Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

This platform when combined with a trusted tripod will serve as a very convenient base for a 13.3" MacBook. It appears to be made for this application (even though I know that it was desighed for a projector)and is more sturdy than some platforms that are purpose-built for computers. Take off the tripod head and screw the platform directly onto the column. If you can't do that with your tripod, get another one. Only con is lack of any sort of restrain against slippage. Use gaffer's tape.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

i use this platform on a ball head and sturdy bogen legs with a large epson projector. it was the cheapest and best way to tilt the unit 60 degrees so it would square with a slanted ceiling i use as a screen. i use car straps to keep the unit from sliding off.

it's great!

it would be nice if manfrotto made some kind of fitted rubber surface to keep the things from sliding around. i just used some closed cell packing foam to cushion my electronics and keep the platform from scratching them.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I needed a platform to mount on a tripod so that I could take my sculptures into different environments and adjust their positions within the desired setting. Along with a Ball Head, this Platform can be adjusted exactly the way I need it. It works perfectly. I was going to create one until I found out that Manfrotto made exactly what I needed!

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I had to buy an extra piece to actually use the platform. When I first got it I thought it was broken. Be sure to buy the camera platform if you are attaching to anything other than a tripod.

It's also heavy and loud with a computer because it's metal. I had to add pads to help with the comfort of my computer.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I decided on this against the more expensive Leica version. This one seems more solid. It is just nice to fit a 14 inch laptop. I use it with my 13" macbook pro.
It is a solid single piece die-cast alluminum yet quite light in weight.

I gave it 4 stars because if it were half its current size in thickness i would rate it 5 stars.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

The Manfrotto platform is a helpful addition to their tripod, providing wide range in height and projection angle for mobile projection. While a projector stays on the platform "as is," it would be advisable to buy straps to secure the projector to the platform - but this was expected.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

Easily holds my 17" Toshiba

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I had been looking for a way to mount my laptop next to my camera on my tripod to make shooting tethered easier. I figured that if Joe McNally does it, it must be the hot set up! This platform combined with the "131DDB Tripod Accessory Arm for Four Heads" mounted to a good tripod is the answer. Very solid and stable. Obviously it adds some weight to your gear if you're on location, but if you're shooting tethered, you're probably already packing a car load of gear anyway. It's great to be able to fine tune your lighting and settings using a 15" screen rather than the 3" LCD on the back of the camera!

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I use this platform on a dual camera support arm attached to my tripod so that I can keep my MacBook Pro 15" close to camera during studio shooting sessions.
The build quality is what you expect from Manfrotto and it supports firmly to the arm with a 131DDB mount.
The only issue I have with the platform is that it is slightly smaller than my laptop so I have to use a firm rubber band or small clamps to lock it down on the platform surface.
The application of shooting portraiture or product photography with a tethered laptop next to the camera is invaluable.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I use this on top of my Manfrotto 190probx to support my laptop in the studio.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I like to shoot tethered from time to time but often run into stability and safety problem with my gear. The worry was whether the tethered cable would pull my laptop off the table and go crashing on to the floor. Well, since I have purchased and mounted the Manfrotto projector platform on to my tripod with my laptop firmly attached - I am left without the worry of crashing the computer because it is camera close. It is a fear saver.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I have an old tripod leg (bescor) and was looking for a table to put my projector and dvd player. I used to use a plastic table but it never looked professional during my events. That is why I decided to spend a little and bought this Platform to put my projector on it. I attached it to the old tripod leg using manfrotto pieces(# RAPID ADAPTER 5/8 to LONG 3/8 ...and...# 013 DOUBLE END STUD ADAPTER SPIGOT) and in the middle I put the dvd player. Now It look nice. my next step is to buy the Manfrotto 103 Caster Set to attach it to the tripod leg.

Comments about Manfrotto 183 Aluminum Projector Platform:

I use it as a laptop tray with a Gitzo tripod. It could also be used with a light stand but you need the 2933 Camera Platform for Magic Arm by Bogen or else it will not be secure (wobbles on lightstands with 3/8" and 1/4" screws on top) . I love it and costs half as much as the other brands that have the word "Laptop" in the name.
Cons: Made a little too well, a little thick but still light. I could just squeeze it next to my laptop (in a sleeve so it does not scratch) in my bag. The center mount is loose when not mounted on tripod and could fall out of the tray but this is a minor con.