ARRI, the esteemed German camera manufacturer, has recently issued an update to its Hi-5 lens control and focus system that adds a powerful new feature. Those unacquainted with this hand controller may find it more accessible by reading these articles here or even this one! Compared to the Hi-5’s capabilities and robustness as a stand-alone machine, ARRI’s ZMU-4 zoom unit seems to be somewhat of an oddity – especially when comparing both cost and advantages between those two systems.
Utilize the ZMU-4 wireless zoom unit by simply inserting one of its swappable radio modules: either the standard RF-EMIP model or an extended range model, such as the RF-2400. If you are based in North America and reside within US or Canadian borders, use our exclusive recommendation – a long range radio module operating on 900Mhz frequency which is only accessible within these regions! This innovative design not only allows for unobtrusive portability but also leaves nothing behind other than your hand when using it.
The ZMU-4 boasts 2 rosettes remaining to accommodate the zoom unit’s attachment to a camera rig or any other device. On its rear, there is an USB-C port that can be used for firmware updates and 3 user buttons which can be assigned various functions such as zooming limits and marks, or even camera function buttons like shutter release; any combination of these settings are possible! Furthermore on the backside you will find two more controls for fine tuning your zoom speed adjustments.
The ZMU-4 is primed for optimal performance with its ARRI LBP-3500 lithium battery, which has a runtime of 15 hours. This means that you can capture footage continuously without interruption – perfect for capturing all the moments in your life! It’s even advisable to not operate it upside down as there is no door provided to cover the open battery slot.
The ZMU-4 is operated with an ARRI LBP-3500 battery, which has a runtime of 15 hours, so you can power it for an entire day of shooting without needing to swap it out. Oddly, there is no battery door on the unit; and although the unit is weather-sealed, even ARRI recommends not to operate it upside down because of the open battery slot.
The wireless ZMU-4 boasts a few noteworthy features, chief among them being the opportunity to connect a OCU-1 or Master Grips control unit through an LBUS connector and create an effective 2-axe wireless controller. All that’s needed is for you to procure an RA8 rosette adapter along with two 20cm / 7,9in cables – one featuring two right angle connectors – for wiring your arrangement together.
