Libec High-Performance Field Broadcast Pedestal System: Outside Broadcast Platform (GH85 / P110B / PH-8B)

In electronic field production (EFP), multi-camera live sporting events, and remote outside broadcasting (OB), camera movements must maintain absolute precision. However, unlike a highly controlled indoor television studio, an outside broadcast environment demands a pedestal that can handle rugged transport, tight locations, and rapid layout changes on different surfaces while supporting heavy camera kits.

The Libec High-Performance Field Broadcast Pedestal System—meticulously configured with the flagship GH85 100mm continuous fluid head, the rugged P110B pneumatic column pedestal (OB Version), and a dual-set of PH-8B extendable pan bars—is engineered precisely to conquer this challenging environment. Supporting a heavy-duty system payload threshold of 30kg (66.0 lbs), this package represents Libec's premiere portable 100mm configuration for outdoor live broadcast trucks, sports journalism, and high-tier location filming.

1. P110B Pedestal Column & OB Dolly: Built for Outside Broadcasts

The core structural distinction of this system is the Libec P110B Pedestal Base. While the "S" variant is optimized for indoor studios, the "B" (Outside Broadcast) version is engineered for portable, rugged field work.

• Dual-Mechanism Pneumatic Control: The upper portion of the 2-stage column is air-pressurized, balancing the camera gear's downward weight against a pneumatically sealed cushion of air. An included high-pressure air pump allows operators to calibrate the pressure with the camera attached. This provides a fluid, zero-gravity vertical stroke of 75cm (29.5") that allows operators to adjust height mid-shot.

• Mechanical Lower Lockout: For long fixed-angle shots, the lower mechanical column securely locks into place, ensuring an absolutely rigid foundation with zero vertical drift.

• Double-Bearing Bottom Architecture: Heavy vertical panning can cause lesser pedestals to wobble or flex. The P110B integrates a heavy-duty double-bearing array at its base, isolating and neutralizing side-to-side micro-movements.

• DL-8B Outside Broadcast Dolly: The P110B is paired with the specialized DL-8B folding dolly. Built from high-strength aluminum alloy, it can be quickly disassembled from the column and folded up for space-saving storage inside broadcast trucks.

• Large 125mm (4.9") Single-Wheel Casters: Optimized for outside use, the dolly features oversized single-wheel casters that roll smoothly over cables, dock pavements, and temporary flooring. It includes a user-friendly foot-activated double-stopper mechanism that locks both wheel rotation and axle tracking simultaneously with a single touch.

2. GH85 Fluid Head: Continuous Counterbalance & Professional Metering

At the apex of this field package sits the Libec GH85, the definitive high-capacity 100mm fluid head built from entirely new molds to withstand rigorous field deployment.

• Continuous Perfect Counterbalance: Moving away from traditional stepped increments, the GH85 provides fully continuous internal spring adjustment. This lets operators dial in the exact tension to offset the weight of large viewfinders, field monitors, and teleprompters. Once balanced, the camera floats perfectly at any tilt angle (+90° to -70°) without dropping.

• Integrated Counterbalance Meter: A crucial feature for fast-paced remote sets, the built-in physical meter lets you visually verify the inner spring tension. This makes camera re-rigging and multi-operator swaps incredibly fast.

• 8-Step Drag System (7 + Free Mode): The premium, multi-layered metal structure pan and tilt drag unit features 7 steps of variable fluid friction alongside a zero mode for rapid tracking or whip-pans, delivering smooth, jitter-free cinematic tracking.

• Left-Side Accessory Ports: The casting includes native 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 threaded ports on the base. This allows you to bolt on articulated arms or external production accessories without mounting them to the camera cage, keeping your balancing parameters unaffected.

3. PH-8B Dual Extendable Pan Handles: Maximum Mechanical Leverage

Managing a fully outfitted 30kg broadcast camera rig requires significant physical control. This configuration includes a dual set of Libec PH-8B Extendable Pan Bars mounting to both rosettes of the GH85 head.

The PH-8B handles feature high-traction rubberized grips and an adjustable, telescoping aluminum-alloy shaft that extends from 400mm to 560mm (15.7" to 22.0"). This added length provides exceptional physical leverage, allowing operators to execute ultra-slow, sweeping panning shots or maintain steady control under heavy wind loads on location.

Key Technical Specifications:

• System Components: GH85 100mm Fluid Head, P110 Column, DL-8B OB Dolly, 2x PH-8B Pan Handles, and Air Pump

• Mounting Interface: Industry-Standard 100mm Bowl

• Maximum System Payload: 30 kg / 66.0 lbs (Including fluid head)

• Counterbalance Range: Continuous Perfect Balance (9 to 20kg / 20 to 44lbs at C.G. 125mm)

• Counterbalance Feedback: Built-In Visual Counterbalance Meter

• Fluid Drag Selection: 7 Selective Steps plus "Free" Zero Mode (Pan & Tilt)

• Elevation Columns: 2-Stage (Upper Column: Pneumatic Air-Balanced / Lower Column: Mechanical Lock)

• Vertical Stroke Range: 75 cm / 29.5" (Upper Stroke: 38cm / Lower Stroke: 37cm)

• Operational Height Range: 82.5 cm to 157.5 cm / 32.5" to 62.0"

• Caster Wheel Profile: Large 125 mm / 4.9" Single-Wheels for Location Use

• Dolly Utilities: Foldable Design, Multi-Position Foot Tracking Locks, and Double-Stoppers

• Total Pedestal Weight: 16.8 kg / 37.0 lbs (Excluding fluid head)

Why Choose the Libec GH85 / P110B / PH-8B System?

If you are searching for a mobile camera support investment that delivers studio-grade vertical mobility combined with rugged location durability, this package is an exceptional choice. By combining the continuous counterbalance accuracy and metered feedback of the GH85 head, the zero-gravity lift of the P110B pneumatic column, and the high-clearance tracking of the DL-8B outside broadcast dolly, Libec provides a professional toolset that guarantees stable, live broadcast frames on any production location.

Bring professional pneumatic stabilization to your outside broadcast package—order this Libec Field Pedestal System today!