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2011Follow Focus forum

HoFoPro wireless follow focus system design and performance characteristics

15 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

  • The redesigned system features a motor with only two moving parts, contributing to quiet operation and expected reliability.
  • The motor achieves approximately 250,000 steps of resolution per rotation with low backlash, allowing smooth focus return from both directions without jitter.
  • Auto-calibration works from any lens position including end stops, automatically triggering on power-up and motor reconnection in addition to manual button activation.
  • The system operates on 2.4 GHz frequency with output power between 20 and 60 mW, chosen for worldwide regulatory compliance across FCC, CE and other certifications.
  • The receiver unit is compact, approximately cigarette pack sized.
  • The system is compatible with Preston and Hedén digital motors, and the HoFoPro motor works with other digital follow focus systems.
  • Performance testing showed the motor handled Zeiss, Arri, and Angénieux lenses without difficulty.
  • The 2.4 GHz frequency demonstrated robustness at crowded events with interference from WiFi and other wireless equipment, though lower frequency systems may perform better in high-interference concert environments with obstacles like stage structures.

Depends on

  • The motor output power remained to be finalized at the time of posting.
  • Full multi-channel capability for simultaneous focus and iris or zoom control was planned as future development rather than included in the initial release.
  • Regulatory constraints limit the system to 2.4 GHz globally, preventing use of alternative frequencies with potentially better long-distance or high-interference performance.
  • One operator noted 2.4 GHz systems experienced failures during major concerts with 10,000 mobile devices and dense wireless equipment, where lower frequency alternatives remained functional.

Parts

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