Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Christie AW3R Center Platter Creeps

This is topic Christie AW3R Center Platter Creeps in forum Film Handlers' Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.

To visit this topic, use this URL:
https://ft-forum.com/ft/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=008452

Posted by Chad M Calpito (Member # 3736) on 01-08-2007, 12:12 PM:

I have a particular problem. The center platter in the Platter system for projector #10 creeps when not in use. When being used, it runs normally (either take-up or pay-out). I made a note in my log book for my technician to fix and I hope he can fix it. But, in the mean time, any ideas as to what is causing this to happen? The platter system has removable brains.

Posted by Brad Miller (Member # 2) on 01-08-2007, 12:58 PM:

When this platter is being used as for takeup, with the takeup arm about 6 inches away from the motor, does it still creep? (Do this test without a brain in the takeup deck.)

If so your LO pot on the middle speed card is set just barely too high. Turn counterclockwise ever so slightly to stop.

If not, it is other things at fault. Please provide more info.

Posted by Scott Norwood (Member # 30) on 01-08-2007, 01:08 PM:

I've seen this happen with a bad (not just misadjusted) motor card. Try temporarily swapping it with one from another deck and see which deck creeps.

Another possibility is that light from the room is hitting the sensor inside the support arm for the deck. Did someone remove the little cover plate for some reason?

Posted by Chad M Calpito (Member # 3736) on 01-08-2007, 02:10 PM:

In answer to your query Brad, which I should have provided more information in my original post, the platter still does creep along when the tension arm is 6 inches away from the tree of the platter. And, in response to your question, Scott, I'm unsure if anyone removed the cover plate since I'm not exactly certain where that is located, unless I'm not looking close enough.

Anyway, if I can tonight, I'll check out the platter again & get more information. I have a floor shift tonight, so, I'll do what I can to get more info. Again, thanks for the information, Brad. I'm always learning something new, which is great. [Big Grin]

Posted by Louis Bornwasser (Member # 3063) on 01-08-2007, 07:19 PM:

Really good technique listed under "Tips" on this website for setting the AW3. Louis

Posted by Chad M Calpito (Member # 3736) on 01-12-2007, 10:11 AM:

Here is an update on the problem. The problem was fixed. It was the LO pot that caused the problem. Now, the platter is in good working order. There was just a minor adjustment that had to be made. I really appreciate the information y'all have provided. [Big Grin]

Like my saying goes, "I learn something new everyday."

Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 01-12-2007, 01:35 PM:

A touch up adjustment is fine for now but it is still a good idea to calibrate AW-3 platters at least every 6 months for best performance. The LED's are notorious for fade rate and this causes the sensor resistance to creep up in value. Using Brads method described on the tips page or the factory manual are the only two methods to use. Its VERY easy to do and only requires a cheapo VOM and stopwatch or for quicker completion a platter tach. You'll find that after you've done a few of them it will take you less than 15 min. per platter system to accomplish.

Mark

Posted by Brad Miller (Member # 2) on 01-12-2007, 01:50 PM:

Time one platter to absolute perfection, then purchase a platter tachometer from Christie, note the readings, then all future platters will only take about 1-2 minutes per deck to time using the tachometer.

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 01-12-2007, 01:59 PM:

Yes, I'll second that on the usage of the "Plattertach" being one of the best tools in the toolbag to have in the booth when working on platter transport systems.

Posted by Chad M Calpito (Member # 3736) on 01-12-2007, 02:15 PM:

I'll definately put this information to good use. I'll agree that proper booth maintenance is 100% essential. I really appreciate all of your kind advice, tips, etc. [Big Grin]