SteadiHub
Sign InSign Up

Focus

468 threads in the archive

Based on 471 threads · 91 cited

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

Focus on a Steadicam® rig comes down to a few choices you make early: which motors match your Preston or Bartech system, and how you mount and power them 134322. When something twitches or drops out, check the cable first, then the potentiometer, then the RF environment 5652. You can pull it yourself with a controller on your gimbal handle or with deep depth of field, but single-camera narrative or commercial work always has a focus puller 616263.

The questions 10

Which motors work with my Preston or Bartech follow focus system?26 threads · latest 2019

In short

Preston wants digital motors with encoders, such as Preston DM, Scorpio and Heden digital types 12. Bartech depends on the receiver: analog BFD takes the M-One and Heden M26P, and the digital receiver takes motors like the DM2 and Heden M21VE-L 3456.

How the pros do it

  1. For Preston, the DM-1, DM-2, DM-3 and DM-1X are plug and play 1. Scorpio motors are mechanically identical to the DM-2 1. Heden digital motors like the 26VE or 21VE work with HU1 and MDR1 2.
  2. Preston needs digital motors with encoders, so analog Heden P-series motors like the M28-VP and M26P will not work 2. Tilta motors have a Lemo 1B 7-pin connector but use different pinouts, so they are incompatible with Preston 2.
  3. For an analog Bartech BFD, the M-One from Loon Video works 4. The Heden M26P works without modification, while the M28VP and M21VP need a servo loop gain adjustment with four resistor changes 3. FMG-6 motors also work with Bartech, though they are listed as less desirable 73.
  4. For the Digital Bartech receiver, the DM2 is compatible 6. The Heden M21VE-L is described as fast and reliable 5. The M-One Digital is recommended, and Betz BTM motors work while the Heden M28VP does not 8.
  5. Analog Bartech handsets can run on a digital receiver, and a few older units with obsolete software need a CPU chip upgrade costing around 45 dollars 9. CForce motors with 4-pin connectors will not run on standard 7-pin digital drivers 9. The Heden M26T is made for zoom and does not work with Bartech 4.
  6. A Heden M26VE on a Bartech unit can fail to initialize if the supply cannot deliver enough current, and excessive torque settings make it worse 10. On Preston, a 24V booster runs motors at roughly twice the speed of 12V 11.
Caution

Stanton right-angle motors need a BFD modification to prevent motor damage 3. That modification may reduce your ability to use other motor types as backups 3.

Opinions differ here

One 2014 test found three older M26VE motors lagged on fast racks with an MDR3 while the DM1X showed no delay 12. A 2019 account says Hedén motors have good torque for their size and suit Preston systems, with Preston holding only a marginal torque edge 13.

What changed

Earlier, in 2010, the Bartech Digital Receiver did not work with Heden M28VP motors 8, today, in 2016, the Heden M21VE-L is reported as fast and reliable on Digital Bartech 5.

Ask a follow-up
How do I control zoom and focus from my gimbal handle?17 threads · latest 2026

In short

Clamp a gimbal-mounted controller such as the G-Zoom on your handle, with a zoom rocker and a focus control within thumb and finger reach 1415. Match it to your lens type and rig 1516.

How the pros do it

  1. The G-Zoom drives broadcast lenses with internal focus servos, or external focus motors like the BFD and M-One 15. The Stanton is widely used in live television 17.
  2. On an ARRI Trinity 1 with broadcast lenses, ask the manufacturer about the G-Zoom Trinity Edition 16. With cinema lenses, use a focus amplifier with an analog motor from the same maker 16.
  3. The G-Zoom is built for a specific handle diameter, so give your handle size when you order 15. On a thick handle, wrap gaffer tape and secure the controller with a cable tie, or use a Superclamp as an adapter 18.
  4. If the handle won't take it, mount the controller on the arm post or arm bones instead 18.
  5. On a Trinity 2 with a servo zoom, the most reliable setup is a cforce mini motor on the zoom, connected via LBUS to the head 19. Assign the zoom axis to the MasterGrip in the RCP-3 by remapping a joystick 19. Have the AC disable iris and zoom in the handset and operate focus only, or the commands conflict 19.
  6. If zoom creeps with the G-Zoom connected, open the small cover on the side and turn the centering potentiometer with a small slotted screwdriver 20. Test at the fastest zoom speed to find the null point 20.
Caution

The thin cables on gimbal-mounted controls are fragile and can be damaged by catching on equipment docks 21. Mounting a unit on a foam-covered gimbal handle can damage the foam padding during installation 21.

Opinions differ here

One operator reports it works without issue on current firmware, with iris still available to the focus puller 19. Others report iris gets held open or forced closed via the L-Cube 2 even on current firmware, cause unclear 19.

What changed

Earlier, in 2007, operators mounted a Preston microforce on the gimbal for zoom 21, today, as of 2020, G-Zoom units are the viable replacement for the discontinued Bebob Zoe controllers 17.

Ask a follow-up
How do I power my wireless follow focus from the camera or sled?21 threads · latest 2016

In short

Run it from the sled's dedicated 12V output or a battery-cradle tap, not the camera's accessory ports 2223. Camera ports are often current-limited and can crash or shut down the camera 2324.

How the pros do it

  1. On a sled, use a dedicated 12V Lemo output, so the BFD, monitor and level share one circuit 22. On a three-battery sled, dedicate one battery to accessories 22.
  2. If the sled switches between 12V and 24V, check its voltage setting first 25. A cable rated for both only delivers 24V if the sled is set to 24V, and the MDR-1 needs 24V 25.
  3. Check what your receiver accepts before you plug in 26. A Bartech digital receiver takes 10-30V, and a Bartech analog receiver maxes out at 17V 27.
  4. On a Glidecam Gold, use the 2-pin accessory connector for a BFD receiver 26. That keeps the 3-pin camera power port free for the camera 26.
  5. On a RED, power the BFD from the P-tap on the battery cradle with a dedicated P-tap cable 23. The Red One's auxiliary outputs are current-limited and can't reliably run it 23.
  6. On an Alexa, the RS port gives 2 amps total across both ports 24. Use a dedicated cable with a Y-split to external batteries or an external D-tap for high-current gear 24.
Caution

A D-tap plugged in with reversed polarity can make a receiver smoke and stop working 31. Running a Bartech analog receiver on 24V will damage it 27.

Opinions differ here

Operators split on powering from the RED's P-tap: some reported success, while others had camera shutdowns or failure to power on 30. Another thread recommends the battery-cradle P-tap with a dedicated cable over the camera's own ports 23.

What changed

Earlier, in 2007, the camera handle D-Tap was suggested for powering focus motors and receivers 28, today, by 2012 and 2014, operators move high-current focus gear to an external D-tap or battery source 2429.

Ask a follow-up
Where can I get my follow focus motor or handset repaired?17 threads · latest 2023

In short

Heden goes to Sweden 32, Preston FIZ II and MDR2 units go to PLC Electronic Solutions 33, and RT Motion goes to Teradek in Los Angeles 34.

How the pros do it

  1. Heden: send it to Sweden, the only service location as of 2017 32. Full service covers the M26-T, M21VE, M21VE-L, M26VE and Carat, while the M26P is end-of-life and only handled case by case 32.
  2. Heden M28VP and early HLC units are no longer supported by the manufacturer 32. Heden also stopped repairing analog motors at least two years before 2016 35.
  3. Preston FIZ II and MDR2: PLC Electronic Solutions repairs units Preston no longer services, stocks parts and tests radios 33. Their cost was well below Preston's quote 33. For a Preston HU3 refurbish, a specific technician offers it, and the units are painted rather than anodized 36.
  4. M-One motors: a technician can replace the potentiometer and shaft seal, with turnaround from a few days to two weeks 37. A UK-based alternative returned repaired motors within two weeks 38, and a repair for broken screws inside the housing ran around $250 in 2016 39.
  5. Digital M-One: the encoder is built into the motor and can't be replaced separately, so you typically need a whole new motor and encoder assembly 40. The shaft needs custom machining for the triangular spline coupling, which makes it expensive and slow 40.
  6. RT Motion: Teradek takes modules at its Los Angeles service center 34. Out of warranty you pay shipping both ways plus repair, which gets prohibitive from Europe, and no UK partner was identified 34. Cinema Products WRC-3 units aren't serviceable because the parts were discontinued, but the WRC-4 can be repaired 41.

Opinions differ here

One account says alternative technicians handle the potentiometer and shaft seal quickly 37. Another says replacement pot and broken screw repairs may have to go to the original repair service 38, even though that service has run months behind with some customers waiting six to seven months 38.

What changed

Earlier, in 2015, the manufacturer in Sweden offered fast turnaround on M28VP servicing 42, today, per 2017, the M28VP is no longer supported by the manufacturer 32.

Ask a follow-up
How do I mount a focus motor or receiver on my rig?20 threads · latest 2016

In short

Hang motors on 15mm rods off your dovetail or an XCS plate, and keep the rods from bending 434445. Mount receivers with a bracket, Dual Lock or velcro, or a quick-release mount such as the cfast vlock for a Camin 464748.

How the pros do it

  1. For motors, use a 15mm motor rod set, two rods and a bracket, from Cinewidgets or PRO-GPI to connect to the dovetail plate 43. An XCS plate is more rigid than rods straight on the dovetail, and it fits Masters sled dovetails 44.
  2. Position the motor with dogbones, reducers and spare rod segments to match your lens 44. Use reducer sleeves that match the exact rod diameter instead of generic adapters 49.
  3. Stop motor slip. Bridge the motor host rod to a second rod with a 15mm bridge clamp 45. Put the gear on the lens at the top, bottom or side 45. Line up the cutouts on 19-15mm adapters with the motor rod clamp cutouts 45.
  4. For receivers, mount a Bartech with 3M Dual Lock or velcro strips on its bottom, which also saves wear on the aluminum bracket threads 46. Velcro held up for years on multiple receivers if you check it periodically, and zip ties add security 47.
  5. For a Cmotion Camin on a PRO Cinelive sled, use the cfast vlock for quick release or the rod connector for 19mm or 15mm rods 48. The choice depends on your Camin model 48.
  6. For a Preston MDR on a Zephyr, mount it to the sled or the camera body, or screw the rental-kit brackets to the MDR and clamp them on 15mm rods 50. With an MDR3 bracket on Cinelive electronics, use 90-degree connectors on the motor power and on-off cables to clear the J box 51.

What changed

Earlier, in 2006, operators velcroed receivers straight to the camera or rig 47, today, in 2016, a Camin receiver on a PRO Cinelive sled gets a cfast vlock quick release or a rod connector 48.

Ask a follow-up
Why does my focus motor twitch or spin out of control?16 threads · latest 2014

In short

Most often it is a cable or connector fault, a slipping or worn potentiometer, or RF interference 52535455. Check the cable first, then the potentiometer, then the RF environment 5652.

How the pros do it

  1. Swap the motor cable, or move the motor to a different channel on the control unit, to tell motor, cable and connector faults apart 52. A partially pushed-in motor cable can send the motor to full speed 52.
  2. If it only runs away or twitches on the lens, check the potentiometer gear 53. Under lens load a loose friction-fit gear slips and loses position tracking 53. Master Primes triggered this while stiffer Super Speeds did not 57.
  3. If it twitches or vibrates on its own with the hand unit untouched, suspect a worn potentiometer 54. Replacing it is the permanent fix, and fresh batteries only help for a while 54.
  4. If it chatters with the calibration knobs at the end positions, move them slightly off the end stops to check for potentiometer wear 58. A status light that changes colour instead of staying steady green points to insufficient power to the receiver 58.
  5. To rule out RF, change the wireless channel and keep motor cables away from other cables 55. Sound stages are the worst places, because signals bounce off the walls 55. Also check for a manufacturer receiver software update 55.
  6. On a chattering FMG.6, clean the potentiometer with DeoxIT or Servisol super 10 fader and switch cleaner 59. That only works if the tracks have not started to flake off 59.
Caution

Never grease the clutch or other parts inside an FMG.6 motor, because it can permanently damage the motor 59. A runaway motor can also jam hard against the lens end stop 52.

Opinions differ here

One thread says the friction-fit potentiometer gear cannot be tightened and has to be replaced 53. Other threads say tightening the gear or friction clutch restores tracking 5760. One of them adds that the potentiometer itself may still need replacing eventually 57.

What changed

Earlier, in 2004, a slipping friction-fit potentiometer gear on that motor type was a replace-it job 53, while today, going by 2008 and 2011 threads, operators tighten the gear or clutch first and replace the potentiometer later 5760.

Ask a follow-up
Can I pull focus myself on Steadicam® without an assistant?11 threads · latest 2026

In short

Yes, if you put a focus control on the gimbal handle or shoot with deep depth of field 6162. On live and broadcast work it is a normal request, but single-camera narrative or commercial work always has a focus puller 6361.

How the pros do it

  1. On live-TV style jobs, mount a G-Zoom (about 980 USD) or a Stanton control on the gimbal handle to run zoom and focus 61. G-Zoom works with Tilta motor receivers for servo lenses 61.
  2. On a budget, clamp or wrap a Nucleus Nano 2 or Nucleus-M focus handwheel to the gimbal handle and work it with your thumb 61. Check torque: PDMovie and SmallRig motors give about 0.5 Nm and struggle with some lenses, the Tilta Nano gives roughly 1 Nm, and the Nucleus-M gives about 2.5 Nm and handles most lenses 64.
  3. Choose analog motors if you want to pull focus yourself 65. Digital focus motors cannot take external hand controllers, while the G-Zoom works with analog Bartech motors and servo cine lenses 65.
  4. Settle the exact lens and camera before the day and source the matching lens cable with the control 63. The control is generic but the cable is not 63.
  5. If you want zoom and focus at once, stack a zoom rocker with a focus wheel mounted underneath it on the same handle 63. Expect to plan simpler moves, because you can frame and focus less single-handed than with a focus puller 63.
  6. With no motor, stop down to f5.6-f8 and use wide lenses 62. On 1/3 inch cameras, set manual focus around 6 to 10 feet and keep the frame wide 66.
Caution

Grip-mounted focus controls are bulky, shift the gimbal's balance point and can collide with the top stage depending on your rig 64.

Opinions differ here

One side says working without a focus assistant breaks professional standards and undercuts rates for everyone 67. Another says it is a normal, reasonable request on live and broadcast shows where there is no focus puller 63. A third adds that single-camera narrative and commercial work always has a dedicated puller, because pulling focus yourself distracts from composition and movement 61.

What changed

Earlier, in 2005, remote wireless focus was seen as necessary and solo operating as a break from professional standards 67, today, in 2026, operator-pulled focus is a normal request on live and broadcast work with a gimbal-mounted control 6361.

Ask a follow-up
What's a good budget wireless follow focus for someone starting out?14 threads · latest 2016

In short

Start with a Bartech BFD and M-One motors, which operators call reliable and cost-effective next to pricier units 68. Expect roughly $2600-5000 with motors, so if that's too much, look at single-channel units 69.

How the pros do it

  1. Buy the Bartech BFD with M-One motors, which performs well against more expensive alternatives 68. A BFD with a Palomar M1 motor, cables and backups came to around $4500 70.
  2. Start with one channel and add more later, since most video jobs only need one or two 71. The digital BFD can grow to two channels with separate transmitter and receiver units 72.
  3. If the budget is tighter, a single-channel C-Motion is a budget-friendly option but can't be expanded 72. The Hocus Focus is a single-channel DSLR unit priced below professional broadcast systems 69.
  4. Buy redundant cables for every link, including sled-to-focus power, motor and camera control cables 70. Power the focus motors from the sled, not the camera, to spare Li-Ion batteries 71.
  5. Choose for reliability over economy, because the assistant camera depends on the unit working all day 73. Test the rig the day before the shoot or at least one hour before call 71.
Caution

Check what your system does on power loss, because some designs drive the focus motor to minimum focus distance 74. Li-Ion batteries may not deliver enough power for certain motors like SR3 71.

Opinions differ here

Opinion is split on the MagNum, an affordable wireless system 75. Some users report reliable performance over extended periods 75. Others saw latency problems even after firmware updates 75.

What changed

Earlier, in 2006, the Bartech BFD with a Palomar M1 motor was the starter package people pointed to 70, today, in 2013-2015, the list also includes the Hocus Focus Axis 1 and Heden Carat next to digital Bartech units 7374.

Ask a follow-up
How do I wire a run/stop cable for my camera?13 threads · latest 2015

In short

The wiring depends on your camera body, because the connector and pinout differ between Hirose, Lemo and Fischer types 767778. Find your camera's port first, then wire only the pins the sources list for it 767778.

How the pros do it

  1. On a 12-pin Hirose body with cinema-style lenses, use pin 2 (VTR trigger) and pin 3 (ground) for a momentary start-stop trigger 76. Heat-shrink every pin individually, because the spacing in the connector is tight 76.
  2. On a RED with the 4-pin Lemo on the back, momentarily short pin 1 (ground) to pin 2 (GPI) 77. Put the BFD in MOM mode 77. On the BFD-to-RED cable, pin assignment is not critical, because it is a polarity-independent relay contact closure 79.
  3. If a RED cable that used to work stops working, check the GPI pulse settings 80. The first pulse must be set to start and the second to stop, and if both are set the same, the stop command fails 80.
  4. For a RED Epic, don't reuse the Red One cable, because the pinouts and electrical requirements differ 81. The GPIO pin has to be pulled to 3.3 volts and held there, so buy an Epic-specific cable from Preston, Cmotion or another third-party maker 81.
  5. For an Arri Alexa with a Preston MDR, connect MDR pin 2 to Fischer 3-pin pin 1 and MDR pin 5 to pin 3 78. An Amira uses the same 3-pin port, so your Alexa cable fits 82.
  6. For a Canon C100, C300 or C500, use a microprocessor interface that talks to the camera over its 2.5mm stereo LANC port 83. It feeds your existing 3-pin Fischer Arri run cable to Bartech, Preston or C-Motion 83.
Caution

On a Sony F55, plugging or unplugging the Hirose connector while the camera is powered risks damaging the circuit board and the SDI output drivers 84. Panasonic ENG cameras use the same Hirose connector with different pinouts, so a Sony cable can damage them 84.

What changed

Earlier, in 2008, a RED run cable only needed a momentary short between pins 1 and 2 77, but today, with the 2012 Epic, the GPIO pin must be held at 3.3 volts and the Red One cable no longer works 81.

Ask a follow-up
How do I stop RF interference or signal loss on my wireless follow focus?11 threads · latest 2014

In short

Pick your channels on purpose and keep other transmitters away from your receiver 8586. Then rule out power, firmware and failing hardware, because they can look just like RF interference 878889.

How the pros do it

  1. Pick channels on purpose and pair multiple Preston systems on odd and even channel numbers 86. Keep to ten Preston systems or fewer in one area, because past that all units start having problems 86.
  2. On MDR units, check the channel conflict table, since channel 30 is the same as channel 0 85. The HU-3 shows which channels are in use around you, and moving away from the interfering source fixed it in one report 85.
  3. Cut the radio out where you can, because a direct-connect cable between the controller and the wireless receiver powers the RF receiver down 90. Expect trouble near crowds of walkie-talkies and in places like Times Square or Singapore 90.
  4. Rule out power before you blame RF, because interference lines on a monitor can come from voltage drops caused by motor current spikes 88. Power a decimator from a separate battery instead of the camera's 4-pin, and keep it away from the transmitter and receiver 88. Low battery voltage in a BFD can also make the motor oscillate like interference 87.
  5. Update the firmware, because outdated Bartech firmware can make the motor twitch and drop the handset in heavy RF areas 89. Early-series units sometimes needed several software revisions 90.
  6. A faulty transceiver board in an MDR2 caused dropouts until it was replaced 86, and checking that the CPU chip and RF module are fully seated fixed intermittent problems on a Bartech 89. Swap antennas as a troubleshooting step 86.

Opinions differ here

One side says half-wave antennas for both transmitter and receiver can triple range 89, while another found the half-wave transmitter antenna gave inconsistent results and may degrade performance 91. Operators also disagreed on whether monitor interference lines come from power delivery or from RF 88.

What changed

Earlier, in 2012, half-wave antennas on both transmitter and receiver were said to triple the range 89, today, in 2013, only the receiver upgrade holds up while the transmitter upgrade gave inconsistent results 91.

Ask a follow-up

Sources 91

  1. 1Compatibility of digital follow focus motors with Preston systems and alternatives to Preston motorsFollow Focus forum · 2009
  2. 2Compatibility between Heden motors and Preston follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2014
  3. 3Motor compatibility and selection for Bartech Focus DeviceSteadi-Newbies forum · 2011Disputed
  4. 4Availability of analog motors compatible with BarTech follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2015
  5. 5Digital motor options for use with Digital Bartech follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2016
  6. 6DM2 motor compatibility with Bartech digital focus systemFollow Focus forum · 2019
  7. 7Compatibility and repair options for FMG-6 follow focus motorsFollow Focus forum · 2014
  8. 8BarTech Digital Receiver compatibility with motors and existing follow focus equipmentFollow Focus forum · 2010
All 91 sources
  1. 9Compatibility between analog Bartech follow focus handsets and digital motor systemsFollow Focus forum · 2018
  2. 10Bartech wireless follow focus controller not powering Heden M26VE motor properlySteadi-Newbies forum · 2012
  3. 11Preston follow focus system compatibility with digital motors and 24V booster functionalityFollow Focus forum · 2015
  4. 12Compatibility and performance issues between Preston MDR3 follow focus and Heden M26VE motorsFollow Focus forum · 2014Disputed
  5. 13Comparison of Hedén motors versus Preston motors for follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2019
  6. 14Evaluation of G-Zoom gimbal-mounted zoom and focus control system with Betacam camera setupFollow Focus forum · 2010
  7. 15G-Zoom follow focus controller for camera rigsFollow Focus forum · 2010
  8. 16Focus pulling on ARRI Trinity: G-Zoom for broadcast lenses versus focus amplifier for cinema lensesFacebook · Arri Artemis Trinity · 2023
  9. 17Zoom and focus controllers for steadicam workGeneral Discussion forum · 2020
  10. 18Mounting zoom and focus controllers on Steadicam® gimbal handles that are too thick for standard attachmentsFollow Focus forum · 2007
  11. 19Controlling zoom on a servo lens via MasterGrip MGT-2 over LBUS alongside AC's WCU-4/Hi-5 on ARRI Trinity 2 with RED Komodo XFacebook · Arri Artemis Trinity · 2024Disputed
  12. 20Eliminating zoom creep on a Canon CINE-SERVO 17-120 mm T2.95-3.9 PL lens with G-Zoom controllerFacebook · The Steadicam Group · 2023
  13. 21Preston gimbal-mounted zoom control for Steadicam® focus pullingFollow Focus forum · 2007Disputed
  14. 22Powering a BFD wireless follow focus receiver from a camera sledFollow Focus forum · 2008
  15. 23Powering a BFD follow focus receiver from a Red One cameraFollow Focus forum · 2009
  16. 24Power delivery issues when operating motorized focus control systems from the Alexa camera's RS portFollow Focus forum · 2012Disputed
  17. 25Preston MDR-1 follow focus not receiving power from Cinelive sledFollow Focus forum · 2014
  18. 26Powering BFD wireless follow focus receivers from GLIDECAM GOLD stabilizer 12V outputsFollow Focus forum · 2004
  19. 27Powering a Bartech wireless follow focus receiver from an Archer II stabilizer's 3-pin Lemo connectorSteadi-Newbies forum · 2012
  20. 28Powering follow focus motors and wireless receivers from video camera battery connectorsFollow Focus forum · 2007Disputed
  21. 29Powering BFD follow focus receiver from Sony F5/55 Hirose connectorFollow Focus forum · 2014Disputed
  22. 30Powering Preston follow focus equipment with the RED cameraFollow Focus forum · 2008Disputed
  23. 31D-tap connector polarity damage to Bartech follow focus receiver and motor mounting issuesFollow Focus forum · 2013
  24. 32Service availability for Heden follow focus devices in the United StatesFollow Focus forum · 2017
  25. 33Repair options for discontinued Preston FIZ II and MDR2 follow focus unitsFollow Focus forum · 2016
  26. 34RT Motion focus module service and warranty support after Teradek acquisition, and UK service availability.Facebook · The Steadicam Group · 2023
  27. 35Repairing and sourcing analog follow focus motors compatible with Cinema Products and Heden equipmentFollow Focus forum · 2016
  28. 36Finding a service provider for Preston HU3 follow focus refurbishingFollow Focus forum · 2022
  29. 37M-One motor repair options and potentiometer replacement proceduresFollow Focus forum · 2014
  30. 38M-One motor repair service delays and quality concernsFollow Focus forum · 2016
  31. 39Repair options for M-One follow focus motorFollow Focus forum · 2016
  32. 40Repair options and technical challenges for Digital M-One follow focus motorsFollow Focus forum · 2015
  33. 41Service and repair of Cinema Products WRC-3 wireless follow focus systemFollow Focus forum · 2011
  34. 42Service and maintenance options for Heden Motors M28VP follow focus unitsFollow Focus forum · 2015
  35. 43Motor mounting rod options for attaching focus motors to camera platesFollow Focus forum · 2009
  36. 44Mounting a BFD M1 follow focus motor to a Masters sledFollow Focus forum · 2009
  37. 45Preventing focus motor slippage on 15mm follow focus rodsFollow Focus forum · 2016
  38. 46Mounting a Bartech focus receiver to dovetail plate rails without permanent attachmentFollow Focus forum · 2006
  39. 47Mounting multiple follow focus receivers on cinema camera rigs without dedicated bracketsFollow Focus forum · 2006
  40. 48Mounting options for Cmotion Camin receiver on a PRO Cinelive sledFollow Focus forum · 2016
  41. 49Mounting instability issues with BFD and M-One follow focus motors on 15mm rod systemsFollow Focus forum · 2010
  42. 50Mounting a Preston MDR unit onto a Zephyr camera support systemFollow Focus forum · 2012
  43. 51MDR3 bracket compatibility and mounting options for cinema follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2014
  44. 52Preston wireless follow focus motor runaway after extended useFollow Focus forum · 2011
  45. 53Motor spinning uncontrollably on lens under load despite working in isolationFollow Focus forum · 2004
  46. 54Bartech wireless follow focus motor experiencing random twitching and vibration issuesFollow Focus forum · 2013
  47. 55Random focus motor twitches in Bartech BFD follow focus systemFollow Focus forum · 2006
  48. 56Motor runaway behavior during calibration on follow focus systemFollow Focus forum · 2014
  49. 57Motor twitching and erratic behavior when using Master Prime lenses with follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2008
  50. 58Follow Focus system experiencing chattering motor behaviorFollow Focus forum · 2009
  51. 59Fixing chattering FMG.6 follow focus motorFollow Focus forum · 2012
  52. 60Diagnosing and servicing FMG.6 follow focus motors with calibration drift issuesFollow Focus forum · 2011
  53. 61Pulling focus manually during Steadicam® operating without an AC: equipment and workflow optionsFacebook · Steadicam operators group · 2026
  54. 62Solo steadicam operation for documentary production and capability to manage focus while operatingGeneral Discussion forum · 2014
  55. 63Pulling focus and zoom yourself while operating, especially on live showsOperator practice forum · 2026
  56. 64Follow focus motor choice and control ergonomics for Steadicam® focus pulling: small handwheel versus grip trigger, and motor torque requirements.Facebook · Steadicam operators group · 2023
  57. 65Follow focus systems for self-operated manual focus pulling on steadicam rigsFollow Focus forum · 2016
  58. 66Manual versus autofocus cameras for steadicam workSteadi-Newbies forum · 2008Disputed
  59. 67Manual focus control options for Steadicam® operationFollow Focus forum · 2005
  60. 68Comparison of wireless follow focus devices for budget under 10,000 dollarsFollow Focus forum · 2010
  61. 69Affordable wireless follow focus options for DSLR cameras and jibsFollow Focus forum · 2011
  62. 70Selecting and assembling a follow focus system for independent film productionFollow Focus forum · 2006
  63. 71Remote focus equipment options for HD video productionFollow Focus forum · 2006
  64. 72Affordable wireless follow focus systems as alternatives to high-end unitsFollow Focus forum · 2014
  65. 73Selecting a follow focus system for a beginner cinematographerFollow Focus forum · 2013
  66. 74Evaluation of TILTA wireless follow focus system and alternatives in professional cinemaFollow Focus forum · 2015
  67. 75Wireless lens control system with ergonomic design and affordable pricing compared to competitorsFollow Focus forum · 2013Disputed
  68. 76Remote run/start-stop controls for HD cameras using 12-pin Hirose connectors with cinema-style lensesFollow Focus forum · 2004
  69. 77Connecting a BFD follow focus remote ON/OFF cable to a RED cameraFollow Focus forum · 2008
  70. 78Preston MDR pinout for Arri Alexa 3-pin Fischer start stop cable connectionFollow Focus forum · 2013
  71. 79Connector pinout specifications for BFD to RED camera start/stop control cableFollow Focus forum · 2009
  72. 80Run/stop cable compatibility issues between Preston MDR2 controller and RED cameraFollow Focus forum · 2009
  73. 81Compatibility and technical requirements for run/stop cables with Red Epic cameras and follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2012
  74. 82Run/Stop cable compatibility between Alexa and Amira cameras with MDR2 recorderFollow Focus forum · 2015
  75. 83Microprocessor-controlled Start/Stop interface for Canon C100/C300/C500 cameras with remote follow focus systemsFollow Focus forum · 2013
  76. 84Creating start/stop control cables for Sony F55 camera using Hirose 4-pin connectorFollow Focus forum · 2013Disputed
  77. 85MDR wireless follow focus units experience interference when operating multiple units close together or near other wireless equipment on incompatible channelsFollow Focus forum · 2008
  78. 86Preston FIZ III wireless communication dropouts between HU3 handset and MDR2 motor control unitFollow Focus forum · 2012
  79. 87Wireless interference between BFD follow focus motors and 900MHz video senders or wireless microphonesFollow Focus forum · 2004Disputed
  80. 88Interference patterns on monitor when operating Arri WCU3 wireless focus unit with RED camera and decimator on Archer 2 steadicam rigFollow Focus forum · 2011Disputed
  81. 89Bartech wireless follow focus system experiencing signal loss and motor twitching in high-interference urban environmentsFollow Focus forum · 2012
  82. 90RF interference affecting wireless follow focus systems in Times Square, NYCFollow Focus forum · 2006Disputed
  83. 91Antenna upgrades for wireless follow focus systems to improve transmission rangeFollow Focus forum · 2013Disputed

What operators found

Still argued about

  1. 2024Controlling zoom on a servo lens via MasterGrip MGT-2 over LBUS alongside AC's WCU-4/Hi-5 on ARRI Trinity 2 with RED Komodo XFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  2. 2021Mounting V-Mount power and monitor beneath a Flycam Galaxy sled, and rigging a Nucleus-M wireless focus system for solo pulling without an AC.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

Follow Focus339, BFD113, MDR77, FI+Z30, Top Stage7, HU344, Dovetail Plate7, Zephyr9, Artemis3, Master Series4, Low Mode4, Modulus4

All threads

  1. 2026Pulling focus manually during Steadicam® operating without an AC: equipment and workflow optionsFacebookSteadicam operators group
  2. 2026Spring tension adjustment in Bebob Zoe 111 zoom controller rocker causing unwanted zoom-outSteadiHub
  3. 2026Pulling focus and zoom yourself while operating, especially on live showsOperator practice
  4. 2025History of wireless focus and lens control systems for Steadicam®: from cable-based Cinema Products and Seitz to Preston digital, and European solutions by Chrosziel, cmotion, and ARRI.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  5. 2025Custom servo zoom controller for Tilta Nucleus system using Bebob Zoe housing and 7-pin LEMO connectorFacebookSteadicam operators group
  6. 2025LC-1 (Lens Control-1) follow focus system: wired architecture, motors, and early operational experience (1990s).FacebookThe Steadicam Group
  7. 2025Zoom control malfunction with Cforce Plus motor and MGT-2 on Trinity 2: joystick returns to zero instead of holding position.SteadiHub
  8. 2025External motor solutions for zoom and focus control on cinema lenses without servoGeneral Discussion
  9. 2024Controlling zoom on a servo lens via MasterGrip MGT-2 over LBUS alongside AC's WCU-4/Hi-5 on ARRI Trinity 2 with RED Komodo XDisputedFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  10. 2024Motorized cmotion Rota-Pola-Stage rotatable polarizing filter in the matte box: weight versus convenience on Steadicam®FacebookSteadicam operators group
  11. 2023Reducing build weight for an ARRI ALEXA Mini LF on Steadicam®: SAM plate, wireless focus control, eliminator plate, and motor placement.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  12. 2023Focus pulling on ARRI Trinity: G-Zoom for broadcast lenses versus focus amplifier for cinema lensesFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  13. 2023Follow focus motor choice and control ergonomics for Steadicam® focus pulling: small handwheel versus grip trigger, and motor torque requirements.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  14. 2023RT Motion focus module service and warranty support after Teradek acquisition, and UK service availability.FacebookThe Steadicam Group
  15. 2023Eliminating zoom creep on a Canon CINE-SERVO 17-120 mm T2.95-3.9 PL lens with G-Zoom controllerFacebookThe Steadicam Group
  16. 2022Attaching a Tilta Nucleus Nano focus handwheel to an ARRI Trinity and wireless motor pairing limits.FacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  17. 2022Using a Tilta Nucleus hand grip for focus control on a Steadicam® gimbal grip without an assistant.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  18. 2022Finding a service provider for Preston HU3 follow focus refurbishingFollow Focus
  19. 2021Sony Venice with fast fixed focal-length photo lens on live broadcast: focus depth and remote control trade-offs in unpredictable motionFacebookThe Steadicam Group
  20. 2021Mounting V-Mount power and monitor beneath a Flycam Galaxy sled, and rigging a Nucleus-M wireless focus system for solo pulling without an AC.DisputedFacebookSteadicam operators group
  21. 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
  22. 2021Operating zoom and focus on a Sony PXW-X400 ENG camera mounted on Steadicam® without a focus puller.FacebookThe Steadicam Group
  23. 2020Zoom and focus controllers for steadicam workGeneral Discussion
  24. 2019DM2 motor compatibility with Bartech digital focus systemFollow Focus
  25. 2019Comparison of Hedén motors versus Preston motors for follow focus systemsFollow Focus
  26. 2018Wireless follow focus system reliability and performance issuesFollow Focus
  27. 2018Compatibility between analog Bartech follow focus handsets and digital motor systemsFollow Focus
  28. 2018Identifying polarity of 2-pin Lemo power cables for BFD and Teradek unitsFollow Focus
  29. 2018Purchasing Bartech follow focus equipment in the United StatesFollow Focus
  30. 2018Ensuring parallel alignment between camera and VFX chart during chart shootingOff Topic
  31. 2017Service availability for Heden follow focus devices in the United StatesFollow Focus
  32. 2017cmotion cPRO wireless lens control system design and specificationsFollow Focus
  33. 2017Wireless iris control options for Preston FIZ and HU hand unitsFollow Focus
  34. 2017Potentiometer input support added to PLC fSTOP V2-2B digital receiverFollow Focus
  35. 2017Hedén wireless follow focus system performance and specificationsFollow Focus
  36. 2017Wireless follow focus system selection for drone-mounted cinema camerasFollow Focus
  37. 2016Repair options for discontinued Preston FIZ II and MDR2 follow focus unitsFollow Focus
  38. 2016Performance and reliability of DJI Follow Focus system compared to alternatives in the 2000-2500 EUR price rangeDisputedFollow Focus
  39. 2016Heden Carat wireless follow focus system reliability and purchasing optionsFollow Focus
  40. 2016Mounting options for Cmotion Camin receiver on a PRO Cinelive sledFollow Focus
  41. 2016Digital motor options for use with Digital Bartech follow focus systemsFollow Focus
  42. 2016M-One motor repair service delays and quality concernsFollow Focus
  43. 2016Repairing and sourcing analog follow focus motors compatible with Cinema Products and Heden equipmentFollow Focus
  44. 2016Powering follow focus motors on Alexa Mini with EF lenses and using WCU-4 on other camera bodiesFollow Focus
  45. 2016Whether Steadicam operators need to own their own wireless follow focus systems in modern production environmentsFollow Focus
  46. 2016Early evaluation of Tilta WLC-T02 wireless follow focus system in pre-release stageFollow Focus
  47. 2016Preventing focus motor slippage on 15mm follow focus rodsFollow Focus
  48. 2016Lens selection and focusing techniques for stabilized video of moving subjects with a Nikon D5200Steadi-Newbies
  49. 2016MDR-1 follow focus system specifications and compatibility differences from MDR-2Follow Focus
  50. 2016Follow focus systems for self-operated manual focus pulling on steadicam rigsFollow Focus
  51. 2016Focus scale display not appearing on Arri WCU-4 wireless handset with Alexa XTGeneral Discussion
  52. 2016Performance and features of Betz motors and Heden M21VE-L for follow focus applicationsFollow Focus
  53. 2016Comparison of wireless follow focus systems: Bartech versus DJI FocusFollow Focus
  54. 2016Repair options for M-One follow focus motorFollow Focus
  55. 2016Compatibility of Stanton zoom/focus controller with Zephyr camera craneGeneral Discussion
  56. 2016Preston Gimbal Micro Force compatibility with different MDR controller modelsFollow Focus
  57. 2016Remote focus systems suitable for Steadicam operationDisputedFollow Focus
  58. 2015Performance evaluation of the Chrosziel CDM-100 follow focus motorDisputedFollow Focus
  59. 2015Service and maintenance options for Heden Motors M28VP follow focus unitsFollow Focus
  60. 2015MDR-3 booster board failure and recallFollow Focus
Show more
Ask about FocusThe answer cites the archive