Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Helicopters / August 2003

Hello,

I am in the process of investigating the possibility of putting a live video
camera on my helicopter so that I can take some aerial stills and video. for
starters I want to get a little black and white "bullet" style camera on a
small servo so I can adjust the tilt angle from the ground, this is all
going ok.

However I am torn between which radio system to use. Should I go with
1.394GHz or 2.40GHz. At present I am not worried about the picture quality
from the bullet camera as I hope to use it as a "remote eye" to look through
the viewfinder of my SLR, in future I would like to be able to send high
quality colour images via the radio link from a superior miniature colour
camera or mini DV camcorder. the video link I buy now should be up to this
from the start so that I do not end up buying two kits. I am in the UK and
so must consider our laws on licence exempt frequencies.

I have seen a number of similar systems on various web sites, (mainly US
which obviously have different restrictions on the use of RF for video)
however many seem to gloss over the radio link section of the system and
concentrate on the optical side. can anyone out there give me any more
specific help on any recommended brands or models I should consider, what
benefit there is with a 4.8VDC or 12VDC battery pack, choice of transmit and
receive aerials, if you have needed to use an RF booster..... etc.

Help with any of the above would be much appreciated, feel free to mail me
off the group if you prefer,

Thanks, Harry.