Kickstarter

Update 4: I have updated the Motor for the Motor package. It's now a high quality Dayton Offset Gear Motor. We are taking on the cost adjustment of the higher quality motor during the Kickstarter project. This motor runs better and stronger and the new setup allows for easy changing of different RPM motors for future motor trade outs. 

Update 3: I am working on future optional accessories. I am creating a bolt on carrying handle and a swing system, which with certain tripod heads, will allow a turning motion of the camera while sliding. 

Update 2: I have changed out the screws for the foldaway legs to thumb screws to allow for easy setup of the rail system. No more Allen wrench needed. Now faster setup of your rail without having to carry tools.

Update 1: I have updated and added a motor and controller reward. ($550) This was originally an un-soldered kit, but now comes completely assembled, and programmed for the motor included. The controller is a time lapse controller which allows for move shoot move timelapse, and many other features. I am including a 12V adapter for power and a Pelican Case to protect your motor controller unit.

What is the Z slider system?

The Z Slider System is a blot on belt drive kit for the Igus camera slider system. It allows cinematic and time lapse photographers to adapt an inexpensive, but quality slider to a hand crank or motorized system. And doing this easily, with no drilling and affordability compared to other systems on the market.

Why was the Z Slider System created?

Foremost to allow people to create Dynamic Motion in their cinematic and time lapse productions. However, the Z Slider System was created to help fill a gap for people who can not afford to spend a great deal of money out of pocket, all at once for a complete slider system. It also allows for a slider system that can be easily built to the user’s needs in stages. The Z Slider System allows you to purchase a manual Igus slider, which is a quality slider, hundreds less than other brands on the market. Next, when you are ready, the system can be upgraded to the Z Slider System, which adds a belt driven, hand crank drive to your pre-existing Igus slider. This gives added control for smoother slides of the camera. And with incremental markings on the hand wheel, you have the ability for micro adjustments for stepping with time lapse. Ready to take it to the next level? Add our optional motor mount, and you can add a motor with the speed of your choice, and motor controller for your needs. This gives you the ability to add a motor systems based on the filmmakers or photographers needs. With our system you are not confined to one type or another, but exactly what you are looking for. It also allows you to order sliders at custom lengths, for your specific needs. Get a standard 40” track from Igus or order a 70” and add our system. Finally since you are not confined to a motor and controller provided by us, it allows you to shop around for the best price for your needs; however, we would be happy to suggest a motor and controller for you, based on your application.

What does the Z Slider System include?

The Z Slider includes two custom gear blocks which bolt on to the pre-existing holes on the Igus w1080 rail. It includes a hand wheel with increments for micro adjustments. Also included is a set of legs that bolt on to give your system a little lift, a new slider plate with bolt for a 3/8” tripod/video head and belt tensioning mechanism to tighten the belt drive, and (optional) is a motor mount for those who want to get ready to jump to the next level. Also included is a Z Slider lens cloth.

Why doesn't the Z Slider System come with its own slider rail?

We chose not to design the rail to help keep cost down for us, as well as the people who want to have a slider system of their own. Igus makes quality slider rails with bearings that are both popular and affordable. Many systems are already based upon the Igus rail but don’t allow for the flexibility of customization our system allows for our users.

Which Igus rail does the Z slider work on?

Currently it is designed around the Igus W1080 slider rail. Though we plan on adapting it to other Igus rails in the future to add more flexibility to people’s needs and costs. We chose the W1080 due to the size which allows for a heavier camera system than some of the other size rails available. This rail can be found at the Igus web site, as well as Amazon.

How easy is the system to assemble and use?

We will be creating an instructional video on how to assemble our system, which we will send a link to all of our backers. After assembling the Gear blocks, basically it’s replacing 8 bolts on the slider, using the pre-existing Igus bearings. And 4 bolts to attach the legs and bearing blocks. You will run the belt through the gear blocks, hook and crimp the belt onto the slider, add tension, and your slider will be up and running.  (Tools needed - Standard Allen wrenches, Phillips head screw driver, pliers, a pair of scissors and about 15 min of your time).

Sample footage using the Z Slider

Why does the Z Slider need funding?

We need to raise funds for the first production run of our slider to make it available to market. It will help cover the initial costs of machine setup and machining the custom blocks for the Igus slider. (All custom parts machined and built in the US). We are looking for the minimum funding possible to get the product out of prototype and into production, and to help make funding a success for us and our backers. Backer’s pledges will only pay for their selected rewards if we meet our goal of $17,500. We welcome and are thankful for every dollar you can pledge, even if it’s only $1! However if you donate at least $10 you will receive a Z Slider target lens cloth for your camera bag.

When will the Z slider start shipping?

The goal is to have the systems manufactured, packaged and shipped by July. We are going to offer the first Z Slider Systems a handful of backers who can give us a little extra help in our funding and hope to get those to them by June or earlier. While you wait for your bolt on kit, it will give you time to order an Igus W1080 slider to get you use to using a rail, then take it to the next level when you receive our Z Slider System.  

What if you have more Questions?

You can email me directly - tony@photozeh.com. I would be happy to answer any questions. Please help us get the word out and like us on Facebook or send a tweet! This will only be possible with your help! If you can't afford to back us, we ask you to share! Thank you for your support!

Our New Motor Reward 

Now comes fully assembled and programmed for use. This means you will be up and running faster. The $550 reward will no longer require soldering. Each one will come with a motor, the controller, motor mount included, 12V power adapter and a Pelican 1010 to protect your controller for storage. ** SEE PROJECT UPDATES