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MDR

143 threads in the archive

Based on 143 threads · 57 cited

AI draft, not reviewedDraft, written by AI from the archive, every statement linked to its source — not yet reviewed.

The MDR is Preston's motor driver receiver, and on a Steadicam® rig you can mount it on the camera body, under the camera plate, on 15mm rods, on a J box or on a stage bracket, and on a Trinity you put it as far back as you can 12345. Power it from the sled, not the camera body, because RED cameras can shut down when the follow focus runs off camera power 4950. Check your hand unit and board generations match, and if you lose signal, look at channel clashes and nearby wireless gear first 12134445.

The questions 9

Where can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?13 threads · latest 2023

In short

Mount it on the camera body, under the camera plate, on 15mm rods, on a J box or on a stage bracket, depending on your rig 1234. On a Trinity, put it as far back as you can 5.

How the pros do it

  1. Mount it to the camera body, not the sled, if you switch between rig, handheld, crane and dolly shots 1. You keep remote focus without recalibrating 1.
  2. For rods, XCS makes an MDR3 bracket that fits 15mm rods 6. The Skipps Engineering Modular bracket clamps onto 19mm rods, or smaller rods with reducer bushings 2.
  3. For the camera body, the Skipps Modular bracket puts the MDR directly under the camera mounting plate 2. A cheeseplate mount gives 116 mounting location and orientation combinations and works where the camera has no accessory rods 7.
  4. On an MK-V J Box, use the pre-tapped holes on each side with a V3 focus mount, and fit an H-shaped bracket on the MDR2 first 3. On a Betz top stage, PRO Hill brackets attach to the stage rods and take an MDR3 or MDR2 4.
  5. If you move the MDR between rigs, Element Technica V-mount hardware lets it stay mounted while you reposition it 8. Fitting it to a sled with existing focus gear needs a custom mating plate 8.
  6. The Preston MDR3 bracket mounts the unit right-side up while the PRO bracket hangs it upside down 89. With Cinelive upper J boxes, 90-degree connectors on the motor power and on-off cables solve the cable clearance problem 9.

Opinions differ here

On the ARRI Trinity, many operators carry a dedicated lightweight focus system instead of the AC's MDR, because an MDR in the gimbal head adds weight and complicates switching to studio setups 11. Another operator mounts the MDR4 on an ALEXA 35 as far back as possible so it works as a counterweight to the sensor and lens 5.

What changed

Earlier, in 2012, operators velcroed the MDR under the stage with 2M Dualock 10, today, as of 2017, PRO Hill brackets clamp it to Betz stage rods 4.

Ask a follow-up
Which Preston hand units and boards work with which MDR versions?9 threads · latest 2016

In short

HU2 pairs with MDR2 only when both carry G3 boards, and HU3 pairs with MDR2 once it has a G4 board 1213. MDR1 has its own hardware and does not take MDR2 boards 13.

How the pros do it

  1. For an HU2 with an MDR2, put G3 boards in both units 13. Preston stopped making G3 boards, so you find them used from people upgrading 13.
  2. For an HU3 with an MDR2, swap the MDR2's G3 board for a G4 board that handles 2.4GHz frequency selection 12. G4 boards work only with HU3 and single-channel MDR2, not with HU2 13.
  3. Don't mix generations, because G4 boards are not backward-compatible with older components and the HU2 cannot be upgraded 14. Budget for a full system upgrade at $450 per wireless component 14.
  4. Don't swap boards between MDR1 and MDR2, since they use different transmitter hardware 13. An MDR-1 hand unit won't talk to an HU-2 unless the HU-2 was modified to older MDR-1 standards 12.
  5. Motor and power connectors are identical on MDR1 and MDR2, but the camera run/stop connection differs 1516.
  6. For the newer Gimbal Micro Force, use an MDR3, because it connects to the MDR3 analog input and is not compatible with MDR2 or MDR1 1718.

Opinions differ here

Sources split on torque settings for the MDR-1 1216. A 2013 thread says the MDR-1 hand unit includes torque settings, though that same thread notes a claim about torque was disputed and corrected 12. A 2016 thread says the MDR-1 lacks torque adjustment and normally needs recalibration after power loss 16.

What changed

Earlier, in 2013, a thread said the MDR-1 hand unit includes torque settings 12, while today, in 2016, a thread says the MDR-1 lacks torque adjustment 16.

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How does Preston wireless focus compare with other systems?9 threads · latest 2016

In short

Preston is the North American default: three channels, broad acceptance, deep rental stock, and a higher price 192021. Bartech is cheaper and reliable, Cmotion has newer features, and Arri adds digital-camera control 22202123.

How the pros do it

  1. Know what Preston gives you: three servo channels for focus, iris and zoom, 2.4 GHz with 29 frequencies, and 16-bit resolution 19. Bartech's BFD is single-channel, 900 MHz, 10 frequencies and 12-bit 19.
  2. Weigh the price. Preston rental in England ran about double Bartech 19. Two BarTech Digital Receiver systems cost about the same as one Preston single-channel system 22.
  3. Check motor and cable compatibility 24. The Varizoom system uses the same 7-pin Lemo 1B motor connector as the MDR2, but its power and camera on/off connectors differ, so you need new cables 24. The BarTech Digital Receiver also drives Preston and Heden motors 22.
  4. Look at Arri if you shoot digital 21. The WCU-4 can control shutter and frame rate on Alexa Plus cameras, which Preston cannot do on digital cameras 21. It also has lens mapping and reads Cinetape, C-Laser, Cine Ranger and Sniper without converter boxes 21.
  5. Test for interference 2225. The BarTech Digital Receiver avoids common 2.4 GHz sources, though some 900 MHz wireless headsets can interfere with it 22. An early Tilta system showed interference when run near Preston wireless 25.
  6. Let the focus puller decide 20. Preston mixes with other operators' gear and is easier to rent out or resell, but Cmotion Cvolution offers an LCD with depth of field data and an RFID lens database reader 20.
Caution

Too much motor torque can flex equipment and damage lens mechanisms or lens mounts 26. Check what the system does on power loss, because some designs drive the focus motor uncontrolled to minimum focus distance 23.

Opinions differ here

One side says the higher resolution and bit depth give a measurable edge on anamorphic night work and precise repeatable moves 19. The other side says older low-resolution units like the Seitz performed adequately on professional productions, and the 12-bit versus 16-bit gap may not be perceptible in all conditions 19. Wireless reliability is also contested, since one user reported RF issues with Cmotion and another reported none 20.

What changed

Earlier, in 2005, the comparison was Preston against the single-channel Bartech BFD 19, while today, by 2015, the field also includes ARRI, C-motion, Heden Carat, Axis1 and Microremote 23.

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Can I control zoom or iris wirelessly with my Preston hand unit?7 threads · latest 2025

In short

Zoom, yes: a wireless zoom module talks to the MDR, though it can lose the link 27. Iris depends on your generation, since single channel Preston wireless controllers only work within the same generation and original FIZ needs a cable 28.

How the pros do it

  1. For zoom, run the wireless zoom module with the MDR and put HU III software 1.13 on it, which addresses stability and zoom channel communication problems 27.
  2. Update MDR-2 firmware yourself with a serial cable, a home computer and the software from the manufacturer's website 27. Older MDR units may need that update to work with newer zoom products 27.
  3. For iris, match generations: single channel controllers work with G3, G4 and G4 blue dot only within the same generation 28.
  4. On an original FIZ, iris needs a hardwired cabled remote 28. On a FIZ 2, a digital Bartech controller works as an alternative 28. No wireless iris method was found for original FIZ 1 or non-G3 HU2 28.
  5. If the iris link drops, move the antenna away from the camera body and tent structures 29. Keep Bluetooth devices and Wi-Fi away from the receiver 29.
  6. Give the more powerful handset to the operator furthest from the cameras 29. Power down the iris unit after setting exposure, which eliminates signal loss during the shot 29.
Caution

A wireless zoom module can lose communication with the MDR and cause sudden unwanted zoom moves during filming 27. Going from cold outdoors to warm indoors can cause moisture damage and display failure, and an in-shop firmware upgrade addresses it 27.

What changed

Earlier, in 2009, Preston had stopped making its gimbal-mounted microforce controller and third-party digital units filled the gap 30, today in 2025 the G-Zoom MDR-ZF and the BUZ3 box are the market options, both with a separate control box 31.

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What cable or pinout connects my MDR to the camera?9 threads · latest 2015

In short

For an Alexa you need a 3-pin Fischer start/stop cable wired MDR pin 2 to Fischer pin 1 and MDR pin 5 to Fischer pin 3 32. The Amira uses the same 3-pin connector, so Alexa cables work there too 33.

How the pros do it

  1. Alexa: wire MDR pin 2 to the 3-pin Fischer pin 1 and MDR pin 5 to Fischer pin 3 32. That pinout comes from one operator's personal notes, not official documentation 32.
  2. Amira: use your existing Alexa run/stop cable, because the connector is the same 3-pin 33. The Amira has only one Run/Stop 3-pin port 33.
  3. RED: the camera side is a Lemo 1B-310 with pin 1 ground and pin 5 record trigger input 34. The Preston camera run connector is a Lemo 2B-312 with pin 1 ground, pins 3 and 4 carrying the run signal at 30mA max 34. A direct pin-to-pin connection with the grounds aligned was suggested, but the thread never confirmed the full wiring scheme 34.
  4. RED run/stop that worked before and now fails: check the GPI trigger settings, because the first pulse must start recording and the second must stop it 35. If both pulses are set identically, the stop command fails 35.
  5. Connectors: right angle ends at the MDR can cut cable loop-out, especially with stiff cables 36. Be careful with right angle Lemo connectors on RED, because of how the connectors are keyed on the camera body 36.
Ask a follow-up
Which motors, including Hedén, work with my Preston MDR?8 threads · latest 2016

In short

Preston's own digital motors (DM-1, DM-2, DM-3, DM-1X) are plug-and-play 37. Hedén digital motors, Scorpio and Hocus Focus HFM-1 with 7-pin digital connectors also work with the MDR1 38.

How the pros do it

  1. Start with Preston's own digital motors: the DM-1, DM-2, DM-3 and DM-1X are plug-and-play 37. The DM-1X is the higher-torque, lighter version of the DM-1 37.
  2. Hedén digital motors like the 26VE or 21VE work with Preston HU1 and MDR1 systems 39. The M26VE also works with the MDR2 driver 40.
  3. Scorpio motors are mechanically identical to the Preston DM-2 and drop in as plug-and-play replacements 37. Hedén motors use the same base motor as the DM-2 37.
  4. Check that the motor is digital with an encoder, because Preston systems do not accept analog motors with potentiometers 39. Hedén analog P-series motors like the m28-vp and m26p do not work, and Tilta motors have a matching Lemo 1B 7-pin connector but different pinouts, so they are incompatible 39.
  5. On an MDR3, test before you commit: three older M26VE motors lagged on fast close-to-infinity racks while the DM1X showed no delay 41. Older M26VE units needed firmware updates to work well with the MDR3 41. The Chrosziel CDM-100 with its Lemo 1B connector is confirmed with MDR3 firmware 21.88 42.
  6. Watch your supply voltage: an MDR-1 runs on 12V without a booster, but motors run slower and weaker 43. A 24V booster roughly doubles motor speed compared to 12V 43.

Opinions differ here

Operators were not sure whether the MDR needs modification to run Hedén motors, and the thread also cited outdated Hedén website information on compatibility 40. Later threads simply list Hedén digital motors as compatible with the MDR1 without mentioning any modification 3839.

What changed

Earlier, in 2007, the Hedén M26VE was described as working with the MDR2 driver 40, today, in 2014, older M26VE units on the MDR3 showed lag and needed firmware updates to work well 41.

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Why do I keep losing wireless signal or getting interference on my MDR?8 threads · latest 2015

In short

Most often it is channel clashes or other wireless gear close to your MDR, and sometimes it is a hardware fault 4445. Work through channels and distance first, then power, antennas and the unit itself 444645.

How the pros do it

  1. Check the HU-3 display to see which channels are in use around you 44. Channel 30 is the same as channel 0, so don't treat them as separate 44.
  2. Don't park MDR units side by side, because that causes glitches 44. If you run several Preston systems, pair them on odd and even channels and stay at ten systems or fewer 45.
  3. Move away from the interfering source if you can, because it may be other wireless gear and not your MDR 44. Keep the channel interference reference table handy for troubleshooting on location 44.
  4. If your MDR shares a sled with a Decimator II, power each from its own supply 46. Moving the Decimator to the top of the camera body eliminated the interference in one case 46.
  5. Swap antennas as a troubleshooting step 45. A faulty transceiver or receiver board in an MDR2 caused dropouts, and replacing it fixed one documented case 45.
  6. Early MDR-3 units had booster board failures that killed the motor control signal while the power indicators stayed on, and they were recalled 47. One MDR-2 also lost connection in 100-degree heat and worked again once cooled down indoors 48.
Ask a follow-up
Can I power my MDR from camera or sled power?7 threads · latest 2014

In short

Power it from the sled, not the camera body 49. The sources say RED cameras can shut down when the follow focus runs off camera power 5049.

How the pros do it

  1. Run the camera from its own battery and feed the MDR from the sled batteries 49. A separate battery plate with its own D-tap keeps voltage drops from killing the camera 49.
  2. Skip the camera accessory ports and the P-tap for follow focus power 50. They have caused shutdowns and failures to power on 5049.
  3. Match the voltage to your model 51. The MDR-1 is rated 10.5 to 30 volts DC and the MDR-2 10 to 48 volts DC 51. An MDR2 runs at 12 volts and works down to 11 volts 52.
  4. If an MDR-1 stays dead on a new sled, check the sled's voltage setting first 53. Some Cinelive sleds default to 12V, and a 12V/24V cable only gives you 24V if the sled is set to 24V 53.
  5. Meter the voltage at every connector from the sled output through the junction box to the MDR 53. Check the seating of the jumper block and centerpost cable and the pin assignment on the power connector 53.
  6. Before you add the MDR to the sled's load, confirm the total draw is within the sled's specs 54. Expect a current spike of about 1 amp per motor at the end stops during calibration 52.
Caution

Motors pulled to the lens end stop draw extra current and can blow a fuse that is rated too low 49. Reversed polarity on a P-tap breakout can trip the camera's thermal fuse and shut it down for a few minutes 50.

Opinions differ here

On the MDR-1, a 2006 thread says it can run on 12 volts within its 10.5 to 30 volt rating 51. A 2014 thread says it requires 24V and fails to power on from a sled in 12V mode 53. On camera power, some users reported success with P-tap powering while others had consistent problems 50, and users were also unsure whether a D-tap could supply enough current 52.

What changed

Earlier (2006) the MDR-1 was said to run on 12 volts within its 10.5 to 30 volt rating 51, today (2014) one thread says it needs 24V and that some sleds default to 12V 53.

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How do I balance my rig with an MDR and motors?5 threads · latest 2024

In short

Mass above the gimbal has to be compensated, so keep it close to the post and add top weight where needed 5556. Every rig is different, so there is no universal formula 55.

How the pros do it

  1. Keep anything mounted above the gimbal as close to the center post as you can, and mount accessories close to the camera body 55.
  2. Start static balance with the camera about one inch behind the center of gravity 55. With a heavy body and a big cinema lens, start with the camera at the center of the post so you have room to move batteries back 55.
  3. Add weight on top to offset motors and accessories 55. On a Trinity with a Venice 2, one operator balanced with a single 150 g top weight, and a second cforce mini motor or a Cinetape would have removed the need for it 56.
  4. Budget about 500 g of extra counterweight for Cinetape, Focus Bug and accessory horns 11.
  5. Mount the MDR on the camera rather than under the lens or on the sled, which keeps the sled very short 57. On a Trinity, a short, deep, bottom-heavy build performs significantly better than one with top-mounted receivers 11.
  6. Check dynamic balance with the whole setup built: the center of gravity should land roughly one to two inches behind the center post 55.

Opinions differ here

One mounts the MDR on the camera to keep the sled short and speed up mode changes 57. On Trinity, many carry a lightweight focus system because an MDR in the gimbal head adds weight, and they find top-mounted receivers perform worse 11. Another ran a Preston MDR4 above the rig on a Trinity, where it just barely cleared the motor heads with longer lenses 56.

Ask a follow-up

Sources 57

  1. 1Preston motorized follow focus mounting options for camera-based attachment instead of rig-based mountingFollow Focus forum · 2004
  2. 2Mounting a Preston MDR bracket on camera rigsBrackets/Widgets forum · 2011
  3. 3Mounting an MDR2 follow focus unit to an MK-V J BoxFollow Focus forum · 2011
  4. 4Mounting an MDR focus controller on a Betz top stageCamera Stage/Donkey Box forum · 2017
  5. 5Mounting Preston MDR4 focus motor and Light Ranger iris control on an ALEXA 35 on the ARRI TrinityFacebook · Arri Artemis Trinity · 2023
  6. 6Mounting bracket options for MDR3 camera support on 15mm rodsBrackets/Widgets forum · 2014
  7. 7Custom cheeseplate mounting bracket for Preston MDR focus controllersBrackets/Widgets forum · 2013
  8. 8Mounting options for Preston MDR-3 focus control unit on camera rigs and steadicam sledsBrackets/Widgets forum · 2014Disputed
All 57 sources
  1. 9MDR3 bracket compatibility and mounting options for cinema follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2014
  2. 10Mounting a Preston MDR unit onto a Zephyr camera support systemFollow Focus forum · 2012
  3. 11Choosing between a dedicated lightweight focus system and integrating the AC's Preston setup on ARRI Trinity: balance, workflow, and motor compatibility.Facebook · Arri Artemis Trinity · 2021Disputed
  4. 12Compatibility and technical differences between Preston FIZ hand units and motor drive receiver modelsFollow Focus forum · 2013
  5. 13Preston follow focus handset and receiver compatibility across models and board generationsFollow Focus forum · 2013
  6. 14Preston G4 wireless board upgrade compatibility and performance issuesFollow Focus forum · 2010Disputed
  7. 15Connector compatibility between MDR1 and MDR2 follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2015
  8. 16MDR-1 follow focus system specifications and compatibility differences from MDR-2Follow Focus forum · 2016
  9. 17Preston Gimbal Micro Force compatibility with different MDR controller modelsFollow Focus forum · 2016
  10. 18Preston MDR3 follow focus controller new features and practical observationsFollow Focus forum · 2013
  11. 19Cost and capability comparison between Preston FI+Z lens control system and Bartech BFD single-channel focus deviceFollow Focus forum · 2005Disputed
  12. 20Comparing Preston FIZ and Cmotion Cvolution wireless follow focus systems for purchase decisionFollow Focus forum · 2012
  13. 21Comparison between Preston HU3/MDR series and Arri WCU-4/UMC4 follow focus systems for cinema productionFollow Focus forum · 2014Disputed
  14. 22Comparison of wireless follow focus systems: VariZoom, BarTech, Hocus Focus, and PrestonFollow Focus forum · 2010
  15. 23Evaluation of TILTA wireless follow focus system and alternatives in professional cinemaFollow Focus forum · 2015
  16. 24Compatibility between Varizoom wireless follow focus controller and Preston camera control systemsFollow Focus forum · 2011
  17. 25Early evaluation of Tilta WLC-T02 wireless follow focus system in pre-release stageFollow Focus forum · 2016
  18. 26Wireless follow focus systems for HD cinema lenses on steadicam rigsFollow Focus forum · 2007
  19. 27Preston HU III software upgrades and hardware issues related to wireless zoom control and moisture damageFollow Focus forum · 2007
  20. 28Wireless iris control options for Preston FIZ and HU hand unitsFollow Focus forum · 2017
  21. 29Wireless iris control link loss and interference problems with Alexa follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2010
  22. 30Gimbal-mounted zoom control solutions for follow focus after Preston discontinued their analog microforce controllerFollow Focus forum · 2009Disputed
  23. 31Custom servo zoom controller for Tilta Nucleus system using Bebob Zoe housing and 7-pin LEMO connectorFacebook · Steadicam operators group · 2025
  24. 32Preston MDR pinout for Arri Alexa 3-pin Fischer start stop cable connectionFollow Focus forum · 2013
  25. 33Run/Stop cable compatibility between Alexa and Amira cameras with MDR2 recorderFollow Focus forum · 2015
  26. 34Preston MDR 2 to RED camera cable pinout specificationsFollow Focus forum · 2009
  27. 35Run/stop cable compatibility issues between Preston MDR2 controller and RED cameraFollow Focus forum · 2009
  28. 36Connector angle selection for MDR2 follow focus power and camera run cablesFollow Focus forum · 2008
  29. 37Compatibility of digital follow focus motors with Preston systems and alternatives to Preston motorsFollow Focus forum · 2009
  30. 38Compatible motors for Preston UHF follow focus system with MDR1 receiverFollow Focus forum · 2014
  31. 39Compatibility between Heden motors and Preston follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2014
  32. 40Compatibility and performance of Hedén M26VE motors with Preston follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2007
  33. 41Compatibility and performance issues between Preston MDR3 follow focus and Heden M26VE motorsFollow Focus forum · 2014Disputed
  34. 42Chrosziel CDM-100 digital lens motor specifications and compatibilityNews, Events, Workshops forum · 2016
  35. 43Preston follow focus system compatibility with digital motors and 24V booster functionalityFollow Focus forum · 2015
  36. 44MDR wireless follow focus units experience interference when operating multiple units close together or near other wireless equipment on incompatible channelsFollow Focus forum · 2008
  37. 45Preston FIZ III wireless communication dropouts between HU3 handset and MDR2 motor control unitFollow Focus forum · 2012
  38. 46Electromagnetic interference between Preston MDR and RedByte Decimator devices on camera rigVideo Assist and Video Accessories forum · 2011
  39. 47MDR-3 booster board failure and recallFollow Focus forum · 2015
  40. 48Preston MDR-2 follow focus connection failures in high temperature environmentsFollow Focus forum · 2006
  41. 49Power supply considerations when using follow focus systems with RED camerasFollow Focus forum · 2010
  42. 50Powering Preston follow focus equipment with the RED cameraFollow Focus forum · 2008Disputed
  43. 51Powering Preston follow focus systems with 12-volt camera rigsFollow Focus forum · 2006
  44. 52Powering Preston follow focus receivers from camera D-tap connections on Sony F900 camerasFollow Focus forum · 2009Disputed
  45. 53Preston MDR-1 follow focus not receiving power from Cinelive sledFollow Focus forum · 2014
  46. 54Power distribution solutions for FlyerLE camera stage to support multiple peripheralsCamera Stage/Donkey Box forum · 2011
  47. 55Balancing camera rigs when mounting Preston focus controllers or ARRI cameras to donkey boxesCamera Stage/Donkey Box forum · 2010
  48. 56Mounting Sony Venice 2 on ARRI Trinity with SAM-0 plate: build configuration and balancing strategies.Facebook · Arri Artemis Trinity · 2024
  49. 57Balancing and shortening a Steadicam® rig with a heavy zoom lens (14–15 lbs).Facebook · The Steadicam Group · 2023

What operators found

Still argued about

  1. 2026Power loss on Trinity 2 / Artemis 2 with large cameras (A35, Venice): causes and battery solutions.FacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  2. 2021Rigging a RED Komodo on Steadicam®: weight distribution, arm setup, and rig choice for a compact, lightweight camera.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  3. 2021Choosing between a dedicated lightweight focus system and integrating the AC's Preston setup on ARRI Trinity: balance, workflow, and motor compatibility.FacebookArri Artemis Trinity

Often in the same threads

ALEXA 353, Base Plate8, Zephyr7, Follow Focus65, Top Stage9, FI+Z19, HU322, CineLive5, Low Mode8, Donkey Box4, Docking Bracket3, BFD13

All threads

  1. 2026Power loss on Trinity 2 / Artemis 2 with large cameras (A35, Venice): causes and battery solutions.DisputedFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  2. 2025Custom servo zoom controller for Tilta Nucleus system using Bebob Zoe housing and 7-pin LEMO connectorFacebookSteadicam operators group
  3. 2024Mounting Sony Venice 2 on ARRI Trinity with SAM-0 plate: build configuration and balancing strategies.FacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  4. 2023Balancing and shortening a Steadicam® rig with a heavy zoom lens (14–15 lbs).FacebookThe Steadicam Group
  5. 2023Mounting Preston MDR4 focus motor and Light Ranger iris control on an ALEXA 35 on the ARRI TrinityFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  6. 2022Powering the Arriflex S35 camera from a PRO Sled with 24V batteriesGeneral Discussion
  7. 2021Rigging a RED Komodo on Steadicam®: weight distribution, arm setup, and rig choice for a compact, lightweight camera.DisputedFacebookSteadicam operators group
  8. 2021Choosing between a dedicated lightweight focus system and integrating the AC's Preston setup on ARRI Trinity: balance, workflow, and motor compatibility.DisputedFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  9. 2021Balancing camera weight in Wave gyroscope stabilizer to achieve proper operationWave/Volt
  10. 2020Choosing between converting a Pro gimbal or purchasing a Volt gimbal systemWave/Volt
  11. 2018Anton Bauer XT and Titon G90 battery specifications and practical performanceBatteries/Power
  12. 2017Mounting an MDR focus controller on a Betz top stageCamera Stage/Donkey Box
  13. 2017Wireless iris control options for Preston FIZ and HU hand unitsFollow Focus
  14. 2017Power requirements and mounting challenges when operating the Alexa 65 camera on a Steadicam rigCameras (Film/Video/HD)
  15. 2016Repair options for discontinued Preston FIZ II and MDR2 follow focus unitsFollow Focus
  16. 2016Qbranch Omega Lite gimbal system problems and potential solutionsDisputedGeneral Discussion
  17. 2016Chrosziel CDM-100 digital lens motor specifications and compatibilityNews, Events, Workshops
  18. 2016Whether Steadicam operators need to own their own wireless follow focus systems in modern production environmentsFollow Focus
  19. 2016Early evaluation of Tilta WLC-T02 wireless follow focus system in pre-release stageFollow Focus
  20. 2016MDR-1 follow focus system specifications and compatibility differences from MDR-2Follow Focus
  21. 2016Preston Gimbal Micro Force compatibility with different MDR controller modelsFollow Focus
  22. 2016Remote focus systems suitable for Steadicam operationDisputedFollow Focus
  23. 2015Powering cameras and accessories with a Pro CineLive battery rigSteadi-Newbies
  24. 2015Performance evaluation of the Chrosziel CDM-100 follow focus motorDisputedFollow Focus
  25. 2015MDR-3 booster board failure and recallFollow Focus
  26. 2015Preston follow focus system compatibility with digital motors and 24V booster functionalityFollow Focus
  27. 2015Teradek Bolt 2000 dual battery plates and cages for transmitters and receiversDisputedVideo Assist and Video Accessories
  28. 2015Options for rotating a camera up to 90 degrees on top of a Steadicam for broadcast productionCamera Stage/Donkey Box
  29. 2015Run/Stop cable compatibility between Alexa and Amira cameras with MDR2 recorderFollow Focus
  30. 2015Power supply options and voltage behavior for Alexa camerasDisputedCameras (Film/Video/HD)
  31. 2015Connector compatibility between MDR1 and MDR2 follow focus systemsFollow Focus
  32. 2015Evaluation of TILTA wireless follow focus system and alternatives in professional cinemaFollow Focus
  33. 2014Reconnecting an RF antenna connector to a Preston MDR 3 circuit board for use in an MDR 2 unitFollow Focus
  34. 2014Comparison between Preston HU3/MDR series and Arri WCU-4/UMC4 follow focus systems for cinema productionDisputedFollow Focus
  35. 2014Preston MDR-1 follow focus not receiving power from Cinelive sledFollow Focus
  36. 2014Mounting bracket options for MDR3 camera support on 15mm rodsBrackets/Widgets
  37. 2014Sony F55 camera specifications and compatibility with wireless monitoring and control systemsDisputedCameras (Film/Video/HD)
  38. 2014Compatibility and performance issues between Preston MDR3 follow focus and Heden M26VE motorsDisputedFollow Focus
  39. 2014MDR3 bracket compatibility and mounting options for cinema follow focus systemsFollow Focus
  40. 2014Compatible motors for Preston UHF follow focus system with MDR1 receiverFollow Focus
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