Small Scopes

Lightsmith: affordable video imaging system

The Lightsmith video platform promises big big things for only $199.99. In essence, it adapts your own camcorder for video capture, and can be adapted to telescopes or microscopes.

"The concept is simple. Any camcorder can be positioned above the Lightsmith platform using the flexible camera arm. Our patent pending reversible camera mount lets the user capture video images right side up and from any angle desired. Powered by the camcorder's AC power supply, images of amazing resolution can be displayed on a TV, an LCD projector, or a computer. Unlike other visual presenters, hours of presentations can be easily captured to tape or DVD for later editing or review. And by taking advantage of a camcorder’s fold-out LCD screen to see what is being displayed, a Lightsmith can always be operated facing the students. Can you tell that a teacher designed this?"

It received a rave review from thejournal.com. After outlining many typical uses and new discoveries, the article concludes:

"I've always loved camcorders, but I'm still amazed at how this familiar tool has been transformed in our classrooms. Our district is now using more than 30 Lightsmith Video Platforms with either Digital 8 or DV camcorders, and new ideas just keep coming. And with a Lightsmith Video Platform at only $200, and digital camcorders running about $350, it's the best presentation technology bargain we've seen."

Seems like it has potential for almost any optics application.

posted by Tako John @ 6:10 PM