What the thread found

• A wireless control system can operate cinema camera iris and zoom functions through an iPhone or iPod Touch interface using WiFi connectivity.
• The control interface allows users to set operating range limits by dragging fingers apart or together on the screen, restricting adjustments to only the desired range.
• The system supports landscape mode display of up to three cameras simultaneously and portrait mode selection of individual cameras.
• The control unit works with multiple motor brands including Preston and Scorpio systems and should function with any digital camera motor.
• The MDR receiver unit is physically smaller than a Preston HU3 battery charger.
• Using airplane mode with WiFi enabled on the control device prevents unwanted network interruptions during operation.
• Tactile feedback is absent compared to traditional mechanical focus pullers, requiring visual confirmation on screen rather than relying on muscle memory for precise adjustments.
• Noticeable latency exists in the wireless transmission, similar to older commercial follow focus systems.

Depends on

• The application was not released to the general public at the time of discussion, limiting widespread testing and feedback.
• Touch screen input lacks the tactile feedback that professionals depend on for precise iris and focus adjustments by feel alone.
• Operating via touch screen requires constant visual monitoring between the device and the camera action or monitor, unlike traditional mechanical controls.
• WiFi-based operation can be interrupted by cellular network interference unless manually disabled.
• The system introduces transmission delay comparable to older commercial wireless follow focus equipment.
• Practical suitability for fast-paced production work like Steadicam operation remains unproven.

Gear in this thread

HU3, MDR, BFD

Parts

Follow Focus

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