Loom in Virtual Production

Loom is a Systems Integration term in filmmaking. In virtual production, the nuances of this term take on special meaning. Here, we break down the definition to give you a starting point.

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Basic Definition:

What is Loom in virtual production?

A loom is a protective bundle of cables and wires that tethers equipment carts and other connection points. It plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of video and networking cables during long shoots on sets or stages with multiple cameras and crew members operating them. 

A loom allows for efficient setup times, so directors can focus on their craft instead of managing tangled cords and cables. They come in different sizes depending on the number of cables needed and usually involve velcro straps to help keep them organized and protected from wear and tear. Examples of looms used in virtual production are Gepco's Looming Kits, which offer reliable and cost-effective cable management solutions for many different productions, as well as MilCotsEQS's loop kits, which feature high-quality braided sleeving for extra protection against accidental damages. 

Loom bundles are not only crucial for the convenience they provide on set but also critical for protecting vital hardware components like video switchers, cameras, audio interfaces, and processors. By keeping these sensitive items shielded from outside interference while running along large pathways within a stage or production facility, loom bundles enable teams to capture and stream live content without worrying about signal interference or poor image quality due to faulty connections. In this way, looms play an integral part in creating successful and smooth productions.