ARRI has improved its camera controller ecosystem with the addition of the new, versatile ARRI ZMU-4 hand controller. Providing faster, more efficient camera control workflows, the ZMU-4 effortlessly switches between wired and wireless connectivity and features a rugged, ergonomic design for any production environment. Perfect for those already in the ecosystem, the ZMU-4 works seamlessly alongside the Hi-5 hand unit, as well as with the OCU-1 or Master Grips for wired LBUS control. It is also compatible with numerous ARRI cameras in the ALEXA and AMIRA lines, as well as third-party cinema cameras such as RED DSMC2/3, Sony VENICE, and Canon C300/500/700.
Wired or Wireless
The ZMU-4 lets you connect to lens control motors, such as a cforce unit, using a wired LBUS connection via the Hi-5 hand unit. It can also utilize the RF-EMIP unit or other ECS accessories, such as the RF-2400 or RF-900 radio modules, to connect directly to the motors using whichever frequencies are required. The ZMU-4 makes it easy to disconnect your wired setup and instantly reconnect wirelessly for fast, uncomplicated transitions. It can also be used as a radio receiver, performing the same function as the RIA-1, so you don’t need an additional box on the camera when using a separate wireless controller such as the Hi-5.
Motor Controller Compatibility
The controller can also be used with numerous wireless motor controllers for wireless connectivity to the camera, including the UMC-4, AMC-1, SMC-1, and EMC-1 controllers. When it is in wired mode, it can also be used with the OCU-1 multi-axis control unit.
Physical Design
For ease of use, the controller has been designed to be lightweight, with an ergonomic handgrip for either hand. It is also weather resistant for outdoor environments. Its force-sensitive zoom knob also provides precise control and necessary feedback for the operator. It features a bright OLED display that is easy to read in any light, providing accurate focal length, marker, and limit information that can be controlled using the physical buttons. Its additional control buttons provide easy customization, including zoom speed control and third-party controls.
Compatible Accessories
The unit is powered using a standard, removable Sony L-series battery in its handgrip, which are also compatible with the Hi-5. The ZMU-4 has also been designed to accept ARRI LBP-3500 batteries for more efficient power and longer run times of up to 15 hours, even when using the RF-EMIP radio module. The unit can be mounted on any standard rosette mount using the new RA-7 and RA-8 rosette mounts, allowing you to mount a control unit such as the OCU-1 on the ZMU-4, or to mount the controller on a handgrip, tripod bar, or camera body.
How will you incorporate this new ARRI hand controller into your setup? Let us know in the Comments section, below. For more information about all the new products, visit bhphotovideo.com.
