DIY Open Source Bluetooth Headphones -- Episode 586

I have a couple of older Arducam box cameras and having to rely on Amcap to take them out of auto mode, lets them down.

At the other end of the scale, I have a BirdDog PF120 'webcam' and it too is let down by the lack of access to manual controls when using it in USB mode.

i think that is a great case for the new Arducam modules,

with manual controlls over every aspect und pasing it on as UVC class Webcam feed t owhatever wants to use that feed.

Another related USB project idea would be to intercept the control functions of a UVC compliant camera module in a USB pass-thru device. Quite often web conferencing applications will capture control of the USB webcam but then not give you any controls for adjusting focus, exposure etc. which can be annoying as often there isn't a separate control application for UVC devices. Being able to insert a pass-thru remote control into the USB cable, would quickly provide a solution.

Take this one step further and it would be useful to be able to snoop and break the USB video stream out to a LCD display, at which point you now have yourself the basis for a low-cost USB 'studio camera'. Mount the camera onto a tripod and attach the LCD (touch)screen on a bracket and you have a preview of what the camera is framed on and easy access to the camera controls. 

One approach might be to use the likes of Arducam UVC compliant box cameras which have C-mount or S-mount lens options, allowing for a wide range of low-cost focal lengths and easy tripod mounting in a robust aluminium package. Alternatively, you could substitute any UVC compliant USB camera and 3D print some sort of mount for it if it doesn't already have one.

Another approach might be to go down the R-Pi HQ camera route with its 7" touchscreen, however with on-going supply chain issues this may not be such a great option at present. I've seen a couple of UVC webcam projects done already this way but without the image preview screen.

soemtime s the littlest components make the biggest difference....I had an encounter with a current shunt once...

i2S is a new acronym for me.

Great project Clem.

I learned very early in my career to make sure the breadboard components were exactly the same as the PCB components.

As you discovered, little differences make a big difference.

also making them all play nicely togethers and have no wonky conenctions is a cluttered desk in itself

That's one of the problem areas, most people can probably pull together a few low-cost USB devices, but when it comes to using several together, it can quickly become an overly complicated and expensive business.

the internal battery for the higher demands and charging while its not in use is such a cool idea, of course it adds complexity but would also make the device better for payortable applications like podcasting on site.

oh i just saw how expensive these devices are, well a simple solution just focused on the task would surely be abit more accessibly priced.