Focusing rack, stepping motor-driven w/ control unit, network cable and AC-adapter

w/ control unit, network cable and AC-adapter Includes control unit, network cable, and power supply.
The stepper motor–controlled focusing rail CASTEL-MICRO has been specially developed for focus stacking in close-up and extreme macro photography — for example, of insects, minerals, scientific documentation, and much more. It delivers a level of precision that is second to none. The carriage moves smoothly on precision ball-bearing guides, completely eliminating play.

The CASTEL-MICRO offers a maximum travel range of 100 mm and a minimum repeatable step size of 0.2 µm (0.0002 mm). Step sizes can be adjusted from 0.2 µm to 100 mm depending on the subject and magnification requirements.

Maximum load capacity for vertical mounting is 4 kg, with a self-weight of approximately 1.4 kg.

The control unit is powered by the included power supply, ensuring reliable operation in studio environments. For mobile use, the device can alternatively be operated via a suitable 12 V power bank (not included), allowing fully independent field operation.

The motorized rail can be operated via the touchscreen control unit in four different modes to suit a wide range of applications:

- Step and Picture Modes offer a quick and intuitive start. In these modes, either the desired step size or the total number of images can be defined, based on the magnification ratio and the lens aperture. The software then automatically calculates the required number of shots or step size. Waiting intervals between exposures can also be defined, for example for mirror-up operations with DSLR cameras.
- The Continuous Mode supports specialized applications where the carriage moves continuously, eliminating acceleration, braking, and related delay times. Exposures in this mode are best taken with very short shutter speeds and/or flash lighting.
- The Bellows Mode is designed for use with the optional CASTBAL-PRO bellows unit. In this mode, the rear standard can be moved. Bellows Mode is ideal for shots that previously required complex setups, special cameras, or tilt/shift lenses. The BALPRO adapter system allows the use of various cameras and lenses, enabling high-quality mechanical lenses from large-format systems to be integrated into a modern stacking workflow. Bellows Mode emulates the software-based autofocus control of a lens to create a series of images focused at different planes of the same subject, which can then be combined by stacking software into a single image with impressive depth of field.

The electronically controlled focusing rail can be fully integrated into the NOVOFLEX Q-System modular setup with tripods, rails, brackets, and more for complex configurations. The Q=MOUNT coupling receiver is ARCA-UniQ/C compatible** and can be rotated by 90° if required. The underside features a full-length ARCA-UniQ/C-compatible dovetail profile for mounting in corresponding clamping systems. Additionally, two pairs of 3/8"-1/4" threads are provided.

Camera coupling plates (if not already available) must be ordered separately. Compatible plates can be found [here].

Camera release cables must also be ordered separately and are available for the following systems:
Canon RF, Fujifilm GFX and X, Nikon Z, OM-System, Panasonic, Phase One, Sony E, and others.

Scope of delivery:
- CASTEL-MICRO focusing rail
- Control unit
- 2 m network cable
- 12 V power supply