ARRI ARRIFLEX D-21 User manual

08/2008
ARRIFLEX D-21/D-21 HD
PRELIMINARY INSTRUCTION MANUAL
COPYRIGHT © 2007 ARNOLD & RICHTER CINE TECHNIK GMBH & CO BETRIEBS KG. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
NO PART OF THIS DOCUMENT MAY BE USED FOR DISTRIBUTION, REPRODUCTION, TRANSMISSION,
TRANSCRIPTION, STORAGE IN A DATA RETRIEVAL SYSTEM, OR TRANSLATED INTO ANY LANGUAGE IN ANY
FORM BY ANY MEANS WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT OF ARRI.
IF YOU ARE DOWNLOADING FILES FROM OUR WEBPAGES FOR YOUR PERSONAL USE, MAKE SURE TO
CHECK FOR UPDATED VERSIONS. ARRI CANNOT TAKY ANY LIABILITY WHATSOEVER FOR DOWNLOADED
FILES, AS TECHNICAL DATA ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 1

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 2
*Note: Output board HD-SDI 2 not available on the ARRIFLEX D-21 HD

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 3
1. Contents
1.Contents...................................................................................................................3
2.Safety Instructions and Legal Disclaimer .............................................................6
2.1.Safety Instructions.................................................................................................................6
Explanation of Warning Signs and Indications ......................................................................6
General Safety Instructions ...................................................................................................6
Specific Safety Instructions....................................................................................................7
2.2.Disclaimer..............................................................................................................................8
3.General Description.................................................................................................9
4.Power Supply.........................................................................................................10
4.1.Mains Unit NG 12/26 R........................................................................................................10
4.2.Battery NC 24/7 R................................................................................................................10
4.3.Charger NCL 24 R...............................................................................................................10
4.4.Main Camera Switch............................................................................................................10
4.5.Accessory Power Supply.....................................................................................................11
12 V Accessories.................................................................................................................11
24V Accessories..................................................................................................................11
Overload Display .................................................................................................................11
5.Installation of the Camera.....................................................................................12
5.1.Minimum equipment needed for operation:.........................................................................12
5.2.Packing, Storage and Transport..........................................................................................12
Condensation.......................................................................................................................12
5.3.Tripod and Remote Heads...................................................................................................12
5.4.Horizontal Levelling .............................................................................................................13
5.5.Bridge Plate Set BP-8, BP-9................................................................................................13
Attaching the Bridge Plate to the Camera ...........................................................................13
Putting the Camera on the Tripod........................................................................................13
Removing the Camera from the Tripod ...............................................................................13
5.6.Lens Support .......................................................................................................................14
5.7.Grip System.........................................................................................................................14
Attaching Additional Handgrips............................................................................................14
Removing the Grip System..................................................................................................14
6.Optics......................................................................................................................15
6.1.Lenses.................................................................................................................................15
Lens Mount..........................................................................................................................15
Changing Lenses.................................................................................................................15
6.2.Viewfinder System...............................................................................................................15
Eyepiece..............................................................................................................................16
Viewfinder Arm ....................................................................................................................16
Image Orientation ................................................................................................................16
Removing the Viewfinder System........................................................................................17
Universal Finder Arm...........................................................................................................18
6.3.Ground Glasses...................................................................................................................18
Exchanging the Ground Glass.............................................................................................18
6.4.ARRIGLOW.........................................................................................................................19
Exchanging the ARRIGLOW Mask......................................................................................19
7.Camera Output Configuration ..............................................................................20
7.1.Output Interfaces.................................................................................................................20
7.2.Video Menu..........................................................................................................................20
Using the Video Menu .........................................................................................................20
Status Indications ................................................................................................................20
7.3.Setting Operational Parameters ..........................................................................................21
User Mode ...........................................................................................................................21
White Balance......................................................................................................................22
Standard Frame Rate ..........................................................................................................23
Output Board (Advanced Mode)..........................................................................................23
HD-SDI Mode ......................................................................................................................24

Overview of Available Output Formats*...............................................................................24


ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 4
Output Range (Advanced Mode)*........................................................................................24
Colour Matrix (Advanced Mode)..........................................................................................25
Suitable Combinations of Contrast Characteristics, White Balance and Colour Matrix* .....25
Contrast Characteristics*.....................................................................................................25
SD Mode..............................................................................................................................27
Diagnostics ..........................................................................................................................28
7.4.OSD Tools...........................................................................................................................29
8.Signal Connections...............................................................................................30
8.1.Signal Wiring Instructions....................................................................................................30
HD422 Setup (Standard Mode)...........................................................................................30
HD422 High Speed Setup (Standard Mode) .......................................................................31
HD444 Setup (Standard Mode)*..........................................................................................31
Data Mode/ARRIRAW Setup (Advanced Mode) .................................................................32
9.Camera Operation..................................................................................................33
9.1.Running and Stopping the Camera .....................................................................................33
9.2.Camera Display Modes .......................................................................................................33
Overview of Display Modes*................................................................................................34
Overview of Display Symbols ..............................................................................................34
Shutter Angle Display (Mode 1)...........................................................................................34
Locking Camera Controls ....................................................................................................34
9.3.Standard and Programmed Frame Rates............................................................................35
General Procedure for Changing Frame Rates*..................................................................35
Setting a Programmed Frame Rate (Mode 2) .....................................................................35
9.4.Frame Counter and Battery Information..............................................................................36
Switching between Display of Frame Counter and Mirror Shutter Angle (Mode 1).............36
Setting the Frame Counter Configuration (Mode 3).............................................................37
Displaying the Power Supply Voltage (Mode 3) ..................................................................37
9.5.Mirror Shutter Angle and Warning Signal............................................................................37
Enabling/Disabling the Asynchronous Running Warning Signal (Mode 4)..........................37
Enabling/Disabling the Mirror Shutter (Mode 4)...................................................................38
Setting the Mirror Shutter Angle (Mode 5)...........................................................................38
10.Recording.............................................................................................................39
10.1.Recording Format Setup......................................................................................................39
10.2.Starting and Stopping the Recording...................................................................................39
Recording devices with variable frame rate (VariFrame) support:.......................................39
Recording devices without variable frame rate (VariFrame) support:..................................39
11.Functional Expansion Module FEM-2................................................................40
11.1.Lens Data System ...............................................................................................................40
11.2.Wireless System..................................................................................................................41
Installing the URM-3 radio receiver .....................................................................................41
Using the Wireless System..................................................................................................41
Changing the radio channel.................................................................................................41
Wireless System Status Indications.....................................................................................41
11.3.Remote Lens Control...........................................................................................................42
CLM-2 Status Indications.....................................................................................................42
11.4.Camera Remote Control......................................................................................................42
Wired Camera Remote Control ...........................................................................................43
11.5.Compatibility ........................................................................................................................43
ARRIFLEX D-21 FEM-2 Compatibility List ..........................................................................43
11.6.Replacing the FEM-2...........................................................................................................44
Removing the FEM-2...........................................................................................................44
Attaching the FEM-2............................................................................................................44
12.Accessories..........................................................................................................45
12.1.External Synchronization Unit ESU-1..................................................................................45
12.2.Flash Mag Mounting Adapter FMA-1...................................................................................45
12.3.Heated Eyecup (HE-4/HE-5) ...............................................................................................45
12.4.Isolating Power Adapter IPA................................................................................................46
12.5.Low Mode Support...............................................................................................................46
12.6.

Remote Run Switch (RS-4) .................................................................................................47


ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 5
12.7.RS Socket Distributor (24 V Plug-on module) .....................................................................47
12.8.Sony Fibre Interface SFI-1...................................................................................................47
Sony Fibre Remote SFR-1 ..................................................................................................48
12.9.Wireless Remote Control WRC-2........................................................................................49
12.10.Work Light............................................................................................................................49
12.11.General Note .......................................................................................................................49
13.Camera Care.........................................................................................................50
13.1.General Information.............................................................................................................50
13.2.Imager Check ......................................................................................................................50
Imager Surface ....................................................................................................................50
Mechanical Damage to Imager Surface ..............................................................................50
Cleaning the Sensor ............................................................................................................51
Condensation.......................................................................................................................51
Pixel Failure.........................................................................................................................51
13.3.Cleaning the Field Lens.......................................................................................................52
14.Technical Data - ARRIFLEX D-21 .......................................................................53
15.Technical Data - ARRIFLEX D-21 HD.................................................................54
16.Appendix ..............................................................................................................55
16.1.Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................55
16.2.Glossary...............................................................................................................................57
Clipping................................................................................................................................57
Colour Signals and Chroma (Sub-)Sampling.......................................................................57
Data Mode/ARRIRAW .........................................................................................................57
Dead Pixels..........................................................................................................................58
Defective Pixels ...................................................................................................................58
HD422 dual link ...................................................................................................................58
Pixel Failure.........................................................................................................................59
Scanning Methods (p, i, PsF) ..............................................................................................59
Signal Range .......................................................................................................................60
17.Index .....................................................................................................................61
18.ARRI Group Addresses.......................................................................................62

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 6
2. Safety Instructions and Legal Disclaimer
2.1. Safety Instructions
Always follow these instructions to ensure against injury to yourself and damage to the system or other objects.
This safety information is in addition to the product specific operating instructions in general and must be strictly
observed for safety reasons.
Explanation of Warning Signs and Indications
Possible risk of injury or damage to equipment.
This Symbol indicates the risk of electric shock or fire danger that could result in injury or equipment damage.
Note: indicates further information or information from other instruction manuals.
➪image indicates objects, which are shown in an illustration or picture.
General Safety Instructions
Read and understand all safety and operating instructions before you operate or install the system!
Retain all safety and operating instructions for future reference!
Heed all warnings on the system and in the safety and operating instructions before you operate or install the
system! Follow all installations and operating instructions!
Do not use accessories or attachments that are not recommended by ARRI, as they may cause hazards and
invalidate the warranty!
Do not attempt to repair any part of the system! Repairs must only be carried out by authorized ARRI Service
Centres.
Do not remove any safety measures of the system!
Do not operate the system in areas with humidity above operating levels or expose it to water or moisture!
Do not place the system on an unstable trolley/hand truck, stand, tripod, bracket or table! The system may fall,
causing serious personal injury and damage to the system or other objects.
Operate the system using only the type of power source indicated in the manual! Unplug the power cable by
gripping the power plug, not the cable!
Never insert objects of any kind into any part of the system through openings, as the objects may touch
dangerous voltage points or short out parts! This could cause fire or electrical shock.
Unplug the system from the power outlet before opening any part of the system or before making any changes to
the system, especially the attaching or removing of cables!
Do not use solvents to clean!
Do not remove any screws that have been secured with paint!
Attention! Danger of injury!
Never place your hand in the lens mount receptacle or the inside of the camera while it is running!

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 7
Specific Safety Instructions
Never run the camera without a lens or a protective cap in the lens mount receptacle!
Remove the all cable connections before transport or servicing!
Changing camera lenses should be done in a dry and dust-free environment. If this is not possible, take extra
care that no dust enters the camera while the lens is off!
Before removing the lens, always make sure to stop the mirror shutter! This not only prevents damage to the
shutter in case a wrong lens is inserted (e.g. 16 format lens). The shutter in "finder-open" position acts also as a
protective cover to the sensor.
When no lens is attached to the camera, use the protective cap to avoid sensor contamination!
After changing lenses, always perform a dust check to make sure no dust has settled on the sensor cover glass!
Clean optical lens surfaces only with a lens brush or a clean lens cloth! In cases of solid dirt, moisten a lens cloth
with pure alcohol!
Discard contaminated lens cloth after use!
Do not use it to clean lens!
If the sensor cover glass has been contaminated NEVER USE CANS WITH COMPRESSED AIR OR GAS TO
BLOW OFF THE DUST! This can severely damage both the mirror shutter and the sensor cover glass.
Loose dust can be blown off with a blower bulb or a lens brush.
If the sensor cover glass has been contaminated by solid dirt or grease, special optical cleaning kits should be
used very carefully for removal. If the contamination cannot be removed, the camera should be taken to an ARRI
Service Centre for cleaning.
Never clean a lens brush with your fingers!
NEVER USE METHANOL OR ACETONE TO CLEAN THE SENSOR COVER GLASS!
NEVER REMOVE THE SENSOR COVER GLASS!
Do not point the camera into direct sunlight if the mirror shutter is not running!
Any violation of these safety instructions or non-observance of personal care could cause serious injuries (including
death) and damage to the system or other objects.

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 8
2.2. Disclaimer
Before using the products described in this manual be sure to read and understand all respective instructions.
The ARRIFLEX D-21/D-21 HD is only available for commercial customers. The customer grants by utilization, that the
ARRIFLEX D-21/D-21 HD or other components of the system are deployed for commercial use. Otherwise the customer
has the obligation to contact ARRI preceding the utilization.
While ARRI endeavors to enhance the quality, reliability and safety of their products, customers agree and acknowledge
that the possibility of defects thereof cannot be eliminated entirely. To minimize risk of damage to property or injury
(including death) to persons arising from defects in the products, customers must incorporate sufficient safety measures
in their work with the system and have to heed the stated canonic use.
ARRI or its subsidiaries do not assume any responsibility for incurred losses due to improper handling or configuration of
the camera or other system components, due to sensor contamination, occurrence of dead or defective pixels, defective
signal connections or incompatibilities with third party recording devices.
No part of this document may be copied or reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent of
ARRI. ARRI assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document. The information is subject to
change without notice.
For product specification changes since this manual was published, refer to the latest publications of ARRI data sheets
or data books, etc., for the most up-to-date specifications. Not all products and/or types are available in every country.
Please check with an ARRI sales representative for availability and additional information.
Neither ARRI nor its subsidiaries assume any liability for infringement of patents, copyrights or other intellectual property
rights of third parties by or arising from the use of ARRI products or any other liability arising from the use of such
products. No license, express, implied or otherwise, is granted under any patents, copyrights or other intellectual
property right of ARRI or others.
ARRI or its subsidiaries expressly exclude any liability, warranty, demand or other obligation for any claim,
representation, or cause, or action, or whatsoever, express or implied, whether in contract or tort, including negligence,
or incorporated in terms and conditions, whether by statue, law or otherwise. In no event shall ARRI or its subsidiaries be
liable for or have a remedy for recovery of any special, direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including,
but not limited to lost profits, lost savings, lost revenues or economic loss of any kind or for any claim by third party,
downtime, good-will, damage to or replacement of equipment or property, any cost or recovering of any material or
goods associated with the assembly or use of our products, or any other damages or injury of the persons and so on or
under any other legal theory.
In the case one or all of the foregoing clauses are not allowed by applicable law, the fullest extent permissible clauses by
applicable law are validated.
ARRI is a registered trademark of Arnold & Richter Cine Technik GmbH & Co Betriebs KG.
Note: This product and the accessories recommended by the manufacturer fulfill the specifications of the EU-
Guideline 89/336/EWG.

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 9
3. General Description
The ARRIFLEX D-21 is a film style digital camera based on ARRI's innovative technologies, continuous in-depth
customer feedback and decades of experience. To allow directors and cinematographers to shoot the same way as they
would with 35 mm film, the D-21 combines the immediacy of digital cameras with high-end film style functionality,
handling and creative options.
The D-21 is equipped with a bright optical viewfinder that works without power and shows extra image area outside the
primary image. The basic principle of seeing the image optically through the lens ensures zero delay and fatigue-free
viewing. All these features are crucial for accurate framing and picture composition.
Combining leading edge image research with decades of practical experience, ARRI Imaging Technology (AIT) is the
smart orchestration of a custom-designed CMOS sensor, a powerful imaging hardware engine and unique image
processing algorithms. Through AIT the D-21 produces outstanding images with a cinematic look and feel, showing
sharp pictures, high dynamic range, high contrast and the most natural color reproduction of any motion picture CMOS
camera. The D-21's rotating mirror shutter leads to a unique progressive image capture for film-like motion portrayal.
Through its single, Super 35-sized CMOS sensor and industry standard PL lens mount, the D-21 accepts the same
unequalled variety of 35 mm prime, zoom and specialty film lenses as used on 35 mm film cameras. In addition it has the
same cinematic depth of field as 35 mm film and can be used with anamorphic lenses*.
Further film style features are variable frame rates** and full compatibility with the extensive line of ARRI film style
accessories. The D-21 is a true ARRI camera featuring qualities ARRI cameras are famous for, including completely
silent running, simple to use controls, robust construction and ergonomic design.
Flexible output options include 4x3 ARRIRAW sensor data output** and standard 16x9 HD signals to suit different
production requirements and budgets, including a 2K data workflow and regular HD tape recording.
The D-21 modular system architecture allows upgrading when advances in sensor and/or electronics technology become
available, thus ensuring a long product cycle for the D-21.
* Note: Use of anamorphic lenses is not recommended with the ARRIFLEX D-21 HD, as this model does not allow
capturing the full sensor height, which is required to obtain a 2.39:1 aspect ratio using anamorphic lenses.
** Note: Variable frame rates and ARRIRAW raw sensor data output for 2K data workflow are not available on the
ARRIFLEX D-21 HD.
Product Identification
When ordering parts or accessories, or if any questions should arise, please advise the model type and serial number of
the product in question.
Scope
This instruction manual applies to the following cameras and software versions:
•ARRIFLEX D-21, CM version 05/2007, SW Version 1.14/CRC 65b8c
•ARRIFLEX D-21 HD, CM Version, SW Version 1.14/CRC 65b8c
Different software versions can result in different behavior.
Note: Unless noted otherwise (corresponding sections will be marked with a footnote), all instructions and
descriptions stated in this manual apply to both, the ARRIFLEX D-21 and the ARRIFLEX D-21 HD.

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 10
4. Power Supply
Available ARRI power supply solutions:
•NC 24/7 R battery ➪image and
•NCL 24 R battery charger ➪image.
•NG 12/26 R mains unit ➪image.
Do not open the batteries!
Charge batteries only with the ARRI chargers!
Do not bypass the fuse or temperature switch!
Do not heat NC-batteries!
Do not short-circuit NC-batteries!
The acceptable supply voltage for the ARRIFLEX D-21
ranges from 20.5 to 36 V DC.
4.1. Mains Unit NG 12/26 R
Use of the mains unit is recommended for shooting in the
studio and when using electronic accessories with high
power consumption.
•First check that the correct mains voltage is set on the
mains unit.
•Ensure that the camera power is turned off.
•Set the voltage switch on the mains unit to 26 V.
•Plug the battery cable KC-20S or the spiral battery
cable KC-29S into the power supply socket on the
camera and into the 26 V-socket on the mains unit.
Note: The NG 12/24 R was the original design that
provided 12 & 24 volts output – it was
superseded by the NG 12/26 R, which outputs
12 & 26 volts. The NG 12/24 R can easily be
upgraded to NG 12/26 R specification at an
ARRI service Centre.
4.2. Battery NC 24/7 R
The battery NC 24/7 R has a capacity of 7 ampere-hours.
•Ensure that the main switch on the camera is off.
•Plug the battery cable KC-20S or the spiral battery
cable KC-29S into the power supply socket on the
camera and into the battery-socket.
Note: If the battery voltage is not sufficient for camera
operation, the "bat" symbol will show in the
camera display. Once the "bat" symbol starts
flashing, the signal output is about to terminate.
4.3. Charger NCL 24 R
Charge the NC 24/7 R battery with this charger.
•First check whether the correct mains voltage is set on the charger.
•Connect the charger to the mains supply.
•Plug the charger cable into the battery socket.
•Press the start button.
4.4. Main Camera Switch
The main camera switch is located on the front side of the camera ➪image. To connect the camera to a power supply:
•First switch on the mains unit (if used).
•Connect the camera to the mains unit or to the battery.
•Set the main camera switch to the "1" position to turn the camera on.
The camera has to boot before it enters standby mode.
Indication of the LEDs
LED Indication
Yellow Discharging (1A)
Red Charging
Green Charger connected to the
mains
Mains unit NG 12/26
Battery NC 24/7R
Charger NCL 24 R
Power supply socket

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 11
During booting, the operation control LED and imaging
status LEDs on the rear of the camera ➪image light up
red and the camera display shows the busy indicator.
When the camera is ready for operation, the operation
control LED turns off and the imaging status LEDs light
up green.
Do not operate the camera before all three imaging
status LEDs light up green! Using any of the camera’s
buttons before it is ready for operation may cause faulty
behaviour.
Note: When the camera is turned on, the mirror
shutter stays in the position it was set to
before the camera was turned off. If no image
can be seen through the viewfinder, briefly
press the PHASE button twice to rotate the
mirror into viewing position.
Setting the main power switch to the "0" position cuts off
the power supply.
4.5. Accessory Power Supply
12 V Accessories
12 V accessories can be attached to the 11-pin accessory
socket ➪image, which provides stabilised 12 V DC with
3 A maximum load.
The 11-pin accessory socket power output is not
electrically isolated from camera ground. Ground
loops may cause damage to camera or connected
12 V equipment.
Note: When the camera is powered from mains and a
12 V onboard monitor is powered from the
camera, running a video connection between
this monitor and another device that is also
powered from mains is likely to cause a ground
loop. The Isolating Power Adaptor IPA-1 (see
chapter 12: Accessories) provides a 12 V
isolated output from the camera to avoid ground loops.
Note: The 11-pin accessory socket can only be used as an output socket. Accessories that feed signals into the
camera will not function at this socket.
24V Accessories
24V accessories are normally attached to the RS-socket
➪image. At 24V, the available continuous current is
3A maximum, and peak load is 5A.
The RS-socket supplies the same voltage as the
camera power supply. Voltages over 32V will be
limited to 32V. In this case, the maximum
allowable continuous current is 2A. Ensure that
the accessories to be used are suited for the
available voltage!
Overload Display
If the current drawn at the accessory sockets exceeds the allowable maximum, a self-resetting safety circuit interrupts
the power supply and a red warning LED lights up ➪image. If this happens, turn the camera off, unplug all accessories
from the camera, wait for one minute and turn the camera back on.
RS-socket
Overload
warning LED
Overload warning
LED
11-pin accessory
socket
Imaging
status
LEDs

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 12
5. Installation of the Camera
5.1. Minimum equipment needed for operation:
•ARRIFLEX D-21/D-21 HD
•35 format lens with PL-Mount
•Power supply NG 12/26 R or battery NC 24/7 R and power supply cable KC 20S or KC 29S
•Video monitor with composite video IN (video menu operation) and optionally HD-SDI IN (signal monitoring)
•HD or Data recording unit including power supply and power cables
•HD control monitor attached to the recording device including power supply and cables
•75 Ohm BNC cable connection to video monitor
•75 Ohm HD compliant BNC cables for HD signal connection to recording unit and control monitor
Note: Details on signal connections, camera configuration and -operation are provided in the following chapters.
5.2. Packing, Storage and Transport
In order to prevent damage to the mirror shutter and the sensor, a protective cap must be on the lens mount
receptacle whenever no lens is attached (e.g. during transport or shooting breaks).
When the ARRIFLEX D-21 is transported or stored, cables have to be unplugged from the camera.
Note: It is recommend that when shipping the ARRIFLEX D-21 the ground glass is removed from the camera and
placed separately in the appropriate box.
Condensation
When moving the camera from a cool to a warm location or when the camera is used in a damp climate, condensation
may form inside the lens compartment, on the sensor cover galss and on the electrical connections.
Operating the camera in this state may cause a failure or even permanent damage.
To reduce the risk of condensation:
•Attach the included air-drying cartridge to the PL-Mount of the camera when the camera is stored in an environment
that is cooler than the location the camera will be used at.
•In ambient temperatures above 30 °C/86 °F and/or humidity above 60%, always attach the drying cartridge to the PL-
Mount of the camera, whenever the camera is not used. This not only applies to storage, but also to shooting breaks
and situations when the camera remains without a lens attached for an extended time.
When the ARRIFLEX D-21 is transported or stored inside a transport case, the air-drying cartridge has to be
removed.
5.3. Tripod and Remote Heads
Tripod heads and remote heads used with
the ARRIFLEX D-21 have to provide enough
load capacity to support the camera and
attached accessories. The table to the right
shows the camera weight for different
components.
Note: Check for the payload of remote
heads and cranes.
In applications where the camera mount is subject to high forces (e.g. car- or helicopter mounts) the camera must
be additionally secured with retaining cords. All fastening screws must be tightened firmly with an appropriate
screwdriver (not with the commonly used coin!).
Camera Weight lbs kg
ARRIFLEX D-21 incl. finder, eyepiece, bridge plate set, handle 25.0 11.4
ARRIFLEX D-21 camera body 19.0 8.6
ARRIFLEX D-21 HD camera body 18.8 8.5
Function expansion module FEM-2 1.8 0.8
Viewfinder and eyepiece 5.0 2.2
BP-8 base plate top 1.0 0.4
Finder extension FE-3 2.0 0.9
Low mode support 2.0 0.8
Flash mag mounting adapter FMA-1 3.0 1.2

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 13
5.4. Horizontal Levelling
The ARRIFLEX D-21 is equipped with a spirit level to aid
horizontal levelling of the camera ➪image.
Please use caution when attaching accessories or
a recording device to the camera or the support
rods as the center of gravity may shift towards the
front or back, which can tip over the camera.
5.5. Bridge Plate Set BP-8, BP-9
The bridge plates facilitate balancing of the camera on
the tripod and mounting of accessories.
BP-8 is designed for 19 mm support rods.
BP-9 is designed for 15 mm support rods.
The bridge plate sets consist of the base plate, bridge
plate, and a pair of 440 mm support rods. 19 mm support
rods with lengths of 165, 185, 240, 340 and 440 mm or
15 mm diameter support rods with lengths 340 and
440 mm are available separately as options.
Note: The bridge plate has to be adjusted to Super
35 for use with the ARRIFLEX D-21. This
ensures that the accessories are exactly
adapted to the optical center of the Super 35
format. This also applies when anamorphic
lenses are used (unlike with 35 mm cameras).
Attaching the Bridge Plate to the Camera
•Screw the wedge plate onto the base plate and lock
them onto the tripod head.
•Engage the two cylindrical pins on the bridge plate with
the corresponding holes in the camera base and fasten
it to the 3/8-16 threaded holes in the camera base with
the two slotted screws ➪image.
Note: Fastening the screws too tightly may cause
Putting the Camera on the Tripod
•Slide camera with the bridge plate into the dovetail-
guide of the base plate until the spring-loaded stop pin snaps back audibly. The camera’s position can then be fixed
with the clamping lever ➪image.
•Slide the support rods into the guides and clamp.
•Equip the camera with the required accessories to
determine the centre of gravity. Loosen the clamping
lever, and by sliding the camera on the base plate find
the optimal balance position. Then retighten the
clamping lever.
Removing the Camera from the Tripod
•Before removing the camera make sure that all cables
are disconnected and that the eyepiece levelling rod is
detached.
•Loosen the clamping lever, push in the stop pin and
then pull the camera with the bridge plate from the
base plate ➪image.
Spirit level
Bridge plate
Cylindrical pins
Screws
Base plate
Wedge plate
Stop pin
Support rod
clamping
lever
Bridge plate
Clamping lever
Support
rods

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 14
5.6. Lens Support
Heavy or long lenses require support to avoid overstressing the camera’s lens mount. Supporting a lens is achieved by
using either lens support LS-9 ➪image (for 19 mm support rods) or lens support LS-10 (for 15 mm support rods) in
conjunction with a lens support ring attached to the lens in use. They meet and screw together at a standard height.
•Mount the lens support onto the support rods from
above and let it snap into place by applying slight
pressure.
•Fit the appropriate support ring ➪image loosely onto
the lens. Do not tighten.
•Then slide the lens into the lens mount receptacle and
lock. It is essential that you take the weight of the lens
until the lens support is located under the support
column of the lens support ring.
•Connect the support ring to the lens support and
tighten the knurled screw as well as the clamping lever
➪image.
•Complete the process by tightening the clamp screw
➪image on the support ring.
Note: Mounting the support ring on the relevant lens
is usually carried out only once. The support
ring can then remain in position on the lens.
5.7. Grip System
The multipurpose grip system on the ARRIFLEX D-21 guarantees high stability through its fixed connection to the
camera body and provides numerous possibilities for attaching accessories. Five 3/8" inner threads allow attachment in
diverse positions ➪image.
Attaching Additional Handgrips
Additional handgrips can be screwed onto the grip
system in various positions as required. A safety
mechanism in the handgrip prevents loosening. This
mechanism is activated by tightly screwing in the
handgrips.
Before attaching a handgrip, make sure that the
3/8" threaded bolt is fully screwed out of the
handgrip.
Removing the Grip System
In order to minimize camera height, the entire grip system
can be removed.
•Using a 3 mm Allen key, loosen both the hexagon
screws ➪image in the strut and pull the grip system
upwards.
•To attach the grip system, proceed in the reverse
order.
Note: To provide an even sturdier handgrip system with additional attachment points for accessories, the camera
can also be equipped with the low mode short set. See chapter 12: Accessories for more information.
Grip system
Hexagon screws
Lens support LS-9
Knurled screw Clamp screw

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 15
6. Optics
6.1. Lenses
All 35 format lenses with a PL-mount can be used on the ARRIFLEX D-21. Lenses with a 41 mm standard or bayonet
mount cannot be used. Heavy and long lenses, such as zoom lenses, must be supported at all times.
Note: Although the filters in front of the sensor are coated and polished using high-precision technologies, slight
variations may cause a shaded structure in the output image depending on the aperture of the lens. Closing
the iris beyond T11 therefore is not recommended.
Lens Mount
The lens mount should always remain in Super 35 position (2) ➪image, although it is possible to rotate the lens mount to
Normal 35 configuration (1). Unlike with 35 mm cameras, this also applies when anamorphic lenses are used.
Changing Lenses
Changing camera lenses should be done in a dry and dust-free environment.
Before changing or removing a lens, always make sure to stop the mirror shutter. This not only prevents damage
to the shutter when a wrong lens (e.g. 16 format lens) is inserted by mistake. The shutter in "finder-open" position
acts also as a protective cover to the sensor (cover glass).
•Take care that no dust can enter the lens compartment
while no lens is attached.
•Remove the mounted lens or protective cap from the
lens mount receptacle by turning the bayonet ring
➪image counter-clockwise as far as it will go and then
pulling out the lens or protective cap.
Never put your fingers into the lens mount
receptacle.
•Push the lens to be used into the lens mount
receptacle without catching it at the edges. One of the
four slots on the lens mount must fit over the index pin
➪image.
•Press the lens flat onto the lens mount receptacle and
pull the bayonet ring clockwise to tighten.
Always perform a dust check after changing
lenses to make sure no dust has settled on the
sensor cover glass!
Note: When no lens is attached to the camera for an extended period of time, use the protective cap to avoid dust
entering the lens compartment. See chapter 13: Camera Care for dust check instructions.
Note: The sophisticated design principle of the camera’s optical module delivers outstanding images with cinematic
look and feel, but also makes the imager sensitive to contamination. Dust particles that have settled on the
sensor cover glass during a lens change may become visible as dark spots in the output image, similar to lint
leaving marks on exposed film. The degree of this effect depends on the aperture of the lens.
6.2. Viewfinder System
The ARRIFLEX D-21 has an optical reflex viewfinder
system with interchangeable ground glasses. The
viewfinder is adjustable in two axes, laterally extendable
for left eye operation and shows illuminated frame lines
(ARRIGLOW).
The viewfinder image stays upright and correct left-to-
right when the viewfinder is swivelled within the main
axis ➪image. Warning signals (BAT, ASY) are reflected
into the viewfinder.
Note: When the camera is turned on, the mirror
shutter stays in the position it was set to
before the camera was turned off. If no image
can be seen through the viewfinder, briefly
press the PHASE button twice to rotate the
mirror into viewing position.
Bayonet ring
handles
Index pin
Su
p
er 35 markin
g
Normal 35 marking

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 16
Eyepiece
The camera can be equipped with an 8x or 10x wide-angle eyepiece. The eyepiece can be extended with a medium (FE-
5) or a long (FE-3) finder extender.
Note: When a finder extender is used, the viewfinder image has to be manually rotated by 180°.
See ‘Image Orientation’ below.
Removing the Eyepiece
•Hold the eyepiece with one hand and with the other
turn the knurled ring ➪image in the "OPEN" direction
until it unscrews from the eyepiece.
•Remove the eyepiece.
Attaching the Eyepiece
•With the knurled ring in "OPEN" position, place the
eyepiece on the viewfinder.
•Turn the knurled ring towards the "LOCK" position.
•Check that the eyepiece is correctly seated.
Diopter Compensation
The diopter compensation is fitted with a scale of 1 to 12.
Position "6" is normal focus.
•To adjust, turn the ring right/left until the ground glass
markings are in focus.
Turning the Eyepiece
The eyepiece can be rotated by 360° around the
viewfinder arm. The adjusted position is held by friction.
•To set the amount of friction, turn the friction knob
➪image right/left until the desired friction has been
reached.
Viewfinder Arm
Swiveling the Viewfinder Arm
The viewfinder arm can be swivelled approx. 270° left to
right. On the left side of the camera the viewfinder arm
locks into the horizontal position. The viewfinder arm
friction can be altered if necessary by turning the Allen
screw ➪image.
•To adjust the viewfinder arm, release the locking
mechanism by pressing the unlocking key ➪image.
•Turn the viewfinder arm to the desired position.
Extending the Viewfinder Arm
The viewfinder arm can be extended continuously
by approx. 50 mm/2 inches.
•Turn the knurled ring ➪image towards the "LOOSE"
position.
•Pull the viewfinder arm out to the desired length.
•Retighten the knurled ring.
Image Orientation
The viewfinder system is fitted with an automatic image orientation mechanism. For certain situations the image position
can also be adjusted manually, e.g. when using a viewfinder extension, which rotates the image by 180°.
Friction knob
Unlocking key
Allen screw
Knurled
ring Viewfinder
arm
Scale
Knurled ring
Eyepiece

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 17
Manually Adjusting Image Orientation
•Press and hold the locking key ➪image.
•Turn the adjustment knob ➪image until the viewfinder
image is in the desired position.
Reactivating Image Orientation
•Turn the adjustment knob ➪image until this locks in
position. Do not press the locking key.
Note: The automatic image orientation mechanism
locks in two positions 180° apart.
Pivoting the Contrast Filter
To achieve a temporary subjective reduction of
viewfinder contrast, a contrast filter (ND 6) can be pivoted
into the optical beam path by means of a lever ➪image.
•The contrast filter is brought into the "ON" position by
turning the lever.
•Releasing the lever switches the contrast filter back
into the "OFF" position.
Removing the Viewfinder System
The entire viewfinder system can be removed for special
applications. Before removing the viewfinder system, the
viewfinder arm should be brought back to its normal
position.
Note: The camera should be securely placed on a
stable flat surface or fixed on a pivoting head
to provide a secure working environment.
•Loosen the three fastening screws using a 3 mm Allen
key ➪image.
•Pull the viewfinder system up and off the camera.
Removing the viewfinder system exposes optical
surfaces on both camera and viewfinder.
Do not touch the cover glasses!
Never operate the camera with an open viewfinder
interface!
If the camera shall be used without viewfinder system, the
viewfinder interface has to be protected using the
viewfinder cover plate ➪image from the D-21 low mode
support K2.70004.0 or low mode short set K2.70010.0:
•Place the viewfinder cover plate on the camera from
above.
•Tighten the three fastening screws.
•Store the viewfinder system in a clean environment
laying it upside down to avoid scratching the cover
glass.
Attaching the Viewfinder System
•Place the viewfinder system on the camera from above.
•Tighten the three fastening screws.
Lever for
contrast filter
Adjustment knob Locking key
Fastening screws
Viewfinder
cover plate

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 18
Universal Finder Arm*
When using anamorphic lenses, the D-21 can be equipped
with an AVF-1 universal finder arm ➪image, which allows
de-squeezed viewing of the ground glass image. This
viewfinder arm can also be switched over to check the
anamorphically squeezed image or for use with a spherical
lens. The universal finder arm can be fitted in place of the
standard viewfinder arm by a service center or in a rental
house.
•To switch the viewfinder image to spherical or
de-squeezed anamorphic viewing, turn the switching knob
➪image. The knob does not need to be unlocked.
All other functions are identical to those of the standard
spherical finder arm.
Note: Anamorphic capture requires the use of data
mode/ARRIRAW**. See chapter 7: Camera
Configuration.
6.3. Ground Glasses
The sensor aperture of the ARRIFLEX D-21 is slightly different from the camera aperture of the ANSI and DIN Super 35
format. Therefore, Super 35 ground glasses for ARRIFLEX 235/435/535 do not provide exact frame markings in the D-21
viewfinder image. For exact framing, only use ground glasses that are listed for digital ARRIFLEX cameras. For a list of
available formats, please check the D-21 price list.
Note: The D-21 sensor readout operates at full sensor aperture with 1.33:1 (4:3) aspect ratio up to a standard frame
rate of 25 fps. For frame rates of 29.97 or higher, readout operates at a reduced height with 1.78:1 (16:9)
aspect ratio while retaining the full sensor aperture width. In order to output the full sensor aperture up to 25
fps, at least one of the camera’s output boards has to be set to data mode**. The output boards always
provide the 1.78:1 (16:9) format in HD mode. To achieve a different aspect ratio (e.g. 1.85:1) from the HD/data
mode output, the recorded image has to be cropped in postproduction.
Exchanging the Ground Glass
•If the mirror shutter is not positioned in front of the
sensor, briefly press the PHASE-button in standby so
the shutter protects the sensor cover glass from
damage as far as possible.
•Before exchanging the ground glass, turn the camera
off with the main power switch and disconnect it from
the power supply!
•Remove the lens or the protective cap.
Do not touch the mirror surface!
Do not touch the sensor cover glass surface!
•Using the special forceps (Hirschmann clamp) from the
camera’s toolkit, pull the ground glass out of the holder by its tongue ➪image.
•Check that the ground glass to be inserted as well as the ground glass frame is completely clean.
•With the special forceps, push the chosen ground glass into the holder as far as it will go. The red marker point must
be on the left looking into the camera lens compartment. A ball catch fixes the ground glass exactly in the right
position.
•Check that the ground glass is correctly locked in place.
Note: Cleaning or exchanging the field lens, see chapter 16: Camera Care.
*Universal finder arm and anamorphic lens option not recommended for ARRIFLEX D-21 HD, as this model does not allow capturing
the full sensor height, which is required to obtain a 2.39:1 aspect ratio using anamorphic lenses.
** Data Mode output not available on the D-21 HD.
Field lens
Ground glass Tongue
Switching knob

ARRILFEX D-21/D-21 HD Instruction Manual 08/2008, Page 19
6.4. ARRIGLOW
The ARRIGLOW module is integrated in the viewfinder
system of the D-21. It allows illuminated format markings
to be superimposed onto the viewfinder image with
continuously adjustable brightness.
•To adjust the brightness of the illuminated format
markings turn the adjustment knob ➪image.
•To turn off the ARRIGLOW, turn the adjustment knob
counter-clockwise as far as it will go.
Exchanging the ARRIGLOW Mask
Each of the ground glasses available for the D-21 should
be used together with a matching glow mask. For a list of
available formats, please check the D-21 price list. To
exchange the glow mask:
•Remove the viewfinder system as explained above.
•Turn the viewfinder upside down and put it on a on a
clean surface that is covered with foam material or
clean, lint-free cloth.
•Open the ARRIGLOW cover by gently turning the
locking screw 90° counter-clockwise ➪image.
•Using the special forceps (Hirschmann clamp) from the
camera’s toolkit, grab the glow mask at the forceps
hole and pull it out of the holder ➪image.
•Check that the glow mask to be inserted as well as the
glow mask frame is completely clean.
•Carefully push the glow mask into the holder with the
slanted edge facing towards the rear end of the
viewfinder system ➪image without tilting it in the
holder’s guides.
•Make sure the glow mask is inserted completely.
•Close and lock the glow mask door by gently turning
the locking screw 90° clockwise.
•Attach the viewfinder system.
•Turn on the ARRIGLOW and check that ground glass
and glow mask are correctly aligned.
ARRIGLOW module
Adjustment knob
ARRIGLOW cover
Lockin
g
screw
Forceps hole
Slanted
edge
Forceps hole