Compact HMI fixture at 1200W output, delivering daylight-balanced light in a small footprint.
Technical Details
The fixture operates with a 1200W HMI lamp at a color temperature of 5600K (daylight). The integrated electronic ballast (EVG) allows for flicker-free operation from 150 Hz and weighs approximately 8-12 kg together with the lamp head, depending on the manufacturer. The beam angle ranges from 55° (Flood) to 12° (Spot) as standard, achieved through adjustable lenses. Typical light intensities reach 12,000-15,000 Lux at a distance of one meter in spot mode. Modern variants feature DMX connections for remote control and electronic dimming functions from 50-100% without color temperature shift.
History & Development
ARRI introduced the first Compact series in 1995 in response to the growing demand for mobile HMI solutions. Previously, 1200W HMI fixtures required separate ballasts weighing up to 30 kg and cable connections. The development was based on miniaturized electronic ballasts that allowed integration into the lamp head. The second generation, with improved electronics and reduced weight, followed in 2005. Today, manufacturers like ARRI, Dedolight, and K5600 offer their own Compact variants with LED hybrids and app control.
Practical Use in Film
The Compact 1200 is particularly suitable for handheld camera work and quick location changes where large lighting setups are impractical. For exterior shoots, it serves as fill light or for illuminating shadows in daylight recordings. Gaffers appreciate the quick setup time of under two minutes without cabling to the ballast. Disadvantages include limited dimming capabilities compared to larger HMI systems and higher operating temperatures due to the compact design. The fixture is frequently used for interviews, documentaries, and low-budget productions.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to traditional 1200W HMI systems with external ballasts, the Compact 1200 offers significantly higher mobility with slight compromises in light output. LED panels like the SkyPanel S60 achieve similar light levels with lower power consumption but cost three times as much. Tungsten fixtures at 2500W achieve comparable brightness but require more power and produce warm light (3200K). For maximum flexibility, many productions today use hybrid setups combining Compact HMIs for hard shadows and LED panels for broad illumination.