Single Lens Reflex (SLR) Camera Motion Detector Shutter
Controller
Using An Infrared Proximity Sensor
This is a simple electronics project that you can build yourself with some simple tools. The device triggers your Single Lens Reflex Camera when it detects motion within a field. This particular sensor specification says it can be adjusted for 15ft or 30ft range, however I've tested it at 40ft and it works fine. It senses movement both in the daylight and dark.
With the ability to sense movement at dark it is ideal
for nature photography but also works if you want to
capture something sneaking around.
by Howard Honig,
Honey Software LLC
About the Camera Motion Detector Controller Box
You can make up your own configuration but mine is show below:
click for a better image
This project uses parts that you can buy from the JameCo on
the internect or from your local electronic parts store.
The circuit is fairly simple and the details are listed
below.
I've put in a red led that indicates the power is on.
It is good to know there is power going to the box. There
is also a green led that turns on when the camera is
triggered. This gives another indication but it is really
not necessary. The IR detector has a red led inside the
lense that turn on, as well.
Since the camera has a 2.5mm micro phono plug, and they are
hard to get, the connection is a 3.5mm phono plug. I just
used a 3.5mm female to 2.5mm male adapter obtained at Radio
Shack. RS also has a 2.5mm plug that I could have adapted
to the male 2.5mm cable I bought at Jameco but I found this
small plug very unreliable, so I would recommend against
it.
The power supply uses an adapter that can run from 6V to
12V. It has a standard power connector and the adapter is
pretty cheap so I boughta 12V just in case. Turns out this
was an overkill. The adapter I would change, but the rest
of parts worked out well.
Schematic
As you can see from the schematic the construction is simple, just a few components. Here are the details you need to know.|
sensor: 555-28027 optical isolator: moc3020M power conn: your choice camera jack: Audio stereo 3.5mm - 3term 5V regulator: L78M05 or equiv npn transistor: any generic led: any generic colors: your choice AC adapter: 12VDC, DDU120100Z7974 or equiv Case: ABS Speedy 4.875"x2.5"x 1.2" or your choice All parts can be purchased on the JameCo website |
 Click on schematic to enlarge |
I've indicated it above, but it bares repeating that the Canon cameras have a 2.5mm micro phono plug in the body. I've used a 3.5mm because the cable is more durable, it's cheaper, and it's easier to build with. With a 6' 3.5mm male to 3.5mm cable, it plugs directly into the box on one end, and to the correct adapter on the other.
Conclusion
Don't know what I've missed, but if you have any question just write me. My email address is on the contact page of the website.Thanks.