My Helmet Cam setup

[Sombeech]

With the recent helmetcam videos I've created, people ask me what kind of equipment I'm using, how much it costs, and how I set it up. So, I'm creating this thread to hopefully answer those questions.

First of all, the helmet camera is an external lens only, and NOT A VIDEO STORAGE device. You still must use a recording device, namely a camcorder. Be sure your camcorder is COMPATIBLE, which I learned the hard way that mine was not.

The helmet camera I use is from www.helmetcamera.com. My specific model is the 1B- 480 LINE WATERPROOF XTREME KIT for $289. I purchased this in mid February of this year.

The camcorder I use is a Sony DCR-HC32.

I use the RCA cables that come with the camcorder, plug it into the A/V port, and connect the yellow and white ends to the helmet cam cables. I store it in my Camelback H.A.W.G. while we ride, and the microphone and camera cables come out over my shoulder.

Here are the pictures of the gear.

[Sombeech]

The finished product:

This is the helmet I used at first. You can see the camera right in the front of the helmet. This was a great fit with the perfect angle. The problem was when I wanted to remove the camera for the average ride. It was difficult to reach the set screw and slide the camera out. Then, I had to line up the camera perfectly vertical again when I wanted to use it.

So, that's when I went to this new helmet. I chose one with more of a domed top, for more mounting options, and easier removal.

EDIT: here is my most recent edition, waterproof.




















But what's that??? What was all that extra velcro I had on the black one? Was it for the helmet camera mounts?

Nope.... It was for the BikeFro 3000. Chicks dig the 'fro.

[derstuka]

Hey Sombeech, soooooo, are you pretty happy with your external lens from helmetcamera.com?

Do you recommend going higher than 480 lines resolution? I am trying to help my brother's wife decide on a helmet cam setup for him. I already told her about the A/V IN dealio, but as far as the lens, I am still unsure which is the best of these:

http://www.helmetcamera.com/

http://www.bulletcam.com/

http://www.viosport.com/index.php

http://www.skullcamz.com/category_s/1.htm

http://www.hardracing.com/Camera.htm

[Sombeech]

Well, I'm pretty happy with the resolution. It's also the kit that made it the one to buy. helmetcamera.com comes with the protective case around the camera, where most companies will just give you the bare camera.

[Tucker]

Well, I'm pretty happy with the resolution. It's also the kit that made it the one to buy. helmetcamera.com comes with the protective case around the camera, where most companies will just give you the bare camera.

What about the remote switch...do you use that?

[Sombeech]

What about the remote switch...do you use that?

That's on my wish list still. It's the LANC remote control, and I'll strap it to my chest for easy access. Currently they're on Ebay from $30-$80 depending on the features I want.

Be careful when buying these. Some of them will say it does not work in VCR mode on your camera, and this is how the helmetcam works.

I could have asked for this as a Christmas gift, but it's one of those things I pretty much have to pick out, or it will probably be wrong. MTpockets works with me, and picked one up for around 30 bucks. I imagine I'll get the same one....soon.