Vinten FH-155 VR/ST - VR/AR-Enabled Manual/Robotic Head with Integrated StarTracker Camera and 359-Degree Pan/50-Degree Tilt for 155-Pound Payloads in Black Finish

The Vinten FH-155 VR/ST is a premium robotic/manual pan and tilt head built for advanced broadcast and virtual production environments that demand both positional accuracy and real-time spatial tracking. Equipped with integrated 22-bit encoders and a built-in StarTracker optical tracking system, this hybrid head delivers precise VR/AR data output while supporting camera payloads up to 155 lbs. Ideal for studios deploying virtual sets or augmented reality graphics, the FH-155 VR/ST offers exceptional flexibility with both robotic and manual operation modes, ultra-quiet motion, and seamless system integration.

The FH-155 VR/ST's 22-bit encoders provide high-resolution motion tracking with a system resolution better than 0.01°, outputting data via Ethernet UDP or RS232/422 for compatibility with VR engines. Complementing this internal feedback, the integrated StarTracker system optically monitors floor-based reference points to determine the head's position as it moves across the studio or location. This dual-tracking setup ensures sub-degree shot recall precision of ±0.016° and allows producers to maintain spatial awareness for motion graphics overlays, AR compositing, or real-time environment mapping.

The head operates silently at a maximum of 41 dBA and offers a full ±50° tilt and 359° pan range. When used manually, the servo-controlled pan and tilt drag system provides continuously adjustable resistance for smooth, operator-friendly movement, ideal during hybrid workflows or emergency manual override. A pan handle rosette adapter and two telescoping pan handles are included for manual use. Switching between robotic and manual mode can be done directly at the head or from a control interface, enabling production flexibility during setup or live broadcast.

Designed for integration into IP-based control ecosystems, the FH-155 VR/ST features a built-in 3-port Ethernet switch for connecting to prompting systems, robotic pedestals, or network controllers. It supports Canon, Fujinon, and other digital lenses through analog or digital lens control protocols. Housed in a rugged IP40-rated chassis, the unit operates reliably in environments ranging from 41°F to 104°F. It consumes 175W of power, accepts 100-240VAC input, and measures 17.2 x 19.3 x 9.3 inches. The total weight with cradle is 49.3 lbs, and a separate mounting adapter is required for use with pedestals or tripods.

Features

• Hybrid robotic/manual pan and tilt head with integrated StarTracker optical tracking
• 22-bit encoders for precise VR/AR tracking data output over Ethernet UDP or RS232/422
• Supports up to 155 lbs for large broadcast camera, lens, and teleprompter setups
• ±50° tilt and 359° pan range for extensive motion coverage
• Shot repeatability of ±0.016° with system resolution finer than 0.01°
• Dual tracking with encoder and optical StarTracker systems for full spatial awareness
• Near-silent motion rated at 41 dBA ideal for sound-critical studio environments
• Servo-controlled pan and tilt drag with continuous adjustment in manual mode
• Manual operation supported with included rosette adapter and telescoping pan handles
• Switchable between manual and robotic modes at the head or via remote controller
• Canon, Fujinon, and third-party lens control with digital and analog compatibility
• 3-port Ethernet switch for streamlined IP connectivity with robotic systems
• Mounting adapter required for integration with pedestals or tripods
• Power input of 100-240VAC with 175W draw and global electrical compatibility
• Dimensions of 17.2 x 19.3 x 9.3 inches and weight of 49.3 lbs with cradle
• IP40-rated housing and operating range of 41°F to 104°F for professional environments

Specifications

Operation

• Motor Noise: 41 dBA @ Max speed
• Tilt Range: ± 50° (payload dependent)
• Pan Range: 359°
• Angular Velocity (Maximum): 60° per second
• Angular Acceleration (Typical): 60° per second
• Angular Acceleration (Peak): 120° per second
• Shot Recall Repeatability: ± 60 arcseconds (± 0.016°)
• System Resolution/Accuracy: 21 Bit, >0.01°
• Manual Control: Yes
• Drag: Continuous Drag Adjustment, Servo Controlled
• Lens Control: Digital control for most Fujinon, Canon and other Digital lenses, Analogue control for high quality lenses as appropriate.
• Network: IP Ethernet, RJ45
• Genlock: Black burst/tri-level, Micro BNC
• Auxilary Port: 26 pin (configurable)
• VR Tracking Data Output: Ethernet UDP or Serial RS232/422

Electrical

• Power Consumption: 175W
• Power Input: 100-240VAC, 50/60 Hz

Physical

• Maximum Payload: 155 lbs
• Cradle: Standard
• IP Rating: IP40
• Temperature Range: 41F to 104F
• Rated Load Inertia: 178 lbs sq/ft
• Height: 19.3 inches
• Length: 17.2 inches
• Width: 9.3 inches
• Weight: 39.6 lbs (without cradle), 49.3 lbs (with cradle)