Profile:

What a great little camera! Looks similar to a lot of other camera modules you'll see on the web- many of which are complete junk. The technical specifications (specs) haven't changed in over 3 years - but the performance sure has. The same "430+ horizontal TV lines / 0.03 lux" cam now has an overall sharper picture capable of performing in lower light situations than even the last revision version. The BW-1HAD is a nice & economical choice for low profile and bodyworn applications- whether for covert / hidden / disguised purposes..... or just general video use. With the newly revised 1/3" Sony SuperHAD DSP (digital signal processing) CCD imager chipset- this features identical picture quality to our enclosed case BW-2 or BW-5 configurations.

We carry ONLY the LATEST and BEST in CCTV chipset technology and circuit board engineering (both aspects are critical to produce a high quality CCD camera)! Too many in our industry are still liquidating 'antiques' on an unsuspecting public, often even unaware themselves that better technology exists.

Though the board width/ height is a few millimeters larger than the enclosed case metal versions, this camera weighs less and slightly lower in profile. Also, the video/ power cable comes straight down from the bottom of the camera- rather than attached to a 90° plug at the rear. This may allow for easier covert use in certain (esp. clothing/ body worn) applications.

Common Applications :

• Bodyworn under clothing
• General covert disguised use as it easy to hide behind many types of materials, including fabric for clothing
• Lightweight R/C (radio controlled) or other applications where minimizing size and payload weight is crucial (weighs only 17 grams without heatshrink or cable set)
• For temporary, experimental or "disposable" applications in which a sharp and/ or low light camera is required that may be prone to damage or destruction
• Onboard vehicle use including security and backup purposes
• Sport usage for 'extreme' footage
• Economical security solution
• OEM & scientific / machine purposes

Available Options:

*These are available without the normally added heat shrink coating by special request- with a special warning. We have many customers who may wish to use these in applications where the heatshrink is unwelcome. Perhaps they wish to use the tiny holes on the edge of the board to custom mount into a placement- such as an OEM manufacturer. These users are welcome, but must understand that any type of physical or electronic damage will not be covered by any warranty. Simply order part # NO-HS from operator when placing your order.

Variations / Alternate Equipment to Consider:

Black and white (monochrome) video cameras are fine for many applications, esp. in extremely low light or for relatively unimportant situations. However, you may want to consider the use of our color #PCC-1HAD camera instead of this one. It costs more but is worth it. The PCC-1HAD is identical in size, weight and field of view- but gives you a more accurate representation of what's happening in the scene. Many users are afraid of color because they've already seen so many poor quality units that are a complete waste of money at any price, especially in less than ideal lighting conditions. Until they actually plug in our color cameras, even the most veteran users are totally skeptical. This usually only lasts or a second after they see it work

Cautions:

As an 'exposed board' camera module- rather than an enclosed camera- the drawback to smaller size and weight is being much more prone to physical damage. Our special 3M heatshrink protection only helps to protect against short-circuiting the board components with foreign objects. The heat shrink does not give any real protection against physical shock or exposure from the elements.

Fixed pinhole lens is not interchangeable like many of our board-type lens cameras.

This is a non-weatherproof camera, and as such- must be treated with extra care and NEVER left outdoors or exposed to the elements without the proper protective housings. Even condensation moisture or dust can 'creep' into the board components.

Also, unlike most miniature enclosed case cameras, this camera model doesn't have any type of traditional mounting holes, brackets, etc., unless the heatshrink is deliberately left off or removed. Therefore, some sort of custom mounting is necessary to affix it securely into one spot. Some sort of adhesive is generally used, as well as special tapes and foams. A simple hot glue gun from the craft store can really be useful, since it can allow one to create a very secure mount to certain items and materials. Unlike a glue or epoxy, hot glue can be (carefully) removed for alternate placements. However, certain surfaces won't allow a good bond with hot glue. Smooth and/ or metal surfaces can sometimes be made more suitable by 'roughing up' on both sides with medium-coarse sandpaper or a grinding tool.