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SuperTechno 30
Camera · Technique

SuperTechno 30

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supertechno technocrane camera crane

Technocrane's SuperTechno 30: telescoping camera crane reaching ~9 m lens height with remote-controlled camera head and extendable boom during moves.

Overview

The SuperTechno 30 is a telescopic camera crane from the Supertechno series by Czech manufacturer Technocrane s.r.o. It belongs to the family of remote camera systems and is one of the most frequently used cranes of this type worldwide. Its key feature is the telescopic arm that extends and retracts during movement: unlike classic jibs with fixed lengths, the operator can dynamically change the arm length within a shot, enabling camera moves that a rigid crane cannot achieve. The camera is mounted at the tip in a remote-controlled camera head; the operator controls pan, tilt, and the telescoping function from the ground console.

Technical Specifications

The following values are derived from manufacturer and rental company data sheets (Technocrane/Supertechno, Panavision, Pro-Cam, CineCrane). Individual specifications may vary slightly depending on the configuration and source.

ParameterValue
Maximum Lens Height (underslung)approx. 30 ft / 9.2 m
Telescope Travelapprox. 22–23 ft / ~6.9 m
Maximum Arm Length (back-to-nose)approx. 39 ft 2 in / 11.95 m
Minimum Arm Lengthapprox. 16.7 ft / 5.05 m
Maximum Camera Payload (with Z-Head)approx. 80 lbs / 36 kg
Maximum Telescope Speedapprox. 6–9 ft/s (~2–2.8 m/s)
Total Weight (Crane)approx. 1,200–1,290 kg (2,645–2,850 lbs)

The in-house 2- or 3-axis head (Z-Head) is typically used as the camera head; other remote heads can be adapted. The head accommodates common film and digital cameras, including large-format and 65mm/IMAX configurations within its payload limits.

On-Set Usage

The SuperTechno 30 is used when a variable arm length is required in a moving shot, in addition to height and reach. This is useful for push-ins and pull-outs, breaking through set openings, or combined crane/push-in movements. The crane can be mounted on dolly track to combine crane movement with a track shot. It is operated via handwheels, joystick, or pan bar. Setup and operation are handled by a specialized grip/crane team; due to its weight, counterweights, and power requirements, floor space, ground load capacity, and safety clearances must be considered during set planning.

From the crafts

Perspectives

Cinematographer

Der SuperTechno 30 ist das Arbeitspferd der Branche. 30 Fuß maximale Höhe, 6 Fuß pro Sekunde Teleskopiergeschwindigkeit - er kann fast alles.

Director

Der 30er ist der Sweet Spot - genug Reichweite für dramatische Moves, aber noch handhabbar in Bezug auf Setup und Transport.

Producer

Mit 2.850 lbs Gesamtgewicht braucht der SuperTechno 30 entsprechende Logistik, aber die Ergebnisse rechtfertigen den Aufwand.

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