P-41 Setup

[CAHOFFMAN]

This is my first trail cam build and I am coming across a few questions before I start into this. I am thinking about ordering the LE board camera kit with slave flash from pix controller, but I am a little confused if I can still use this camera for personal use. I have read about the stereo jack, but I don't think this is an option with pixcontroller. I was thinking about getting the kit because everything is mostly there.

This is my first camera so I am very leary on hacking into this camera. Is this something I can do? It seems like the soldering can get somewhat technical.

Any input would be great.

Thanks

[PaPaBob]

First of all the P41 has a very good flash. If you use a Flash Enhancing fresnel lens you will not need a slave flash. I have numerous units just like that taking tons of great photos.

The Kit for the P41 without the slave will give you just about everything you need. In addition you will want to purchase a 3-wire servo connector as that is the easiest way to make your camera removeable. It is a male/female plug that can be glued to the outside of the camera and allow for unplugging and using elsewhere.

The stereo plug is great but requires a bit more intricate work. For your first camera I would suggest the servo connector.

Now the shutter glass that comes with the kit is a bit small in my opinion. 1" x 3". Buy yourself a small picture frame glass and a hand glass cutter. You can cut a 1.5" square for the shutter hole real easy and cheap.

With your order I would suggest a flash enhancing fresnel lense. This will extend the already great flash even further.

[CAHOFFMAN]

Thanks PaPaBob.

I think I will go with your suggestions.

Do you suggest I go with the LE board or the Universal board from PixContoller. I think the kit only comes with the universal board, but not positive.

[PaPaBob]

I would suggest you get the LE kit for the sony P series cameras. You will get a shutter assembly(flat flex cable) to be used with the modification to the camera. The Servo connector will have 30 ga. wires on one side of the connector and those are the ones going inside the camera. Download the pdf files at Pixcontroller for modifying the P41. They will give you good info on performing this task.

You will need some small screwdrivers, a fine tipped soldering iron, and a drill. Not really difficult you just have to be careful and go slowly. Follow the directions in the pdf files and ask questions as you go.

Good luck.

[Hardhorned]

No wonder they call ya Pa Pa, you seem like the grandfather of these trail cams. The forum thanks you.