Wireless follow focus system performance and reliability issues in field use

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

2014Follow Focus forum

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

DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.

Physical setup of the motor and receiver is straightforward, with secure mounting and durable cables
Calibration is simple and repeatable, though marks may not line up perfectly and recalibration is required after power loss
Motor movement occurs in large, violent steps that are felt through the camera rig despite not being visible on camera
Transmitter design prioritizes appearance over ergonomics and feels bulky and uncomfortable to hold
Lemo connector on the motor showed looseness after only three uses, raising durability concerns
Wireless range was severely limited to approximately 10 feet in a venue with multiple competing wireless systems operating on nearby frequencies
Connection loss causes jerky motor movement of approximately 3 degrees that is noticeable in the final image
System worked reliably when powered through a Dionic battery with dedicated power
Cost is comparable to used competing systems that offer significantly better performance and reliability

Test was conducted at a concert venue with heavy wireless interference from 30 channels of wireless microphones, a wireless camera, and intercom systems
Range test was not conducted in clear line of sight conditions
Initial confusion about Bolt transmitter frequency affected some observations
Focus puller's experience may have influenced some assessments
Competing system testing limited to one alternative brand