Daily Archives: December 10, 2009

My take on a parabolic microphone Reply

cycling, technology • Tags: ,

Okay, you saw my primer. Given all my reading [the Internet is a wonderful resource], I modified here and there. the bottom-line is $0.00. I was able to construct this reflector microphone with no dollars spent on this sub-system. I’m pleased with that. I have certainly spent enough on cameras.

Parabolic Microphore addes to system Parabolic Microphore addes to system

Since I’m not out to catch the sounds of nature, I think we are okay. OTOH, I am hoping for some nice sounds of cycling.
Parabolic Microphore addes to system

I am satisfied with the sound I’m getting from this setup. Of course, there could be more by using a larger parabolic reflector. Then I’d have cost and greater difficulty transporting the system.

I have to install a microphone jack on the box for easy connect/disconnect. I also have a grommet to install on the parabola where the microphone wire comes in. I may cover the microphone with foam. Wind today seem to not be a problem. The mic sits deep within the dish.
Parabolic Microphore addes to system Here is a summary of what I did:

    • I used the tripod that was already a part of the system for the purpose of holding the “night light”

    Darkness enabled
      • I modified the parabolic dish to mount on the tripod.
      • I modified the microphone holder [many times] to best hold the microphone at the focus of the parabola.
      • I tested, retested, and tested again.
      • I have the finishing [described earlier] to do.

      Now, If I could just have continuous sound for the WebCam 7 system. I do not know what the problem is. I continue to wait for the developer.

      Well, here you have my work for last night and today.  Next, the replacement camera.

      A few more pictures can be seen here.

      Parabolic microphone ~ a bit of background 2

      cycling, technology • Tags: ,

      I did lots of research on ways to collect sound that should not include any systems noises [camera, computer, etc. There are two basic external microphone options: 1) shotgun mic; and, 2) parabolic mic. I opted for the parabolic microphone. All are quite expensive; but, there are home built, such as this:

      I started down the umbrella path, remember my white prototype, but opted to use a metal parabolic reflector. For all 30” inches of my umbrella, I was afraid sound would pass through the fabric. I trust I have found the focus[ sweet-spot] on my setup. My preliminary testing is positive. I was able to build mine at no cost, using items on-hand.

      I wanted to get this post up before I give you my solution [I hope tonight]. I still have some finishing to do and pictures to take.

      Webcam update ~ 12/10 1

      cycling, technology • Tags:

      It may not appear so, but a lot of work has been going on with the WebCam setup [SPECTER], some of it busy work. I have looked at hundreds of cameras, specs & reviews, seller sites and the manufacturer—Sony, Canon, JVC, Panasonic, and more.  I’ve looked for USB Streaming, USB 2.0 streaming, firewire [ieee 1394 streaming]. Express cards with firewire—must fit a 25mm slot-there are none. I wanted Apple’s iSight [a firewire camera].

      More…