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Bebob Zoe III remote zoom compatibility issues with newer Canon lenses

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

What the thread found

  • The Bebob Zoe III remote zoom may fail to zoom out or function at all when connected to newer-style Canon lenses such as 11x and 12x models, while older 9x lenses work without problems.
  • The issue appears to be connector-related, with the connector pins potentially too small to maintain reliable contact with newer lens connectors.
  • According to manufacturer feedback, newer Canon lenses have design modifications that prevent the Zoe from operating as intended, and the manufacturer was developing a modification to address compatibility.
  • Alternative zoom controllers such as Libec and Stanton models reportedly work without problems across different lens types.
  • Creeping zoom speed issues in Zoe units can sometimes be adjusted using the speed control dial on the side or by opening the unit to reseat internal connections, though this may not fully resolve the problem.
  • Adjustment potentiometers hidden under rubber caps on the lens servo can be tweaked to attempt resolution of zoom issues.

Depends on

  • The compatibility problem only affects specific newer Canon lens models, not all newer lenses.
  • No confirmation whether the Bebob modification for newer lenses was actually completed or released.
  • Some users reported issues may be related to moisture damage to internal contacts rather than connector design.
  • The suggestion to adjust internal components requires opening the unit and may void warranties.
  • Different users experienced different manifestations of the problem, suggesting multiple potential failure modes.
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