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VFS Inclino, Imperio: users thread!

Rich Schaefer

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I am starting this thread for those of us who have their ViewFactor wireless follow focus to be able to share information about getting the most out of our systems.

PLEASE KEEP YOUR VALID CONCERNS ABOUT DELIVERY... IN THE OTHER THREAD.

Prost,
Rich
 
First I would like to share my success with the Eveready rechargable batteries. I have experienced about twice the run time, 2.5 to 3 hours of good use with the Eveready rechargeable batteries in my Imperio hand unit! I bought the 15 minute charger and a couple sets of batteries from my local California Home Depot. When I told Curt, he explained the advantage is that the HiMH batts hold a higher voltage then die off quick. A standard alkaline battery will gradually slope down from beginning to end. The Imperio prefers the higher sustained voltage. The 15 minute charge makes it a very useable solution on set.

Prost,
Rich
 
Secondly, I added a "Kipp" lever on my motor clamp. I think its better to not need tools, because they wander away...

viewfactorphoto.jpg


If anyone is interested, I can post links to the parts.

Prost,
Rich
 
took delivery of 2 controllers and 2 motors. When they work they are great, however I find they loose sync every 10-20 minutes and need to be recalibrated and only have a range of 20-30ft. Is this the similar experience of other users?
 
Hi Rich,

Great idea for a thread. I will try the Rechargeable batteries, but would really like the link the "kipp" lever I hate having to find a allen key to adjust the motors.

Cheers, Tim.

Hi Tim, Here are the exact parts I used.

I ordered this handle: (It looks like the one in my picture)
http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/items/3GGV9

and I stacked 3 or 4 of these spacers: (they come 10 per package and are shorter than Graingers picture)
http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/items/6TA16

I then screwed a 4mm x30 screw (from a hardware store) first through the threaded side of the VF clamp. Then I added 3 or 4 spacers then I threaded on the Kipp handle. It really works well.
 
took delivery of 2 controllers and 2 motors. When they work they are great, however I find they loose sync every 10-20 minutes and need to be recalibrated and only have a range of 20-30ft. Is this the similar experience of other users?

Hi Tony, I have found when it is not syncing well the controller needs a battery change. Nicads go fast! try the rechargeables.

Curt has mentioned with the upcoming firmware update it will do much better on power consumption.
 
Rich, has Curt mentioned an approximate timeframe on the firmware? I barely get to use this thing because my most used lens doesn't have hard stops. Thanks.

As for adjusting the motor, for those like me who don't mount a lot of gear on top their camera, I have the motor mounted to its own rod so you can telescope and rotate its position as needed. Easy peasy.

Inc01.jpg

Inc02.jpg
 
Rich, has Curt mentioned an approximate timeframe on the firmware?

It was supposed to be out by now, so it should be any time.
 
Funny, Brian - I've been mounting my motors the same way too. Makes more sense because the plugs in the motors are facing down, which would destroy the connectors if you put the camera on a flat surface. Mounting the motors on the top rod eliminated that problem.

In terms of mounting the receiver - the Raidrack is an excellent option for that:

vfraidrack.png
 
Does anyone have an operations guide/PDF? I am trying to figure out all the functions that can be achieved by the remote.
For instance: how do I program a pull?
Or: How do I stop the motor when it slips during calibration?
And all other goodies that the unit is capable of.
 
There's a manual but it's far from finished. And all those delicious functions you've heard about haven't been implemented (yet?). With the current state of things, I doubt we will ever see all of them. Currently there's a way to program two focus points - but only in wired mode.
 
Tony- thank you! that helped a lot!
Question: It says to hold the "F" button down, but that doesn't seem to work. I have been holding down the "FN" button since I received the unit per a video demo. Is this necessary? What is everyone else doing?

Also, setting the auto 1 & 2 buttons. I got it to work once and can't do it again.
When it did work, it was really fast- is there a way to slow it down?
 
Tony- thank you! that helped a lot!
Question: It says to hold the "F" button down, but that doesn't seem to work. I have been holding down the "FN" button since I received the unit per a video demo. Is this necessary? What is everyone else doing?

Also, setting the auto 1 & 2 buttons. I got it to work once and can't do it again.
When it did work, it was really fast- is there a way to slow it down?

What are you trying to do?

I think the all FN options only work in wired mode, so far.
 
Hey Rich- in the manual it says to hold the "F" button when starting up the remote in wireless mode, but that seems to cause an error. Instead, I've been holding the "FN" button, but is that even necessary? I only do that because I saw it done that way in a demo.

Also, do you know how set up the remote to go back and forth between to programmed points?
 
Hi Raul, I just turn on the power then after it syncs with the reciever then I hold down the "Cal" button and it calibrates the lens then we make marks and shoot.

I don't use any of the wired functions, but I should learn I suppose. I did see Curt do it.
 
Holding F while turning impero on is for RePairing the bluetooth. I have to do it 3 to 4 Times a day for a full day with impero. If you need a progammed pull wireless, this workaround is good. Spin the Wheel to Point A, switch impero to a bus not in use (e.g Z (Zoom)), Spin Wheel to Point B, then switch back to F Bus. and Inclino pulls Its a fast pull but it works
 
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