What you will need to get for FPV

What you will need to get for FPV

Small light weight security type color cameras like the KX-131(5 volts), SN555 (12 volts) WD600N (Hi-Res 12v) CCD imager is preferred. Available from site like:(ReadyMadeRC.com) ( DPCAV.com) (www.nghobbies.com) (www.futurehobbies.com) and now (HobbyKing.com)
There are 2 types of camera imaging sensors used, CMOS and CCD. Both have positives and negatives for FPV. Most CMOS will adjust to brightness and contrast for each pixel giving a better picture then CCD, along with using slightly less power. The CMOS camera draw back is it scans each image line by line which can cause waves or ripples in the video if there are vibrations from the aircraft. Also sudden turns or movements can look less natural.
CCD cameras are more popular with FPV pilots because they capture the image frame by frame which allows for better picture when there's vibrations and quick movements. They handle low light conditions better then CMOS and have more pixels for the size (more pixels the better the resolution/clearer picture). The draw back is they consume more power along with blurring when going from dark to bright objects like ground to sky (CCD cameras like the WD600N don't have this issue). 5 volts and 12 volts systems are common. Some prefer 5 volts because of the other electronics they are powering use the same voltage like servos and such so they might share the power source (not recommended). Also most 12volt cameras are really stepped down to 5 volts with a built in regulator.
12 volt cameras are popular because a separate power source like a 3cell 11.1 volt lipo battery easily powers the system along with the video transmitters which now are mostly 12 volts. 12 volt systems are becoming the most popular and are recommended.


2. Wireless video Transmitter and a matching Receiver (ReadyMadeRC.com) (DPCAV.com) (www.nghobbies.com) (www.futurehobbies.com) (hobbyking.com)
There are a few frequency bands to choose from when it comes to purchasing a wireless video system, 900MHz, 1.3ghz, 2.4GHz and the newer 5.8GHz.
Most popular video transmitter as of now is the 900MHz with 500 milliwatts due to the fact it has more range at the same power draw as the other bands. Gets around obstacles better then the other frequencies like trees and buildings. Works with all RC radios and the newer 2.4gHz radios like Spektrum/Futaba/JR without causing interference. The draw back is some countries do not allow 900MHz for public use so 1.3GHz or 5.8GHz is recommended. Milliwatts are important for range so if your going to fly at a far distance then 500mw is going to allow for 1-3 miles/2 km Line-of-Sight, where 10mw will give you much less like 200-300 yards. Some countries do not allow more then 10mw so check your local laws. Wireless video sellers well also have a matching receiver to go along with the frequency you choose.


3. A monitor 7" display or larger. The larger the monitor the better. Or video goggles with a minimum resolution of 640x480 if you plan on using an OSD and want to be able to read the text clearly. Most popular are "Fat Shark" and "Head-Play" brands. If using a monitor you will need to block out the sun light from hitting the screen. Most FPV pilots build an enclosure like a shoe box around the display and then cut a opening for viewing. (note: Fat Sharks are 2.4ghz wireless goggles so there not recommended when using 2.4ghz radios.)


4. A separate battery to run the video equipment inside the aircraft is highly recommended. Using the aircraft's battery can make for poor video and if the battery runs out you will lose your video feed (Video Drop Out) making it impossible to see where the aircraft might land/crash. Try to keep all your wireless video equipment using the same voltage like all 5volts or all 12volts, most companies have both. 12 volt systems make the most sense because a 3s 11.1 volt lipo can power these systems without having to use a voltage regulator like 5 volt systems need. It's not recommended to power 5 volt wireless gear with the radio RX power source even though they have the same voltage. Doing this may cause glitching and/or shorter radio range.


Not all wireless systems are "Plug N Play" so some soldering skills maybe needed depending on what you purchase. Some systems come with bulky RCA/BNC stereo/TV connectors which most serious FPV pilots like to replace with smaller, lighter servo type connectors especially if space and weight are a issue. Most FPV plug n play systems use servo connectors that match what most OSD's and data loggers use.