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Innovation has a name
Product catalog 09/2012
F L M - E m b l e m „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 R
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
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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.
Innovation has a name
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. R
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Innovation has a name
“F” as in Friction
F SERIES …without fancy gadgets featuring two knobs for friction/ immobilization of the ball and base locking
CB38 F
CB32 F For newcomer. Compact and light; ideal for portable use, can be used with our FLM CP26 series tripods.
The top seller. Compact and light; also available as an FT model, can be used with our FLM CP30 series tripods
The compromise. Combines lightness and stability in one product. Can be used with our FLM CP30 series tripods Front view
CB58 F
CB48 F
CB43 F
The powerhouse. For advanced amateurs and pros. Best load/weight ratio. Ideal in combination with the FLM CP30 series tripods.
Rear view
The ultimate. The no. 1 ballhead if your photographic equipment requires maximum load capacity and stability.
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
Model
Base diameter
Height
MAX
Weight
MAX
Load
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Innovation has a name
“FT” as in Friction and Tilt
FT SERIES
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 PRS knob (FTR 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 PRS
The FTR-Series rear view with PRS
An optional extra for the FT series is the patented PRS system. Simply remove the blind cap and attach the PRS knob.
CB58FT
Model
Bottom thread
Ball diameter
CB38 FT(R)
3/8 inches
38mm
55mm
90mm
436g
25kg
CB43 FT(R)
3/8 inches
43mm
59mm
96mm
523g
30kg
CB48 FT(R)
3/8 inches
48mm
65mm
99mm
582g
45kg
CB58 FT(R)
3/8 inches
58mm
78mm
111mm
783g
60kg
Base diameter
Height
MAX
Weight
MAX
Load
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Innovation has a name Our simple but nevertheless powerful ballheads bring your equipment into any position.
For panorama and macro photograph, FLM has just the right accessories.
W
W
NE
NE
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.
W
NE
CB18 E
CB24 E
CB24 FB Smallest tripod head with friction and separate base rotation
CB24 FB - PRP45 Smallest tripod head with friction and separate base rotation inclusive quick release system
LB-25 W
NE
LB-15 CB32 E
Leveling head for positioning the ballhead +/- 25ยบ 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). Leveling head for positioning the ballhead +/- 15ยบ 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
CB24 FB
3/8 inches
24mm
35mm
68mm
CB32 E
3/8 inches
32mm
44mm
CB38 E
3/8 inches
38mm
PH38
3/8 inches
38mm
MAX
Model
Bottom thread
Housing diameter
MAX
P-1
3/8 inches
60mm
65mm
21mm
180g
60kg
10kg
LB-25
3/8 inches
60mm
55mm
60mm
250g
45kg
171g
15kg
LB-15
3/8 inches
60mm
55mm
45mm
220g
30kg
65mm
200g
20kg
50mm
72mm
292g
25kg
55mm
112mm
571g
15kg
Base diameter
Height
Weight
MAX
Load
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Quick release systems W NE
W NE
HSA-1
QRB-40
HSA-1 The hot shoe adapter HSA-1 is compatible to the QRB 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.
QRB-50
Innovation has a name
QRB-70
69mm
62mm
16mm
98g
QRB-50
50mm
62mm
16mm
85g
QRB-40
39mm
62mm
16mm
68g
PRB-55
23mm
55mm
91g
PRB-45
20mm
45mm
52g
PRP-45
38mm
15.5mm
5mm
8g
38mm
15.5mm
5mm
8g
27mm
11.5mm
5mm
4g
15mm
SRB-60
9
60mm
38mm
56mm
15mm
77g
HSA-1
45mm
21mm
12mm
17g
W
Width
Height
SRB-40
PRP45 Camera socket for the quick release system PRB45. A light, space-saving socket for light cameras.
PRP55 Camera socket for the quick release system PRB55. A light, space-saving socket for light cameras.
PRP-55 PRP55 with 5 mm pin for video equipment. Camera socket for the quick release system PRB55. A light, space-saving socket for light cameras.
SRB-40 and SRB-60 The simplest solution with the proven clamp technology, to locking camera plates strong and safe. A safety pin provides that the QRP- plates cannot droped down when opening the clamp. The SRB-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.
93g
SRB-40
Length
PRB55 The bigger brother of the PRB-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.
PRP-45
PRP-55 mit Pin
W
Model
with 5mm Pin
PRB-55
QRB-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 QRB-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.
QRB-70
PRP-55 PRP-55
PRB-45
PRB45 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.
Diameter
SRB-60 R
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Innovation has a name
Quick release plates QRP-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.
QRP160 The 160 mm plate is extensible up to the QRP-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.
QRP70 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.
QRP50 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. QRP40 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.
W
Model
11
QRP-L
160mm
44mm
110mm
200g
QRP160
160mm
44mm
10mm
100g
QRP70
70mm
44mm
10mm
56g
QRP50
55mm
44mm
10mm
43g
QRP40
44mm
44mm
10mm
35g
Length
W
Width
Height
Diameter
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“Innovations are habit-breakers.”
The Centerpod
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Innovations
“Standard “Standard equipment equipment with with 1/4” 1/4” and 3/8” thread’” and 3/8” thread’”
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L6 - Leveling 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.
1
Hook system 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.
cro
sse
d
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.
Innovation has a name
A special 8-layer carbon tube made of pure carbon fibers ensures the stability and lightness of the tripods in the FLM series.
Quick change tips
Tube segments with Anti-Shock-Lock System 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 .
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.
Middle tube system
Carbon tube
15
Automatic leg locking system
2
1
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.
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.
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Productkey
Innovation has a name
CP 26
CP26 - Series
S
on the move!
Centerpod
largest tube diameter 26mm
uppermost tube Ă˜
S Center column - variant simple center column (S)
different heights (Small, Middle, Large)
Centerpod
The light CP26 series is especially suited when you’re
4
Height Tube S/M/L segments
S
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. without height Center column [cm] [cm]
min. height [cm]
stored Weight dimensions [kg] [cm]
Load [kg]
Feet system
26 series tripod family with a rigid center column S M CP
26
3
L
S
S M L
4
138
121
10
52
165
130
11
56
185
145
12
61
140
123
14
45
153
129
10
47
172
145
12
51
1,2
10
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. R
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Productkey
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Innovation has a name
CP30 - Serie
CP 26
S different heights (Small, Middle, Large)
Centerpod
Centerpod
largest tube diameter 26mm
uppermost tube Ă˜
4
Height Tube S/M/L segments
S Center column - variant simple center column (S) leveling able center column (L6)
3 or 4 tube segments per tripod leg => "3" = more stability; more compact stored dimensions => "4" = less compact stored dimensions; less stability
S / L6
max. height max. without height Center column [cm] [cm]
min. height [cm]
stored Weight dimensions [kg] [cm]
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.
S M CP
30
3
L
S
S M
4
L
137
120
11
165
130
185
144
137
120
11
45
153
130
13
47
163
146
14
55
12
53 56 62
1,5
15
30 series tripod family with a leveling able center column S M CP
30
3
L
L6
S M L
4
137
122
147
132
161
146
137
122
147
131
160
144
13 14
53 56 62 45
13
1,7
8
47 50
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Productkey
Operating instructions Quick chang tips
2 2
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.
1
fig.1
3
However, if water should enter the tripod leg then this can be drained out by turning the tripod upside down.
fig. 2
Automatic leg locking system
CP 30
S
4
S Center column - variant simple center column (S) leveling able center column (L6)
different heights (Small, Middle, Large)
Centerpod
largest tube diameter 26mm or 30mm
(S)
(L6)
3 or 4 tube segments per tripod leg => "3" = more stability; more compact stored dimensions => "4" = less compact stored dimensions; less stability
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.
„Click“
fig. 3
To set up the tripod, the legs are simply rotated downwards. They automatically lock into the desired position.
fig. 4
uppermost tube Ø
4
2 3
fig. 5
fig. 6
5
fig. 7
fig. 8
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).
7
6
M CP
26
fig. 12
fig. 13
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.
3
L
S
S M
4
L
max. height max. without height Center column [cm] [cm]
min. height [cm]
stored Weight dimensions [kg] [cm]
Load [kg]
Feet system
Page
138
121
10
52
17 - 18
165
130
11
56
17 - 18
185
145
12
61
140
123
14
45
153
129
10
47
17 - 18
172
145
12
51
17 - 18
1,2
10
17 - 18 17 - 18
30 series tripod family with a rigid center column
S M CP
30
3
L
S
S M
4
L
137
120
11
165
130
185
144
137
120
11
45
153
130
13
47
19 - 20
163
146
14
55
19 - 20
12
53
19 - 20
56
19 - 20
62
1,5
15
19 - 20 19 - 20
30 series tripod family with a leveling able center column
S M
Clever hook system „Click“
S / L6
S
The rubber tips ensure a stable footing in this position (fig. 10).
fig. 10
Height Tube S/M/L segments
26 series tripod family with a rigid center column
Very stable position with high flexibility
1
fig. 9
Centerpod
„Click“
CP
30
3
L
L6
S M L
4
137
122
147
132
161
146
137
122
147
131
160
144
13 14
53
19 - 20
56
19 - 20
62 45
13
1,7
8
19 - 20 19 - 20
47
19 - 20
50
19 - 20 R
21
22
W
W
Monopod
NE
FLM-BAG
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NE
Innovation has a name
CM 30-M5
Model
CM 30-L5
uppermost Tube tube Ă˜ segments
CM 34-M5 CM 30 with unscrewable rubber foot to a steel tip.
CM 34 with the quick and not losable FLM foot changing system from rubber to steel tip
All FLM Monopods are included with a changing thread from 1/4 inches and 3/8 inches
For the best comfortable use, the handholder is on all FLM monopods freely swivelling
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.
Model Foot system
min. height max. height Weigth
Load
FLM-BAG 12-48
Bag Ă˜
Bag length
Material
compatible for FLM tripod
Weight
12cm
48cm
Nylon
CP26S4S, CP26M4S
650g 670g
CM 30-M5
5
30mm
Rubber/Spike
450mm
1500mm
380g
16kg
FLM-BAG 12-62
12cm
62cm
Nylon
all CP26th tripods excluded FLM-BAG 12-48
CM 30-L5
5
30mm
Rubber/Spike
540mm
1800mm
390g
16kg
FLM-BAG 14-48
14cm
48cm
Nylon
CP30S4S, CP30M4S
700g
Nylon
all CP30th tripods excluded FLM-BAG 14-48
720g
CM 34-M5
5
34mm
Rubber/Spike
450mm
1500mm
470g
20kg
FLM-BAG 14-62
14cm
62cm
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“A really good idea is characterized by the fact that…
...at the outset, its implementation seems impossible.”
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Made in Germany Innovation is our driving force
FLM GmbH Sch端tzenstrasse 18 D-79312 Emmendingen -GermanyVAT ID no.: DE811669827 Competent tax office: Emmendingen Registered at the Local Court Freiburg: HRB 260922
Tel. +49 (0)7641 57 17 22 Fax. +49 (0)7641 57 17 23 info@flm-gmbh.de www.flm-gmbh.com