Back in July, I did a series of tests to determine if my D800E had the dreaded "Left Focus" problem. I determined there was a problem and sent thcamera back to Nikon for re-calibration. I repeated the same tests on return and saw a significant improvement in edge focus ability at the outer focus points. This was good news! The results, before and after, can be seen at this link - D800E Focus Testing Rev 1.
Update Jan 1, 2013
OK, I'm still not convinced that everything is OK. I have tried other ad-hoc tests that give me doubt that all focus points will focus equally well. So I will try one more experiment using FoCal. I have "built" a focus target, approx. 48" X 24" by glueing a mosaic of FoCal test targets on to a sheet opf plywood. I also purchased an easel while can support this vertically. This target is big enough so that I can test multiple lenses at the recommended 50X - focal length shooting distance.
Here's some theory:
The above charts show the dimensions of the D800E sensor and the required angle of view to ensure a 48"X24" target covers all the focus points. This size of target does, indeed, meet the "50X" recommendation (see Lv/F = 51). I'm thinking that the FoCal tests, for both microfocus adjustment as well as focus accuracy across all points, will be the definitive test. We'll see.
Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8, @24mm
The first (complete) test looked great except for one point (in red). I re-ran the test and got the result on the right. I'll assume this was just an anomoly.
Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 @50mm
This also looks good.
Nikon 50mm f/1.8
This also looks good except for one point. I rechecked, on the right, and got the same result. I'm not sure how to interpret this except that the camera/lens was having difficulty focussing at that particular point on the target. For now, I'll assume everything is OK.