Tilta FF-T05 Single-Sided Cinema Follow Focus Kit User Manual

1. Introduction

The Tilta FF-T05 Single-Sided Cinema Follow Focus Kit is designed for precise focus control with various camera setups, including DSLR, mirrorless, and professional cinema cameras. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your FF-T05 follow focus system.

2. Components (In the Box)

The FF-T05 kit includes the following components:

• Single-sided follow focus body
• 15mm LWS rod adapter
• 19mm studio rod adapter
• Hand wheel
• Hand wheel extension arm
• 350mm focus whip
• Follow focus speed crank
• Three 0.8 MOD drive gears (0.8/43T, 0.8/38T, 0.8/64T)
• Three marking disks
• Five zip gears
• Hard shell case

Figure 2.1: All components included in the Tilta FF-T05 Follow Focus Kit.

3. Setup

1. Choose Rod Adapter: Select either the 15mm LWS or 19mm studio rod adapter based on your camera rig's rod system.
2. Attach Rod Adapter: Secure the chosen rod adapter to the follow focus body using the provided screws. The quick-release design allows for easy attachment and removal.
3. Mount on Rods: Slide the assembled follow focus unit onto your camera's 15mm LWS or 19mm studio rods. Tighten the clamp securely to prevent movement.

Figure 3.1: The Tilta FF-T05 Follow Focus unit.

4. Install Drive Gear: Select a 0.8 MOD drive gear that matches your lens's focus gear. The kit includes 0.8/43T, 0.8/38T, and 0.8/64T gears. Attach the chosen gear to the follow focus unit.
5. Position Drive Gear: Use the swing-arm mechanism to position the drive gear against your lens's focus ring. Ensure proper engagement without excessive pressure.
6. For Lenses Without Gearing: If your lens lacks a focus gear, use one of the five included zip gears. Wrap the zip gear around the lens's focus ring and secure it. Then, position the follow focus drive gear against the zip gear.
7. Attach Hand Wheel: Connect the hand wheel to the follow focus body. For extended reach, attach the hand wheel extension arm.
8. Optional Accessories: For remote or faster focus adjustments, attach the 350mm focus whip or the speed crank to the hand wheel.
9. Marking Disks: Place a marking disk onto the hand wheel for precise focus marks.

Figure 3.2: Tilta FF-T05 Follow Focus mounted on a camera rig.

4. Operation

• Focus Adjustment: Rotate the hand wheel to adjust the lens focus. The 1:1 gear ratio ensures accurate and smooth focus pulls.
• Swing-Arm Adjustment: The swing-arm allows for quick and easy engagement or disengagement of the drive gear from the lens, facilitating lens changes or adjustments.
• Using Focus Whip: The focus whip provides a flexible extension for pulling focus from a distance, useful for operating away from the camera.
• Using Speed Crank: The speed crank allows for rapid focus adjustments across the lens's focus range.
• Utilizing Marking Disks: Use a dry-erase marker on the marking disks to denote specific focus points for repeatable shots.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the follow focus unit with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Gear Inspection: Periodically inspect the drive gears and lens gears for wear or damage. Replace worn gears to maintain optimal performance.
• Storage: Store the follow focus kit in its hard shell case when not in use to protect it from dust, moisture, and physical damage.
• Lubrication: No user-serviceable lubrication is required. Do not attempt to disassemble the unit for lubrication.

6. Troubleshooting

• Problem: Focus wheel feels stiff or gritty.
  Solution: Check for debris between the drive gear and lens gear. Clean both gears. Ensure the swing-arm is not overly tight.
• Problem: Focus is inconsistent or slips.
  Solution: Verify that the drive gear is properly engaged with the lens gear. If using zip gears, ensure they are securely attached to the lens. Check for wear on the drive gear or lens gear.
• Problem: Follow focus unit is loose on rods.
  Solution: Tighten the rod clamp screws. Ensure the rods are the correct diameter (15mm or 19mm) for the adapter being used.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty & Support

• Warranty Information: This product is covered by Tilta's standard manufacturer warranty. Please refer to the official Tilta website or your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms and conditions.
• Customer Support: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Tilta customer support through their official website or authorized service centers. Keep your proof of purchase handy.