SKU: CTLP-1
$495.00 USD
Here are all the advantages of UpBlink:
Use UpBlink to achieve long term time lapse and/or motion detection (coming soon) for your next project. Just plug it into your GoPro and use the UpBlink app to connect and configure separate schedules (including email scheduling) using a smartphone, tablet, computer, or any WiFi enabled device which has a web browser (app connection is directly with UpBlink so no cell service or internet connection required). For more information, see the Quick Start Guide and User Manual.
A WiFi network or a data hotspot is required (see below) with internet access is only required if you would like to use our optional Blink Email feature to provide daily status updates straight to your inbox.
If you are looking at a long term time lapse you may be interested in our Construction Time Lapse packs which incorporate weatherproof enclosures external solar power for long term deployment or where finding a power supply is difficult or expensive.
Compatible with the GoPro HERO5 camera. For GoPro HERO4 and HERO3+ Black cameras, please use our Blink product. If you don't need upload, use BlinkX for HERO5.
|
Camera |
Compatibility ( Y / N ) |
|
HERO6/7/8 Black |
No Upload |
|
HERO 2018 |
✘ |
|
HERO5 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO5 Session |
✘ |
|
HERO4 Black |
✘ |
|
HERO4 Silver |
✘ |
|
HERO4 Session |
✘ |
|
HERO (2014) |
✘ |
|
HERO3+ Black |
✘ |
|
HERO3+ Silver |
✘ |
|
HERO3 Black |
✘ |
|
HERO3 Silver |
✘ |
|
HERO3 White |
✘ |
|
HERO2 |
✘ |
|
HERO |
✘ |
How does UpBlink connect to the internet?
UpBlink can receive the internet signal from either a 2.4GHz WiFi network or from a "USB Ethernet device" connected to the USB-A port of UpBlink. The internet information is entered into the Upload Schedule in the UpBlink web UI.
If using a USB modem, plug the compatible modem into the USB-A port of UpBlink (see below). If the USB modem connects as an "Ethernet device", select "Internet via USB" in the UpBlink web UI. If the USB modem broadcasts a WiFi hotspot, select "WiFi (Standard)" in the UpBlink web UI then enter the WiFi details of the hotspot.
How is the USB hotspot powered?
UpBlink can control power to the hotspot via the USB-A port incorporated, therefore only turning on the hotspot when upload is scheduled to conserve power. A USB modem with an internal battery should not be powered from UpBlink's port since the modem's battery will only charge when an upload schedule is active. We have some suggested hotspots listed here but generally any 3G or 4G USB stick hotspot that creates a wifi network will work.
What USB hotspots do you recommend?
Please refer to the UpBlink manual here for the latest modem listing.
Any USB powered hotspot that plugs into a USB-A port for power (with no internal battery) and creates a local WiFi network should be suitable, however, there are some hotspots that are very power hungry and will not work such as the 'Jetpack' series of modems. UpBlink connects via WiFi to the hotspot to then upload footage.
There are many hotspots available in different parts of the world and there are different models being released all the time. We would love to hear which USB wifi hotspot you have used successfully.
WiFi hotspots with an internal battery that can be removed may be suitable, but you will have to test if the hotspot automatically turns on, when powered via the hotpot's USB charging port. This is because UpBlink turns power off to the hotspot between upload intervals to save power.
Can UpBlink connect to the internet from an Ethernet cable?
UpBlink does not have an Ethernet port to directly connect the cable. However, a USB to Ethernet adapter can be used to provide an internet signal from an Ethernet cable via UpBlink's USB port.
Does someone require a subscription to use the file upload feature (in addition to unit purchase?)
Yes, CloudX Pro.
What is the benefit to buying UpBlink over BlinkX and CloudX? Or is UpBlink just replacing this option?
CloudX Pro is not available when using BlinkX, only CloudX Lite. BlinkX paired with CloudX Lite provides status email notifications only. UpBlink with CloudX Pro provides status email notifications + image upload. Images can be viewed through the CloudX Pro web portal.
Is UpBlink compatible with the GoPro Plus upload feature?
No. The following link outlines the options available for downloading footage from the GoPro camera during a time lapse when using our UpBlink time lapse controller: https://cam-do.com/pages/how-to-download-your-gopro-time-lapse-footage-with-UpBlink
What are the dimensions of UpBlink?
UpBlink measures 85x50x22mm (3.3"x1.9"x0.85").
Can I have a time lapse and motion detection simultaneously?
Yes, UpBlink allows for multiple schedules to be active at a time.
What happens if there is a conflict between schedules?
If multiple schedules have been set and there is a conflict between the camera triggering time, priority is given to the lower numbered schedule. For example, schedule 1 has priority over schedule 2. While a schedule with a set duration is active, such as a video recording, any other schedule that is set to trigger will be skipped until the active schedule is complete.
How does UpBlink attach to the GoPro HERO5?
Unlike the HERO4 cameras, the HERO5 camera does not use a 30 pin connector on the back. Instead, the HERO5 uses a USB-C connection on the side of the camera. UpBlink is approximately the same height and width as the HERO5, and is designed to accommodate straps to attach to the camera or to our enclosures.
What housings does CamDo offer that have space for UpBlink and external battery packs?
UpBlink is typically used with our DryX and SolarX Outdoor Weatherproof Enclosures. These enclosures have space to house extra batteries and come with two power options, a 9Watt solar panel, or without a solar panel that is normally used for shorter deployments, when you can return regularly to recharge the batteries or if you have a permanent power supply available. The Outdoor Enclosures have space to fit up to two of our V44 (44watt-hour) battery packs.
How long will the battery last if I shoot some number of photos per hour?
Calculating battery life is non-trivial. It depends on the camera model, firmware version, SD card speed, lighting conditions, battery size, age of the battery, ambient temperature, and more. To help you understand the issues and to calculate estimated battery life, consult the Camera Power Consumption Study and our Time Lapse Calculator.
If I know approximately how long my project is, how do I determine the ideal interval between triggers?
The ideal shooting interval is normally determined by the length of the final time lapse video clip, capacity of the SD card or battery capacity available. Our Time Lapse Calculator can be used to help determine the ideal interval between photos as determined by these variables.
Why is "Always On" mode for batteries important?
Since UpBlink turns the camera off between triggers to conserve power, Always On mode is important to prevent the battery from automatically turning off due to periods of inactivity. Most of the USB battery packs on the market have an automatic power saving feature which turns off the battery if the battery is not constantly supplying power to a device. If the GoPro is turned off for more than a few minutes between triggers, the external battery might automatically shutdown due to inactivity. However, our V44 has two modes of operation, the standard Auto Off mode and an Always On mode. The Always On mode prevents the battery from automatically turning off when insufficient current is being drawn due to the camera being turned off by UpBlink to conserve power.
Does UpBlink retain the shooting schedule when power is removed or lost?
When all power is removed, UpBlink will retain the programmed shooting schedule as well as the clock time and date settings. When power is restored to UpBlink, it will resume the programmed shooting schedules.
Can I switch the SD card in the middle of a time lapse schedule?
Yes, the SD card is "hot swappable". If an interval occurs when the SD card is out of the GoPro, UpBlink will continue the shooting schedule by triggering the camera to turn on and off, however, no image will be taken since there is no SD card to save the image to.
How do I change UpBlink's shooting schedule in the middle of a project?
UpBlink's WiFi signal can be turned on or off by pressing the on-board WiFi button for 3seconds. UpBlink's WiFi only remains active for 15 minutes to program the new settings before the WiFi is automatically turned off to conserve power. If the camera is not easily accessible, we offer a Wired Remote that can be attached to UpBlink's 2.5mm Port1 for re-triggering the WiFi signal, as well as 2.5mm Extension Cables if a longer distance trigger is needed.
What can I connect to the circular jacks on my UpBlink?
Please connect only CamDo-approved accessories to these jacks unless you are experienced. Do not connect other equipment, especially voltage sources such as your solar panel or battery, to these jacks. Doing so could damage your UpBlink or camera.
Port1 on UpBlink can be used to activate UpBlink's WiFi signal using a wired remote (purchased separately).
UpBlink's Port2 is used for Motion Detection operation and information about this port is located in our Blink User Manual.
Please read our series of blog posts to understand how to connect custom hardware or interface a microcontroller such as an Arduino or Raspberry Pi.
Does UpBlink work with your Battery Eliminators?
UpBlink does not require a Battery Eliminator and it is not compatible with our Battery Eliminators which are for earlier generation cameras.
What does UpBlink weigh?
UpBlink weighs about 19g. This compares to a GoPro HERO5 Black camera at 117g.
General support can be found on our Support pages here.
Also read the FAQ's tab for more information.
$355.00 USD
Here are all the new advantages of BlinkX over Blink:
Use BlinkX to achieve long term time lapse and/or motion detection for your next project. Just plug it into your GoPro and use the BlinkX app to connect and configure up to 10 separate schedules (including email scheduling) using a smartphone, tablet, computer, or any WiFi enabled device which has a web browser (no cell service or internet connection required). For more information, see the Quick Start Guide and User Manual.
A WiFi network with internet access is only required if you would like to use our optional Blink Email feature to provide daily status updates straight to your inbox.
If you are looking at a long term time lapse you may be interested in our BlinkX time lapse packs which incorporate weatherproof enclosures external solar power for long term deployment or where finding a power supply is difficult or expensive.
Compatible with the GoPro HERO5, HERO6, HERO7 and HERO8 camera models as listed below. For GoPro HERO4 and HERO3+ Black cameras, please use our Blink product.
|
Camera |
Compatibility ( Y / N ) |
|
HERO8 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO7 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO6 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO5 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO5 Session |
✔ |
|
HERO4 Black |
✘ |
|
HERO4 Silver |
✘ |
|
HERO4 Session |
✘ |
|
HERO (2014) |
✘ |
|
HERO3+ Black |
✘ |
|
HERO3+ Silver |
✘ |
|
HERO3 Black |
✘ |
|
HERO3 Silver |
✘ |
|
HERO3 White |
✘ |
|
HERO2 |
✘ |
|
HERO |
✘ |
Is BlinkX compatible with the GoPro Plus upload feature?
No. The following link outlines the options available for downloading footage from the GoPro camera during a time lapse when using our BlinkX time lapse controller: https://cam-do.com/pages/how-to-download-your-gopro-time-lapse-footage-with-blinkx
Can I have a time lapse and motion detection simultaneously?
Yes, BlinkX allows for multiple schedules to be active at a time.
What happens if there is a conflict between schedules?
If multiple schedules have been set and there is a conflict between the camera triggering time, priority is given to the lower numbered schedule. For example, schedule 1 has priority over schedule 2. While a schedule with a set duration is active, such as a video recording, any other schedule that is set to trigger will be skipped until the active schedule is complete.
How does BlinkX attach to the GoPro?
BlinkX uses a USB-C connection to communicate with the GoPro camera. BlinkX is approximately the same height and width as the HERO7, and is designed to accommodate straps to attach to the camera or to our enclosures.
What are the dimensions of BlinkX?
BlinkX measures 64.5x44x12.7mm (2.54"x1.73"x0.5").
What housings does CamDo offer that have space for BlinkX and external battery packs?
BlinkX is typically used with our Outdoor Enclosures to also house extra batteries and come with two power options, a 9Watt solar panel, or without a solar panel that is normally used for shorter deployments when you can return regularly to recharge the batteries. The Outdoor Enclosures have space to fit up to two of our V44 (44watt-hour) battery packs.
How long will the battery last if I shoot some number of photos per hour?
Calculating battery life is non-trivial. It depends on the camera model, firmware version, SD card speed, lighting conditions, battery size, age of the battery, ambient temperature, and more. To help you understand the issues and to calculate estimated battery life, consult the Camera Power Consumption Study and our Time Lapse Calculator.
If I know approximately how long my project is, how do I determine the ideal interval between triggers?
The ideal shooting interval is normally determined by the length of the final time lapse video clip, capacity of the SD card or battery capacity available. Our Time Lapse Calculator can be used to help determine the ideal interval between photos as determined by these variables.
Why is "Always On" mode for batteries important?
Since BlinkX turns the camera off between triggers to conserve power, Always On mode is important to prevent the battery from automatically turning off due to periods of inactivity. Most of the USB battery packs on the market have an automatic power saving feature which turns off the battery if the battery is not constantly supplying power to a device. If the GoPro is turned off for more than a few minutes between triggers, the external battery might automatically shutdown due to inactivity. However, our V44 has two modes of operation, the standard Auto Off mode and an Always On mode. The Always On mode prevents the battery from automatically turning off when insufficient current is being drawn due to the camera being turned off by BlinkX to conserve power.
Does BlinkX retain the shooting schedule when power is removed or lost?
When all power is removed, BlinkX will retain the programmed shooting schedule as well as the clock time and date settings. When power is restored to BlinkX, it will resume the programmed shooting schedules.
Can I switch the SD card in the middle of a time lapse schedule?
Yes, the SD card is "hot swappable". If an interval occurs when the SD card is out of the GoPro, BlinkX will continue the shooting schedule by triggering the camera to turn on and off, however, no image will be taken since there is no SD card to save the image to.
How do I change BlinkX's shooting schedule in the middle of a project?
BlinkX's WiFi signal can be turned on or off by pressing the on-board WiFi button for 3 seconds. BlinkX's WiFi only remains active for 15 minutes to program the new settings before the WiFi is automatically turned off to conserve power. If the camera is not easily accessible, we offer a Wired Remote that can be attached to BlinkX's 2.5mm Port1 for re-triggering the WiFi signal, as well as 2.5mm Extension Cables if a longer distance trigger is needed.
What can I connect to the circular jacks on my BlinkX?
Please connect only CamDo-approved accessories to these jacks unless you are experienced. Do not connect other equipment, especially voltage sources such as your solar panel or battery, to these jacks. Doing so could damage your BlinkX or camera.
BlinkX's Port1 is used as an alternate trigger to activate the Blink's WiFi signal via a wired remote (purchased separately).
BlinkX's Port2 is used for Motion Detection operation and information about this port is located in our Blink User Manual.
Please read our series of blog posts to understand how to connect custom hardware or interface a microcontroller such as an Arduino or Raspberry Pi.
Does BlinkX work with your Battery Eliminators?
BlinkX does not require a Battery Eliminator and it is not compatible with our Battery Eliminators which are for earlier generation cameras.
What does BlinkX weigh?
BlinkX weighs 19g. This compares to a GoPro HERO5 Black camera at 117g or the GoPro HERO5 Session at 74g.
General support can be found on our Support pages here.
Also read the FAQ's tab for more information.
$995.00 USD
Our Solar Enclosures use a 9 Watt solar panel to recharge the included V50 battery. If your installation is in a particularly cloudy or rainy area we also have an 18W upgrade option for additional peace of mind.
Our outdoor enclosure is fitted with a sturdy aluminum mounting bracket that contains multiple ¼"-20 threaded holes on the top, back, and bottom for use with standard tripod screws. It also has 2 slots at the back for using straps to attach the enclosure to a pole. The solar panel is removable and attached to the top of the enclosure using a dual ball socket arm so it can be positioned for optimum sun exposure. The solar panel charges the included Lithium Polymer battery which outputs 5 volts to power the camera or other accessories in a weatherproof enclosure.
We also offer a sturdy swivel mount for easy mounting to a pole or flat surface, check out the product page here.
The enclosures are designed to be crushproof and dust tight. Inside the weather resistant enclosure contains an aluminum bracket designed to hold the GoPro camera, and CamDo Blink Time Lapse Controller. It is possible to access the SD card, or USB connector without removing the camera. If the camera needs to be replaced, the fit is extraordinarily tight, guaranteeing that the camera will be in the exact same position as before so there is no disruption to your time lapse footage positioning. The interior has space for extra batteries or other accessories such as our Motion Detector. The enclosure is fitted with a standard 67mm filter adapter and a neutral density UV optical glass “digital filter” is included. You can replace the filter with your filter of choice.
We also offer complete packs of equipment. Check out our packs page here.
Our case has several mounting options for different situations. There are two ¼” locking holes, one on each side of the case, through which a padlock, bolts, or threaded rods can be used to secure the contents of the box.
There are 2 slots on the back of the aluminum mounting bracket which allow it to be easily attached to a pole or structure using straps such as hose clamps or zip ties. The tripod screw holes at the back of the bracket can then be used to angle the camera.
We also offer a high quality swivel mount bracket that can be added to your system which allows fantastic aiming flexibility. Read more here.
The aluminum mounting bracket has multiple tripod screw holes on the top, back, and bottom that can be used with any standard photographic tripod or mounting bracket with a normal tripod thread (¼"-20). ¼"-20 bolts are easily obtained from any hardware store if you are making your own mount. There are hundreds of different compatible mounting brackets and magic arm brackets. 
9 Watt Solar Panel
If your installation is in a particularly cloudy or rainy area we also have an 18W upgrade option.
|
Camera |
Compatibility ( Y / N ) |
|
HERO7 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO6 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO5 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO5 Session |
✔ |
|
HERO4 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO4 Silver |
✔ |
|
HERO4 Session |
✔ |
|
HERO (2014) |
✘ |
|
HERO3+ Black |
✔ |
|
HERO3+ Silver |
✔ |
|
HERO3 Black |
✔ |
|
HERO3 Silver |
✔ |
|
HERO3 White |
✔ |
|
HERO2 |
✘ |
|
HERO |
✘ |
Compatible with the GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, HERO4, HERO5 and Session cameras.
Which CamDo Solar System is right for my GoPro camera?
Our SolarX Enclosures are compatible with GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, HERO4, HERO5 and Session cameras. Refer Compatibility tab.
How do I setup my system?
View the Solar Power System set-up guide here.
How long does it take to charge the battery?
In direct sun, the V15 (4,000 mAH Lithium Polymer battery) will fully charge in approximately 5.5 hours using the previous 6W solar panel model. Our newer systems use a 9W solar panel option which can charge the included V50 battery typically in a day. Where it is particularly cloudy/rainy, we recommend our 18W upgrade option. The battery system incorporates protection against overcharging, over discharge, over current (short circuit), unusual voltage input, and temperature extremes.
Will the solar panel be able to keep my time lapse running indefinitely?
This would depend on the shooting cycle used and the sun exposure available in your location. We advise all customers to calculate their battery needs due to the many variables. We have a Time Lapse Calculator that can be used to help determine your ideal shooting interval and how long your battery should theoretically last using our controller boards and batteries. The Calculator also gives the rate at which the solar panel should be able to recharge your battery at your given location and with the panel angle that is used. Keep in mind that temperature, battery fatigue, and other electrical inefficiencies will prevent the camera from using the full battery capacity.
What is the original dust and water ingress rating of your enclosures? Can I submerge your SolarX or DryX enclosures?
The enclosures have an IP67 rating prior to installation of CamDo accessories. Our SolarX and DryX enclosures are not meant to be immersed in water.
How long will the battery last before it is discharged?
It depends on many factors including your latitude, the amount of sun and cloud during your shoot, the controller you are using, the camera you are using and the shooting schedule you have programmed. There are too many variables to give a perfect answer but we have created a Time Lapse Calculator to work out the best setup for your shoot in your location.
This uses our analysis of the power consumption of the various GoPro cameras and provides an explanation of how to calculate the theoretical battery life.
Practically, we have run the system indefinitely taking one picture every 15 minutes with the WiFi on, in Canada in the summer.
Why is "Always On" mode for batteries important?
Since our controllers turn the camera off between triggers to conserve power, Always On mode is important to prevent the battery from automatically turning off. Most of the USB battery packs on the market have an automatic power saving feature which turns off the battery if the battery is not constantly supplying power to a device. If the GoPro is powered off for more than a few minutes between triggers, the external battery might automatically shutdown due to inactivity. However, our V50 operates in an Always On mode when a USB cable is connected to prevent the battery from automatically turning off when very low current is being drawn due to the camera being powered off between triggers.
Refer to our support page here to make sure you are in "Always On" mode when setting up your system. Refer Step 2 of the guide.
Make sure to disconnect the battery from all devices to check this. If you hold down the power button for at least six seconds and the charge indicator flashes 3 times and stays lit for a second or two, you are now in Always On mode. If you hold down the power button for six seconds and the charge indicator flashes 3 times and then goes dark straight away, you are in Auto Off mode.
How can I avoid condensation on the lens?
Our enclosures have an integrated auto-pressure valve that equalizes the atmospheric pressure difference to reduce condensation. The IP67 micro vent allows air to pass through while preventing water from entering. If you need additional protection against condensation, the extra space in the solar enclosure allows for one or more sacks of desiccant to be inserted in the box. For even more protection, there are some products available to coat the lens, such as those used on ski-goggles. The standard 67mm threaded lens filter can also be replaced with another 67mm threaded lens that already has anti-fog characteristics or coating.
TIP: Condensation is a result of humid air being sealed in the box when you close it and condensing when there is a temperature change. Try to close the box in as dry an environment as possible. If you need additional protection against condensation, the extra space in the solar enclosure allows for one or more sacks of desiccant to be inserted in the box. For more information, Google for avoiding condensation in underwater cameras, where the problem is discussed at length by many experienced photographers.
Can I lock the case?
There are two ¼” locking holes, one on each side of the case, through which padlocks, bolts, or threaded rods can be used to secure the contents of the box.
Is it possible to separate the solar panel from the box?
Yes. The solar panel is removable and has a 4ft charging cable that enters the enclosure through a waterproof cable gland at the bottom of the enclosure.
Can I mount the solar panel remotely from the enclosure?
Yes. However, if you need to place the panel remotely from the enclosure, attention must be paid to the gauge of wire used to connect the solar panel to the battery. The connectors on the solar panel cable are 3.5mm outer diameter, 1.1mm inner diameter barrel power connectors. So you'll need one end male (M3.5x1.1), the other one end female (F3.5x1.1). A local electronics store will have these connectors. We recommend using the largest cable that can physically fit into the particular connector you source to minimize voltage drop from the panel to the battery. The voltage drop must not exceed 0.5 volts. A 16 AWG or larger wire is recommended for distances exceeding a few feet.
Alternative 1" ball mount accessories such as our Tough Claw can be used to mount the solar panel away from the enclosure using the sturdy dual ball socket system.
Which cables and adapters come with the system and what do I use to connect the battery to the solar panel?
The system comes with all necessary cables used to charge the included V50 battery. The right-angle solar barrel to microUSB adapter is used to charge the V50 from the solar panel cable.
Refer to Our Solar Setup Guide.
Can I use this system to charge other devices as well?
Absolutely. The V50 battery pack can be used to charge any 5V device.
Can your systems be used for other purposes than GoPro cameras?
Yes. You can remove the GoPro mounting fixture to provide extra space for your equipment. The solar panel, battery, and enclosure can be used for your custom system or just used as a remote charging station for phones and other USB chargeable devices.
Does the enclosure O-Ring seal require special care?
The case is equipped with a hollow core EPDM gasket that has been designed to give superior performance and resist compressive deformation over time. To ensure a watertight seal, the gasket must be free of cuts, abrasions or tears. Debris or foreign material caught between the sealing rib on the bottom of the case and the gasket on the top of the case will prevent the case from sealing properly. A coat of an automotive type surface protector is recommended to help prevent dirt and debris from sticking to the seal. If the seal becomes damaged a replacement seal can be ordered from Cam-Do.com.
Special care should be taken to ensure that wires or cables do not get trapped in the door when it is closed. The power-claw latches can exert extreme force, resulting in damage to the cable and the O-ring seal.
General support can be found on our Support pages here.
The CamDo Blink or BlinkX controller boards are typically used with our Solar Enclosures to provide programming flexibility while significantly reducing power consumption. Information on these controllers can be found on the following pages:
BlinkX
Blink
Also, read the FAQ's tab for more information.
Product Code: HDR03 + PSP01
© 2020 CamDo Solutions. | SALES: +1 650 353 4568 sales@cam-do.com | support@cam-do.com
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