I designed an adapter to mount the VA-1 angle finder on the E-M5ii. During the next few days I will perform tests with the prototype. In case of successful tests I will produce a small batch of adapters.
Category: Hardware
Testing Dive-Computers
I got a brand new dive computer a couple of days ago. It needs a certain number of operating hours in order to get the approval for public usage. I am therefore out and diving a lot. This may cause delays in answering requests. Please be patient.
The picture shows computers I got for testing a while ago. The current test devices are still top secret!
Threaded filter holder for the Zuiko 7–14mm f2.0 lens
Who says, that you can’t mount a threaded filter on top of the Zuiko 7–14 mm f2.0 lens? With a filter diameter of 105 mm it is possible. I tested with the bare holder for vignetting. Up to now, the results are promising.
I designed and built a prototype on request. I couldn’t test the holder yet. None of the dealers in my vicinity stocks filters of that diameter. Since I wasn’t willing to spend more than 200 € for a quick test, I have to be patient. My customer will test the holder and I will report the results.
Polarizers are expected to produce strange effects when pointed at the sky. Nevertheless, they should remove reflections quite good across the whole image.
BLN-1 cover now available at Shapeways
I made the BLN-1 battery cover available in my Shapeways shop. If you don’t have access to a 3D-printer you may order the cover at Shapeways. They will print the item in SLS and deliver it right to you. If the service is suitable for other projects, I will deploy them to my Shapeways shop.
New Heavy-duty Buzzer
I built a new buzzer for photo booths. The new case is even more stable than its predecessor. As a bonus, it allows charging two AA cells independently without opening the case. The receiver is implemented using a Yongnuo RF-603. It may be expanded with a USB-dongle that emulates a left mouse click or hitting a key on a keyboard.
Power Olympus Cameras from a 5 V Source
I performed tests to power Olympus cameras (OM-D E-M1) from a 5 V source. The voltage of 7.5 to 7.6 V required by the camera was delivered by a DC-DC step-up converter.
In general, powering a camer this way is possible. I just couldn’t find a power source yet that allows to drive the camera without restrictions. Even a wall wart delivering 2 A maximum current wasn’t enough to get single frame pictures at a decent pace. Too short image intervals caused troubles saving the taken pictures. Common USB chargers won’t drive the camera even in idle mode.
Maybe a power source delivering 2.5 or 3 A may do the trick. I couldn’t verify it yet.
Using a Powerbank as power supply for Olympus cameras
I am in the process to evaluate a converter that allows to power Olympus cameras (and others, with appropriate voltage settings) from Powerbanks, that provide up to 2000 mA at 5V through USB sockets.
If the tests are successful, I will present the solution here with cabling and a 3D printed housing.
Limitted responds
I am intensely working on a project for the next two weeks. This prevents me to be online as often as usual. Please apollogize for any inconvenience caused by late responses to inquiries.
BLH-1 Battery Dummy available!
After a series of tests I have built a BLH-1 battery dummy for Olympus cameras (currently the OM-D E-M1 Mark II). Since the battery is larger than other models, the lid of the battery compartment is also bigger. This allows to cut a slot for the cable to pass through while the lid is closed. You shouldn’t do this to the original lid. That’s why I currently try to get spare battery compartment lids for the camera.
You may find more details about battery dummies on my Battery Dummy Page.
BLH-1 battery dummy coming soon!
I got already requests for BLH-1 battery dummies (for the Olympus OM-D E-M1 mark II). Therefore, I made first measurements and built a prototype. During the next few days, I will test and refine the prototype.
If the test results are promising, I will have PCBs built and launch a first series.
More about the new battery dummy in a few days.