Wireless video systems have become extremely popular over the last few years, and for good reason – being able to monitor your cameras without any strings attached is incredibly convenient. However, wireless camera systems are still quite expensive.
In this video, Andreas Epp (aka FuzzyLogic) walks you through assembling a DIY wireless camera monitor, which is based on a 15.6″ USB-C monitor with a cheap wireless HDMI extender designed for game consoles and TVs, but can also be used for cameras and monitors.
DIY Wireless Monitors – Why DIY?
Wireless video transmission systems designed for cameras are very expensive. This is mainly due to the fact that wireless cameras have traditionally only existed in the realm of commercial work and high-end film production.
These types of users have specific technology requirements to ensure a strong, stable and smooth signal even in electrically congested environments. With so many devices using 2.4GHz and 5GHz in use in many studios and film sets today, having a stable and reliable signal is paramount.
To get that level of reliability, you have to spend money, and that money doesn't usually even include the cost of the monitor. There are exceptions, like the Hollyland Mars M1 Enhanced ($499), but you're still getting a pretty small display.
At home, on the other hand, you have full control over all your devices and potential interference, which means your system doesn't need to be as robust as your set, so there are other options.
Build your own wireless display
Building a wireless display is a lot easier than you might think, since it is mostly built using off-the-shelf components. Andreas used a 15.6″ USB-C monitor (purchased here), which is easily available these days, and a cheap wireless HDMI transmitter (purchased here).
Why use a portable USB-C monitor? There are a few reasons, I use one often myself, even with Hollyland's wireless systems. They usually have an HDMI input (although beware that some are USB-C only) and can be charged via USB.
This means you can plug the wireless receiver directly in and power both the wireless HDMI receiver and the monitor itself from a regular USB power bank (buy one here) – all in one, nice little package.
Andreas' setup requires some 3D printed parts to put everything together. Luckily, Andreas has made the files he designed publicly available. If you want to try building your own wireless monitor setup, you can download them from Printables. GitLab also has more resources.