Time lapse camera set up:
Aim: time lapse system capable of running for no more than a day at a time under supervised conditions for recording installations of dipping platforms etc
Resources:
I have an Asus Netbook running Nikon Capture 4.3 with a time lapse function and also allowing the images to be stored directly on the hard drive. In terms of power the it shoudl last reasonably well, certainly a good 6 - 7 hours, but I do need to find out how long battery lasts and options for topping it up. In the longer lerm this seems like a promising option: http://www.lowpowerpcs.co.uk/
D70 - I used Opanda to find out the number of Shutter Actuations: 11,196. Given that an average short film could take 3 -6000 images and the shutter life expectancy is apparently anywhere beteween 35000 to 200000 shutter actuations, there is plenty of scope left. I have purchased an EH-5 AC adapter on Ebay and will either attach it direactly to a car battery via an inverter or cut off cable and attach to a bit of custom circuitry.The former to begin with, but the latter does allow a greater element of control.
Depending on the length of the ac adapter cable, it might be worth looking at using a USB extension lead, if it works. This would enable the the netbook and power supply to be located remotely (if necessary). Alternatively the dolly I developed for the Moving Meadowcam (see here) could also be used if a longer cable were available. By not using it for more than a day at a time this does become a more viable project again. I can also run the motor software on the Natbook at the same time. However, i might need another battery in this case!
The current tripod I have in mind is my heaviest duty Manfrotto aluminium 190c with the heavy duty head I use for digiscoping. This should have enough weight to accomodate buffeting by the wind etc - a heavy bag attached (perhaps with the battery in it?) undernaeath should also improve stability. In the longer term, if I do decide to use the dolly and make a more complicated rig, a differnt type of tripod set up will be required, obviously.
However, it is spring, I have spuds to plant and lots more to do, so I won't do anymore on the moving time lapse rig until winter, I think.
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