SteadiHub
2018Follow Focus forum

Compatibility between analog Bartech follow focus handsets and digital motor systems

What the thread found

  • Analog Bartech handsets can be used with digital receivers despite being designed for analog systems
  • A digital PLC receiver is required to connect a Bartech handset to digital motors like those from Preston
  • Most Bartech handsets work with both analog and digital receivers without modification, though some older units with obsolete software may require a CPU chip upgrade costing around 45 dollars
  • CForce motors with 4-pin connectors are incompatible with standard 7-pin digital motor drivers because they use a proprietary serial protocol
  • Multiple motor types can be run in parallel on the same follow focus system by using separate analog and digital receivers on different channels

Depends on

  • Only a small percentage of older Bartech handsets with obsolete software require upgrading
  • The exact software compatibility details were not fully explored in the discussion
  • CForce motor compatibility specifically depends on connector type and proprietary signal requirements

Gear in this thread

BFD

Parts

Follow Focus

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