Simple spooting scope system

[1066]

Just thought you might like to see my simple spotting scope set-up. The scope is a very cheap compact scope, originally bought for 10m airpistol shooting.

It's fitted with a $7 usb camera and into a cheap basic 8" android tablet. It also works well plugged into your android phone.

Scope
https://www.nipon-scope.com/15-45x52-spotting-scope

Camera
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mini-USB-2-0 ... SwQeha1cXs

[SteveT]

What was needed to adapt the camera to the scope?

[marky-d]

Not sure if this is what the OP used, but you can get USB cameras specifically designed to replace the eyepiece -- just search Amazon for "USB eyepiece camera", or similar.

marky-d

[wasatch]

What power is the scope set to for the displayed field of view?

[1066]

I 3d printed a simple adapter to slip over the scope eyepiece with a square box to fit the camera.

The camera is just a push fit


You will also need an OTG cable to convert the camera USB plug to the mini plug on the tablet

To mount the tablet I attached a small swivel head and fitted a magnet

I stuck a metal strip to the tablet holder so it sticks firmly to the magnet

To run the camera on an android tablet you will need a free app. This is the one I'm using
https://play.google.com/store/apps/deta ... .usbcamera

The scope is 15-45 x52 - I use it at it's lowest power, this shows about 1 foot square at 10m. You can then zoom in just using the tablet to just show the black centre etc.

This is fairly bargin basement stuff - you could get the whole lot new, scope, camera, tablet for less than $100.
Making the adapter for the eyepiece will need a bit of tinkering if you havn't got access to a 3d printer, look at plastic plumbing fittings etc.

[ProdigalSon]

I like the idea of this setup. I've been jealous of having monitors since I shot at the USAMU range a few years back, and this seems like a method of achieving that idea without the insane investment it takes for a proper monitor system. I've got an old iPad that may get repurposed for this idea.

[1066]

I really don't know anything about Ipads but I believe it's not so simple to just plug in a usb camera the same as you can with an android tablet.

[DavZee]

This is a very useful project.
Might not be as compact, but a laptop might work as well?
It would have a screen that could be easily angled for viewing.

[1066]

Yes, it works perfectly well on a laptop. If you need a program to host the camera I would recommend this free one. Comes with no added adverts or added rubbish.

https://www.sharpcap.co.uk/