¶ Introduction
The LDT-F1 is a multi-purpose video processor unit that can provide overlays and desqueeze anamorphic lenses for film cameras. Additionally it is a lens encoding system that can record lens data as human readable encoded data.
The lens metadata is recorded onto a MicroSD card that is inserted into the unit. (Internal SD recording)
¶ LDT-F1 Compatibility
- Preston MDR-3/MDR-4/MDR-5
- Preston HU3
- Preston HU4 (Limited functionality see here)
- Cmotion Camin
- Arri LCUBE
- Tilta Nucleus-M
- Smart Lenses with a port
- ARRIFLEX
- ARRICAM
- Panavision XL2
Please contact DCS for more information if your device is not listed here.
¶ LDT-F1 Components
| 1 | Power - 9-pin 0B Lemo | 8 | SDI - Loop Out |
| 2 | ETH - 5-pin 0B Lemo | 9 | SDI - Overlay Out |
| 3 | ENC - 6-pin 0B Lemo | 10 | SDI - Overlay Out |
| 4 | Timecode - 5-pin 0B Lemo | 11 | Memory slot for MicroSD Card |
| 5 | Serial - 4-pin 0B Lemo | 12 | LCD Screen |
| 6 | MDR - 4-pin 0B Lemo | 13 | Joystick |
| 7 | SDI - Video In | 14 | Back Button |
¶ Physical Connections
| Name | Type | Description | Cable Codes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PWR | 9-pin 0B Lemo | Power and Shutter Pulse/Rec Tally connector | PWFA, PWFB |
| ETH | 5-pin 0B Lemo | Ethernet connection port | EVP, ETA |
| ENC | 6-pin 0B Lemo | Lens data encoder connection port for LDT-E Series | ENC |
| MDR | 4-pin 0B Lemo | Preston MDR Serial connection port | MDRP |
| SERIAL | 4-pin 0B Lemo | Serial passthrough connection port | - |
| TC | 5-pin 0B Lemo | Timecode input port | TCD, TCDYA, TCDYB, TCDYC |
| SDI | SDI port | Ports to take camera feed and provide overlay to monitor | SDI cable |
¶ Cable Types and Codes
All DCS cables are categorised using a code and a bend relief colour for each of the cable types. Cables have two default lengths, 12 or 18 inches and the connector type can be straight (S), right angle (R), or anglissimo (O). Custom cables can be made upon request.
| Code | Bend Relief Color | Type Port Name |
LDT-F1 Rec Mode | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PWFA | Black | 9-pin 0B Lemo to 8-pin S104 Fischer PWR |
Film, SD card | PWFA connects the LDT-F1 CAM port to the 8-pin CAC port of the ARRIFLEX film camera that provides shutter pulse and power for the unit. |
| PWFB | Black | 9-pin 0B Lemo to 16-pin S104 Fischer PWR |
Film, SD card | PWFB connects the LDT-F1 CAM port to the 16-pin power supply socket of the ARRICAM film camera that provides shutter pulse and power for the unit. |
| PWFC | Black | 9-pin 0B Lemo to 7-pin 0B Lemo PWR |
Film, SD card | PWFB connects the LDT-F1 CAM port to the 7-pin port of the IndieCam that provides shutter pulse and power for the unit. |
| PWFX | Black, Blue | Y-Cable with a 9-pin 0B Lemo to 4-pin 0B Lemo and 10-pin 1B Lemo PWR |
Film, SD card | PWFB connects the LDT-F1 CAM port to the 4-pin and 10-pin ports of the Panavision XL2 film camera that provides shutter pulse and power for the unit. |
| PWFY | Black, Blue | Y-Cable with a 9-pin 0B Lemo to 4-pin 0B Lemo and 10-pin 1B Lemo PWR |
Film, SD card | PWFB connects the LDT-F1 CAM port to both of the 4-pin ports of the Panavision XL2 film camera that provides shutter pulse and power for the unit. |
| ENC | Green | 6-pin 0B Lemo to 6-pin 0B Lemo ENC |
Any mode | ENC cable connects the LDT-E Series to the LDT-F1. For more information read: Using a Lens Data Encoder |
| TCD | Brown | 5-pin 0B Lemo to 5-pin 0B Lemo TC |
Film, SD card | TCD sends the timecode signal from a timecode generator to the LDT-F1. |
| TCDYA | Brown | 5-pin 0B Lemo to 5-pin 0B Lemo & 5-pin 0B Lemo TC |
Film, SD card, RED, SD card | TCDYA sends the timecode signal from a timecode generator to the LDT-F1 and another device, for example, the Panavision DXL. |
| TCDYB | Brown | 5-pin 0B Lemo to 5-pin 0B Lemo & BNC TC |
RED, SD card | TCDYB sends the timecode signal from a timecode generator to the LDT-F1 and a RED camera with a BNC timecode input connector. |
| TCDYC | Brown | 5-pin 0B Lemo to 5-pin 0B Lemo & RED Sync TC |
RED, SD card | TCDYC sends a timecode signal from a timecode generator to the LDT-F1 and a RED camera with a Sync timecode input connector. |
| MDRP | Blue | 4-pin 0B Lemo to 4-pin 0B Lemo MDR |
Any mode | MDRP cable connects the LDT-F1 to a Preston MDR3/MDR4 serial port. Also provides power. |
¶ Navigating Menus
The LDT-F1 is equipped with one button and a joystick.
| The blue button is the back button |  |
| The joystick is used to navigate the menus (up, down, left and right) |  |
| Press the joystick in to access the Menu or select an option |  |
Full menu structure can be found in Appendix 1: Menu Structure
¶ Flipping GUI
The GUI of the LDT-F1 will automatically flip when the unit is physically turned over. However, if for rigging purposes the orientation of the screen needs to be fixed then auto-flip can be turned off and an orientation can be selected manually:
Choose: Menu > Settings > Advanced > Flip GUI > Auto / No / Yes
¶ Homepage functions
The homepage comes up when the LDT-F1 powers up. There are five pages.
Depending on the REC Mode selected, the homepage layout differs.
| System Status This page is to check the status of the SD Card and the Preston Connections |
 |
| Selected lens Once a lens is loaded, it will be possible to check the lens details here |
 |
| Lens details Once a lens is encoded the screen will display a real time readout of the three axes. Push the back button to switch between units measured (feet/metres) |
 |
| Motor Status From this page the motor connection can be checked: - None: No motor detected - Caling: Motor is calibrating - OK: Motor is ready |
 |
| Motor Status From this page the motor connection can be checked: - None: No motor detected - Caling: Motor is calibrating - OK: Motor is ready |
|
| Timecode Status From this page the timecode can be checked: - None: No timecode detected - Good: Timecode is being fed from device - FPS: The framerate of the fed timecode |
 |
On the homepage: joystick Up/Down controls the brightness of the LDT-F1 screen.
¶ Firmware update
DCS ships all units with the latest firmware, but we are constantly working on new features and fixes, so it is highly recommended that you check the firmware is up to date before starting.
¶ Checking the current firmware on the LDT-F1
- Select
Menu > Info, - Firmware will be displayed here.
¶ To update the LDT-F1 firmware
On a computer:
- Download the latest firmware from here,
- Remove the MicroSD Card from the LDT-F1 and insert it into the computer,
- If you are using a brand new MicroSD card format it FAT32,
- Create a folder called ‘FIRMWARE’ on the MicroSD card,
- Copy the firmware into the ‘FIRMWARE’ folder,
- Eject the MicroSD card.
On the LDT-F1:
- Switch off the unit by removing the power cable from the PWR port,
- Insert the MicroSD card back into the LDT-F1,
- Push and hold the joystick when powering up the LDT-F1,
- This will take you into the firmware update mode,
- Select the firmware file from the list,
- Press the joystick in to run the update,
- When firmware is updated, reboot the unit by unplugging and replugging the power cable.
¶ Firmware Update Steps
When updating the firmware, it is important that the following steps are followed.
- Update the LDT to the latest firmware,
- Format the SD card on the LDT: (Settings > Advanced > Format SD Card),
- Restore factory defaults (Settings > Advanced > Factory Defaults).
¶ Restoring Factory Defaults
To restore the factory default settings:
- Choose:
Menu > Advanced > Factory Defaults
The required settings will need to be selected on the LDT after this.
¶ The MicroSD Card
¶ Recommended MicroSD Card
DCS recommends any Class 10 MicroSD card. 16gb will be enough capacity for a day’s worth of recording.
The MicroSD Card used should not exceed 32gb.
The system uses FAT32, so larger sizes can cause issues.
¶ Formatting the MicroSD Card
When using Internal Sidecar Recording, the SD Card MUST be formatted each day after the data has been backed up.
This can either be done on the LDT-F1 itself or on a computer.
On the LDT-F1:
- Insert the SD Card;
- Power the LDT-F1;
- Choose:
Menu > Advanced > Format SD Card - Follow the onscreen prompts.
On a computer:
- Insert the SD Card;
- Format the card to FAT16 or FAT32;
- Create 2 folders called:
CLIPSandFIRMWARE
¶ Setting up the Preston MDR and Hand Unit
It is essential that all Preston MDR and HU firmware is updated prior to building any lens tables or F-Maps. There is a known issue where auto lens select will not work when the Preston units are not updated.
The Preston HU4 can be used with the LDTs - but does not work with auto lens select. If the production wishes to use auto lens select then please use a HU3.
All F-maps must be made on one hand unit and shared to the other units.
Save all F-Maps to the "Other > User" folder to ensure auto lens select feature works.
- Setup the Focus / Iris / Zoom direction for normal use on the Preston.
- For lens encoding connect the iris and zoom handsets (not required for normal operation).
- Ensure the motor directions are correct on all handsets.
¶ Serial Loop Through for 3rd Party Devices
If no serial port is available on the MDR, the LDT-F1 has a serial loop through port to connect 3rd party devices. Connect the 3rd party device to the serial port of the LDT-F1 and ensure loop through is enabled:
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > SERIAL port > MDR LOOP
¶ CineRT
There is a known issue between the CineRT and LDT-R2 where data will not show up when connected. If this happens, check the CineRT is set to
Serial Out > MDR. If this does not resolve the issue, connect everything up as normal then power cycle the LDT-R2.
-
If used with a Preston lens control workflow, the LDT can power the CineRT through it's serial pass-through via an MDRP cable.
-
If using an a lens control workflow that requires an LCUBE, the CineRT can be powered either by connecting it to a RIA-1 or connecting it to a second LCUBE.
The LCUBE which is connected to the LDT unit MUST be at the end of the chain.
¶ Using a Light Ranger with the LDT-F1
It is recommended that the Light Ranger is used through the serial port of the Preston MDR-3.
If the LDT's serial pass-through is required, then please get in touch with DCS.
- Email: info@dcs.film
- Phone: +44 (0) 20 8895 6592
DCS would encourage that this setup is fully tested before production begins, to detect any compatibility issues with the user’s setup.
¶ Smart Lens Data Recording/Streaming
The LDT-F1 can record and stream data from smart lenses with an external port. Lens tables are not required when using these lenses as all data is passed from the lens to the LDT.
A smart lens must be powered from the camera in order to send data to the LDT.
¶ Connecting a smart lens to the LDT-F1
- Connect the smart lens to the LDT-F1 MDR port with the SML (yellow) cable
¶ Setting up the LDT-F1
Push the joystick in to enter the menu, use the back button to go back.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from lens
¶ Using Cmotion Camin with CLM Motors (non-LBUS)
Please note that lens tables do not need to be built on the LDT-R2 in this configuration as lens data is pulled from the Cmotion or WCU4 handset.
Do not connect an LDT-E Series to the LDT-R2 in this configuration as it will clear incoming lens data.
¶ Camin3
¶ Connecting Camin3 to the LDT-R2
- Connect the EXT port on the Camin3 to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CM (orange) cable.
¶ Setting up the LDT-R2
Push the joystick in to enter the menu, use the back button to go back.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from Camin
¶ Using Cmotion Camin One or cPRO Camin (LBUS)
Lens tables must to be built on the LDT-R2 for this configuration.
¶ Connecting Camin One or cPRO Camin to the LDT-R2
- Connect the Camin One or cPRO Camin to an LCUBE via an LBUS cable,
- Connect the Serial port on the LCUBE to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CML (blue) cable.
¶ Setting up the LDT-R2
Push the joystick in to enter the menu, use the back button to go back.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from LCUBE
¶ Using a Tilta Nucleus-M
¶ Connecting Tilta Nucleus-M to the LDT-F1
Please ensure the handset it running the latest available firmware
- Connect the Nucleus-M to the LDT-F1 MDR port with the TNM (Blue) cable
¶ Setting up the LDT-F1
Push the joystick in to enter the menu, use the back button to go back.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from Nucleus-M
The motors must then be linked to the correct FIZ axis.
- Choose:
Menu > Motor/LDE setup > Focus - Choose:
Menu > Motor/LDE setup > Iris - Choose:
Menu > Motor/LDE setup > Zoom
From here MOT 1 - MOT 4 can be selected in accordance with the motor mapping that is set on the Nucleus-M controller.
The motor direction can be set to normal or reverse if required.
¶ Video Processing
The LDT-F1 is capable of a variety of video processing features, such as providing an overlay with key data pulled from the camera.
¶ Video Feed Setup
- Connect the SDI video feed of the camera to the ‘Video In’ SDI of the LDT-F1,
- Connect the LDT-F1’s ‘Overlay Out’ SDI to the desired monitor’s SDI.
The monitor must be set to 'P' mode in order to receive the video feed from the LDT-F1. 'PSF' and 'I' are not supported.
¶ Video Processing Features
To access the Overlay options:
- Choose:
Menu > Overlay
Once the overlay is selected, the following settings will appear on the 'Overlay Out' feed.
¶ Frame Lines
- Choose:
Menu > Overlay > Frame Lines
Up to 3 frame lines can be active at once. These frames can be turned on and altered individually by selectinging frame 1, 2 or 3.
The aspect ratios available are:
- 1.33:1
- 1.66:1
- 1.78:1
- 1.85:1
- 2:1
- 2.39:1
- User (Custom ratio)
Scale and offset are available to further alter the individual frames
¶ Colour
- Choose:
Menu > Overlay > Frame Lines > Colour
The frameline colour setting affects all active frame lines at the same time.
The colour options are:
- White
- Yellow
- Red
- Green
- Blue
- Purple
- Orange
- Cyan
- Black
Line width and shading can also be changed depending on the users preference.
¶ Anamorphic Desqueeze
The selected desqueeze is applied to the 'Overlay Output' feed.
- Choose:
Menu > Overlay > Desqueeze
Desqueeze must first be enabled by selecting:
Menu > Desqueeze > Anamorphic Desqueeze
The available options include:
- On
- Off
- 1.25
- 1.3
- 1.5
- 1.65
- 1.8
- 2.0
- Custom (user defined between 1.0 - 2.0)
If the camera settings are displayed on the feed then this will also be affected by the dequeeze function. This can be resolved by disabling the desqueeze or switching to the clean feed.
¶ Overlay Customisation
The LDT-F1 overlay menu provides three interface improvements. Users have the flexibility to personalize the overlay according to their preferences.
¶ Overlay Brightness
- Choose:
Menu > Overlay > Overlay backg.
This setting controls the visibility of the black bar, enhancing the legibility of the data text. The top option on the list, 'Shrink to fit,' repositions the footage to ensure it isn't obscured by the LDT data bar.
¶ Overlay Brightness
- Choose:
Menu > Overlay > Overlay brig.
You can fine-tune the brightness of the LDT overlay data text from this menu. Should you wish to eliminate data from the screen altogether, simply disable each item using the 'Overlay items' option.
¶ Overlay Items
- Choose:
Menu > Overlay > Overlay items
You can toggle items listed here to hide them from the main interface. By default, all options are enabled.
¶ Overlay Guide
| 1 | Current Lens | 7 | LDT Tilt and Roll Positional Data |
| 2 | Current Zoom Axis Position | 8 | Recording/Standby |
| 3 | Current Iris Position | 9 | Shutter Angle |
| 4 | Current Focus Position | 10 | Framerate |
| 5 | Roll and Clip Name | 11 | Timecode |
| 6 | Footage Counter |
¶ Internal Recording
Refer to this section if you are recording data in the LDT-F1. This mode is currently available for the ARRIFLEX, ARRICAM and Panavision XL2. The LDT-F1 requires shutter pulse or record tally from the camera in order to start recording data.
Please make sure to backup the MicroSD data on a computer after each shooting day in order to avoid data loss.
¶ Recording Format
Frame by frame (FbF) data is recorded onto the MicroSD card’s CLIPS folder, as a CSV file type. Everytime the camera runs, a new CSV file is created.
The CSV file is matched to the timecode. A new line gets created at every timecode interval.
Read ‘Appendix 4: Internal Recording - CSV File Structure’ to learn more about it.
¶ Setting up the LDT-F1
Select the desired projects FPS.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings> Project FPS
Choose between:23.98FPS, 24FPS, 25FPS, 29.97FPS, 30FPS
Project FPS must match Timecode FPS.
If running multiple LDT-F1s at once, setting the corresponding camera index is advised.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings> Camera index > A, B, C, ...
Set the roll number on the LDT to the corresponding roll loaded on the camera. This does not require removing or changing the SD card. To set the roll number:
- Choose:
Menu > Settings> Roll > 001, 002, 003, ...
It is essential to change the roll on the LDT every time the roll is changed on the camera so they match. This information is used to link the data in post production.
¶ Recording and Timecode signal
Start/Stop recording can be provided by compatible cameras or from a Preston.
An external timecode source must be provided to the LDT-F1 by a timecode generator.
The timecode device can be removed once the LDT-F1 is fed the timecode. The unit can hold this time for a full day without any frame drift. If powered off, the unit must be fed a timecode again.
The LDT-F1 will not receive timecode directly from a camera. This is by design as timecode is lost when going off speed.
Encoded data is recorded on the MicroSD card.
The SD Card MUST be formatted each day after the data has been backed up.
The LDT-F1 unit includes an Ambient Timecode Module. This allows the LDT-F1 to wirelessly sync the timecode with other ambient devices.
For non-ambient devices; any timecode that has a wired connection can jamsync the LDT-F1's timecode. To do this, attach an antenna to the LDT-F1's relevant port which is solely for wireless timecode syncing.
-
After connecting the timecode cable from a timecode generator device into the TC port on the LDT-F1, the Lens Details homepage will show a stable TC icon meaning that the LDT-F1 is receiving a good timecode.
-
A flashing TC icon means that the LDT-F1 is receiving a timecode but at the wrong FPS, change the LDT-F1 or the timecode generator project FPS to match.
-
No TC icon means that the LDT-F1 had not received any timecode since being turned on, check the cable direction if using a unidirectional timecode cable.
-
When recording a REC icon will pop-up under the TC icon.
There is no timecode frame drift for up to 12 hours.
The LDT-F1 does not require a constant timecode feed, but it must be resynchronised with the timecode master clock every time it is power cycled.
¶ Start/Stop Recording from the Preston Hand Unit
If the LDT-F1 cannot receive a record trigger from the camera, then recording can be controlled from a Preston Hand Unit.
To enable the Preston start/stop functionality, on the LDT-F1:
Menu > Settings > Mode > MDR, SD Card- To start recording from the HU3 press the “Camera” button,
- To stop recording press the “Camera” button.
To verify the LDT-F1 is recording:
- REC will appear on the main screen of the LDT-F1 and the overlay feed,
- The LED above the "Camera" button on the HU3 will light up.
When manually starting and stopping the LDT-F1 it is important to limit the clip lengths to match those being recorded by the camera. Recording all day (for instance) can result in loss of data.
¶ Manual Recording on the LDT-F1
If the LDT-F1 cannot receive a record trigger from the camera or the the Preston Hand Unit, recording can be manually triggered on the LDT unit itself.
- To start recording hold the blue "back" button for 3 seconds,
- To stop recording press the blue "back" button.
To verify the LDT-F1 is recording:
- REC will appear on the main screen of the LDT-F1 and the overlay feed.
When manually starting and stopping the LDT-F1 it is important to limit the clip lengths to match those being recorded by the camera. Recording all day (for instance) can result in loss of data.
Ensure all settings on the LDT-F1 are correct for the project before recording.
¶ Browse Clips
This function allows the user to check that clips are recording to the SD Card as expected.
- Choose:
Menu > Browse clips
¶ CAMERA SETUP
¶ ArriFlex
The SD Card MUST be formatted each day after the data has been backed up.
It is crucial to display a digislate, or at the very least a timecode, within EVERY take. This ensures there is a reference to link the film with the lens data clip.
¶ Rigging the Camera and LDT-F1
ArriFlex cameras are equipped with an 8-pin port, which provides power and shutter pulse for the LDT-F1.
- Connect the power supply socket on the camera to the LDT-F1's CAM port with the PWFA (black) cable.
Ensure a timecode has been fed to the LDT-F1 and is still running before recording
¶ For Preston
- Connect the MDR to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the MDRP (blue) cable.
¶ For LCUBE
- Connect the LCUBE Serial port to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CML (blue) cable.
The LCUBE should be connected at the end of the motor chain.
¶ For Camin One or cPRO Camin
- Connect the Camin One or cPRO Camin to the motors,
- Connect the motors to the LBUS port of the LCUBE,
- Connect the LCUBE Serial port of the the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CML (blue) cable.
The LCUBE should be connected at the end of the motor chain.
¶ For Camin3
- Connect the EXT port of the Camin3 to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CM (orange) cable.
Please note that lens tables do not need to be built on the LDT-R2 in this configuration as lens data is pulled from the Cmotion or WCU4 handset.
Do not connect an LDT-E Series to the LDT-R2 in this configuration as it will clear incoming lens data.
¶ Setting up the LDT-F1
Push the joystick in to enter the menu, use the back button to go back.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Cam Family > ARRIFLEX
¶ For Preston
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Local Table
¶ For LCUBE
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from LCUBE
¶ For Camin3
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from Camin
¶ Rigging and Settings for a Smart Lens
Follow the instructions above omitting the Preston MDR rigging and Data Source setting. Use the rigging and settings found here to complete set-up.
¶ Arricam
The SD Card MUST be formatted each day after the data has been backed up.
It is crucial to display a digislate, or at the very least a timecode, within EVERY take. This ensures there is a reference to link the film with the lens data clip.
¶ Rigging the Camera and LDT-F1
Arricam cameras are equipped with a 16-pin CAC port which provides power and shutter pulse for the LDT-F1.
- Connect the CAC port on the camera to the LDT-F1's CAM prt with the PWFB (black) cable.
Ensure a timecode has been fed to the LDT-F1 and is still running before recording
¶ For Preston
- Connect the MDR to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the MDRP (blue) cable.
¶ For LCUBE
- Connect the LCUBE Serial port to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CML (blue) cable.
The LCUBE should be connected at the end of the motor chain.
¶ For Camin One or cPRO Camin
- Connect the Camin One or cPRO Camin to the motors,
- Connect the motors to the LBUS port of the LCUBE,
- Connect the LCUBE Serial port of the the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CML (blue) cable.
The LCUBE should be connected at the end of the motor chain.
¶ For Camin3
- Connect the EXT port of the Camin3 to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CM (orange) cable.
Please note that lens tables do not need to be built on the LDT-R2 in this configuration as lens data is pulled from the Cmotion or WCU4 handset.
Do not connect an LDT-E Series to the LDT-R2 in this configuration as it will clear incoming lens data.
¶ Setting up the LDT-F1
Push the joystick in to enter the menu, use the back button to go back.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Cam Family > ARRICAM
¶ For Preston
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Local Table
¶ For LCUBE
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from LCUBE
¶ For Camin3
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from Camin
¶ Rigging and Settings for a Smart Lens
Follow the instructions above omitting the Preston MDR rigging and Data Source setting. Use the rigging and settings found here to complete set-up.
¶ Panavision XL2
The SD Card MUST be formatted each day after the data has been backed up.
It is crucial to display a digislate, or at the very least a timecode, within EVERY take. This ensures there is a reference to link the film with the lens data clip.
¶ Rigging the Camera and LDT-F1
The Panavision XL2 camera is equipped with multiple ports which can provide power and shutter pulse for the LDT-F1.
¶ Front Port Method
- Connect the two 4-pin ports on the front of camera to the LDT-F1's CAM port with the PWFY (black, blue) cable.
¶ Side Ports Method
- Connect the 4-pin and 10pin side ports on the camera to the LDT-F1's CAM port with the PWFX (black, blue) cable.
Ensure a timecode has been fed to the LDT-F1 and is still running before recording
¶ For Preston
- Connect the MDR to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the MDRP (blue) cable.
¶ For LCUBE
- Connect the LCUBE Serial port to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CML (blue) cable.
The LCUBE should be connected at the end of the motor chain.
¶ For Camin One or cPRO Camin
- Connect the Camin One or cPRO Camin to the motors,
- Connect the motors to the LBUS port of the LCUBE,
- Connect the LCUBE Serial port of the the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CML (blue) cable.
The LCUBE should be connected at the end of the motor chain.
¶ For Camin3
- Connect the EXT port of the Camin3 to the LDT-R2 MDR port with the CM (orange) cable.
Please note that lens tables do not need to be built on the LDT-R2 in this configuration as lens data is pulled from the Cmotion or WCU4 handset.
Do not connect an LDT-E Series to the LDT-R2 in this configuration as it will clear incoming lens data.
¶ Setting up the LDT-F1
There is a menu bug in LDT-F1 firmware 1.52, where changing the mode from 'Arricam' directly to 'Panavision XL2 can lock the screen. Powercycle the unit to resolve this. The mode change will have gone through.
Push the joystick in to enter the menu, use the back button to go back.
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Cam Family > Panavision XL2
¶ For Preston
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Local Table
¶ For LCUBE
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from LCUBE
¶ For Camin3
- Choose:
Menu > Settings > Advanced > Data source > Pull from Camin
¶ Rigging and Settings for a Smart Lens
Follow the instructions above omitting the Preston MDR rigging and Data Source setting. Use the rigging and settings found here to complete set-up.
¶ Lens Mapping
Creating accurate map files for each lens is vital for the LDT. A step-by-step mapping guide can be followed to ensure that maps are built correctly.
¶ Testing the Lens Table
Prior to saving the lens map we suggest testing its accuracy. This can be done by pushing down the joystick when in one of the axes to enter the test window. Compare what is displayed here with the engraved marks on the lens to ensure the table is accurate.
Press the back button to go back.
¶ Pre-built Lens Table for Testing
The LDT contains a pre-built Lens Table intended for troubleshooting purposes.
- Choose:
Menu > Edit Lens > DCS Zoom test 11-110 (1)
This can only be selected with Auto lens select turned off.
¶ Saving a Lens Table
Once all the required values have been encoded, click on ‘SAVE’ to save the lens table.
A message will prompt upon successful completion.
¶ Edit a Lens Table
A lens table can be edited. New points can be added, existing points can be removed or a lens table can be permanently flipped.
- Choose:
Menu > Edit Lens
¶ Deleting a Point
If a point gets added by mistake or needs repositioning it can be removed.
In order to delete an existing point push the joystick to the left. Move the controller to the desired point. Push the joystick to remove the point.
Press the back button to go back.
¶ Flipping a Lens Table
If an axis map needs to be permanently reversed push the joystick to the right, then push the joystick to confirm.
If a map needs to be temporarily reversed we suggest to reverse the direction of the motor.
- Choose:
Menu > Motor direction
¶ Using an LDT-E Series Lens Data Encoder
Camera operators may wish to manually control the zoom (or other axis) instead of using a motor that feeds data to the MDR. A lens enoder can be used with a motor, or in replacement of, allowing the LDT-F1 to still gather the lens movement data.
DCS has its own brand lens data encoder called LDT-E Series. These are plug and play devices so there is no need to create a new or separate lens table when using them.
Note: the direction of the motor might need to be reversed: please go to the Changing the Motor Direction chapter.
A video tutorial explaining the set-up of the LDT-E1 can be found here
¶ Setting the axis for the Encoder
The LDT-E Series have a manual switch to set the axis to Focus, Iris or Zoom.
¶ How to calibrate the Lens Data Encoder
If using an LDT-F1 with a Preston system:
- On the MDR-3/MDR-4 press the calibrate button
If using an LDT-F1 without a Preston system:
- On the LDT-F1 choose:
Menu > Calibrate LDT-E
Then manually rotate the axis which is attached to the Lens Data Encoder from one end, pause for a second, then rotate to the other end. The LDT-E Series should now show as calibrated in the on-screen display.
¶ Changing the Motors direction
If for rigging purposes a lens motor or lens encoder need to be reversed:
- Choose:
Menu > Motor directionand selectReverseon one of the axes.
¶ Transferring Data between LDTs
Specific data can be shared between LDT-F1 units to save time and ensure consistency across multiple set-ups.
¶ Transferring Lens Tables
Lens tables can be shared between all LDTs with a Micro SD slot. Please note that lens tables made using the LDT-A2 and LDT-M2 on the ARRI LDA system are a different file format and cannot be shared to the LDT-F1 (and vice versa).
The LDT-F1 saves individual lens tables as .XML files to the MicroSD card. If multiple LDT-F1s are being used, these lens tables can be shared between devices.
-
Insert the MicroSD Card with the lens tables on into a computer,
-
Copy the .XML files from the "LENSES" folder onto the hardrive,
-
Insert a formatted MicroSD card (how to format a MicroSD card for the LDT-F1),
-
Copy the .XML files to the "LENSES" folder on the new MicroSD card.
Backup the "LENSES" folder when any new lenses are added to the on the MicroSD card to avoid data loss in case of corruption.
¶ Transferring an LDT Configuration
All settings of a unit can be downloaded to the MicroSD card and uploaded to a different unit to mirror all settings.
Config files can only be shared between specic models. I.e. LDT-F1 config files will work with LDT-F1 units, but LDT-V2 config files will not work with LDT-F1 units.
When uploading config files to a unit all original settings of that unit will be lost. Either back-up the original config file or make a note of device specific settings such a network addresses and camera index.
To save the config file:
- Menu > Save Config
This will save a text file called 'Config' on the Micro SD. If a config file is already on the MicroSD it will overwrite it.
To share the config file with a different unit:
- Eject the MicroSD card from the original LDT-F1
- Insert the MicroSD card into the next LDT-F1
- Menu > Settings > Load Config
- Follow the on-screen instructions
¶ Lens Table Files Naming Convention
Each .XML file is named after the lens brand, focal length and last 3 digits of the serial number. Examples:
AOZ24987.XML
Angenieux Optimo Zoom 24-290mm sn.11218987
CVZ25324.XML
Cooke Varotal Zoom 25-250mm sn.5640324
ZU135767.XML
Zeiss UltraPrime 135mm sn.8185767
AS047211.XML
ARRI Signature Prime 47mm sn.9899211
¶ Lens Database
If the user decides to not use F-Map, the lens database can be organised as a list or as folders.
- List: LDT-F1 display.
- Folder: LDT-F1 creates a folder structure based on lens brand, type and a single file for each lens in the root of the MicroSD card.
¶ Shooting Tests
It is crucial to display a digislate, or at the very least a timecode, within EVERY take. This ensures there is a reference to link the film with the lens data clip.
It is essential that a test is done for each workflow established on the show before shooting. The tests involve shooting with the LDTs set-up, followed by a round trip of the data where the metadata recorded on the SD card is married to the EXRs so it is available for vendors in post. This should be coordinated between VFX, Camera, the Lab, Pulls house and Vendors. The goal of these tests are to provide reassurance that all data will be accurate when recieved by vendors and to catch any issues in the pipeline.
DCS can be involved in any pipeline discussions either by attending an initial meeting or being looped into emails if additional support is required. Email info@dcs.film.
Below are the descriptions of how to do the camera portion of the tests.
Allow approximately one hour per camera type being used on the production.
We recommend using a zoom lens (if any are being used during the shoot) in order to check all three axes.
¶ Setting up the Test
- Encode a lens and test it (see Programming a New Lens Table),
¶ Shooting the Test
- Shoot test footage in camera and record separate overlay feed at the same time,
- At the time of pulls, data is merged into the EXR,
- Compare the metadata of the EXR file to the overlay footage.
Three tests are recommended and will involve recording a visual source of the data in the camera with the LDT-F1 recoding the metadata as a sidecar to verify the data is correct at the final stage of the test. DCS recommend using a different lenses for test one and two and a zoom lens specifically for the third racking test (if any are being used during the shoot) in order to check all three axes.
¶ Setting up the Tests
- Rig and set-up the camera and LDT as per the instructions in this manual,
- Encode a lens and test it (see Programming a New Lens Table),
- Ensure the LDTs Camera Index and Roll number match the current test mag:
- On the LDT-F1 Choose:
Menu > Settings > Camera IndexSet to T or what letter the test mags are labelled with,
Menu > Settings > Rolland set to the current test mag
It is very important that the clip number of the camera mag and LDT clip number match at all times. Do not run the camera without the LDT attached.
For Each test a written visual representation of the FIZ values is required, for instance a clapper board with the lens values written on it.
¶ Test One - Static Test (Prime or Zoom)
- Set each axis to a value e.g. T-Stop 4, Focal length 22mm, Focus distance 6ft,
- Write on the board the test number, the lens name, and the values of each axis,
- Record a 10 second clip
¶ Test Two - Static Test (Different Prime or Zoom)
- Set each axis to a different value than test one e.g. T-Stop 5.6, Focal length 45mm, Focus Distance 30ft,
- Write on the board the test number, the lens name, and the values of each axis,
- Record a 10 second clip
¶ Test Three - Racking Test (Zoom Lens)
- Set each axis to a value e.g. T-Stop 4, Focal length 22mm, Focus Distance 6ft,
- Write on the board the test number, the lens name, the static values of each axis, and the range of the span of each axis (e.g. Iris T1.8 - T22, Focus 16"-Inf, Zoom 15mm - 30mm)
- Record a clip,
- During the recording, rack each axis one at a time, starting at the static number rotating the axis from one end to the other and returning to the static number.
After completing the tests remember to set the Camera Index on the LDT-F1 back to the corresponding camera letter.
¶ Processing the Tests
- The camera mags should be sent to lab with the microSD sidecar files from the LDT,
- During the VFX pulls proces, merge the CSV files to the EXR,
- Compare the metadata of the EXR file to the data in the test footage - this should be verified by a VFX vendor.
Please be aware that the extreme values in the CSV/EXR during the racking test may exceed the values in the image slightly. Most lenses have hard stops that go further than the values written on the lens. This is normal and should only flag an issue if the values far exceed the values displayed on screen.