Professor Chaos posted:Here's a project that I just completed: my own version of the upcoming Lionel caboose camera. I use a camera system designed for FPV drones, the Runcam Split 2s.
The neat thing about the Runcam Split is it simultaneously transmits a live tv signal and records HD on an SD card. The live feed isn't HD, but looks pretty good. I watch it with a pair of FPV goggles, so you get live caboose virtual reality! You can see a sample of the recorded video here.
The system is entirely self-contained and track powered. I used a 1F supercapacitor and boost regulator for the power supply. It can sustain the system for 3 or 4 seconds, so momentary interruptions in track power are no problem.
You can configure and control the RunCam over wifi with a dedicated app, although downloading the videos can take quite some time.
I a few years back produced a 5.8GHz cam system for our Kids run trains group. I posed my adventure here: https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/...driving-a-real-train
This has been updated to now be a track powered version and operates quite well.
Just please keep in mind that ANY usage of drone FPV equipment requires you to hold a HAM Technician license. Many places now will NOT sell you the gear if they find out you are in the US. Apparently many are not getting the FCC certification and the companies are being fined for distribution.
Wifi based systems seem the way to go until the FCC puts the kibosh on that too.
