Tethered shooting issues takes some step-by-step detective work.
When using the latest version of Phocus, you have to make sure the firmware for the digital back
and the camera are also all current. These numbers can be checked in the menu.
In the case of a H4D, the viewfinder firmware also has to be updated to realize the new features like the spirit level.
These are all available for free download on the Hasselblad website, and Phocus is used to install them. Follow any instructions that may pop up on screen exactly as asked.
If the problem persists:
The number one culprit is usually the firewire 800 cord itself. Rolling something over it, dropping a box on it, almost any trauma can make it fail. I've even had brand new ones not work. Also, if the cord is too long or is daisy chained, there can be issues. It is better to use a powered FW800 hub to create a longer connection.
BTW, just because a FW800 cord will work with another devise doesn't mean it will with one of these backs. There is a huge amount of data being transferred from the back.
Next is the FW connection to the camera or the computer ... make sure it is seated and not wobbly. When working, any slight pull or pressure can make it fail. I use one of those tether-locks from Tether-Tools to keep that from happening. There have been instances where the internal connection to the cameras FW port needs repaired. This is something that has to immediately be inspected when buying any used digital back to detect any problem. Buying used means you don't know how the previous user may have treated the cord connection, yanking it out WILL cause an issue eventually.
Next is the FW800 ability of the computer itself ... I was sometimes having crashes, but I switched to using a FW800 to FW400 cord and never had a problem after that. Never really noted any loss of speed either, so I didn't investigate the computer issue any further.
Next can be the Graphics Card in the computer. I had my graphics card in my Mac Pro tower go last year. It was a gradual decline and as it got near the end of its life-cycle I started having tethered issues. New card installed, and the problems went away. No issue using FW800 with my Mac laptop.
While this is a GREAT site, I suggest also joining the one linked below where there are a lot more working Hasselblad digital shooters with a lot of experience to assist.
http://www.hasselbladdigitalforum.com/index.php
Let us know how you make out with your issues.
-Marc
