RTMOTION LCS MK3.1 User manual
RTMOTION LCS MK3.1
& LATITUDE MDR
LCS (Lens Control System)
& Accessory Ecosystem
User Guide
REVISION: 2018-02-07 (#24)
rtmotion.com/knowledge
1 Table of Contents
1. Table of Contents 2
2. Quick Start Guide – Receiver MK3.1 3
3. Quick Start Guide – LATITUDE 4
4. System Overview 5
Theory of Operation 5
Usage Chart – MK3.1 7
5. Controller MK3.1 8
6. Receiver MK3.1 12
7. LATITUDE Devices 15
Standalone LATITUDE-MDR operating modes 17
8. MK3.1 Motor 20
9. Slave Controller – Thumbwheel 22
10. Smart Knob 23
11. Updating Firmwares 24
12. Menu Tree (via Controller) 28
13. Technical Reference 32
Compatibility Guidance 32
Pin-Outs 33
Sizes & Weights 35
14. Quick Troubleshooting 36
15. Usage and Care 38
Usage & Environment 38
Accidental Damage 38
16. Warranty and Servicing 39
12/24 Month WARRANTY 39
Info & Troubleshooting 40
2 Quick Start Guide – Receiver MK3.1
Initial Setup
1. Plug 12-17V into the RECEIVER's “PWR” port.
The ideal source is a ~14.8V battery (i.e. 4S Lithium cells).
If the voltage is over ~17.5V or polarity is reversed, the RECEIVER will block the dangerous voltage and not
start.
2. Affix one or more MOTORS to the rods/lens.
Each motor is factory-set to a certain class (Focus, Iris, Zoom) and labelled accordingly. You can re-assign motor
classes via the menu.
3. Plug the MOTOR(s) into the RECEIVER unit.
Plug the Motor(s) into any motor port, the Motors will begin calibrating.
4. Put a Canon LP-E6 battery in the CONTROLLER and hold down the PWR button.
5. On the controller go to MENU, WIRELESS, FIND RECEIVER
Camera Run/Stop
1. Connect the appropriate Run/Stop cable from the CAM port on the Receiver to
your Camera.
2. Enter the Controller’s MENU, Select CAMERA, then select which camera you have
connected.
3. You can now Run/Stop the camera with the REC button.
3 Quick Start Guide – LATITUDE
Initial Setup
1. Plug 12-17V into the “PWR” port.
The ideal source is a ~14.8V battery, such as 4S Lithium cells.
2. Affix MOTOR(s) to the rods/lens.
Each motor is factory-set to a certain class (Focus, Iris, Zoom) and labelled accordingly. You can re-assign motor
classes via the menu.
3. Plug the MOTOR(s) into the LATITUDE unit.
Plug the Motor into any motor port, the Motor(s) will begin calibrating.
4. Put a Canon LP-E6 battery in the CONTROLLER and hold down the PWR button.
Camera Run/Stop & EF Lens Control (RED)
1. Connect a Latitude camera cable between the Camera and Latitude CTRL
sockets.
2. Enter the Controller’s MENU, Select CAMERA then RED CTRL.
Camera Run/Stop (non-RED)
1. Connect the appropriate Run/Stop cable from the CTRL port on the LATITUDE to
your Camera.
2. Enter the Controller’s MENU, Select CAMERA, then select which camera you have
connected.
3. You can now Run/Stop the camera with the REC button.
4 System Overview
Introduction
The RTMotion Lens Control System is optimised for high-end Wireless and Wired remote control of
Cinema and still camera lenses.
The range is specifically designed to enable a low-cost entry point (single motor), with a broad
expansion capability.
A large number of accessories are in development to further expand on the range's capability
(gimbal controllers, underwater controllers, etc.), and we always welcome feedback on how we can
better serve your needs.
Theory of Operation
Smart Motors
The MK3.1 MOTOR units are intelligent smart motors, with built-in electronics which handle all
seeking and calibration behaviour. When powered up, the Motor will find the lens end-stops and
learn the characteristics of the lens. It does all of this without any help from the Receiver or
Controller. Since the Motors have their own intelligence, they need only a small 4-pin Lemo cable
for operation.
Each Motor remembers its CLASS (focus, iris, zoom), and its RESPONSE (normal, fast, slow). You
can therefore plug any motor into any Motor port on the Receiver. To re-configure a Motor, you
need to use the CONTROLLER menus.
Receiver (aka MDR)
Offloading some electronics into the smart Motors has enabled us to dramatically shrink the
Receiver in size. It handles only NETWORKING and CAMERA INTERFACE operations. This has
enabled a system with low cost, high flexibility and very small size.
Controller (Hand Unit)
The Controller is the main brain of the unit. Via its OLED screen it also handles the
remote-configuration of the Receiver/MDR and Motors.
LATITUDE MDR
The new LATITUDE range of MDRs (aka receivers) take the heart of the MK3.1 Receiver and add
extensive networking and camera interoperability. Initially the platform will provide deep
integration with RED's official 3rd party programme, including the ability to drive EF & Nikon lenses
via their internal motors, and access to internal RED parameters. The LATITUDE platform has the
power and potential to integrate deeply with other cameras, systems, motion control platforms,
etc. for years to come.
Wireless
From MK3.1 onwards, devices include our latest RF3-Generation wireless modules. We strive to
stay at the forefront of performance, and are proud to offer the longest range, most
interference-immune wireless solution on the market. FCC and CE certification is of course
retained, and we are now right up to the legal limit.
Slave Controllers
Slave Controllers are simple (affordable) devices—such as joysticks, thumbwheels, record
buttons—which rely on the electronics inside the Receiver/MDR to function. To use a Slave
Controller, you need to attach it to the AUX or IN-1/ IN-2 port of a compatible RECEIVER or
LATITUDE MDR.
Smart Controllers
Smart Controllers contain electronics, and therefore do not require a Controller or Receiver to
function. The first Smart Controller in the RTMotion range is the Smart Knob (see page ).
Usage Chart – MK3.1
5 Controller MK3.1
The Controller MK3.1 gives from 4 to 6 axis control.
Note: Picture shows MK3.1/Z variant (with Force-Zoom Joystick).
Variants
MK3.1/S, “Slider”. 4 AXIS CONTROL
Large Focus Knob + Slider + 2x Side Knobs (A/B).
MK3.1/Z, “Force-Zoom”. 6 AXIS CONTROL
Large Focus Knob + Slider + 2x Side Knobs (A/B) + Force Joystick (X/Y).
Configurations
Any INPUT (Large knob, Side Knob A, etc.) can be assigned to any LENS AXIS.
For example, an MK3.1/S Controller can be configured so that the MAIN KNOB controls Focus,
SLIDER controls Iris, and SIDE KNOB A controls Zoom.
All variants are capable of simultaneously controlling at least 4 axis, so are effectively “FIZ” and
“3D” capable.
There are however significant ergonomic advantages to industry standard controls, so for fine
control it is recommended that the Force Joystick is used for Zoom, and the Slider is used for IRIS.
Operation
Power On
Hold down the POWER button for 2 seconds to turn the unit ON/OFF.
Syncing
If the Controller is new or has never paired to a Receiver/LATITUDE, then press;
MENU... WIRELESS / FIND RECV (this will scan for active Receivers and automatically pair.)
Camera Run/Stop
Press the REC button to start recording. Press REC again to stop recording.
Note: you must use the correct Run/Stop cable for your camera and select the correct option in MENU/CAMERA.
Status LED
OFF
Unit is powered off
ORANGE
PC / Bootloader mode
PURPLE
Configuring RF module
(please wait)
WHITE
Checking RF module status
(please wait)
YELLOW
No wireless connection
GREEN
Wireless is synched.
RED
Camera is RUNNING
BLUE
Wired-mode connection.
PC Mode/Bootloader
Turn off the Controller. Hold down the SET button. Keep SET held, and also hold down the POWER
button. The Status LED will go Orange, and the screen display: “PC MODE”. You can now connect
the controller to a PC and it will show as a USB device.
Battery/Power
The Controller takes a CANON TYPE LP-E6 BATTERY, as used in the Canon 5D, 7D, etc.
It can also run from the MICRO USB connector (5V). Please note, minimum is approx 4.65V- some
laptops, etc. don't provide quite enough voltage.
Factory Reset
Enter the MENU / ADVANCED / FAC RESET.
Shortcut: You can also hold POWER and press MENU.
Controller Menu
Press the MENU button to enter the menu. You can then navigate with the UP, DOWN and SET
buttons.
To go BACK one step, press MENU. To abort and pull out of the menu, press POWER.
For a full breakdown of menu functions, see page .
Default Configurations
MK3/S “Slider”
MK3/Z “Force-Zoom”
Large Knob
→
FOCUS
FOCUS
Slider
→
IRIS
IRIS
Force Joystick Y
→
(not present)
ZOOM
Force Joystick X
→
(not present)
(not assigned)
Side Knob A
→
ZOOM
ZOOM SPEED
Side Knob B
→
INTER-OCULAR
INTER-OCULAR
Wireless Channels
Please note, the default channel on the controller is #23 for RF3 (MK3.1). We always recommend
changing away from channel #23 to decrease the chances of clashing with other users.
Low Battery Indication
The Controller will give a warning and automatically shut down when the battery voltage falls to
approx 6.1V. This is to protect the Battery from being over-drained and reducing its life.
Power Requirements
Canon LP-E6 battery: 6.2V to 8.4V.
USB Socket: Approx 4.75V to 9V max. Only enabled when LP-E6 removed.
6 Receiver MK3.1
The MK3.1 Receiver is a unique, ultra-compact design, featuring an integral antenna.
Supported Motors
3x RTMotion Motors are supported.
The Receiver does not natively support motors from other manufacturers.
Camera Support
Attach the corresponding cable between the CAM port and your camera. There are cables available
for all major cameras (EPIC, ARRI, etc.). You must also select your camera-type from the Controller
Menu, see page .
Operation
Connection
MOTORS
LM 0B 4-pin
Any motor can connect to any port.
PWR
Hirose HR10 4-pin
Power Input, 1=GND, 4= Voltage.
CAM
Hirose HR10 4-pin
Trigger (Output) for CAMERA.
AUX
LM 0B 5-pin
Analogue controllers, Wired Mode, etc.
USB
Micro USB
For connection to a PC.
Status Light
SOLID GREEN – CONNECTED
PURPLE – Please Wait
ORANGE – No Connection (or PC Mode)
RED (solid) – Cam running
BLUE – Wired Mode
RED (pulse) – Cam trig
Power Requirements
8 – 15V DC (17V absolute max - e.g. 14.8V battery fresh off a charger). The Receiver will block any
voltage over ~17.5V, or any reverse voltage.
AUX Port
The AUX port is a multi-use port, supporting the use of Analogue controllers (Knob/pot, Rocker,
Force Joystick), Wired-Mode operation (connect the Controller to the Receiver directly, to bypass
the wireless), as well as TTL-level serial communication.
Available Modes of Operation
The following functions are supported by the AUX port. The AUX port does not need to be
manually configured as it will automatically detect which cable is plugged in.
Slave Controllers (aka, Analogue Controllers)
Slave controllers (thumbwheel, rocker, etc.) directly connect to the AUX port, and can be
configured to control any available axis (Focus, Iris, etc.). Run/Stop triggering is also supported,
provided that you have an appropriate cable connected to your camera from a CAM port.
Wired Mode (bypass Wireless)
Devices which have a 5-pin WIRED MODE socket (such as a Controller MK3.1) can connect to the
AUX port via a suitable wired-mode cable. The Status LED on both devices will go BLUE to indicate
that a connection has been made, and that Wireless transmission is disabled.
When Wired Mode cable is unplugged (after a successful connection) the receiver will auto detect
the Controller via RF changing frequency if necessary.
Setting the AUX PORT's Mode
To configure the AUX PORT manually, use the CONTROLLER. Enter the MENU, then select AUX.
7 LATITUDE Devices
LATITUDE-MDR-M
1x Motor socket
1x CTRL socket (camera)
2x IN sockets (accessories)
1x PWR input socket (8-15V)
WIFI Module
RTMotion FHSS Wireless Module
LATITUDE-MDR-MB
1x Motor socket
1x CTRL socket (camera)
2x IN sockets (accessories)
1x PWR input socket (8-15V)
WIFI Module
RTMotion FHSS Wireless Module
Integral Canon LP-E6 battery plate
LATITUDE-SIDEKICK Module for RED
3x Motor socket
1x CTRL socket (camera)
2x IN sockets (accessories)
1x PWR input socket (8-15V)
2x PWR output sockets (pass-through)
RTMotion FHSS Wireless Module
LATITUDE-OMOD (various models)
1-3x Motor socket(s)
1-2x IN sockets (accessories)
RTMotion FHSS Wireless Module
Functionality
Latitude MDRs are configured via the CONTROLLER, once a wireless connection is established.
Camera Socket
Connect the appropriate cable between the LATITUDE's CTRL socket and the camera.
Select MENU / Camera / <camera type> to enable run-stop.
IN-1 Socket
Supports a SLAVE CONTROLLER, a SMART CONTROLLER and firmware updating (via USB Cable).
By default, the Slave Controller button (when attached to IN-1) does the following;
[Button Press] => Camera Run/Stop.
[Hold Button, 3 seconds] => Limit rotation range. Release button to apply.
[Hold Button, 6 seconds] => Clear rotation range limit.
IN-2 Socket
Supports a SLAVE CONTROLLER.
By default, the Slave Controller button (when attached to IN-1) does the following;
[Button Press] => Recalibrate Lens.
[Hold Button, 3 seconds] => Limit rotation range. Release button to apply.
[Hold Button, 6 seconds] => Clear rotation range limit.
PWR Socket
Power in, recommended supply is a 14.8V battery. Absolute max 17V.
MOTOR Socket
Supports 1x RTMotion Motor, or 2x via a Y splitter cable.
CTRL Socket
Contains sophisticated circuitry to support a wide range of cameras, from RED DSMC2 CTRL (serial),
ARRI (gnd-gnd low pulse), RED EPIC (3v3), Sony, Canon and Blackmagic (LANC).
For full control of RED cameras, you must use a CTRL-CTRL cable. For run/stop triggering of other
cameras, use an appropriate cable for the camera type.
Note: You must configure LATITUDE for camera-type in... CONTROLLER MENU / Camera.
Standalone LATITUDE-MDR operating modes
Standalone Latitude variants (i.e. not the Sidekick or OMOD integrated versions) have the ability to
switch into multiple operating modes:-
Standard Mode (Receiver/MDR) – GREEN LIGHT
This is the normal operating mode. The LATITUDE box will accept thumbwheel and/or Controller
(wireless) signals, and forward the commands to the Motor(s) and Camera.
The WiFi Access Point (page ) is also enabled, adding full WIFI / FoolControl capability to DSMC and
DSMC2 cameras.
Flight Mode – CYAN LIGHT
In Flight Mode the Latitude will disable its wireless laird module. This is useful for saving battery
power if the system is being controlled via wired mode (see page 14). No wireless data will be
transmitted.
Transmitter Mode – PURPLE LIGHT
In Transmitter Mode, the LATITUDE will route the input signals (i.e. plugged into IN-1, IN-2) over
the RF link to the LATITUDE (or Receiver MK3.1) on camera.
This enables many unique configurations, including using two thumbwheels (plus LATITUDE) on a
Director's' Monitor to control Focus/Iris and run/stop.
Long Range FoolControl –
If you connect your iPhone to the WIFI hotspot of a LATITUDE in Transmitter mode, the LATITUDE
will re-transmit the FoolControl comms over the long-range RF link to a LATITUDE on-camera. This
massively increases the usable range of FoolControl, and is particularly suited for Drone work.
Note: initially there will be some traffic-shaping used to ensure that the FoolControl data doesn't interfere with the
core FIZ transmission. This will be refined in due course.
Note: The “Transmitter” LATITUDE must be set to the same RF Channel as the Standard/Receiver LATITUDE. Currently
you must do this manually (by connecting the CONTROLLER to each LATITUDE and ensuring they are on the same RF
Channel. In a future firmware update, it will be possible to connect the two LATITUDEs together via a 5-pin lemo
cable (IN-1 to IN-1) and have them automatically sync.
WiFi Direct Mode
RED DSMC2 cameras feature integrated WiFi support. This allows the camera to connect directly to
LATITUDE's Access Point, enabling LATITUDE to send its CTRL data (control of EF lenses, run/stop,
etc.) to the brain completely wirelessly.
You can do this by setting the camera menu to SETUP - COMMUNICATION - WIFI -
INFRASTRUCTURE MODE. You will then be able to connect to the Latitude’s WIFI Access
point and send data wirelessly. The best usage of Wifi Direct Mode is to affix a
LATITUDE-MDR-MB off camera (such as the top bar of a hand-held gimbal or tripod) and
power standalone (no cables). This mode is still in its early stages and works well when
used with Foolcontrol. Currently untested and unsupported for use with any other
configuration. This will be updated and supported in a future FW release. In current
firmware you MUST use a camera cable to transmit data for use with Controller or
Accessories.
Note: WiFi is a short-range consumer technology- it does not have the robustness or range
of our long-range RF technology. Test carefully to understand its limitations before
shooting,
Changing LATITUDE operating mode
While fully powered on, press the LEFT recessed button. With each press, it will cycle between
available operating modes. Please note: additional operating modes will be added in future, check
for an updated Operating Manual.
CTRL Integration for RED DSMC and DSMC2
When connected to a RED DSMC or DSMC2 camera via CTRL cable, LATITUDE has deep integration
and control of the camera brain via RED's 3rd party integration programme.
Initial features include;
Control of Focus/ Iris via internal motors for EF and Nikon lenses with integrated motors.
Mapping Shutter and ISO to Controller input knobs.
Additional capabilities will be added via firmware updates.
WiFi Access Point
LATITUDE versions with a WiFi module offer a Hotspot/ Access Point capability, enabling full
support for the FoolControl app for iOS and Mac.
Default SSID
LATITUDE-#### (last 4 digits of the device serial no.)
Default Password
latitude (all lower case)
Admin URL
http://192.168.0.1 (available once connected)
Admin Username
admin
Admin Password
PASSWORD
8 MK3.1 Motor
A powerful and quiet lens motor with smooth performance. The brush-less vector-drive gives
unparalleled smoothness during high-torque/ slow-speed moves.
Warnings
The motor is a powerful device which is
capable of causing injury or damage.
Use caution when touching the drive
gear when the device is powered on.
The motor is not to be used on
extremely stiff or damaged lenses.
The motor requires no user
maintenance. Opening the motor can
affect its internal calibration and voids
the warranty.
The motor body is used as a heat-sink
for the brushless windings, therefore it
will get warmer than a brush-type
motor.
Attaching to a camera rig
Affix the motor to the rods, but don't yet mesh the drive gear to the lens gear. Rotate the focus ring
so that it is not too close to either end stop. Now mesh the gears, and plug the Digital Motor into
the Receiver. The Digital Motor will begin its Auto-Calibration Routine.
Accuracy & Electronic Backlash Comp
The MK3.x motor features a high-precision encoder that will never lose steps. If you see evidence
of backlash affecting accuracy, please make sure that your mount, rails and camera are extremely
rigid, as mounting flex is the main cause of inaccuracy. Unique electronic backlash compensation is
calibrated at the factory.
Focus/Iris/Zoom Assignment
The Digital Motor is internally assigned a “Motor Class”, which is saved to non-volatile memory.
The motor will identify itself to the CONTROLLER via its SERIAL NUMBER (lasered onto the motor
back, example: 0500). To change the class of a Digital Motor, or other performance parameters
(performance mode, direction of rotation, etc.) please refer to the manual for the Controller.
Specifications
Max Allowable Torque: 2.2Nm
Standard Gear: 0.8 mod, 50 Teeth
Nominal Current: Approx 0.4-1.1A loaded
Power Requirements: 6.5 - 17V
9 Slave Controllers – Thumbwheel + Zoomrocker
Features
Strong, lightweight Alu construction.
Knurled thumb/finger wheel.
Bracket. Sized for common
professional stabiliser gimbals.
Hard stops.
Record trigger button.
Adjustable mounting angle via
ARRI-style rosette.
Usage & Configuration
Receiver MK3.1
Connect to the AUX socket.
LATITUDE
Connect to the IN-1 or IN-2 socket. By default, IN-1 is FOCUS and IN-2 is IRIS.
Configuration
To manually configure, go to;
CONTROLLER MENU … AUX
Configure the appropriate input, it should be configured as type “KNOB” for Thumbwheel and
“ROCKER” for Zoomrocker.
To Flip the direction of the Thumbwheel;
Hold Down the Thumbwheel button for 10 secs
To manually set the limits of the Thumbwheel (Latitude only);
Hold down the Thumbwheel button and move the knob to your chosen points on the
lens. After releasing the button the Thumbwheel will now configure itself to the points you have
selected. The entire turn of the knob will be between those points. This is very useful for precise
focusing. To clear the limits simply hold down the Thumbwheel button for 5 secs.
10 Smart Knob
Features
Full-size Focus Knob
6x Configurable Buttons
19/15mm rod clamp
Operates Stand-alone (via 6pin).
Stand-alone Operation
Connect a Y-cable to the 6pin socket. For example “RTM-8850” (DTAP+CTRL). This provides
POWER-IN (5-17V), and a CTRL data connection to a RED DSMC or DSMC2 camera.
Accessory Operation (As yet unsupported, BETA feature only)
The Smart Knob can be attached to a LATITUDE “IN-1” socket to act as an accessory, using a 5-pin
Wired Mode Cable (RTM-8311). In latest FW you will need to have everything plugged in before
powering up. This will enable accessory operation.
Configure options
The Smart Knob can be configured in the latest FW release. Open up the RTFW App, go to Tools -
Smartknob Config and options for mapping internal DSMC functions will appear. Below are the
current options. More functions will be added in future FW releases. Any BETA features are not yet
in the current downloadable FW release.
Iris can be mapped to the knob (BETA)
1. Flip Knob
2. Magnify
3. Lens Motor Reset
4. Exposure Check
5. Iris Open
6. Iris Close
7. Pre Record
8. Focus Check
9. Raw Check
Other manuals for LCS MK3.1
1
This manual suits for next models
1
Table of contents
