What is the “round” tripod plate used for?

Question

I have recently purchased a new tripod (Oben AC-1400 AL with BA-00 HEAD) and there is a round plate between the tripod and the head itself. It seems like it is meant to remain where it is but I think the head is more secure without it as it catches more thread on the screw the connects the tripod and the head.

Is the round plate necessary? what is it's purpose?

Edit: Added a model name, link and a picture showing the location of the plate.

Edit: Added a new image to show the screws on the plate and that they do not extend into any opening in the head itself.

Asked by Jakub

Answer

How does a head lock onto the tripod? Normally, you would screw the head onto the plate with a protruding 3/8"(?) screw, then beneath the plate where you screwed the tripod onto are three set screws that are screwed down to tighten against the head. Basically, the head is screwed on in one direction and the set screws push in the opposite direction. This creates a "lock" so that the head doesn't somehow work it's way loose, probably at the most inopportune time!

The round plate you picture looks like the plate I describe. There are three set screws, likely to push against the head. If you remove this plate, how does the head stay locked on the tripod? (I'm asking. I'm not familiar with this tripod so I don't know.) This round plate appears to have a hex center hole. I'm guessing that the hex center hole lines up on the tripod, so that this round plate can't spin. Then you screw the head onto the plate/tripod, and then you tighten the three set screws on this round plate.

Answered by Dan Wolfgang

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