Best Video transmitter/ receiver set up for long range?

[uhcoog1]

Hi-

I've started piecing together parts for a remote target camera system for long range rifle shooting at 1000 yards. I also want the system to double as a game viewer (mostly at night, to watch hog bait).

I purchased a transmitter and receiver from China. Bad idea. I'll be replacing them, but I figure I need to get quality equipment.

It appears that to have something powerful enough to transmit at 1000 yards, I'm going to need a technician license. At what power level is a technician license required? 1/2 watt? Less?

The equipment options I've found:
2.4ghz: .7w, 1w, 1.5w, 2w
1.2ghz: .7w, 1w, 1.5w, 2w
Antenna options include: 14db yagi or patch @ 2.4, less options at 1.2ghz. 5-9db omni antennas for both

I don't want to interfere with any other radio signals, HAM or anything else. What range would be best for this? I will be only using this at the gun range for a few hours at a time, or in the middle of nowhere on private land (once again for a few hours at a time). I'll be regulated to my battery life (12v 8ah lead acid small boat type batteries). Something to note- on the private land "hog viewing", the signal may need to go through trees, etc.

So what is better to avoid stepping on anyone's toes? 1.2ghz or 2.4ghz? What power level do you think is neccessary out of the unit, and what antennas do I need to get the job done? I'm guessing I need a license for this- is the technician all I need? I've started downloading the material for the test, looks reasonable enough.

I have friends who are interested in something like this- they may not take the time to take the test. Obviously I'll strongly discourage this, after hearing the possible fines. Does the FCC give warnings before fining for a system like above? How do they know how to find someone like this (besides the fact that a target will be on the feed, giving away the location! ha!).

Finally, I've heard there are some systems approved by the FCC that are above the power levels that require a license- how does this work?

 

[rfradioconsult]

Getting your amateur license is a great idea, expecially if you have a serious interest in practicing the Radio Art. However, you need to read the Part 97 rules for what is permitted and what isn't. From your description of what you are trying to accomplish isn't permitted, a couple of things first one-way transmissions aren't permitted except under very specific circumstances, second the station identification rule would apply.

Ham radio can provide years of enjoyment and lead to many friends that share a common interest, although your specific application may not be a good fit, keep up your interest.

 

[kb2vxa]

An AR license may be useful for AR use (;->) but where that's concerned your camera idea is clearly illegal. You're on the right track so eventually a little common sense will get you there. One thing though, for night viewing you'll need an IR camera and IR light source in addition to the camera for daytime use unless the target is illuminated and the day camera has automatic aperture and light amplification.