Zeapon has announced its latest range of motorized sliders, the Zeapon Micro4 Series. The Micro4 sliders use Zeapon’s clever Double Distance mechanism to deliver a range of travel much longer than the slider itself.
There are three models in the Micro4 series of sliders. All have the same features with a different size and length of travel. The smallest M500 model is 14.9 inches (379 mm) long but gives you a total camera movement of over 23 inches (590 mm). There’s also the M700, which delivers more than 30 inches (770 mm) of travel from a slider which measures just 18.5 inches (469 mm). Finally, the largest M1000 model offers 42 inches (1,070 mm) of camera movement from a compact slider only 24.4 inches (619 mm) long.
Weight capacity
At standard speeds, the Micro4 sliders can support cameras up to 26.5 pounds (12 kg) in weight when moving in a horizontal direction. The maximum capacity reduces when the slider is angled away from level, but still supports an impressive payload of up to 9.9 pounds (4.5 kg).
In addition, the Micro4 sliders use a 45-degree inclined track load structure. This means that the payload weight is distributed in both vertical and horizontal directions for more stable camera movements.
Ultra-quiet motor
The Micro4 sliders use Zeapon’s new ultra-quiet brushless motor. This delivers smooth and silent movement speeds from a super slow 0.18 mm per second up to 40 mm per second in normal mode. You can instantly adjust the speed with the slider’s control knob. There’s also a high-speed mode you can access with a switch. Once set to high speed, the slider can move your camera up to an impressive 178 mm per second. However, it’s worth noting that Zeapon says that the sliders are only ultra-quiet within the normal speed range, not at high speeds.
Controls and power
As well as the speed controls, the Micro4 sliders feature a touchscreen display. You can set endpoints and waypoints for your camera movement as well as choosing between loop, or left and right directions of travel. The display also shows your speed setting and remaining battery life. You can use Sony NP-F batteries to power the sliders, with an NP-F970 giving nearly 17 hours of use at standard speeds. In addition, you can use any power bank or power adaptor that supports the PD protocol with the slider.
Other features
The Micro4 sliders have movable support wheels at both ends. These move with the slider to prevent it from sagging when your camera moves to the ends of the track. The load-bearing components are also made from stainless steel to resist damage from water and sand in extreme environments. In addition, there’s a safety lock to prevent movement and damage in transit. You can operate the Micro4 sliders manually as well as using the motor. There’s a three-stage damping design to achieve smoother and more even movement.
What we think
Zeapon’s new Micro4 sliders have a lot of great features. The large payload support means that you can comfortably use them with rigged-out cinema cameras. You also have a good range of speed options from super slow to very fast. In addition, the double distance mechanism makes them much more compact for taking out on location. You can pop the smallest M500 model in a backpack but still access nearly two feet of travel for great camera movement. If you are looking for a new slider, the Zeapon Micro4 series has a lot to offer.
Pricing and availability
The Zeapon Micro4 sliders are available to preorder now. You can choose between the manual M500, M700 or M1000 models or the motorized E500, E700 and E1000 versions.
