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
Parts
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