Wireless iris control link loss and interference problems with Alexa follow focus systems

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2010Follow Focus forum

16 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

Iris control units experiencing signal loss and unexpected iris adjustments can result from inadequate wireless range between handsets and cameras in variable shooting conditions.
External antennas positioned away from the camera body and tent structures significantly improve wireless reception range for iris control units.
Swapping handset assignments so the more powerful unit goes to the operator furthest from cameras while the weaker unit stays closer can reduce signal loss incidents.
Bluetooth devices and Wi-Fi networks operating near wireless receiver modules or iris units can cause interference with iris control signals.
Metal tent structures and camera mounting positions create RF shadowing that degrades wireless iris control reception.
Powering down the iris unit after setting exposure stops eliminates control signal loss during actual shooting.
Hardwiring iris units bypasses wireless problems but removes the benefit of wireless control functionality.

Solutions tested on Alexa cameras with Preston wireless follow focus systems in 2010.
Crew resistance to disabling mobile phones on set makes some interference mitigation strategies difficult to implement.
Camera mounting constraints on Alexa limit optimal positioning of wireless receivers.
Complete elimination of all interference sources in active production environments is impractical.
Mixed generation wireless standards between handsets can cause compatibility issues.