Week 3

Day 1 (3/11/2014)

Today, we replaced 3 of the old Panasonic remote cameras in the Sanctuary with the new Sony BRC-H900 remote camera. To remove the old cameras, we climbed up on a ladder to unscrew the camera from the mounting plate. We then tried to mount the new camera up, but the screws were too long and we had to cut them down using a dremel. It was my first time working with metals and I was somewhat uneasy about the sparks flying about. We managed to mount the new camera up and tested it. Once the first camera was done, the remaining cameras were relatively easy to replace.

Day 2 (4/11/2014)

We started out in the machine room today where we pulled out various components and cables that are obsolete. After that, we continued last week’s job of hanging more cables over the false ceiling from the trailer to below the machine room. We managed pull a bunch of network, coaxial and fibre optic cable.

Day 3 (5/11/2014)

Today, we started out by configuring the remote cameras. I practiced using the Tricaster video switcher and managed to learn how to do a picture in picture using the Tricaster's down stream key function. I also manged to study the remote cameras exposure and white balance controls, as well as how to set the preset positions for the cameras. After that, went down to the Sanctuary to clean the lenses of the remote cameras. We then set up the scaffolding in order to push the cables that we laid the previous day up 1 floor into the machine room. This was my experience up on the scaffolding as previously I was only supporting from the ground. 

Harry and Phillip drilled holes into the floor of the machine room and pushed a fish stick through. We then taped the cables to the fish stick and they pulled it up into the machine room, all the while communicating with each other using walkie talkies. After finishing the cabling, we dismantled the scaffolding and tested one of the network cables. I had my first experience crimping an RJ45 connector for the Cat6 cable. The network cables were then used to configure the remote camera controller in trailer.

Day 4 (6/11/2014)

Today, I started out out by rewiring and arranging the cables in the trailer. The cables had to be arranged so that they look neat and not interfere with the installation of new components into the trailer. It took a while to rewire the cables as I had to first find the cables that are messed up and pull them into the right location, making sure they flow neatly to their destination. Then I had to cable tie the cables to secure them. After completing that, I went out with Matt to help him shoot some cutaways which we completed in 10 minutes. I then returned to the trailer to continue arranging the cables. We added a new power outlet and I rewired the power cables of some of components to it.

Day 5 (7/11/2014)

Today we were tasked to help Phillip built some sets. We were to built 3 benches but 1 of the benches broke while we were constructing it and another one was found to be damaged when we opened the box. We swapped the damaged parts and managed to construct another bench.