2011Follow Focus forum
Preston DM4 micro motor for follow focus systems
15 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The DM4 is a compact motor designed for lightweight lenses in specialized applications like Steadicam and 3D rigs, weighing 250 grams complete with bracket and measuring 90x37x22mm.
- The motor uses polished metal gears coated with diamond-like carbon to reduce wear and maintain precision.
- DM4 is compatible with MDR-2, Digital Micro Force, and single channel Video Lens Control units, and uses the same protocol as earlier DM series motors.
- Maximum output speed is 1.8 revolutions per second with a peak torque of 1.15Nm, which limits its ability to move stiff lenses in cold conditions.
- The integrated bracket design makes motor placement easier in confined spaces compared to using separate dogbone and rod systems.
- An adapter exists to mount the DM4 onto standard PAM bracket setups, allowing vertical adjustment.
Depends on
- The integrated bracket may limit mounting flexibility in situations where motor placement conflicts with existing equipment or rod real estate.
- The motor is optimized for iris control and easy-to-move lenses rather than high-torque focus pulling on demanding lenses.
- No direct performance testing comparison data provided between DM4 and competing compact motors like Heden models.
- Price exceeds 2000 dollars, positioning it as a specialty tool rather than a general-purpose motor.
Gear in this thread
Parts
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