Focusbug’s Latest Addition: The OV1 Cine RT Overlay Module
Focusbug has just launched the OV1 Cine RT Overlay Module, a novel addition to their advanced Cine RT ecosystem designed to enhance the efficiency of focus pullers. This innovative hardware component enables users to reference focus and subject distance readouts on any SDI or HDMI monitor, offering a more streamlined workflow.
The Focusbug Cine RT is a sophisticated set of assist tools aimed at simplifying the tasks of 1st ACs on set. The system currently comprises an ultrasonic rangefinder measuring device, a handset control unit, a bright LED display for distance data, and wearable ultrasonic transmitters, known as “bugs,” to be placed on subjects.
The new OV1 module allows camera assistants to check critical focus, lens, and system data directly superimposed on their focus monitor, regardless of the brand. This eliminates the need to divert their attention from the shot.
Features of the Focusbug OV1 Cine RT Overlay Module
The Focusbug OV1 Cine RT Overlay Module is a compact (88x75x36mm / 3.46×2.95×1.41in) and lightweight (280g/.61lbs) device, equipped with a 3G-SDI input, a 3G-SDI output, HDMI 2.1 out, and 12V power in. It integrates seamlessly with the other components of the Cine RT ecosystem and can output a 1920×1080 user-customizable interface overlay displaying lens, camera, and Cine RT system data to any SDI or HDMI monitor.
The system is compatible with any lens control system supporting serial metadata output, such as ARRI, Preston, c motion, and Heden units. Once the system is set up, focus pullers can reference useful information, including focus and subject distance, markers, depth of field, Cine RT settings, and more, directly on their focus monitor.
The system can simultaneously display the camera-to-subject distance measured by the Cine RT rangefinder and Ultrasonic Bug Transmitter while also showcasing your lens’ focus distance on a virtual focus ring. The position, size, color, opacity, and unit of measurement (metric/imperial) of the focus ring can be customized for enhanced visibility or less distraction while pulling focus.
Customization and New Line Mode
The same degree of customization applies to the look of focus markers. These appear automatically on the focus ring as soon as you add them using the Cine RT handset or the lens control system hand unit. The OV1 also introduces the new Line Mode, which uses horizontal lines striking the picture to create a visual relationship between your lens’ focus position and the distance of your subjects.
Pricing and Availability
While there is no official information on the price of the Focusbug OV1 CineRT Overlay Module, the product is expected to be officially released in Q4 2024. A prototype of the device will be showcased at the company’s booth (#236) during the upcoming Cine Gear Expo in Los Angeles (June 7th-9th). For more information, please visit Focusbug’s website.
