Film camera magazine design where supply and take-up rolls are positioned coaxially on the same side – creates a more compact camera profile compared to standard two-chamber magazines, commonly found on smaller film cameras and documentary equipment.
What is a Displacement Magazine?
A Displacement Magazine (Coaxial Magazine) is a film camera magazine where the supply and take-up spools are arranged one above the other on the same axis. This significantly reduces the camera's width.
Principle of Operation
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Coaxial Arrangement | Both spools on one axis |
| Core | Common rotation axis |
| Film Path | Around the lower spool |
| Displacement | Film displaces space |
Comparison: Magazine Types
| Type | Arrangement | Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | One above the other | Compact, narrow |
| Standard | Side by side | Wider |
| Feed-Back | Front/Rear | Longer |
Advantages
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Compact | Narrower camera |
| Lighter | Less material |
| Balance | Centered weight |
| Handheld | Better handling |
Disadvantages
| Disadvantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Often smaller |
| Complexity | Film path |
| Loading Time | Slightly longer |
| Cost | More complex manufacturing |
Cameras with Displacement Magazines
| Camera | Format |
|---|---|
| Aaton XTR | Super 16 |
| Aaton 35-III | 35mm |
| Arriflex SR | 16mm (Option) |
| Bolex | Some models |
Typical Capacities
| Format | Length |
|---|---|
| 16mm | 100–400 ft |
| Super 16 | 100–400 ft |
| 35mm | 200–500 ft |
In Comparison: Standard Magazines
| Aspect | Displacement | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Width | Narrow | Wide |
| Capacity | Smaller | Larger |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Balance | Central | Lateral |
Documentary Application
| Advantage | Reason |
|---|---|
| Mobility | Lighter rig |
| Discreetness | Smaller camera |
| Run-and-Gun | Faster operation |
| Tight Spaces | Fits better |
Loading the Magazine
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Opening | Light-tight flap |
| 2. Spools | Supply at bottom, Take-up at top |
| 3. Path | Film around the core |
| 4. Closing | Secure closure |
Film Transport
| Element | Function |
|---|---|
| Drive | Motor drives both spools |
| Tension | Constant pull |
| Loop | Buffer zone to the camera |
| Take-Up | Smooth winding |
Historical Development
| Period | Development |
|---|---|
| 1960s | First compact designs |
| 1970s | Aaton popularizes |
| 1980s | Standard for doc cameras |
| Today | Niche for film enthusiasts |
Manufacturers
| Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| Aaton | Specialist |
| Arri | Standard alternative |
| Éclair | Historical |
Maintenance
| Measure | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | After each magazine |
| Lubrication | Regularly |
| Seals | Check |
| Tension | Calibrate |
Today
Displacement magazines remain relevant for filmmakers shooting on analog film who prefer compact, mobile setups. With the analog revival, these specialized magazines are also seeing renewed demand.
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