Helmet Cam

tfewster · Member Joined: 18 Jan 2008 Location: Canada

Hi, I'm trying to put together a basic helmet cam set up. I want good quality, but trying to keep costs in check.

1) What is the key criteria for picking a good bullet camera? Is it the number of TV lines?
2) Any suggestions on a good video capture device?

Thanks.

redwudz · Mod Neophyte Joined: 07 Sep 2002 Location: AZ, USA

400 lines or so would be good. I'm assuming color.

How are you saving the video? Do you need a transmitter and a receiver or a solid state digital video recorder? That adds weight and complications. You may be able to use a video transmitter if the range is short, and a separate video recorder.

Most basic cameras have a composite output. Do you need audio also? Some have that option, or you can add a microphone.

The more inexpensive color cameras are called 'board cameras'. Some are mounted on a circuit board and require a simple enclosure. Others have a enclosure.

Then there is the viewing angle, wide angle or telephoto. You need to know what range of viewing field you want.

And light sensitivity. Some color cameras need a lot of light, some very little.

Do you need weatherproof?

Most cameras need 12VDC, but for short term, you can use a dry cell battery pack, even AA cells.

This site sells security cameras, but they have a good selection of all types and they are dependable. http://www.supercircuits.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=437

You can buy cheap helmet cams. But if you want quality and dependability, you need to shop around a bit.

Richard_G · Member Joined: 10 May 2003 Location: Peterborough, England

Get one of these http://cgi.ebay.com/Car-Color-Video-Camera-Wide-Angle-Rear-View-R ... dZViewItem
Dirt cheap, decent quality and in a steel waterproof housing.