Copy of my 2012 ELR build - rebuilt the best I could for the hide/Scout and nowhere again. Some of the images can't display due to the limitations on media -
Build list at the bottom: (if you shop around, you'll find better deals than the example links in the build list)
I've been asked a bunch about using an iPad as a receiving unit. Most ELR shooting does not involve a bench or shaded shooting positions and uses larger calibers often with a brake. Dirt from the muzzle blast is a real issue for electronics. iPads are also very prone to overheating and shutting off; they are expensive and fragile. IMHO, the idea of an iPad receiving unit might be fine for bench shooters but has no place in the dusty desert. Commercial units do not offer the things I wanted from this build. I hope you find the information helpful.
Features not included in commercial units:
D head unit of the BT19 - While I did cut a few minutes from just before the shot to keep the video length down, it shows why ELR can be tough. We were only set up about a mile because the wind wasn't perfect.
From the camera feed with the cheaper antenna
2,400 Yards 2.2 Kilometers (antenna in the wrong orientation - video quality suffers):
2200Yards MTAC ColdBore
2 cameras switching: 20 rounds, 10 rounds at each distance with 3 on paper. The shooting is a bit over 90 seconds, but hopefully, not too long to view.. 900-yard target wind was up to 30 at times. As you can see in the video below, the light was not working
all the time because the cycle rate was a hair fast. The 400-yard target is a reduced 66% IPSC with 6" red center popper.
Test captures from this week with a 25mm Marshall lens about 50y from 1300y Targets and a 50mm Marshall lens from 100m from the 2095y target. I think the 25mm gets the camera far enough away, is easier to focus and my choice.
50mm Marshall Lens test - Camera 100y away from 2095y target -- Wind 15-40mph
To switch between distances or record, you tap on one of the silver buttons on the monitor. I had the camera a bit too far back as I was trying to get both the popper and paper targets in the frame to see the bullet holes. It works well when moved closer to see the holes on paper.
Using only the multi-channel monitor, small receiving antenna, and onboard DVR and Lio-battery. I have packed the receiving unit (inside an Icon Pro 3200) this along with my shooting supplies out to high angle spots. It is minimal and light.
Anyway, these cameras are easy to build yourself, and the entire 2 camera setup fits in one small pistol box + a piece of rebar. These work well further than people can reliably shoot.
Click to see a larger image-
Images of Target Cam and shooting: (Click images for larger views)
In the case - 2 Monitors with integrated receivers, DVRs, LION battery and Multi-cam monitoring with 2 cameras
Suggested substitute build Items to reduce cost:
Because the antenna dB and system power are high, there is not a need for TALL or full-sized tripods. Pieces of 1/4-20 All-Thread rods and connectors can be used as tripod extenders or stand-alone supports. A large part of the cost is the 4 very small tripods with heads. These are great and fit inside the case as shown, but they add over $210 to the package. The images below are a way to save about $200 from my build list. Save about $300 total by repurposing an old bag or suitcase along with eliminating the tripods, and you'll still have a great ELR camera system with recording features!
A wooden square with a small length of All-Thread makes an excellent tripod substitute
https://flic.kr/p/vnbAU7
Rear Connection with a small shelf bracket used - connectors are used to allow extensions
https://flic.kr/p/usDxrg
Sending Units and Antennas can use a wooden base or run directly in the ground
https://flic.kr/p/vpu6eX
Sending Units and Antennas run directly in the ground using rebar. The second Target is the bare area behind the sink.
https://flic.kr/p/HexUP2
Close up view of the connector to sending antenna (Tiny 1/4x20 ball head for easy aiming option)
https://flic.kr/p/Hey9zt
Close up view of Panel mount - 1/4"x20 with couplers on either end
https://flic.kr/p/J1B2dY
Cut at an angle for direct access into the ground or use rebar and a hose clamp
Build list with links to the parts:
Build list at the bottom: (if you shop around, you'll find better deals than the example links in the build list)
I've been asked a bunch about using an iPad as a receiving unit. Most ELR shooting does not involve a bench or shaded shooting positions and uses larger calibers often with a brake. Dirt from the muzzle blast is a real issue for electronics. iPads are also very prone to overheating and shutting off; they are expensive and fragile. IMHO, the idea of an iPad receiving unit might be fine for bench shooters but has no place in the dusty desert. Commercial units do not offer the things I wanted from this build. I hope you find the information helpful.
Features not included in commercial units:
- Everything including tripods must fit inside one small case
- FPV and DVR functions to review misses when self-spotting
- Control record function remotely
- Clear image to 3,000+yards
- Works in the wind without having to stake down tripods (low and small antennas-no large tripods and guide wires to hold the thing down)
- Strong enough signal to overcome multipath interference caused by ground effects due to low tripods rocks etc
- Long 8+hr Battery life (some places I set up can take me an hour to get back to the shooting area)
- Easy, fast setup
- Work prone or in a variety of situations and still does not take up to much room if used on a bench
- Does not overheat and shut off in the desert sun
- Each component cheaply and easily replaced if hit or otherwise damaged
D head unit of the BT19 - While I did cut a few minutes from just before the shot to keep the video length down, it shows why ELR can be tough. We were only set up about a mile because the wind wasn't perfect.
From the camera feed with the cheaper antenna
2,400 Yards 2.2 Kilometers (antenna in the wrong orientation - video quality suffers):
2200Yards MTAC ColdBore
2 cameras switching: 20 rounds, 10 rounds at each distance with 3 on paper. The shooting is a bit over 90 seconds, but hopefully, not too long to view.. 900-yard target wind was up to 30 at times. As you can see in the video below, the light was not working
all the time because the cycle rate was a hair fast. The 400-yard target is a reduced 66% IPSC with 6" red center popper.Test captures from this week with a 25mm Marshall lens about 50y from 1300y Targets and a 50mm Marshall lens from 100m from the 2095y target. I think the 25mm gets the camera far enough away, is easier to focus and my choice.
50mm Marshall Lens test - Camera 100y away from 2095y target -- Wind 15-40mph
To switch between distances or record, you tap on one of the silver buttons on the monitor. I had the camera a bit too far back as I was trying to get both the popper and paper targets in the frame to see the bullet holes. It works well when moved closer to see the holes on paper.
Using only the multi-channel monitor, small receiving antenna, and onboard DVR and Lio-battery. I have packed the receiving unit (inside an Icon Pro 3200) this along with my shooting supplies out to high angle spots. It is minimal and light.
Anyway, these cameras are easy to build yourself, and the entire 2 camera setup fits in one small pistol box + a piece of rebar. These work well further than people can reliably shoot.
Click to see a larger image-
Images of Target Cam and shooting: (Click images for larger views)
In the case - 2 Monitors with integrated receivers, DVRs, LION battery and Multi-cam monitoring with 2 cameras
Target
Target example2
Receiving and recording control example1 with Directional receiving panel
Multi-Cam DVR, Receiver system (Can easily fit inside a pack with all your shooting gear to move FFPs.)
New (replacement) sending unit test --Image from 4,200 yards with direction receiving panel
Ranged to back of the house (street test location was further)
2,200 Yards to Target - against hill across dry sink (white area)
Sending unit - transmitter and tiny antenna tall tripods are not needed, but rebar be & is cheap, increases the efficiency and will not blow over like tall tripods
Looking up from Camera/Target to FFPs
Image from 2050 Yards - with standard receiving panel (different location) Better Quality
View 1 different location
Suggested substitute build Items to reduce cost:
Because the antenna dB and system power are high, there is not a need for TALL or full-sized tripods. Pieces of 1/4-20 All-Thread rods and connectors can be used as tripod extenders or stand-alone supports. A large part of the cost is the 4 very small tripods with heads. These are great and fit inside the case as shown, but they add over $210 to the package. The images below are a way to save about $200 from my build list. Save about $300 total by repurposing an old bag or suitcase along with eliminating the tripods, and you'll still have a great ELR camera system with recording features!
A wooden square with a small length of All-Thread makes an excellent tripod substitute
https://flic.kr/p/vnbAU7
Rear Connection with a small shelf bracket used - connectors are used to allow extensions
https://flic.kr/p/usDxrg
Sending Units and Antennas can use a wooden base or run directly in the ground
https://flic.kr/p/vpu6eX
Sending Units and Antennas run directly in the ground using rebar. The second Target is the bare area behind the sink.
https://flic.kr/p/HexUP2
Close up view of the connector to sending antenna (Tiny 1/4x20 ball head for easy aiming option)
https://flic.kr/p/Hey9zt
Close up view of Panel mount - 1/4"x20 with couplers on either end
https://flic.kr/p/J1B2dY
Cut at an angle for direct access into the ground or use rebar and a hose clamp
Build list with links to the parts:
- $64 Sending antenna directional 12db gain Helical antennas
- $48 2000mw 5.8ghz Boscam Thunderbolt transmitter
- $210 for 4 tripods Oben TT 300 with tripod head (not needed if you use the All-Thread or rebar options, or only 2 are needed if you use the rebar for just the sending units - see images above)
- $6 Tripod Mini Ball Head for DSLR Camera Camcorder Light Bracket Swivel 1/4" Screw (need one for each tripod you'd like to replace)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- $56 Boscam HD19 Plus 1080P see here on ebay or $59 Camera 8mm lens with inline zoom control 700TVL Weatherproof WDR Camera 1/3 Inch Sony Effio-p DSP Array IR 40m Sony Camera
- $23 charger- can be left on even at full charge Battery-Tender
- $45 In Batteries:
- 1x - $25 Sending unit Power-Sonic PS-12120 Battery; Sealed Lead Acid; Rechargeable; 12 V; 12 Ah; Spill-Proof; ABS Case; AGM Power-Sonic PS-12120
- 1x - $15 receiving unit PS1250-F2 12V -5ah Power-Sonic PS-1250-F2
- $84 Direction 23db 5.8ghz receiving antenna Receiving Panel
- $15 Optional small receiving antenna (good for packing and setting up cameras at the target locations) YKS 5.8G FPV 14DBI High Gain Panel Antenna https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- $139 Rupse For FPV System 7 inch 5.8G 32CH HD Monitor Built-in DVR With Lipo Battery Wireless AV Receiver All-in-one (White) Monitor with recover and DVR
- $70 Case Plano 108031 AW XL Case
- 66ft Video Audio Power Extension CablePre-made All-in-One BNC with RCA adapters Extension cable to put a battery, Transmitter and antenna 20meters/66' away from the target
- Web Link: Power, Audio Video-Extension
- Price $21.99
- RCA Female to Female CouplerJack Adapters 3PK - (need only 1 on the camera side - local electronic will be cheaper)
- Web Link: RCA female connector
- Price $6
- BNC Female to RCA Female Coupler Adapter Connector10PK - (need only 1 on the camera side - local electronic will be cheaper)
- Web Link: BNC Female to RCA female connector
- Price $8
- DC Power Connector, JACKED DC Jack Adapter Plug For CCTV, Camera, LED Strips, 10 Pairs of 2.1x5.5mm Female and Male Connector (need only 3 pairs / 5 pairs if adding solar)
- Price $12 .99
- Web Link: DC connectors
- Target Side: Battery 2x Female If adding solar +1 Female and +1 Male if adding solar
- Transmitter 1x Male Camera 1x Male
- FFP / Monitor side:
- Battery 1x Female If adding solar +1 Female and +1 Male if adding solar
- Monitor with integrated DVR and receiver 1 x Male
- Video and audio Connectors Ksmile 6 Male +6 Female Plug to AV Screw Terminal Plug Connector / UTP Cat5/Cat6 Cable to AV RCA Male Screw
- Web Link: [Video and audio connectors](http://www.amazon.com/Ksmile¿-Female...irect=true&ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06s00)
- Target side: Allows use of extension or direct. (need only 4 female)Camera
- 2x Female Transmitter
- 2x Female
- Price $7.25
- 100' Feet 18 GA Gauge Red Black 2 Conductor Speaker Wire Audio Cable
- Web Link: [18ga 2 conductor color-coded wire](http://www.amazon.com/Audiopipe-Gaug...ilpage_o06_s00)
- Price $12.95
- Spade connectors- 100pcs Female Fully Insulated Wire Crimp Terminal Nylon Quick Connectors Wiring Spade (need only 4)
- Web Link: Spade connectors
- Price $7.99
- SMA Cables
- Transmitter: RF coaxial coax adapter SMA female to RP-SMA male (no center pins or cable with no center pins)
- Web Link: SMA connectors to Heli Antena
- Price $6
- 12"/30cm Male to Female RP-SMA Extension Cable
- Web Link: RP-SMA Antenna extension
- Price $6
- Receiver/Monitor: If you get the panel antenna, you'll need an RP-SMA to the connector on the back. Ask the retailer for the proper cable to your FPV monitor SMA-RP Male with the center pin. Most antennas, as the 2 14dbi on the white monitor, will attach directly. If you're using the large white panel as in the link above, you'll want TP-Link 0.5-Metre 2.4GHz/5GHz Pigtail Cable with N-type Male to RP-SMA Male connector (TL-ANT200PT)
- Web Link: N-Type to RP-SMA male antenna cable (large panels only)
- Price $12
- Transmitter: RF coaxial coax adapter SMA female to RP-SMA male (no center pins or cable with no center pins)
- Camera mount small1"x1" shelf bracket found at any hardware store
- Web Link sample image of a bracket: sample bracket image
- Velcro to hold camera found at any hardware store
- Price $5
- 1/4-20 hardware misc
- Camera: x1 1/4-20 coupler, x1 1/4-20 bolt
- Transmitter: x1 wire loop, x1 1/4-20 coupler, x1 1/4-20 wing nut
- Receiver: x1 1/4-20 wing nut
- If using transmitter extenders or 1/4-20 all-thread instead of tripods: add several 1 1/4-20 couplers, 1/4-20 wing nuts, 1/4-20 nuts and washers
- Camera: x1 1/4-20 coupler, x1 1/4-20 bolt
- Tools
- Electrical tape - cover the terminals
- Wire stripers
- Small Philips screwdriver
- Optional Zoom lens for Boscam HD BT19
- Marshall Electronics 25mm f/2.5 Hi-Resolution Miniature Glass Lens for Board Cameras, M12 Mount, Approx. 11deg. AOV, 4 Elements - __allows the camera to be really far back from the plate (It does mess with the white balance, giving the video a red look as the then does not have an IR cut filter on it - this is still usable and can be fixed in post, or left alone)
- Web Link: 25mm M12 Telephoto Lens
- Price $43
- 1.25 Inch UV IR CUT Block Filter Infra-Red Filter CCD Camera Interference UV Filter(optional, can be used to return video white balance - you can use any IR CUT and pace in front of the lens if so desired.)
- Web Link: Link to IR CUT filters 1.25"
- Price $19
- Sunshade IR cut filter holder PVC Pipe Fitting, Adapter, 1" Socket x 3/4" NPT Female
- Web Link: NA Get at Home depot. Sand the 3/4" side for a slip fit over the Marshall Telephoto lens.
- Price $1
- Marshall Electronics 25mm f/2.5 Hi-Resolution Miniature Glass Lens for Board Cameras, M12 Mount, Approx. 11deg. AOV, 4 Elements - __allows the camera to be really far back from the plate (It does mess with the white balance, giving the video a red look as the then does not have an IR cut filter on it - this is still usable and can be fixed in post, or left alone)
- Optional Microwave relay to replace the 50' video, power and audio extension with wireless relay
- Wireless Audio VideoAV Transmitter Receiver Sender Set 16-ch 1.2ghz 700mw
- Web Link: [Wireless 1.2 uplink](amazon.com/Camecho¿-Wireless-Transmitter-Receiver-Sender/dp/B00MPDTUY2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00)
- Price $48.86
- **Battery** Sending unit Power-Sonic PS-12120 Battery; Sealed Lead Acid; Rechargeable; 12 V; 12 Ah; Spill-Proof; ABS Case; AGM
- Price $48.86
- Web Link: [Power-Sonic PS-12120](amazon.com/Powersonic-PS-12120F2-Sealed-Battery-Terminals/dp/B005S4LR6O "Power-Sonic PS-12120")
- From the above supplies:
- x1 2.1mm power male
- x2 Spade connectors
- Wireless Audio VideoAV Transmitter Receiver Sender Set 16-ch 1.2ghz 700mw
- Optional Solar panels to extendbattery life for multiple days. 1 at Target 1 at FFP
- 2x 7.5W Portable SolarCar Boat Power Sunpower Solar Panel Battery Charger Maintainer for Automobile Motorcycle Tractor Boat Batteries
- Web Link: [Set of Solar Panels](amazon.com/ALLPOWERS-Maintainer-Automobile-Motorcycle-Batteries/dp/B012ZHGGXU?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00)
- Price $23.99 set
- Voltmeters x2Hittime 2 Wire Blue LED Panel LED Display Voltage Meter Voltmeter
- Web Link: [Voltmeters](amazon.com/Hittime-Panel-Display-Voltage-Voltmeter/dp/B008KY5ULW?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00)
- Price $2.49 each
- Connectors
- x2 Male 2.1 DC connector from above
- x2 Female to add another port to the batteries connector from above
- Solar Charge ControllerDocooler 10A 12V/24V Solar Panel Battery Regulator Safe Protection
- Web Link: [Voltage controller] amazon.com/Docooler-Controller-Battery-Regulator-Protection/dp/B00JKDZVRU/ref=pd_bxgy_263_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1CE7J7X8PM2FZZRHJ2XH
- Price $11.49 each
- 2x 7.5W Portable SolarCar Boat Power Sunpower Solar Panel Battery Charger Maintainer for Automobile Motorcycle Tractor Boat Batteries
- Optional inline power switch
- Manual Inline DC Power SwitchExtension Cable Male to Female 2.1mm Barrel between transmitter battery and extension
- Web Link:[Power switch](amazon.com/JacobsParts-Manual-Extension-Voltage-Applications/dp/B00R1YKNT6?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00)
- Price $4.95
- Manual Inline DC Power SwitchExtension Cable Male to Female 2.1mm Barrel between transmitter battery and extension
- Optional 4.3" monitor: Run in parallel, using the output jack from the main DVR/Monitor and an video/power extension cord as in the original build list ~ allows other shooter the ability to view the downrange cameras if hard-wired to the DVR/receiver in the build list above, without the expense of the DVR and extra antennas.
- Web Link: 4.3 LCD
- Price: $15
- Optional tripod elimination or height extensions between transmitterbattery and extension
- 1/4x20 All-Thread hardware to extend to 6' or stick the sending unit, camera, etc. into the ground or threading into the top of one of the tripods
- Available at any hardware store
- Optional Microphoneusing the SD Camera with 8mm lens, inline zoom control, 700TVL, Weatherproof WDR Camera 1/3 Inch Sony Effio-p DSP Array IR 40m or if using cameras without audio
- Web Link: Small 12V spy microphone
- Price: $4
Last edited:
