SteadiHub
2006Follow Focus forum

Preston MDR-2 follow focus connection failures in high temperature environments

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

What the thread found

  • A Preston MDR-2 experienced intermittent connection loss and failure to reset when operating in 100-degree heat, with the unit running hot to the touch, but functioned normally when cooled down indoors.
  • Temperature-sensitive connection issues in Preston follow focus units can be caused by thermal contraction of internal components like inductors, particularly affecting the hand unit transmitter.
  • Some Preston follow focus units have demonstrated reliability in extreme temperature and humidity conditions, including sustained operation at 30-40 degrees Celsius with near 100% humidity.

Depends on

  • The MDR-2 failure occurred in a single instance during one shooting day and may be isolated rather than indicative of a systematic design flaw.
  • Temperature sensitivity issues were reported on an older MDR-1 model, not the newer MDR-2, so applicability to current models is unclear.
  • One user noted reliable operation of competing equipment in extreme conditions, suggesting the Preston issues may not be universal across all units or environmental scenarios.
  • No resolution was provided for the reported high-temperature failure; the case was sent to the manufacturer for diagnosis.

Gear in this thread

MDR

Parts

Follow Focus

Same gear or parts

  1. 2026Power loss on Trinity 2 / Artemis 2 with large cameras (A35, Venice): causes and battery solutions.DisputedFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  2. 2026Swapping an ARRI ALEXA 35 between tripod/studio and Steadicam® mounting: baseplate choice and fastest workflow.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  3. 2026Pulling focus and zoom yourself while operating, especially on live showsOperator practice
  4. 2025Custom servo zoom controller for Tilta Nucleus system using Bebob Zoe housing and 7-pin LEMO connectorFacebookSteadicam operators group
Read the original threadAsk about this threadThe answer cites the archive