminium, which is produced on CNC machines, allowes an exact and quick leveling of the FLM products. The use of just one adapter starting from the tripod up to the camera and the removement of leveling faults, is just only one of the advantages of this system. Boundless application possibilities was realised thanks to the standardized hot shoe connection. Special bearing and ball guides enable the ball s unmistakably smooth movements. This guarantees precise panning and jerk-free shots. Pan click-lock stop: This allows base rotation to be blocked thus ensuring the ballhead is immobilized simply and stably on the tripod. Furthermore, an additional audible and perceptible 15º click-lock mechanism can be activated. (Available or capable of being fitted to all FT models). Extremely high demands are made of the ball, the heart of every tripod head. The balls are produced on CNC machines. This guarantees a jerk-free movement as smooth as silk and gives the centerball its incomparable setting precision. The coated, hand-polished ball surfaces and refined construction enable maintenance-free use both outdoors and in the studio. The casing, disks and balls including all the adjustment and locking knobs are made of high-quality aluminum alloy. The PAN knob allows the 360º rotation of the base to be arrested. Here, once again, FLM s patented clamping system, which enables an extremely high holding power, comes into play. The slightly inclined, laser-marked scale means that the knob can also be read from above. Probably the most innovative function of the FLM heads is the patented tilt system. The tilt function converts the centerball into a 2D inclinator. In this way, the ball can only be swiveled vertically to the tilt knob. Friction is not affected by this. 1
F as in Friction F SEIES without fancy gadgets featuring two knobs for friction/ immobilization of the ball and base locking CB32 F For newcomer. Compact and light; ideal for portable use, can be used with our FLM CP26 series tripods. CB38 F The top seller. Compact and light; also available as an FT model, can be used with our FLM CP30 series tripods CB43 F CB48 F CB58 F Front view ear view The compromise. Combines lightness and stability in one product. Can be used with our FLM CP30 series tripods The powerhouse. For advanced amateurs and pros. Best load/weight ratio. Ideal in combination with the FLM CP30 series tripods. The ultimate. The no. 1 ballhead if your photographic equipment requires maximum load capacity and stability. Model Bottom thread Ball diameter CB32 F 3/8 inches 32mm 47mm 79mm 311g 20kg CB38 F 3/8 inches 38mm 55mm 90mm 410g 25kg CB43 F 3/8 inches 43mm 59mm 96mm 496g 30kg CB48 F 3/8 inches 48mm 65mm 99mm 567g 45kg CB58 F 3/8 inches 58mm 78mm 111mm 778g 60kg MAX Base diameter MAX Height Weight Load 3
FT as in Friction and Tilt FT SEIES The all-rounder The FT series is based on the characteristics of the F series. The additional patented Neigen/Tilt function allows the tripod to be used as a 2D inclinator. It can be fitted with an additional PS knob (FT series) for panorama shots so as to obtain perceptible and audible click-lock positioning every 15º in a horizontal plane for the shots being taken. CB38FT CB43FT CB48FT Front view The FT-Series rear view without PS The FT-Series rear view with PS CB58FT An optional extra for the FT series is the patented PS system. Simply remove the blind cap and attach the PS knob. Model CB38 FT() CB43 FT() CB48 FT() CB58 FT() Bottom thread 3/8 inches 3/8 inches 3/8 inches 3/8 inches Ball diameter 38mm 55mm 90mm 436g 25kg 43mm 59mm 96mm 523g 30kg 48mm 65mm 99mm 582g 45kg 58mm 78mm 111mm 783g 60kg MAX Base diameter MAX Height Weight Load 5
Our simple but nevertheless powerful ballheads bring your equipment into any position. For panorama and macro photograph, FLM has just the right accessories. NEW NEW P-1 Panorama head capable of supporting high loads. Thanks to its silken rotation free from play and ergonomically readable scale, the system is infinitely variable and precisely adjustable. The connection plate is provided with a change thread from 1/4 inches rather 3/8 inches. CB18 E CB24 E CB24 FB Smallest tripod head with friction and separate base rotation CB24 FB - PP45 Smallest tripod head with friction and separate base rotation inclusive quick release system NEW LB-25 Leveling head for positioning the ballhead +/- 25º in all directions. The head is immobilized by the patented clamping technology without any misalignment. The connection plate is provided with a change thread from 1/4 inches rather 3/8 inches. The FLM hot shoe adapter HSA-1 is compatible with this product (Page 9). CB32 E NEW LB-15 Leveling head for positioning the ballhead +/- 15º in all directions. The head is immobilized by the patented clamping technology without any misalignment. The connection plate is provided with a change thread from 1/4 inches rather 3/8 inches. The FLM hot shoe adapter HSA-1 is compatible with this product (Page 9). CB38 E PH38 The 2-way inclinator is ideally suited for video and spotting scope applications. The head can be fitted with any FLM quick release system. Model Bottom thread Ball diameter CB18 E 1/4 inches 18mm 30mm 56mm 91g 6kg CB24 E 3/8 inches 24mm 35mm 63mm 137g 10kg CB24 FB 3/8 inches 24mm 35mm 68mm 171g 15kg CB32 E 3/8 inches 32mm 44mm 65mm 200g 20kg CB38 E 3/8 inches 38mm 50mm 72mm 292g 25kg PH38 3/8 inches 38mm 55mm 112mm 571g 15kg MAX Model P-1 LB-25 LB-15 Base diameter Bottom thread Housing diameter 3/8 inches 60mm 65mm 21mm 180g 60kg 3/8 inches 60mm 55mm 60mm 250g 45kg 3/8 inches 60mm 55mm 45mm 220g 30kg MAX Height Weight Load MAX 7
Quick release systems NEW QB-40 NEW HSA-1 PB-45 PB45 Smallest and compactest power release base of the FLM product range. The bottom has a 3/8 inches thread inside and fits to the corresponding ballheads. With turning the silver ring the camera plate, with the mounted camera, will drawn down to the cork surface of the base. PP-45 PP45 Camera socket for the quick release system PB45. A light, space-saving socket for light cameras. QB-50 QB-70 HSA-1 The hot shoe adapter HSA-1 is compatible to the QB and LB-Series of the FLM products. It allowed a quick and simple connection with spirit levels, small flashes or also small ballheads. Advantages are: - minimisation of error reading to the spirit level - no nuisance to fixed mounted spirit levels on the products - multifunctional application possibilities - standardized hot shoe A few sample applications you find on page 12. QB-50 till 70 The patented changeover system incorporating a dovetail guide allows the camera to be changed really quickly for the first time. Attach the camera with the plate to the rear guide, one click downward and the camera is secured, but may still be displaced. By briefly turning the locking lever, the camera is immobilized in the desired position. All QB-Systems can be upgraded with the HSA-1 With the UniQ/C - standardization it allowes the compatibility of the Base with camera plates other manufacturers. PB-55 PB55 The bigger brother of the PB-Series. Compactness and stability distinguish this product. Two different camera plates are available. The bottom has a 3/8 inches thread inside and fits to the corresponding ballheads. With turning the silver ring the camera plate, with the mounted camera, will drawn down to the cork surface of the base. PP-55 PP-55 mit Pin PP55 Camera socket for the quick release system PB55. A light, space-saving socket for light cameras. PP55 with 5 mm pin for video equipment. Camera socket for the quick release system PB55. A light, space-saving socket for light cameras. Model QB-70 QB-40 69mm 39mm 62mm QB-50 50mm 62mm 16mm 85g PB-55 PB-45 PP-55 PP-55 with 5mm Pin PP-45 38mm W 62mm 15.5mm 16mm 16mm 23mm 20mm 5mm 38mm 15.5mm 5mm 27mm 11.5mm 5mm 55mm 45mm 98g 68g 91g 52g 8g 8g 4g SB-40 SB-40 and SB-60 The simplest solution with the proven clamp technology, to locking camera plates strong and safe. A safety pin provides that the QP- plates cannot droped down when opening the clamp. The SB-60 is equipped, in addition, with an integrated bubble level to make easier the horizontal alignment of the camera. With the UniQ/C - standardization it allowes the compatibility of the Base with camera plates other manufacturers. SB-60 15mm 60mm 93g SB-40 38mm 56mm 15mm 77g HSA-1 45mm 21mm 12mm 17g SB-60 9 W Length Width Height Diameter
Quick release plates QP-L The 90º angle enables the camera to be changed over quickly from portrait to landscape format. It stands out thanks to its extremely stabile and precise finish. QP160 The 160 mm plate is extensible up to the QP-L The plate with laserprinted scale is used in panorama photography to set the nodal point and can be displaced by 130 mm on the base. QP70 The 70 mm plate is suitable for lens collar mounts. The camera plate with laserprinted scale can be displaced by 40 mm on the base. QP50 The 50 mm plate is suitable for medium format cameras. The camera plate with laserprinted scale can be displaced by 25 mm on the base. One 1/4 screws is supplied. QP40 The 40 mm plate is suitable for small format/system cameras. The camera plate can be displaced by 12 mm on the base. One 1/4 screws is supplied. Model W QP-L 160mm 44mm 110mm 200g QP160 160mm 44mm 10mm 100g QP70 70mm 44mm 10mm 56g QP50 55mm 44mm 10mm 43g QP40 44mm 44mm 10mm 35g 11 Length W Width Height Diameter
Innovations are habit-breakers. The Centerpod
15 Innovations L6 - Leveling Hook system Carbon tube crossed The 30 series tripod family allows you to swivel the center column by +/- 15º in any direction and, at the same time, to fix its position exactly thus enabling the tripod to be positioned precisely. A retractable hook system is integrated into each center column in order to stabilize the FLM tripod outdoors. When not in use, it can be simply retracted with a click thus reducing its stored dimensions. Tube segments with Anti-Shock-Lock System A special 8-layer carbon tube made of pure carbon fibers ensures the stability and lightness of the tripods in the FLM series. Each tripod is available with 3-tube segments (high stability) or 4-tube segments (compact stored dimensions). The special locking technology enables the segments to be opened and locked into place using just one hand. All the connections are protected with the A-S-L-System against dirt and unintentional opening. 2 Quick change tips 1 Standard equipment with 1/4 and 3/8 thread Spirit Level The spirit level housed in an aluminum casing at the end of the middle tube allows each FLM carbon tripod to be positioned easily on uneven ground. Changing from a hardened steel tip to a rubber tip is very simple, fast and secure with the FLM Centerpod thanks to the new bayonet catch fitted to many models. The rubber tip is released by turning counter-clockwise (fig. 1) and can then be simply pushed over the steel tip (fig. 2). When turned clockwise the rubber tip is locked into place once again and then forms a watertight connection with the metal tip and the carbon tube. This ensures that the inside of the tripod is always protected against water and dirt when used outdoors. Automatic leg locking system 2 1 Middle tube system With the automatic locking system, the actions of unfolding and folding up the FLM Centerpod are accomplished with just a few movements. To fold up the tripod, the legs are swiveled downwards (fig. 1) and then folded together upwards through 180 in one movement (fig. 2). When they are folded together upwards in this way, the stored dimensions of the FLM-Centerpod are very compact. To set up the tripod, the legs are simply rotated downwards. They automatically lock into the desired position. Each FLM tripod is fitted with an anti-rotation middle tube that can be displaced over its entire length. Its design means that, even with the tripod head, its length when stored is not exceeded. Naturally, the middle tube can be completely removed to obtain the best possible degree of stability and freedom from vibration or, vice versa, re-attached so as to enable the camera to be positioned as close to the ground as possible.
CP26 - Series Productkey CP 26 S 4 S Centerpod different heights Center column - variant (Small, Middle, Large) simple center column (S) largest tube diameter 26mm 3 or 4 tube segments per tripod leg => "3" = more stability; more compact stored dimensions => "4" = less compact stored dimensions; less stability The light CP26 series is especially suited when you re on the move! Centerpod uppermost tube Ø Height S/M/L Tube segments S max. height max. height without Center column min. height stored dimensions Weight [kg] Load [kg] Feet - system 26 series tripod family with a rigid center column S 138 121 10 52 M 3 165 130 11 56 CP 26 L 185 145 12 61 S S 140 123 14 45 1,2 10 M 4 153 129 10 47 L 172 145 12 51 Minimum stored dimensions 45 cm; Your FLM tripod head fits elegantly and perfectly between the tripod legs, without changing the overall stored dimensions. Each FLM Centerpod may also be used without a center column. 17
Productkey CP 26 S 4 S CP30 - Serie Centerpod different heights Center column - variant (Small, Middle, Large) simple center column (S) leveling able center column (L6) largest tube diameter 26mm 3 or 4 tube segments per tripod leg => "3" = more stability; more compact stored dimensions => "4" = less compact stored dimensions; less stability Centerpod uppermost tube Ø Height S/M/L Tube segments S / L6 max. height max. height without Center column min. height stored dimensions Weight [kg] Load [kg] Feet - system 30 series tripod family with a rigid center column The light and solid CP30 series is available with an integrated, leveling able center column; particularly suited to panorama photography. CP 30 S 137 120 11 53 M 3 165 130 56 12 L 185 144 62 S S 137 120 11 45 1,5 15 M 4 153 130 13 47 L 163 146 14 55 30 series tripod family with a leveling able center column S 137 122 13 53 M 3 147 132 56 14 L 161 146 62 CP 30 L6 1,7 S 137 122 45 8 M 4 147 131 13 47 L 160 144 50 19
Operating instructions fig.1 2 1 2 3 Quick chang tips Changing from a hardened steel tip to a rubber tip is very simple, fast and secure with the FLM Centerpod thanks to the new bayonet catch. The rubber tip is released by turning counter-clockwise (fig. 1, pos. 1) and can then be simply pushed over the steel tip (fig. 1, pos. 2). By turning clockwise (fig. 2, pos. 3) the rubber tip is locked into place once again and then forms a watertight connection with the metal tip and the carbon tube. This ensures that the inside of the tripod is always protected against water and dirt when used outdoors. Productkey CP 30 S 4 S Centerpod different heights Center column - variant (Small, Middle, Large) simple center column (S) leveling able center column (L6) (S) (L6) fig. 2 Click Click fig. 3 fig. 4 2 1 fig. 5 fig. 6 fig. 7 fig. 8 7 However, if water should enter the tripod leg then this can be drained out by turning the tripod upside down. 3 4 Automatic leg locking system With the automatic locking system, the actions of unfolding and folding up the FLM Centerpod are accomplished with just a few movements. To fold up the tripod, the legs are swiveled downwards (fig. 3) and then folded together upwards through 180 in one movement (fig. 4). When they are folded together upwards in this way, the stored dimensions of the FLM-Centerpod are very compact. To set up the tripod, the legs are simply rotated downwards. They automatically lock into the desired position. 5 Very stable position with high flexibility The FLM Centerpod has a plate and tripod head locking system, which ensures that you always have firm control of your camera. Despite this, the tripod is very flexible and thanks to the removable center column, it is very well suited even for difficult macroshots. The anti-twist protection is provided by screwing the plate into the middle tube and then fixing this in place with the 3/8" set screw. In addition, by using a headless screw in the bottom of the plate, any ball head that fits can be secured against becoming loose. To remove the center column, first unscrew the 3/8" set screw with an Allen wrench (fig. 5, pos. 1). Then, the plate can be rotated out of the center column. Now, the tightening device for the center column is loosened and the center tube is pulled downwards and out (fig. 6, pos. 3 + 4). The device is then completely unscrewed (fig. 7). Now, the plate can be screwed on in the place of the tightening device (fig. 8, pos. 5) and by inserting the antitwist protection (fig. 9, pos. 6) it is fixed in place with the 3/8" screw so that it is protected against twisting (fig. 9, pos. 7). largest tube diameter 26mm or 30mm Centerpod CP uppermost tube Ø 26 CP 30 Height S/M/L Tube segments S / L6 3 or 4 tube segments per tripod leg => "3" = more stability; more compact stored dimensions => "4" = less compact stored dimensions; less stability max. height max. height without Center column min. height stored dimensions 26 series tripod family with a rigid center column S 138 121 10 52 17-18 M 3 165 130 11 56 L 185 145 12 61 S S 140 123 14 45 M 4 153 129 10 47 L 172 145 12 51 30 series tripod family with a rigid center column S 137 120 11 53 M 3 165 130 56 12 L 185 144 62 S S 137 120 11 45 M 4 153 130 13 47 L 163 146 14 55 Weight [kg] 30 series tripod family with a leveling able center column 1,2 1,5 Load [kg] 10 15 Feet - system Page 17-18 17-18 17-18 17-18 17-18 6 fig. 9 fig. 10 Click fig. 12 fig. 13 The rubber tips ensure a stable footing in this position (fig. 10). Clever hook system The hook is pulled downwards out of the center column and is held in the end position (fig. 12). In this way, it is easier to attach additional weight to dampen vibrations or level the LB head. By tapping lightly on the hook, this snaps back into the center column.this then reduces the stored dimensions of the FLM-Centerpod and the hook is properly stored. CP 30 S 137 122 13 53 M 3 147 132 56 14 L 161 146 62 L6 S 137 122 45 M 4 147 131 13 47 L 160 144 50 1,7 8 21 22
NEW Monopod NEW FLM-BAG CM 30-M5 CM 30-L5 CM 34-M5 Model CM 30-M5 5 30mm ubber/spike 450mm 1500mm 380g 16kg CM 30-L5 CM 34-M5 Tube uppermost segments tube Ø Foot system min. height max. height Weigth 5 5 30mm 34mm CM 30 with unscrewable rubber foot to a steel tip. All FLM Monopods are included with a changing thread from 1/4 inches and 3/8 inches ubber/spike ubber/spike Load 540mm 1800mm 390g 16kg 450mm 1500mm 470g 20kg CM 34 with the quick and not losable FLM foot - changing system from rubber to steel tip For the best comfortable use, the handholder is on all FLM monopods freely swivelling Model FLM-BAG 12-62 FLM-BAG 14-48 Bag Ø The stylish and discreet FLM tripod bag protects your tripod reliably, by a special inside protection and exists of a wear-firm, waterproof nylon material of the outside coat. A generous inside pocket for accessories with protected Zipper, prevents scratching the tripod surface. The length-adjustable carrying strap, for an individual adaptation on your body height, is equipped with a comfortable upholstery at the shoulder area. At the ends of the carrying strap are stable carbine hooks for connecting to the tripod bag. All parts and seams of the tripod bag, are produced with care and long-life materials. This guarantees a long-lasting and reliable companion for the everyday use. Bag length FLM-BAG 12-48 12cm 48cm Nylon CP26S4S, CP26M4S 650g 12cm 14cm 62cm 48cm Material Nylon Nylon compatible for FLM tripod all CP26th tripods excluded FLM-BAG 12-48 CP30S4S, CP30M4S Weight all CP30th tripods FLM-BAG 14-62 14cm 62cm Nylon excluded FLM-BAG 14-48 720g 670g 700g 23
A really good idea is characterized by the fact that...at the outset, its implementation seems impossible.
Made in Germany Innovation is our driving force FLM GmbH Schützenstrasse 18 D-79312 Emmendingen -Germany- VAT ID no.: DE811669827 Competent tax office: Emmendingen egistered at the Local Court Freiburg: HB 260922 Tel. +49 (0)7641 57 17 22 Fax. +49 (0)7641 57 17 23 info@flm-gmbh.de www.flm-gmbh.com