2011Follow Focus forum
Experiences and features of the Bartech BDR wireless follow focus receiver
15 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The BDR receiver is approximately one-third the size and weight of the standard BFD receiver.
- All control switches on the BDR are recessed to prevent accidental adjustment during operation.
- The receiver accepts power input between 10 and 30 volts and can draw up to 3 amps during operation.
- The BDR uses Lemo connectors for power and motor connections, compatible with standard BFD cables.
- The motor automatically calibrates and begins setting its end points as soon as power and motor connections are established.
- Unlike some competing systems, the motor does not move rapidly to its calibration marks during initial setup.
- The Heden M26VE motor is more compact and quieter than the M1 motor.
- Heden motors can mount gears on either side without requiring different hardware.
- Heden motors work with a variety of lens types including zoom lenses and prime lenses across multiple manufacturers.
- The BDR weighs 4.6 ounces (135 grams).
- An assistant can reverse motor direction either from the handset or directly at the receiver unit.
- Focus strips can be aligned by marking both the handset and focus strips, then matching the marks during calibration.
Depends on
- Heden motors may have limited throw when mounted on bottom base plate rods, particularly with smaller diameter lenses.
- Heden motor cable placement on some rigs may be susceptible to damage.
- The BDR lacks a hard-wired control connector, limiting its use for situations requiring camera operator control of focus.
- Motor availability issues were reported for the digital M-One motor.
- The security feature stops the motor at 3 percent before the lens reaches infinity or minimum focus distance, which may not suit all operational preferences.
Gear in this thread
Parts
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