The Viltrox NexusFocus F1 Autofocus Control Adapter is an ARRI PL to Sony E adapter system designed to bring camera-driven autofocus and electronic lens control to manual PL-mount cinema and CineMod lenses. Built for experienced filmmakers, solo operators, and small crews using compatible Sony E-mount cameras with AI processing, it leverages the camera's native phase-detection autofocus and subject recognition to drive external motors for focus, iris, and zoom control.
Practical Production Use
In narrative, commercial, and documentary workflows, the NexusFocus F1 enables autofocus operation with classic cinema lenses on modern Sony cameras. Solo operators can rely on camera-based subject tracking for interviews or gimbal work, while small crews gain repeatable, calibrated lens control without a dedicated focus puller. The system is equally suited to handheld, tripod-mounted, or stabilized setups where precise focus and aperture control are required with minimal setup time.
Mechanical Design and Power Management
The NexusFocus F1 is built from aluminum alloy and stainless steel for durability in production environments. Precision machining ensures accurate flange distance and reliable infinity focus.
- Dust-resistant seal at the camera mount
- Internal anti-reflection threading to reduce flare
- Detachable tripod foot for balanced rig support
- USB-C connectivity with support for regulated external power via the included Power Box when using variable or USB-C power sources
Integrated Display and Physical Controls
A backlit display on the adapter ring provides immediate access to operating mode and lens data, while tactile buttons allow fast menu navigation without relying on a mobile device.
- Clear visibility in low-light environments
- On-adapter lens selection and system settings
Native Camera-Driven Autofocus for Manual PL Lenses
The NexusFocus F1 adapter acts as a control hub between the camera body and external motors, translating Sony PDAF and AI subject recognition data into precise lens movement. Unlike LiDAR-based systems, focus accuracy is derived directly from the camera sensor, eliminating parallax errors and maintaining consistent focus across the frame.
- Supports Sony hybrid AF modes, including face and eye detection
- Focus transition speed and AF responsiveness are adjustable in-camera
- Designed for Sony E-mount cameras equipped with an AI processing unit
Three-Channel FIZ Motor Control
The system supports synchronized control of focus, iris, and zoom through external motors mounted on standard 15mm rods. Each motor can be assigned a function via onboard controls and delivers high torque with fast response for cine-style lenses.
- Focus, iris, and zoom are adjustable directly from the camera interface
- Motors can also be assigned to auxiliary functions such as variable ND
- Direction and function selection are configurable per motor
App-Based Calibration and Wireless Operation
Lens calibration and system configuration are handled through the Viltrox NexusFocus mobile app via Bluetooth. The adapter stores calibration data for hundreds of lenses, enabling quick recall across productions.
- Automatic lens calibration and preset management via app
- Real-time parameter preview and adjustment
- Wireless control of focus, iris, zoom, and recording from a smartphone or tablet
UPC: 784365600449