SteadiHub
2009Follow Focus forum

Choosing and sourcing batteries for Preston HU3 follow focus units

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

What the thread found

  • Genuine Sony M-style batteries for the HU3 typically cost between $35 and $50 each, while significantly cheaper options under $20 are likely low-quality alternatives with poor cycle life.
  • Generic batteries at very low prices often deliver only 50 charge cycles before failure, whereas quality batteries provide 250-300 or more cycles.
  • The Power2000 NP-QM51 model from Japan does not work properly in the HU3 despite being marketed as compatible.
  • Third-party battery adapters exist that allow use of Sony-style batteries as an upgrade path, offering better capacity and features like fuel gauges compared to original equipment batteries.
  • Quality M-style third-party batteries can provide 10-16 hours of runtime depending on capacity, often at lower cost than original equipment while enabling more frequent replacement as consumables.

Depends on

  • Pricing information is from 2009 and may not reflect current market rates.
  • Some claims about battery lifespan and cycle counts are anecdotal observations rather than formal test results.
  • The mentioned third-party upgrade solutions and their long-term reliability have not been comprehensively validated across all user bases.
  • Runtime claims are described as occurring under unspecified normal operating conditions.

Gear in this thread

HU3

Parts

Follow Focus

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