Friday 8 December 2017

The Next Generation of Onboard Video Cameras for Model Rail

It's been around 4 years since I originally wrote my "Best Video Camera for Model Rail" post. It remains one of the most popular, and generates a lot of questions.

Many of those revolve around how to put the micro video camera inside rolling stock, for aesthetic reasons.

My original solution was to use an 808 style key fob camera, which I later upgraded to a USB stick look-alike. However, I didn't quite have the guts to pull these apart and put them in a wagon.


First off, there's the Aobo Wifi Camera, which, according to the reviews is a clear favourite among modellers.

It's been fitted to model aircraft and cars with success; one of the strong points appears to be the battery life, while another is the dual WiFi control and SD card slot.

This allows the user to both start and stop recording, get a live view, and record to the built-in SD card slot (the card is an optional extra).

There are two versions of the Aobo -- 640 and 1080 -- at two price points. It's probably worth paying the extra to get the updated HD version, but those on a budget will be glad to see that the 640p version is coming down in price as more recent versions hit the market.

What I like is that the camera is on a ribbon, which means that you can put the camera wherever you like, and not be constrained by the shape of the camera housing.


For even more flexibility, and at a slightly cheaper price point, is the Magendara 1080p Micro Video Camera.

It may not feature WiFi control, but it does come with a wireless controller, records to SD card (up to 32Gb, but not included) and has a 10 hour battery life.

Again, the camera is on a ribbon, which makes for easy installation in rolling stock, and the body (battery included) is even more compact, as it doesn't have any kind of casing, just a heat-wrap.

However, reviewers report that this camera is quite delicate, so handle with care. Otherwise, results are seemingly on a par with the Aobo.

Moving down again through the price points, Flylinktech have a number of miniature video cameras, hidden in everything from a door mounted clothes hook, to watches and fake (eye) glasses.


While these are about half the price of the Aobo and Magendara cameras, fitting them to rolling stock will, like the 808 Key Chain Camera, take some modification.

Easiest to modify would appear to be the hook -- there are a couple of screws in the back which, looking at the photos, ought to allow for easy removal.

Otherwise, you could cut the arm of the glasses off, and use it as-is, or work out a way to get at the electronics.

One final miniature video camera category to explore might also be the latest FPV cameras designed for use with micro drones. The come with the FPV camera, but need various wireless transmitters and receivers.

They have a kit-building feel to them, and a suitable list can be found by following this link.

For my money, I think the Magendara 1080p Micro Video Camera might represent the best value, so, as soon as I get an opportunity, I'm going to give it a whirl!

1 comment:

  1. I see from your first image that the camera allows for, what I assume is, real time viewing. However, the viewing is done with a cell phone. Do you know of any camera or program that will allow you real time viewing via a laptop or smart TV?

    ReplyDelete