Update - there is a newer HD 1280×720 HD version of the key chain on the market now (2011). RCGroups has a great thread with a lot of information and tips on this new $40 HD camera HERE

I have been testing my new key chain camera for the past few days on all my RC airplanes. The key chain camera gained a lot of attention on the rc forums due to it’s inexpensive price ($15+/-), high quality video (30fps), and miniature size. I have used a camera on my planes before but it was larger than the key chain camera and the quality is noticeably less. I am impressed with all aspects of the key chain camera and will continue to experiment with different flying location as well as varied angles when installing on the planes.

The camera is available on Ebay (search results here). The majority of sellers are located in Hong Kong so it will take a few weeks for the camera to arrive. I purchased (2) cameras from two separate sellers on ebay. I had no problems with either and suggest that if you choose ebay to purchase ensure your seller has a lot of positive feedback.

When preparing the keychain camera to mount on my rc planes I had to do a little preparation. The covering of the key chain cameras is a little slick and the 3M Scotch Hook and Loop velcro adhesive tape that I routinely use was not adhering properly. I simply used some 250 grit sandpaper to roughen up the backside of the camera and used Gorilla Super Glue with a toothpick to spread a light coat before I added the Velcro. It is super solid and will not come off anytime soon. The foam on the rc planes was cleaned with a spray solution of water and rubbing alcohol and when dry I then attached the velcro to the plane.

I also learned that a few members on RCGroups have used acrylic plastic to form a camera mount to their glasses or sunglasses. I really liked the idea so I went to the local Lowes Hardware store and picked up a couple of .080″ 8×10″ Acrylic Sheets. They were $1.60 a sheet and are listed as 20x stronger than glass. They had much stronger selections but I wanted the acrylic to be easier to form. After scoring the acrylic several times with a knife or chisel or any semi-sharp object you snap off your desired piece. I then lit a candle and held the acrylic piece about 2 inches above the direct flame to gently soften the plastic. Never allowing the flame to directly touch the acrylic. You’ll have to experiment with the time it takes to get to the desired flexibility but when it’s ready I used a ruler to help form straight angles and was happy with the results. I molded several different variations to experiment with and had a lot of fun working with this new acrylic. I see some interesting projects in the future using this material.

Same design but used on a baseball hat, nice and snug it’s not moving anywhere and the velcro can be switched for correct camera orientation:

And another version of my hat cam mount-

Here are a few of my more recent Keychain Camera Videos

Testing the key chain with the U-shape mount on my baseball cap

Keychain Camera LINKS:

1.) Chuck Lohr COMPREHENSIVE Review and Mods ETC !! Key Chain Camera 808

2.) RCGroups Key chain Camera Thread – good tips

3.) Free video editor – VirtualDub and the filter to remove the TIME/DATE on VIDEO(timestamp.vdf)

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