Megavallometer Camera Trigger

megavallometer_camera_trigger

[Tobe] has an intervalometer for his camera, but he wanted a device that could trigger the shutter using several different methods, not just time. He calls his creation the Megavallometer, which can utilize any one of three distinct criteria.

He recently purchased an Arduino and a couple of shields, so he figured this would be a perfect project in which to use them. He hooked up a microphone and a photodiode to the Arduino, allowing him to use both sound and light to trigger his camera, depending on which mode he selects. Of course, the Megavallometer still incorporates the functionality of a standard intervalometer as well.

Once connected to his camera he selects one of the three trigger programs, and the Arduino handles the rest. If either the light or sound triggers are selected, the respective sensors measure the ambient levels upon selection, allowing for accurate results in any setting.

While the Megavallometer is a bit larger than other intervalometers we have seen, it looks incredibly useful and can likely be strapped to a tripod or similar if need be.

If you have a minute, be sure to check out the video on his site for a sneak peak if his Megavallometer in action.

4 thoughts on “Megavallometer Camera Trigger

  1. It seems a bit slow with the light and sound triggers, especially if this is intended to take something fast, like water drops or things igniting/exploding. I suppose it could be done better and smaller if need be.

  2. > can likely be strapped to a tripod or similar if need be

    Yes, also, you can put it in your car or a backpack. Incredible! You can also use the case for something totally different, that will possibly give it a dozen other uses. Truly universal!

  3. The sound in the video is a bit off. Actually its quite fast. Not fast enough to capture a balloon popping really early, but fast enough to shoot the pieces flying around with little distance (20cm) :) I also managed to get waterdrops with this setup.

    I have to admit, the case is kind of big, but i built a screw-nut underneath so I can screw it on another tripod, as my main purpose for this device is the laser trigger.

    An auxiliary port would be nice, too, maybe I will include this in the next few weeks. I did not want to invest too much time in this project and I wanted to screw around with this arduino board, so I did not make my own board. Sure it would be possible to build this setup in 1/4 of the space it takes right now.

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