What the thread found

• Preston and Scorpio systems have operated on the 2.4 GHz frequency for over a decade, which is the same frequency used by WiFi technology.
• The Arri CLM-2 motor has weaker performance and built-in cables with non-standard pinouts, limiting compatibility and requiring entire motor replacement for spares.
• The Arri CLM-3 motor offers improved strength and compatibility compared to the CLM-2, at a higher cost.
• Lower-cost digital alternatives to Preston and Scorpio systems were emerging, including the BFD with digital receiver and the HoFoPro, compatible with existing digital motors.
• Touch screen interfaces for focus pulling with face recognition and auto-assist features were being proposed to make focus pulling more accessible to less experienced operators, though reliable autofocus remains challenging across professional camera systems.
• Manual focus knobs provide a more natural and efficient workflow for trained focus pullers who calculate distances numerically.
• Touch screen-based focus systems were already being demonstrated by equipment manufacturers at the time of discussion, though they required large sensor boxes mounted above the lens.
• Focus pulling with monitors had become more accepted on high-end productions as an alternative to traditional distance-based methods.

Depends on

• Discussion occurred in 2010, making technology assessments dated.
• The Arri system assessment was based on an older CLM-2 motor model; newer CLM-3 motors addressed some complaints.
• Touch screen technology predictions were largely speculative and untested for professional work at the time.
• The Clairmont touch screen system was described as bulky and hard-wired, with unclear compatibility information.
• Autofocus performance in professional cameras was still unreliable, creating skepticism about automated focus solutions.
• Debate remained unresolved about whether automated focus would ever match skilled manual focus pulling.

Gear in this thread

HU3, BFD

Parts

Follow Focus

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