ZR2000 Lanc -Question for Chris Hurd
 

Chris,

I read in a previous post that you used to work for varizoom. I have a question. I just filmed a job this past weekend using the XH-A1 and the ZR2000 zoom remote. Coming from the Panasonic DVC-30, I was very disappointed with both the on camera zoom and the ZR-2000 zoom. It seems as if there is not quite enough throw to effectively control the variable zoom. I use the varizoom rock for my panasonics. So here is my question.

If I use the vaarizoom (lanc) with the A1, will I get the same response as when I use it with my panasonic or is determined by the camera's zoom?

If anyone else has any thoughts I would gladly appreciate them. Thank you.

Jonathan Schwartz
Owner, CA Video Productions

Hi Jonathan,

I left VariZoom long before the XH A1 came out, and I've never used a VariZoom controller with a DVC30. However I have a couple of their controllers here so I might be able to help you. I'd say it depends most on which VariZoom controller model you're referring to. The VZ-Rock has a decently long throw. The VZ-Pro L has no throw at all (it's either on or off) but there is a speed control knob mounted below the grip handle which lets you vary the speed of the zoom with your index finger while triggering the zoom rocker with your thumb. Hope this helps,

Just talked to Varizoom
 

Chris,

Thanks. I just got off the phone w/ varizoom and they said they have has problems with the Rock Lanc controllers and the Canon XH series. Good to know the Pro-L has no throw. I guess I will just get used to the zr-2000. Oh well. Any thoughts on how to best reshape the back of the mount so it actually fits on the tripod arm?

Jonathan Schwartz
Owner, CA Video Productions

Hi Jonathan, the quickest solution I know of is to simply get some longer screws.

The tripod clamp on that Canon controller is worse than useless in my opinion.

Hi Jonathan.............................
 

You may be interested in this little bit of info - it could be relevant to your Lanc troubles.




http://dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=103258


CS

Lanc Troubles
 

Chris S,

Two questions.
I just received my XH-A1 last Friday, how do I tell if I hav ethe updated firmware?

Do you think this would fix the problems that Varizoom reported with their lanc controllers?

Thanks.

Jonathan Schwartz

Hi.....
 

To check the firmware level:


Switch to Card mode.
VCR/ PLay
Menu
System Setup

Aha, now the second is an interesting question. As far as I'm aware, no one on the planet seems to know what, exactly, this upgrade attempts to address.

Unless Canon actually care to divulge that info to their service departments at least, the SD's don't know what it fixes either.

As it stands, if you have a "non Canon" Lanc issue with an A1/ G1 camera, you log it with your local Canon SD, persuade them that, yes, there is indeed a firmware update "that may fix the issue" and then talk them into actually doing it. You will lose the camera for whatever is the standard turn around time with that particular SD, and get it back with your Lanc issue sorted or not.

Seems a daft way of doing things, but Canon really haven't designed a "workflow" with Camcorders that caters for firmware updates and related release information.

Of course, if your camera turns up new with firmware level 1.0.1.0 already on board, forget it, if you have Lanc problems with 1010 you're likely to have them till the next camera series comes out (IMHO).


CS

Firmware
 

Chris,

No luck finding the firmware level with vcr>menu>system setup

all I have is
Custom key 1
Custom key 2
D/Time
Reset All
Return

Please advise.

THanks

Jonathan Schwartz

You can't find it because you're in Tape mode. Camera must be in Card mode.

Slide the little tab from Tape to Card (slide switch on upper right rear of cam).

Menu selection for Firmware appears between Reset All and Return.

Firmware
 

Got it thanks!

Jon Schwartz

And the answer is............
 

What?


CS

And the answer is....
 

Chris S,

I am on the updated firmware. I just ordered the Varizoom Rock and should have it by Thursday. I'll report back once I get it with the results. Until later.

Jonathan Schwartz

Got the Rock and...
 

Chris S,

Well to follow up, I received my Rock from Varizoom yesterday and was able to use it at a danc recital last night. I loved it! Not all of the functions worked, but I was told that before ordering. For me, the zoom, focus, start and on buttons worked. No push AF and no F- or F+. Big deal, I just wanted a consistent zoom that I could control.

When I talked to Christian at Varizoom he basically siad that every A1 will act differently with the rock. They told me that the focus would most likely not work, so I was pretty ecstatic to have that control as well.

I will be returning my ZR2000 and will be keeping my Rock!

Jonathan Schwartz
Owner, CA Video Productions

Thanks........
 

for the update Jonathan.

Sorry, I seem to have missed it somehow when it first popped up. Glad to hear you're happy with it.

My search for an answer to my problems continues (alas).


CS

Search just hits the buffers @ 100 mph............
 

http://dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=100837&page=2

If anyone out there actually uses a NON Canon Lanc for critical focus with a Canon XH A1 or G1 camera (and it actually works!) please get in touch.

The Canon route is not going to work for me.


&&&***%%%$$##@!!*)_((*&^%#!


(I would say more, but words simply fail me at this point!).


CS