Spy Review

This is a tiny 2.4GHz Video Transmitter Module is only 12 x 37 x 43mm in size. It can be used to turn any wired surveillance camera into a wireless spy camera. It’s very compact, but can be located away from the camera to enable better concealment and aerial placement.

It can transmit on 1 of 4 selectable channels on the 2.4GHz band. The transmitter doesn’t come with a receiver, but you can get a cheap 2.4GHz Video Receiver on Maplin which is ideal for this device. You can also use various other standard 2.4GHz receivers that you can buy, so you can even get a portable unit if required.

The module is an audio and video transmitter with an output power of 10mW, which is the same as most wireless cameras these days. In practical terms, this translates to about 30 metres within a building, or about 100 metres on open ground. Of course, this might be limited by external influences, such as stray RF signals.

I really like this device, as it allows you to convert any decent camera into a wireless one (as most wireless cameras are anything but decent in terms of quality).

The only thing that I do not like about this device is the audio, video and power connector, which is a 4-way mini IDC connector (the white thing in the photo). It’s likely that you’d need to strip the cable to make connections, and then make your own connectors as required.

The module runs from a 12V supply with a 65mA current consumption. It would be a good idea to power a 12V camera from the same supply to make the whole package more compact. I would have preferred a 9V power supply requirement rather than 12V, but that’s because most wired cameras are rated at 8V. Therefore sorting out a suitable way to power the camera without damaging it is a small annoyance.