Wireless follow focus system by Tilta featuring a motor and handheld controller. Precise focus pulling via radio signal with up to 1000 meters range.
Technical Details
The system consists of three main components: the FIZ controller (Focus/Iris/Zoom), the hand unit with OLED display, and the motor module. The brushless motor delivers a maximum torque of 0.8 Nm with a self-weight of 280 grams. Wireless transmission is via 2.4 GHz with 32 channels, and power is supplied by Sony NP-F batteries with a runtime of approximately 10 hours. The system supports A/B focus points, speed ramps, and can control up to three motors simultaneously. Gear ratios can be steplessly adjusted between 1:1 and 1:4.
History & Development
Tilta Technology Co. introduced the Nucleus-M in 2017 as a cost-effective alternative to established systems like the Preston FIZ. The Chinese company targeted the growing market of indie productions and smaller camera teams. In 2019, the expanded Nucleus-Nano followed for even more compact setups, and in 2021, the Nucleus-M Pro with improved motor performance and expanded app integration. Continuous firmware development brought features like curve mapping and custom presets.
Practical Use in Film
Especially for Steadicam and gimbal shots, the system enables precise focus pulls without direct camera contact. For documentaries, it offers discreet focus control from a distance. In "The Batman" (2022), camera teams used Nucleus-M systems for complex tracking shots. The typical workflow involves: calibrating lens endpoints, programming A/B points, and setting speed curves. Disadvantages become apparent with very heavy cine lenses, where the torque reaches its limits.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to the Preston Light Ranger 2, the Nucleus-M offers similar functionality at a third of the cost, but does not achieve its precision at extreme distances. The Teradek RT MK3.1 surpasses it in build quality but costs five times as much. For high-end productions, ARRI cforce RF or RED DSMC2 remain the standards, while the Nucleus-M plays to its strengths on budgets under 50,000 Euros. The newer DJI Focus Pro competes directly with comparable specifications and integrated ecosystem connectivity.