Bebob Foxi Impressions [Archive] - DVXuser.com -- The online community for filmmaking

Opcode

04-01-2006, 01:40 PM

16x9 Inc has finally been receiving more shipments of the Bebob Foxi follow focus system. I received mine yesterday and thought I'd put up an initial impression for those who have been contemplating a purchase.

First I'd like to say that this is just an initial impression and I have not had time to really put it to test. I have not verified the accuracy of the focus repeatability. I'm only commenting on my initial impressions and opinions.

The unit comes with an offset block that allows you to attach it to the controller and helps separate it from the camera when attached to support rods. The kit also comes with an extra marking strip to replace the one that is included stock.

The foxi attaches to the LANC input via a coiled cable and allows manual control of both iris and focus. One of the nice things about it that the focus knob uses a 270 degree hard stop and allows you roll through the full focus range of the camera in single twist.

The focus knob uses a friction based resistance which gives a bit more fine control, however, I found that the resistance is bit too much for my liking and as far as I know, not adjustable. If you are pulling focus while panning or tilting by yourself, it is possible that turning could affect the smoothness of the shot depending on how fast you need to rack.

The question is whether the foxi is a replacement for a well engineered manual follow focus and the simple answer is that it is not. The Foxi uses an electronic system that drives the internal focusing servos. As such, it is limited by the speed and resolution of the analog input. A manually geared follow focus will give you finer control and provides more sensitivity to allow minor adjustments.

I haven't really played with the varizoom but I believe the foxi is a significant step up over it given the aforementioned features. Having a 270 degree throw just gives you more control.

At a price point of 465.00, it offers a good low cost alternative to a full follow focus system for the budget minded but I would definitely say it's not a replacement for a well made geared follow focus system by the professional manufacturers.

Anders Holck

04-01-2006, 02:15 PM

The focus ring also uses the same servo so I'm not so sure you get better resolution and response with a mechanical follow focus.
The microjack connector is not a LANC connector, but a special Panasonic connector.
Thank you for the report.

bgundu

04-01-2006, 07:18 PM

Thanks for this informative report.

The Sarlacc

04-01-2006, 08:37 PM

I played with one at Abel Cine Tech the other day, and was pretty impressed...A device such as this is sorely needed for these cameras lacking true focus barrels.

bena

04-03-2006, 12:14 PM

Opcode, is there any chance you could open up your foxy and take some pics? I would really like to know how it works so us DIY guys can make ourselves one. ;')

Thanks
Ben

Justyn

04-03-2006, 05:10 PM

Opcode

04-03-2006, 07:05 PM

Opcode, is there any chance you could open up your foxy and take some pics? I would really like to know how it works so us DIY guys can make ourselves one. ;')

Thanks
Ben
You mean open up the guts and let you reverse engineer it? It's got screws so it looks like it can be safely opened but I don't know how ethical that would be of me. I can't do it at this time anyways because I've got jobs that are dependent on a fully functioning foxi.

From an engineering perspective though you'll need to find out what the camera expects signal wise going in through the LANC imput. My guess the rotary dial is a simple pot/variable resistor and not some fancy digital encoder. If you are EE saavy you may be able to make your own.

Opcode

04-03-2006, 07:08 PM

I'd be interested in your results and observations after some real world use. I"m looking to get one for the concerts I shoot.. and the talking head convention work that pops up from time to time. With a marshall monitor.. and my two tripod arms... would be quite a nice studio style kit...

Seems like a better design than the varizoom.. and that is awesome as I love the Lac varizoom I have for my XL1. Got so used to shooting with it.. that it's hard to shoot without one.

Have you bought the zoom controller as well?

I don't own the Zoe controller but I'm seriously considering getting one. I'll definitely be putting the unit to the test as I'll be shooting another feature next week.

My guess is that you'd be very happy with it. If you like the varizoom, then foxi is a significant step up. You'd have a very sweet concert shoot setup with the dual pan arms, foxi on one and zoe on the other.

Justyn

04-03-2006, 07:16 PM

Opscode.. I think it would be sweet as well... I also know I'll use this more than a focus control.. but I'd be getting one of those as well. I'm interested to see what the Redrock suite will cost.. Looks great and if it's all for under 1500-2K, would be a great deal...

Tom McKay

04-03-2006, 10:29 PM

Opcode,

This is Tom from VariZoom. With all due respect you really need to do some more investigating. I wish you would before you say anymore about VariZoom especially since you have not yet used the VariZoom.

Your camera does not have a lanc port.

You mentioned 270 degrees "gives you more control" VariZoom has 310 degrees. It is "a significant step up" I think you would need to actually compare the two products to make that statement.

You said the $465. Fox is a low cost alternative. My VariZoom PFI is $199.

I understand you are simply reporting your first impressions but since you mention and compare it to my product, that you "haven't really played with", I think it is important to bring in some more perspective for the readers.

Thanks for the report.

Tom

www.varizoom.com (http://www.varizoom.com)

Opcode

04-03-2006, 11:33 PM

Thank you Tom for responding and I'm glad you did. You make a very important point that I want to re-iterate if I had failed to properly in my original post. I do not own and have very little experience with the Varizoom. And I do not intend to make any sleights against your product. I have indeed used it, albeit briefly and my impression is based on very little experience with both products.

I also stand corrected that it is not a lanc port but a focus/iris port.

When I say a "significant step up", I refer to an enhancement to usability in the form of a large dial that can be rod mounted, and marking strips for both focus and iris. I think we all know that the angle of rotation is a fairly meaningless measure of rotation when it comes to sensitivity in and of itself. The foxi simply offers more focus control by virture of having a larger circumference with which to adjust focus allowing the utilization of the hands and wrists. Some people may prefer otherwise, but I don't. I intended the mention of angle of rotation to illustrate the difference in comparison to the hvx's focus ring, but I carelessly let it slip into the wrong place and made an inadvertent argument.

And yes, to be fair, Varizoom does offer an even lower cost alternative to expensive mechanical systems which I don't dispute.

I was trying to avoid any direct comparisons between products because it was neither my intention nor place to compare products. But I think it's not too unfair to mention them considering the foxi is over twice the price of your equivalent product. One would expect a "signifcant step up" at the price difference.

I hope readers do understand that they are both viable alternatives at difference price points.

Jarek Zabczynski

04-04-2006, 12:16 AM

As a user of both Varizoom and Bebob products, it's easy for me to say that the Zoe and Foxi are far far superior to their Varizoom counterparts. Varizoom makes some great stuff for their "pro" line, but their Pannasonic offerings fall short IMHO.

The Bebob products are more expensive yes, however I feel they are well worth it. The build quality is also better. If you can spare the $$$ go with Bebob. Budget minded folks will also be please with the Varizoom line.

PS...the Zoe and Foxi look cooler! :D

Justyn

04-04-2006, 10:09 AM

I think a shootout will be in order.. or maybe a review by Barry or Jared.... I have the varizoom for my XL1 and love it. The bebob.. looks sweet too and I love the ability to put focus marks and all that jazz.... Maybe make it somewhat repeatable

smelni

04-04-2006, 11:41 AM

Tom - if you would make something we can place over the varizoom control to make a larger handle with marks then your product would be dramatically better - I own one and it is good but very hard to use for critical focusing.

bilgami

04-04-2006, 11:57 AM

so which geared ff system would you suggest?

evinsky

04-04-2006, 12:04 PM

Tom, I know your defending your product, and with good reason, I have used your PFI and although good for small adjustment on the fly it is way too "Fast" or sensitive for precision follow focus control. I'm checking out the Foxi in a day or so. I will be able to determine if that product does better at it's more specific job. However I have heard rumbilngs that Varizoom may have a similar follow-focus style control available soon, is this correct?

evinsky

04-04-2006, 12:07 PM

I would be willing to conduct and publish a shootout here if Varizoom and Bebop will supply some examples for me to use. Tom, any chance your Follow Focus prototype is working yet?

Justyn

04-04-2006, 12:21 PM

The Gods have answered... rumblings overhead. Good info to be found out.

Tom McKay

04-04-2006, 01:52 PM

Thanks Opcode,

I appreciate your response. I actually do have a product that has not released that is similar to what you have described and what most focus pullers are accustomed to using.

It has a large know knob in the center with a large plastic border of which can be marked with a grease pencil and then wiped away.

I usually don't display a product until I can fill the dealer orders but I will likely have a few production units at NAB.

Maybe I can send you one as well as Evinsky and Smelni since you all have a particular interest in this style. The reason I made the thing was because of a post in this site.

Best regards,

Tom McKay

www.varizoom.com http://www.varizoom.com

evinsky

04-04-2006, 05:19 PM

Thaks Tom, That would be great. I'll PM you my info. I'll also PM the guys at Bebop and see if the're game.

Pierre co bebob

04-05-2006, 12:59 AM

Opcode, is there any chance you could open up your foxy and take some pics? I would really like to know how it works so us DIY guys can make ourselves one. ;')

Thanks
Ben

Hello,

as you see in the account name, we are the manufacturer of Foxi. I guess that you enjoy that different manufacturers put efforts, money and time in developping innovative products. They will do it only as long as they can hope to come back on their investment.

I respect that you would like to make such a controller on your own.

Don´t you think it would be a much better way to ask panasonic about the informations you need, than trying to copy what other people made?

Regards,

pierre

Pierre co bebob

04-05-2006, 01:00 AM

You mean open up the guts and let you reverse engineer it? It's got screws so it looks like it can be safely opened but I don't know how ethical that would be of me. I can't do it at this time anyways because I've got jobs that are dependent on a fully functioning foxi.

From an engineering perspective though you'll need to find out what the camera expects signal wise going in through the LANC imput. My guess the rotary dial is a simple pot/variable resistor and not some fancy digital encoder. If you are EE saavy you may be able to make your own.

Hello,

Many thanks for your very fair and correct reaction,

Pierre

Pierre co bebob

04-05-2006, 01:02 AM

I would be willing to conduct and publish a shootout here if Varizoom and Bebop will supply some examples for me to use. Tom, any chance your Follow Focus prototype is working yet?

Hello,

don´t hesitate to contact me (pierre@bebob.de) or our distributor in the US (jeff@16x9inc.com) to get some units for tests. I´m at your disposal for any more technical information you could need.

Pierre

bilgami

04-05-2006, 10:54 AM

I emailed beebob and he says the foxi ff wont work on my dvc80 so now I need to know which one will? does anyone know?

Justyn

04-05-2006, 11:10 AM

That's cool of both. Great that varizoom listens and builds according to customer requests.. and same for bebob. Good for us all!

Barry_Green

04-05-2006, 11:49 AM

I emailed beebob and he says the foxi ff wont work on my dvc80 so now I need to know which one will? does anyone know?
The Foxi is a Focus and Iris control. The DVC80 doesn't allow for remote focus or iris control.

bilgami

04-05-2006, 11:52 AM

So I guess anything manual not electronic should work im guessing?

Mr. Blonde

04-05-2006, 03:42 PM

I currently own the Varizoom and finally got the chance to use the Foxi. Honestly, the Varizoom is way too sensitive for spot on focusing. The nice thing about the Varizoom though is the all-in-one functionality of it. Zoom/Focus/Iris and record button all on the same unit. Once I pick up a 35 adapter I see the VZ as being the perfect tool for quick and easy iris and recording functions.

But if you're looking for a follow focus unit for the stock HVX lens, the Foxi is the one for you. After using the Foxi for a shoot, both my AC and I love it!. I swear to you that unless using a 35 adapter with the HVX, all you'd need for focus pulling is the Bebob Foxi, forget a mechanical follow focus unit. On a recent music video we used the Foxi for multiple stationary and steadicam rack shots and the Foxi was spot on in every shot!

The large white marking band hugging the focus knob is marked with 3 protruding black arrows that allow for precise markings everytime. My only complaint about the Foxi is the lack of a record button and the Iris belt is a bit too stiff.

While the focus is controlled via the nice and large 270 degree knob, the iris is controlled by a belt system that feels too stiff. So if you plan on iris pulling, it may be a bit difficult to do so.

P.S. Tom, any chance I can get a hold of one those new VZ units for review as well?

Tom McKay

04-06-2006, 08:59 PM

Mr. Blonde,

Thanks for the kind comments. The big knob is more forgiving for sure and when our large knob focus puller version is in production I will put you on the list as a tester but it will be after NAB. Please PM me with your contact info.

You can most likely however see one at NAB. We actually have quite a few new products at NAB. It is very hard on manufuacturers like myself preparing for NAB and there are so many things you want to show etc. but there is not enough space and time to do it all.

It really is great seeing users with constructive, helpful points of view.

That's why I am a fan of DVXUSER.

Also, VariZoom has a new catalog. As hard as we worked on it we still had a few mistakes with text, photos, and some other stuff too.

We are also going to have a contest to see who can find the most mistakes within the VariZoom catalog and give away 10 controls to the the top ten finders of these mistakes.

I will likely make announcement later this week. There is a form on the site linking from the front page if you would like one mailed to you. You can also download the pdf catalog now and and start the search.

http://www.varizoom.com/catalog.html

http://www.varizoom.com

Tom

I currently own the Varizoom and finally got the chance to use the Foxi. Honestly, the Varizoom is way too sensitive for spot on focusing. The nice thing about the Varizoom though is the all-in-one functionality of it. Zoom/Focus/Iris and record button all on the same unit. Once I pick up a 35 adapter I see the VZ as being the perfect tool for quick and easy iris and recording functions.

But if you're looking for a follow focus unit for the stock HVX lens, the Foxi is the one for you. After using the Foxi for a shoot, both my AC and I love it!. I swear to you that unless using a 35 adapter with the HVX, all you'd need for focus pulling is the Bebob Foxi, forget a mechanical follow focus unit. On a recent music video we used the Foxi for multiple stationary and steadicam rack shots and the Foxi was spot on in every shot!

The large white marking band hugging the focus knob is marked with 3 protruding black arrows that allow for precise markings everytime. My only complaint about the Foxi is the lack of a record button and the Iris belt is a bit too stiff.

While the focus is controlled via the nice and large 270 degree knob, the iris is controlled by a belt system that feels too stiff. So if you plan on iris pulling, it may be a bit difficult to do so.

P.S. Tom, any chance I can get a hold of one those new VZ units for review as well?

Mr. Blonde

04-07-2006, 04:57 PM

Great Tom, info's been sent, can't wait to thoroughly test it out.

Barry_Green

04-07-2006, 09:44 PM

Had a chance to use the shipping version of the Foxi today. As an "electronic follow focus", it's really quite nice.

I had tested a prerelease version and wasn't too impressed, but this release version feels great -- solid, nicely dampened movement, and easy to do precise moves. It makes a strong case for forgetting about a conventional follow focus, especially because the Foxi can be used with a cable extender when the camera is mounted on a jib arm (or otherwise inaccessible).

Don't know that I'm too impressed with the iris conveyer-belt design, but the focus system on the shipping unit was very pleasant.

evinsky

04-08-2006, 06:22 AM

Had a chance to use the shipping version of the Foxi today. As an "electronic follow focus", it's really quite nice.

I agree, I'm going to do the first half of the shootout with the Foxi and the available Varizoom this week. Hopefully I'll have it done by next weekend. When Tom getts me his new FF style controller I'll add a part 2.
E.:Drogar-BigGrin(DBG)

bgundu

04-08-2006, 10:09 AM

Had a chance to use the shipping version of the Foxi today. As an "electronic follow focus", it's really quite nice.

Hey Barry,

Being an electronic focus, how fast can you pull focus? Do the servos keep up to normal manual focus speeds?

darwinandpaine

04-08-2006, 10:45 PM

I got a chance to play with both units today at the bootcamp, and there were things I liked about both. I liked the price of the Varizoom, but... the focus apparatus is quite small and I'm not sure how good I could get at precision repeatability with the unit. Still, having the focus, iris, and zoom all in one place that can be attached to the tripod is pretty cool --- particularly for under $300. I will probably buy one.

The Foxi was fantastic, and we were able to repeat focus with marks on the unit. However, I agree with Barry about the iris "treadmill/conveyor belt." It feels really funky when you have to go from full open all the way to the f16. I don't know how often anyone needs to do that, but it kinda felt cheezy. If I weren't set on getting an M2, I'd buy one in a second, but it would be useless with a 35mm adapter.

Barry_Green

04-09-2006, 02:30 AM

Being an electronic focus, how fast can you pull focus? Do the servos keep up to normal manual focus speeds?
You can go from one extreme to the other in about a second. It's really quite fast; not absolutely instantaneous, but it only takes it about a second to go from macro to infinity.

spencercl

04-09-2006, 08:51 AM

Could anyone tell me where they've purchased the Foxi? It doesn't seem that 16x9 sells direct. Thanks!

MrDorf

04-09-2006, 11:43 PM

My company is using the HVX-200 in more documentary style environments for our current set of products, and the stock focus ring gave us some concern once we saw that it took 2.5 revolutions to go from macro to infinity. Much of our footage is captured run and gun style, and being able to quickly and accurately focus on a subject that we don't have distances for is a necessary requirement. To make things worse, these environments often have multiple layers of activity, so auto-focus is usually unreliable even as a last resort.

We've just received our first Foxi a few days ago, and it makes a world of difference for this kind of work. Focus is much faster, and just as accurate without having to jerk the camera around trying to work the focus ring for a quick realignment. Very nice piece of equipment to invest in for the HVX.

MrDorf

04-09-2006, 11:47 PM

Could anyone tell me where they've purchased the Foxi? It doesn't seem that 16x9 sells direct. Thanks!

Contact Jeff at 16x9....we aquired ours from direct sales from them.
JeffG@16x9inc.com

spencercl

04-10-2006, 08:16 AM

Thanks!

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:07 AM

First I'd like to say that this is just an initial impression and I have not had time to really put it to test. I have not verified the accuracy of the focus repeatability. I'm only commenting on my initial impressions and opinions.

It works. I had an engineering prototype to test for several weeks, and have had two release versions from the first day of availability. I just finished up a music video shoot with four different locations using them. I really couldn't have done all the dolly tracking shots and rack focus work without them. Nice job Pierre, and thanks to Jeff G. at 16x9 for getting them in the U.S. so quickly.

The unit comes with an offset block that allows you to attach it to the controller and helps separate it from the camera when attached to support rods. The kit also comes with an extra marking strip to replace the one that is included stock.

We found using the block on the tripod handles is a good idea... keeps the long rods from sticking out and is more secure.

The foxi attaches to the LANC input via a coiled cable and allows manual control of both iris and focus. One of the nice things about it that the focus knob uses a 270 degree hard stop and allows you roll through the full focus range of the camera in single twist.

Actually, it isn't LANC, but a proprietary Panasonic port.

The focus knob uses a friction based resistance which gives a bit more fine control, however, I found that the resistance is bit too much for my liking and as far as I know, not adjustable. If you are pulling focus while panning or tilting by yourself, it is possible that turning could affect the smoothness of the shot depending on how fast you need to rack.

The question is whether the foxi is a replacement for a well engineered manual follow focus and the simple answer is that it is not. The Foxi uses an electronic system that drives the internal focusing servos. As such, it is limited by the speed and resolution of the analog input. A manually geared follow focus will give you finer control and provides more sensitivity to allow minor adjustments.

I'd have to disagree. I actually find mechanical systems less useful. Many of the things we did couldn't have been done with a system requiring two people. FWIW, I never had a problem with what your concern is, and as I said... used it in grueling long days (10-16 hours) for four days in a row. Like everything, operator skill is a factor, but trust me it works fine, even in difficult shooting environments.

I haven't really played with the varizoom but I believe the foxi is a significant step up over it given the aforementioned features. Having a 270 degree throw just gives you more control.

It is... but then it costs more.

At a price point of 465.00, it offers a good low cost alternative to a full follow focus system for the budget minded but I would definitely say it's not a replacement for a well made geared follow focus system by the professional manufacturers.

Again, I disagree... having used it for quite some time now.

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:08 AM

Opcode, is there any chance you could open up your foxy and take some pics? I would really like to know how it works so us DIY guys can make ourselves one. ;')

Thanks
Ben

I think this post should be removed.

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:16 AM

Opcode,

This is Tom from VariZoom. With all due respect you really need to do some more investigating. I wish you would before you say anymore about VariZoom especially since you have not yet used the VariZoom.

It is "a significant step up" I think you would need to actually compare the two products to make that statement.

You said the $465. Fox is a low cost alternative. My VariZoom PFI is $199.

I can do that, having used both. Yes, the Foxi is a SIGNIFICANT step up, but then it costs more than twice as much. Definitely two different offerings. The smaller wheels on the Varizoom do not provide the same tactile feel or level of control. For some the Foxi will be their choice... for others the Varizoom. At $199, the Varizoom is quite a bargain.

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:18 AM

Barry_Green

04-10-2006, 10:25 AM

I've used all three now, and it breaks down like this:

For precise manual focusing, I prefer using the HVX's ring directly. Yes it takes longer to move the ring, but that's what gives you the precision.

As a budget "electronic follow focus", the Foxi does very well. Considering most physical follow focus devices cost around $1500, the Foxi at $465 is an appealing alternative. And it does something the physical follow focus doesn't do -- you can run an extension cable and operate it remotely. You can't do that with a physical follow focus.

Is it a complete replacement for the "real" follow focus? No, because if you want to use it with a mini35/M2/Cinemek/Letus type adapter, and want to use a follow focus on the 35mm lens, the Foxi has no applicability for that job. Only a manual follow focus could be used in that circumstance.

How about vs. the VariZoom? I've got the VariZoom PZFI, and ... well, the bigger ring of the Foxi is better, but you have to consider price and features in the equation. The VariZoom costs $259, and it gives you focus and iris and zoom and start/stop. The Foxi is only focus/iris; if you want zoom and start/stop you'll have to also get the Bebob Zoe, and that unit alone costs more than the whole Varizoom rig. So $465+$265 = $730 for the Foxi/Zoe, vs. $259 for the Varizoom. The Varizoom is 1/3 the price. Is the Foxi better? Yes, I think so. Is it worth 3x as much as the Varizoom? Well... that's a choice each end user will have to make. If I hadn't bought one yet, I'd probably go the Foxi/Zoe route, but I got the VariZoom first, and now I don't know that I'd use it enough to justify taking the loss in selling it just to upgrade to the Bebob. But if you live & die by focusing, the Foxi does have its advantages, that's for sure.

I prefer the iris control on the Varizoom. I prefer the focus control on the Foxi, and the markable wheel is nice. I think the connectors on both of 'em are unsatisfactory; I'd rather see a molded plastic block that snaps in rather than trying to wrangle two 90-degree plugs into a space that's not really big enough for just one.

It will be most interesting to see the new Varizoom with the larger wheel that Tom discussed.

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:31 AM

After using the Foxi for a shoot, both my AC and I love it!. I swear to you that unless using a 35 adapter with the HVX, all you'd need for focus pulling is the Bebob Foxi, forget a mechanical follow focus unit. On a recent music video we used the Foxi for multiple stationary and steadicam rack shots and the Foxi was spot on in every shot!

Nice to hear... we had the same experience.

My only complaint about the Foxi is the lack of a record button and the Iris belt is a bit too stiff.

While the focus is controlled via the nice and large 270 degree knob, the iris is controlled by a belt system that feels too stiff. So if you plan on iris pulling, it may be a bit difficult to do so.

I discovered that by placing my thumb and forefinger on the two ends (wheels), I could get unbelievably smooth controlled iris changes. Not stiff at all, and probably better than with the iris ring on a broadcast lens. If you're trying to slide the pointer, it probably is too stiff...

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:34 AM

Don't know that I'm too impressed with the iris conveyer-belt design, but the focus system on the shipping unit was very pleasant.

Try my suggestion in a previous post (using thumb and forefinger)... I think you'll hate iris-ing by any other method when you do.

Pierre, please don't change it!

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:35 AM

However, I agree with Barry about the iris "treadmill/conveyor belt." It feels really funky when you have to go from full open all the way to the f16. I don't know how often anyone needs to do that, but it kinda felt cheezy. If I weren't set on getting an M2, I'd buy one in a second, but it would be useless with a 35mm adapter.

Try my method...

Mitch_Ives

04-10-2006, 10:42 AM

Is it a complete replacement for the "real" follow focus? No, because if you want to use it with a mini35/M2/Cinemek/Letus type adapter, and want to use a follow focus on the 35mm lens, the Foxi has no applicability for that job. Only a manual follow focus could be used in that circumstance.

True enough... not much use with 35mm lenses.

I prefer the iris control on the Varizoom. I prefer the focus control on the Foxi, and the markable wheel is nice. I think the connectors on both of 'em are unsatisfactory; I'd rather see a molded plastic block that snaps in rather than trying to wrangle two 90-degree plugs into a space that's not really big enough for just one.

I really can't believe that Barry. I too have tried both. The Varizoom isn't smooth at all. I've now used three Foxi's and I have done some of the smoothest iris work I've ever done with any camera. Of course, it could be my method for using it? Meet me at the 16x9 booth at NAB and I'll demonstrate it. I think you may change your mind then...

bena

04-10-2006, 11:40 AM

I don't know that Panasonic is going to "talk" to me since I am not a 3rd party manufacture. If they will great.

Im not interested in ripping off your's or others designs.

What I need to know is what the HVX is expecting for a signal. If Panasonic will not tell me, what choices do I have to find this information out?

If you are willing to share in a broad sense what the signal is, it would be most appreciated, but if we DIY guys figure it out or learn it, I understand your fear that we will lower your potential sales.

For some of us $200-500 is way too much for something that has $20 worth of parts.

My guess is the Panny is expecting a pulsed signal like a R/C servo. But thats only a guess.

I will see if Jan can point me in the right direction to find this information out.

Hello,

as you see in the account name, we are the manufacturer of Foxi. I guess that you enjoy that different manufacturers put efforts, money and time in developping innovative products. They will do it only as long as they can hope to come back on their investment.

I respect that you would like to make such a controller on your own.

Don´t you think it would be a much better way to ask panasonic about the informations you need, than trying to copy what other people made?

Regards,

pierre