SteadiHub
2009Follow Focus forum

Gimbal-mounted zoom control solutions for follow focus after Preston discontinued their analog microforce controller

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

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

What the thread found

  • Preston stopped manufacturing the gimbal-mounted microforce controller that was part of their analog package.
  • Gimbal-mounted zoom controllers can be used with different sized gimbal handles by fitting brown plastic rings inside the zoom control ring.
  • Third-party manufacturers have developed digital zoom control units designed to work with existing digital motors from multiple manufacturers including Preston, Heden, BTM, and Scorpio.
  • Gimbal-mounted zoom controllers are self-contained units that connect to camera sleds via power cables, with setup variations depending on the camera rig model.

Depends on

  • The discontinued status of the Preston gimbal controller may limit compatibility options for older setups.
  • The discussion predates current market availability and third-party solutions may have evolved since 2009.
  • Some claims about third-party product readiness were stated without confirmation of actual delivery or user experience.
  • Compatibility with specific camera systems and motor types requires verification for individual installations.

Gear in this thread

MDR

Parts

Follow Focus

Same gear or parts

  1. 2026Power loss on Trinity 2 / Artemis 2 with large cameras (A35, Venice): causes and battery solutions.DisputedFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  2. 2026Swapping an ARRI ALEXA 35 between tripod/studio and Steadicam® mounting: baseplate choice and fastest workflow.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  3. 2026Pulling focus and zoom yourself while operating, especially on live showsOperator practice
  4. 2025Custom servo zoom controller for Tilta Nucleus system using Bebob Zoe housing and 7-pin LEMO connectorFacebookSteadicam operators group
Read the original threadAsk about this threadThe answer cites the archive