This is the Manfrotto FF3512N86 Pantograph with Wire Cable (Old Cat. No: 3250/2). The pantograph is made of aluminum and manufactured according to DIN 15560-46. The attachments at both ends of the pantograph are 5/8" (16 mm), female on the top and male on the bottom. The load is supported by a steel cable of 0.08 inch. diameter (safety factor 12). It extends from a closed length of 10.6" (27cm) to a maximum extension of 6.5 feet (200cm)
Loads of up to 26 lb can be suspended using only the friction device, while loads up to a maximum of 40 lb require the use of the optional springs. The pantograph can be adjusted to keep suspended loads from 2 lb to 10 lb perfectly balanced.
The colored notched ring can adjust the pantograph's friction; this will ensure that the load remains stable when set in position, but that it will move smoothly up and down when necessary. It is advisable to use springs to aid raising the pantograph.
When choosing the additional spring (s) for your pantograph, you will first need to know exactly which model of pantograph you have, in order that you can select the spring of the correct length. If you have the new compact pantograph, the TOP 2 version (above) has a red notched ring, while the TOP 4 version has a blue notched ring.