| Novoflex

Overview

The Novoflex CASTEL-MICRO is an electronically-controlled stepping motor focusing rack for use in a wide variety of applications in the fields of photography, measurement and science. It is ideal for automating the process of focus stacking in macro photography, especially in higher magnifications where internal focus bracketing functions cease to work. Four control modes make the unit adaptable to different ways of working, including continuous and bellows modes. The control unit is powered by the included AC adapter or by two Canon LP-E6 batteries (not supplied) which enable use in the field. Connecting cables are available for Canon EOS, Fuji, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Samsung, Sigma and Sony. The CASTEL-MICRO Control Unit offers four different functions:|Step and Picture modes are quick and simple to use. In these modes either the step distance or the number of shots can be specified depending on the magnification factor and the aperture of the lens. The software then automatically calculates the number of shots or the step distance required. In addition, pauses between the shots can be allowed for, e.g. when using mirror lockup with an SLR camera.|Continuous mode is available for special applications in which the sliding block is in constant motion so that there is no need for acceleration and stopping distances and any associated pauses. Exposures are then best done with very fast shutter speeds and/or a flash.|Bellows mode is designed for use with the optional bellows attachment CASTBAL-PRO. Movement at either the front or back can be selected. The Bellows mode is not only ideal for macro photography but also high precision product photography where depth of focus is paramount. The CASTBAL-PRO adapts to all the Novoflex bellows system accessories, so high-quality, mechanical lenses used in specialist cameras can be used in a modern stacking workflow. The Bellows mode imitates the software control of the autofocus of a lens in order to produce a stack of images with different focus points of one and the same object. The stack of images is then processed by stacking software to produce an image with an astonishing depth of focus.|In any mode, the technique of focus stacking allows a lens to be used at its optimum aperture, rather than a small aperture in order to increase depth of field. This greatly improves the sharpness and rendering of the finished picture. CASTEL-MICRO can be fully integrated into the Novoflex-Q System with tripods, racks, brackets, etc. for complex set-ups.The base of the rail is also Arca-compatible and includes 3/8"-16 and 1/4"-20 threads.|A cable is required (not supplied) to connect the CASTEL-MICRO to a camera. Available for Canon EOS, Fuji, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, Samsung, Sigma and Sony. Items included in the box: Focusing rack CASTEL-MICRO Control unit Network cable 1.5m (can be replaced with a longer standard LAN network cable up to 3m if required) AC adapter with 5 country-specific socket blades for worldwide use.

Specifications