2008Follow Focus forum
Connector angle selection for MDR2 follow focus power and camera run cables
18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Right angle connectors on both ends of the MDR2 can reduce cable loop-out compared to straight connectors, especially with stiffer cables.
- Straight connectors at the MDR2 work acceptably on most cameras including Panasonic, Sony, ARRI, and MvCam models.
- Right angle connectors on motor cables going into the camera can be positioned to avoid protruding near the operator's head on certain camera models.
- RED cameras require careful consideration with right angle Lemo connectors due to the way connectors are keyed on the camera body.
- Removing strain relief at the camera connector end can help reduce cable bulk and stiffness.
- Camera mounting position affects cable routing; cables emerge toward the operator when the MDR2 is mounted on the camera side for handheld or studio work.
- Cable connector angle preference varies based on camera model and shooting setup rather than being universally determined.
Depends on
- The discussion focuses on specific Preston cable products and their behavior; generalization to other manufacturers may not apply.
- RED camera compatibility issues with right angle connectors are mentioned but details of the limitation are not fully explained.
- Hirose connectors are mentioned as not available in right angle, but video connector requirements are not thoroughly addressed.
- Specific camera models mentioned include Panavision, RED, ARRI, MvCam, Panasonic, Sony, and Panasonic HPX3000, but the discussion may not cover all possible camera types.
Gear in this thread
Parts
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