Introduction: MPT1100-SS Pan and Tilt - How to Mount to a Tripod

About: I'm a tech at Robotzone (the makers of Actobotics®). I'll be posting helpful tutorials about how to use our products and incorporating them into cool robotics and R/C projects.

The MPT1100-SS is a compact open loop pan and tilt system that is nice for DSLR cameras, camcorders and similar sized cameras. The stock setup is conducive to attaching to a jib crane but here's a simple work-around for those of you who wish to attach to a tripod with a 1/4-20 or 3/8-16 camera screw.

Parts required:

Step 1: Remove the Stock Base Plate

The stock base plate has been machined for a 3/8-16 carriage bolt head to drop into (see the jib mounting Instructable for details). To fasten the head to a tripod I'd recommend replacing the stock base plate with the Round Base Plate A. Start by removing the (4) Phillips head screws holding the stock base plate on.

Step 2: Fasten a Threaded Insert to the New Base Plate

Before installing the new base plate, attach a threaded screw plate to it using (4) 6-32 x 1/4" flat head screws. Note that the screws will go through the side that has the countersunk holes and into the threaded holes of the screw plate. The screw plate should be oriented so that the boss fits through the center hole of the base plate.

Step 3: Install the New Base Plate

Using the screws that held the original base plate onto the pan and tilt, install the new base-plate. You're now ready to fasten your MPT1100-SS to a tripod (or any other camera mount that utilizes either a 1/4-20 or 3/8-16 screw).