ARRI Launches New High-Speed Ballast EB MAX 1.8

	ARRI high-speed ballast EB max 1.8

ARRI announces a new flagship for its range of high-speed electronic ballasts. Designed for all discharge lampheads between 575W and 1,800W, the EB MAX 1.8 combines new features with new remote control possibilities.

Since NAB 2015 ARRI has continually expanded its latest generation of electronic ballasts. All models are equipped with an AutoScan feature that ensures optimum light and image quality with a minimum of effort for high-speed recording up to 1,000 fps and beyond.

First to be released was the EB 12/18 HS AutoScan, which allows 12kW and 18kW discharge lamps to be used at lamp frequencies of 900Hz to 1,200Hz. Later in 2015 ARRI offered the AutoScan mode in the 9kW class with its EB 6/9 HS AutoScan ballast. At NAB last year the EB 2.5/4 HS AutoScan was announced, designed for the 2.5kW and 4kW power classes, and now at NAB 2017 ARRI completes the range by unveiling the all-new EB MAX 1.8.

The EB MAX 1.8 includes essential features such as active line filter (ALF) and compensation for cable losses (CCL), delivering maximum light quality with efficient supply and wiring. Besides lamp operation at 50Hz or 60Hz if noise needs to be minimized, or at 75Hz for standard frame rates, the EB MAX 1.8 accommodates high-speed frequencies at 1,000Hz and -- for the first time -- at 300Hz.

Three different modes are available for high-speed operation: AutoScan (fully automatic), Man (manual frequency control), or AutoMan (combining manual frequency setting with automatic frequency control). Using the AutoScan mode requires no further interaction by an operator. After a two-stage scan the lamp frequency is selected and set by the ballast; all parameters are continuously monitored and adjusted automatically, if required.

The EB MAX 1.8 offers new levels of DMX control. In addition to on/off and dimming, both operation mode and frequency can now be controlled remotely. For ultimate ease of use, indicators on the ballast's front panel display the lamp wattage, DMX channel, operation mode, and selected lamp frequency.

Despite its compact housing, the EB MAX 1.8 covers four different power classes: 575W, 800W, 1,200W, and 1,800W. When combined with ARRI daylight lampheads such as the True Blue D5 and D12, or M-Series M8 and M18, it enables optimal performance and advanced controls for high image quality -- at any frame rate.