With the plethora of reality and Gonzo video shows, not to mention the "private" videos of Hollywood celebrities, it seems everyone is making videos or TV shows these days. Such videos aside, there are real and legitimate reasons to have car-mounted video cameras, most notably in racing and autocrossing-or perhaps even parenting by video proxy. To this end, a number of companies make and sell small camera kits for this express purpose. TopSpin Design, a maker of automotive sport accessories, sent us a few of its RealCams to try out for use on ec's Web site. The purpose was to evaluate how to integrate video into an otherwise static site.
The CamerasThe decision to use RealCam versus freestanding, dedicated cameras comes down to an issue of cost and size. It's not much fun repairing a camera that has fallen or suffered environmental damage from exposure. RealCam cameras are salt-, shock- and waterproof, and by virtue of construction, are resistant to internal misting.
Additionally, the RealCam is compact, and can be mounted in areas that would otherwise be impossible or too dangerous for a regular video camera. Viewing TopSpin's Web site, you can see some suspension-mounted camera action that is reminiscent of F1 or NASCAR TV coverage.
With regards to cost savings, a multi-channel video/audio unit, such as the TopSpin Design multi-channel motorsport mike/intercom, allows up to four RealCam cameras to be stitched together and recorded on a single video camera as a series of panes.
Camera MountingMounting the cameras is a simple affair. The kit contains two different metal brackets, including one that tilts, as well as a plastic bezel for flush-mounted applications. If you're really into having a camera on your car for making videos for grins and giggles, go with the permanent flush-mounted option; otherwise, mounting using an existing screw hole is a good option.
Wood's Powr-Grip mounting cups, such as those available from filmtools.com, or hardware stores, provide an easy way to mount and remove cameras instantly with or without a tripod head.
For purposes of demonstration, I simply attached the camera using the adjustable bracket to the front license-plate screw and ran the wire inside along the edge of the hood.
WiringIf you plan to use your cameras frequently, you will want to hard wire them into the vehicle and use permanent mounting. You should experiment with camera and wiring placement before making cuts and soldering. To get started, use the harness that uses a cigarette lighter adapter and RCA plugs to provide the 12v of current to the camera. If you want the camera to work in mirror mode (swapped right to left) for a reverse view, cut the green wire that goes to the ground.
Wiring For SoundGetting good sound is the most difficult part of the project. The RealCam cameras are video only, and recording sound requires the use of external microphones feeding into the audio-in ports. Many cameras require power as opposed to passive microphones. If you're going to use two microphones, send them to alternate audio channels as this will give you the opportunity to mix and enhance the sound in post production. For example, you might want to have one microphone inside of the engine bay, and another capturing the exhaust. Experiment with types of microphones and positions.
By the time you read this, TopSpin's new multi-channel motorsport mike/intercom system will be on the market. This box allows you to mix audio from up to four sources and output to twin RCA jacks.
You also might want to consider capturing audio separately with a MiniDisc or portable recorder. Use a camera sync slate (the chalkboard thingy movie people click when filming a scene), or just clap in front of the camera to sync the audio to the video before recording. The video and audio can be imported as separate tracks into your computer for online editing.
The VerdictRealCam is a real affordable way for enthusiasts to record their track time action. The camera heads are small, lightweight and can operate under a wide range of conditions without fail. While you won't win any cinematography awards with your 1/4-screen video productions, you could possibly win the admiration and esteem of your peers who view your homemade masterpieces.
Product Features· 1/4-in. CCD image sensor · 512x492 pixels · Gas-filled housing · Nightvision · Auto focus · Color image · Wide-view angle · Shockproof · Anti-mist · Mini size · DC 12v powered · Mirror function · Waterproof · Anti-salt
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TopSpin Japan Co.
37 Naka-Cho
Shizuoko
Ja
420 0024
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