2014Follow Focus forum
Preston MDR-1 follow focus not receiving power from Cinelive sled
12 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The MDR-1 requires 24V power, while some Cinelive sleds may operate in 12V mode by default
- Power delivery issues should be systematically diagnosed by metering voltage at each connector point along the cable run, from the sled output through the junction box to the final destination
- A cable rated for both 12V and 24V will only deliver 24V if the sled itself is configured to output 24V
- The MDR-1 was originally designed before Preston's voltage upconverter existed and may have different power requirements than newer accessories
- When an MDR-1 does not power on with a new sled, verify the sled's voltage setting, check all connectors for proper seating including the jumper block and centerpost cable, and confirm correct pin assignment on the power connector
Depends on
- The original owner's MDR-1 specifications may differ from newer models
- The issue remained unresolved at the end of the thread despite trying multiple new cables
- A booster circuit or used Preston converter may be needed as an alternative solution
Gear in this thread
Parts
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