Wireless video systems have become extremely popular over the last couple of years. For good reason. Being able to monitor a camera, free from any kind of tether, is really useful. But wireless camera systems are still quite expensive.
In this video, Andreas Epp, AKA FuzzyLogic, walks us through his build of a DIY wireless camera monitor. It’s based on a 15.6″ USB-C monitor with a cheap wireless HDMI extender designed for game consoles and TVs. But it works for cameras and monitors, too.
DIY Wireless Monitor – Why DIY?
Wireless video transmission systems designed for cameras are pretty expensive. This is mostly due to the fact that wireless cameras have traditionally existed only in the realms of commercial work or higher-end filmmaking.
These types of users have certain technical requirements to ensure a strong, solid and smooth signal, even in electrically busy environments. With the number of devices in many studios and film sets these days that utilise 2.4GHz and 5GHz, being able to have a solid and reliable signal is paramount.
To get that level of reliability, you need to spend the money. And that doesn’t usually include the cost of the monitor, either. There are some exceptions, like the Hollyland Mars M1 Enhanced ($499), but you’re still getting a fairly small display.
In the home, on the other hand, you have complete control over all your devices and potential interference. This means, the system doesn’t need to be as bulletproof as it does on set. So, there are other options.
Building your own wireless display
Constructing the wireless display is a lot easier than you might think. This is because it’s built using mostly off-the-shelf components. Andreas used a 15.6″ USB-C monitor (buy here), which are readily available these days and an inexpensive Wireless HDMI transmitter (buy here).
Why use a portable USB-C monitor? There are several reasons, and even with Hollyland’s wireless systems, I still often use one myself. They typically have HDMI inputs – although some are USB-C only, so watch out for that – and they charge up over USB.
This means you can plug the wireless receiver straight into it and power both the wireless HDMI receiver and the monitor itself from a regular USB power bank (buy here). All in one self-contained, happy little package.
Andreas’ setup does require some 3D printed parts to help hold everything together. Fortunately, Andreas has released the files he designed to the public. If you want to have a go at making your own wireless monitor setup, you can download them from Printables. You can also find more resources on GitLab.
