ARRI Orbiter
Camera lighting with interchangeable optics: compare hard, diffuse and framed light for the shot and setup.
Model and use
Orbiter uses the six-color ARRI Spectra engine and QLM for specific optics and accessories. The body alone does not determine light character: Open Face, diffusion and Projection are different setups. LiOS is its control system; record the version before selecting personality or features.
Prepare your inquiry
- Date, venue, camera shots and visual goal; references or photos are enough to start.
- Approximate throw and dimensions, modifier space, surfaces, other sources and production audio.
- Existing components and scope: body, optic, panel, yoke, power, grip, preparation or operation. Confirm the complete kit.
Planning lighting for an interview, stage or presentation? Tell us the date, venue and what the audience or camera needs to see. Photos or an early layout give us a starting point to compare optics and light sources, and assess rental, purchase, integration or technical support. Our proposal sets out the available equipment, accessories and operation for your setup.
Connections and components
- 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz mains via powerCON TRUE1 TOP; tech specs list 400 W nominal and 500 W maximum, not exposure equivalents.
- Removable panel, five-pin DMX, Ethernet and CRMX according to setup. The battery XLR is distinct from DMX and requires a compatible 48–52 V system, not an improvised connection.
- QLM is the optical interface. Projection 25°/35° has manual shutters and motorized focus; verify accessory and LiOS compatibility rather than assuming every optic has those functions.
Prepare the system
- Identify unit, LiOS, optic and all components; qualified personnel must validate support, weight and retention.
- With power isolated, mount and check the accessory lock per its manual. Remove the transport cap before use; do not output without a valid optical configuration.
- Select control, mode, profile and address. Test intensity, color and accessory functions, then actual camera exposure, whites, shadows and transitions.
Proposed scenario
Commercial or interview: hard, diffuse or framed light
Compare Open Face for directed light, a modifier/diffusion for a larger apparent source or Projection for a defined zone or gobo. Size, throw and space determine the solution; diffusion and framing require different accessories.
Separate sources may better control face and background. Quote body, optic/modifier, panel, yoke, cables, grip and preparation or operation; not every kit includes all components.
Questions and answers
Which optic should I request without knowing the model?
Describe desired shadows, shot, lit area and dark area. Photos and approximate dimensions allow comparison of directed light, diffusion, bounce or Projection. An angle need not be selected first; placement and support require review.
Can every accessory frame light?
No. The documented Projection 25°/35° optics have four manual shutters and motorized focus. Confirm that optic, gobo holder and LiOS version where applicable. Open Face or a softbox is not an automatic substitute for a profile.
Why is the optic not recognized, or why is there no light output?
Record the message and accessory. Check mounting and lock per the manual, isolating power before handling; confirm compatibility and LiOS. Do not bypass recognition or alter contacts. Persistent issues need service with the record.
Does a SkyPanel profile or app guarantee full control?
No. Select the Orbiter personality and footprint for actual LiOS; verify address, universe and attributes. If intensity or an accessory function is missing, compare the library with the official table before profile edits or resets.
Does High-Speed retain identical fades?
ARRI warns that high-speed refresh limits low-level dimming resolution. Test actual frame/shutter settings and fades; retain an approved setting for the shot. Artifact-free results or identical behavior across modes cannot be guaranteed.
Does Low Noise remove audio concerns?
It can be assessed, but ARRI describes an output/temperature compromise. Listen through the microphones and check exposure with the actual modifier. If unsuitable, compare another position or source; a mode name does not certify a silent scene.
Can the sensor match venue light without readjusting every shot?
Color Sensor distinguishes a Momentary reading from Continuous ambient tracking. Check which is active and the settings for your LiOS; a reading at the fixture does not verify the result on a face. For a stable interview, we can assess a momentary reference or rehearsed manual settings; for changing light, assess tracking and its effect on continuity. Compare with fixed camera exposure and white balance, actual skin, wardrobe and background; check whether a screen or nearby source changes the reading. Record position, mode and the accepted setting before repeat takes. Send photos, time and approximate shots: we can assess preparation and matching, separate sources or operation of changes. The sensor does not replace image approval or guarantee matching between cameras.
Precautions
- Check the support and safety retention for the body with its fitted optic, accounting for the weight and configuration of the assembly. Isolate power and let it cool before changing components.
- The body is rated IP20 without a rain cover. ARRI’s IP24 rating requires the designated cover and compliance with its tilt restrictions. For an outdoor setup, check the exposure and permitted operating conditions of that configuration.
- Use grounded power with suitable protection. Keep ventilation clear and avoid looking directly into the light output. Use compatible accessories and cables; refer internal work to technical service and avoid improvised battery adapters.
Documentation and help
- ARRI — Orbiter (EN)
- ARRI — User Manual L03917, 07/2022 (EN)
- ARRI — Orbiter optics / QLM (EN)
- ARRI — Projection Optics / LiOS (EN)
- ARRI — Orbiter FAQ (EN)
- ARRI — Color Sensor: Momentary and Continuous (English)
References: L03917 manual (07/2022) and official optics and support documentation. Check the installed LiOS version and the manual for each accessory; the manual revision and firmware version are separate checks.
Guides for choosing
Useful terms
DMX: control data; the profile defines the channels. Firmware: software on the unit. Mode: functions and footprint selected on the fixture; it must match the console patch.
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