SmallRig has unveiled its new Wireless Tethering Hub for Cameras, which provides remote monitoring and capture from up to ≤500m (1640ft) away. As its name suggests, it essentially works like a router/repeater, where it receives a signal from a compatible camera and then allows that signal to be sent over greater distances, where you can then use your camera’s dedicated app to control it.
While it is being billed as a good solution for wildlife shooters, it could be used for a vast array of applications.
Key features
- Minimal Intrusion, Maximum Impact
- 1640ft Remote Monitoring and Operating
- 0.06s Response Time
- Synchronized Multi-Camera Shooting
- Only 7.7oz
- Wide Operating Temperature (-40°F to 140°F）
How does it work?
Cameras that use dedicated control and monitoring apps tend to only work over small distances via Bluetooth. To extend that range, the signal needs to be converted into something else.
With select mirrorless hybrids, action cameras, and the DJI Pocket 3, Action 5 Pro/6 that can send a live image via Bluetooth, the signal gets received by the SmallRig Wireless Tethering Hub for Cameras, and then that signal gets sent via WiFi 6 to a smartphone or tablet.
Here, users can adjust parameters, capture photos/videos, and use advanced functions (follow focus, zoom) via select manufacturers’ dedicated camera control apps, such as Sony’s Creative Cloud and Nikon’s SnapBridge.
As I mentioned earlier, this is claimed to be possible over distances of up to to ≤500m (1640ft) away.
Multi-Camera Support
You can use the Wireless Tethering Hub for Cameras to remotely control multiple cameras from different angles or positions.
How do you power it?
The Wireless Tethering Hub for Cameras can be powered from a USB-C power bank or a V-mount battery (that has a USB-C output). It doesn’t appear to have any way of being powered via mains. The power consumption is just 3W, so a battery or power bank could power it for long periods of time.
There are mounting points so you could attach it to a tripod, etc, or just use a lanyard to hang it on something.
What does it weigh?
It weighs in at 218g / 7.7 oz. SmallRig claims that it will work in a wide array of operating temperatures from -40°F to 140°.
Pricing & Availability
The SmallRig Wireless Tethering Hub for Cameras is now available for $239 USD. If you are in the US, it won’t start shipping till the 29th of December.
