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Helmet Cam History? Since the early 80’s there have been a handful of people experimenting with the idea of attaching a camera to a hat or helmet. These efforts were primarily driven by an interest in creating a wearable computer, which also captured moving images. Until recently the only way to do this was by attaching a heavy video camera directly to a helmet. The birth of 1st Generation Helmet Cam Systems Small companies soon sprang up offering hand-made helmets that could support a large video camera. 1st generation solutions have evolved into custom made helmets with built in video cameras; or a special mount which allows attachment of a digital camcorder to your own helmet. Second Generation Helmet Cam Systems In the 90’s small box-shaped micro-cameras made Helmet Cameras more practical. No longer needing to carry a camcorder on your head, it was finally possible to create video while performing a larger range of activities. Persistent challenges included: high prices, the inherently fragile nature of box cameras and the “dork factor” (wearing a small block of plastic on your otherwise streamlined helmet isn't very stylish). In 1997 small cylinder-shaped micro-cameras, about the size of a woman’s lipstick tube, were introduced. Color resolution wasn’t breathtaking but combined with the new generation of lighter-weight camcorders (3 pounds or less) - Helmet Cams had finally arrived. Across the country people started “duck taping” these mini-cameras to just about everything imaginable and “Reality Video,” or “First Person Video,” was born. Current state of 2nd Generation Helmet Cam Systems There are still a few companies offering 1st generation solutions, while the other half dozen RVS companies offer 2nd generation products. Usually a packaged solution includes a rechargeable battery as well as a mount for attaching the mini-camera to a helmet. Challenges still facing 2nd Generation Helmet Cam equipment include: · Little to no safety features (for you or your camcorder) · Heavy, difficult to manage, cable systems using 7-10(+) connectors. A properly designed cable harness only needs 2-3 connectors, including the microphones (camcorders that use RCA plugs need up to 2 more) Want a Visual? · Some 2nd Generation solutions still don’t include a rechargeable battery pack · You need to supply your own cable, to connect the Helmet Cam to your camcorder · Warranty periods do not match what we have come to expect from other electronic appliances. Introduction of 3rd Generation Helmet Cam Systems In early 2002 Xtreme Recall announced the first 3rd Generation Helmet Camera System. Significantly safer, lighter and more reliable - Xtreme Recall’s Helmet Cam products merge professional quality with consumer level simplicity. Advantages of a 3rd Generation Helmet Camera System: · Only 2-3 connectors (no mic, one mic and dual microphone cable harnesses) · Advanced Lithium-Ion battery technology · 75% less cabling - drastically reducing weight, while simplifying ease of use · Cameras using state of the art technology Xtreme Recall also offers a One Year Repair/Replace Guarantee on all products.
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