How can a four-point cable cam system be used in 2D mode?

This article explains what “2D mode” means on a four-point cable cam system, the typical winch-and-rope layouts used in studios and venues, and the stability trade-offs between two-rope and four-rope configurations. It also covers a custom option where one winch can feed two ropes from one drum. It is a configuration guide - final suitability depends on your required speed, shot style (including pan behavior), payload, and venue rigging constraints.

In 2D mode, the system moves:

• vertically (up and down);
• and horizontally (forwards and backwards).

Side-to-side movement is not used in this configuration.

The standard 2D setup normally uses four winches:

• two winches positioned one after another on one side of the working area;
• and two winches positioned on the opposite side.

Two ropes run from one side to the dolly, and two ropes run from the other side.

This is the most common and recommended way to operate a four-point system in 2D mode.

Yes. If the available space is limited and the movements are relatively slow, it is possible to use only:

• one winch on one side;
• and one winch on the opposite side.

In this configuration, the dolly is supported by only two ropes.

For slower movements this can still provide acceptable stability, especially if there are no aggressive gimbal panoramas or rapid directional changes.

For the best stabilization performance, we normally recommend using four ropes.

This provides the gimbal with a much more stable base, allowing the stabilization system to operate more accurately and smoothly.

Yes. For custom projects, we can configure a system where one winch simultaneously feeds two ropes from one drum.

This allows the client to use only two winches in total, while still maintaining the stability advantages of a four-rope configuration.