Preston FIZ: wireless remote control system by Preston Cinema Systems for focus, iris, and zoom operating on 2.4 GHz with 300m range and sub-20ms latency; industry standard on 90% of Hollywood productions.
Technical Details
The Preston FIZ system operates on a 2.4 GHz radio frequency, achieving a range of up to 300 meters. The motors deliver a torque of 4.5 Nm with a weight of 680 grams per unit. The hand unit features three separate encoders with 360-degree rotation and tactile feedback. The system operates with a latency of under 20 milliseconds and supports manual and programmable moves. Power is supplied via a 12V or 24V DC connection, optionally through V-Mount or Gold-Mount batteries.
History & Development
Preston Cinema Systems introduced the first commercial FIZ system in 1995, revolutionizing remote lens control. Previously, wired follow-focus systems were standard, restricting camera movements. In 2003, the first digital version with programmable moves followed. The current Preston Light Ranger 2 from 2018 integrates laser distance measurement and can automatically move to focus points. Preston established itself as an industry standard and is now used in 90% of all Hollywood productions.
Practical Use in Film
In "1917" (2019), the Preston FIZ system enabled seamless camera movements through trenches, while the focus was precisely pulled from one actor to another. In "Mad Max: Fury Road," multiple operators simultaneously controlled various parameters during chase sequences. The system allows the 1st AC (Assistant Camera) to perform millimeter-accurate focus pulls even during extreme camera movements or drone shots. Programmable A/B points significantly speed up repeat takes.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike mechanical follow-focus systems with gears, Preston FIZ allows remote control without a physical connection to the camera. Main competitors include Arri cforce mini and RED DSMC2 Remote, which, however, offer less range and motor power. Modern alternatives like the Tilta Nucleus-M cost around 2,000 Euros compared to 15,000 Euros for a Preston system, but do not achieve its precision and reliability. For simple productions, more affordable systems suffice; for complex camera moves and the highest precision requirements, Preston remains the gold standard.