I have a new HD camcorder and would like to take some video of model train layouts. I was wondering if it is harmful to the track or the camcorder to sit the camcorder on tracks if they are powered?
If the case of the camcorder is plastic or another non-conductive material, it shouldn’t be an issue. Unless the train runs into the camcorder.
Does the camcorder have a metal bottom? If not I see no problem. I shoot video with my camera on the track (powered) and I’ve yet to see a problem.
You should be OK. I have done it with a digital still camera and had no trouble. Just don’t place the camera near any trackside details.
If you’re still in doubt, just put a piece of paper under it.
You say “some layouts.” If taking video in that manner of other’s layouts please ask for permission first.
That’s what I always do. Sure beats the risk of frying out my $300 camera…
Thanks for the replies. It is in fact a plastic bottom and believe me I would not lay a camera on someone Else’s layout without permission.
I usually put a paper towel down just to be safe.
I was concerned about whether or not the electric current running through the track may screw with the hard-drive or the overall function of the camcorder whether it is in contact with the rail or not? Just making sure the track is not emitting a wave a some kind that I am not aware of. Probably a stupid question, but just making sure.
Your idea of placing a paper towel under the camera is a good idea.
Another thing. If the plug in receptacle for the data cord is on the bottom, the paper towel is a good insurance policy.
How so exactly? I do not have that issue, the cord plugs into the back of the camera and not the bottom, I am just curious.
It would keep the plug from possibly contacting the track - now THAT would probably damage somehting. If the body is plastic and there are no metal parts on it, touching it to the tracks will not cause a problem. Nor will the current int he track, DC or DCC, scrable the brains of the camera. Buf if the connection plug was on the bottom and came into contact with track power, that’s a direct line to the camera electronics and there would be problems.
–Randy
[quote user=“rrinker”]
It would keep the plug from possibly contacting the track - now THAT would probably damage somehting. If the body is plastic and there are no metal parts on it, touching it to the tracks will not cause a problem. /quote]
Good points.
But everyone seems to be forgetting there’s a threaded metal hole on the bottom of most camcorders to allow for a standard tripod mount. I seriously doubt it touches anything, but it is possible it might make contact with the ground frame of the camera.
A paper towel is not adequate insulation of either electricity or vibration. AC can induce a current flow at close range, but if the paper towel has worked in the past then the camera is adequately shielded to prevent that.
I would use something soft and non conducting, like a plastic stick on bumper, on the bottom of, or under the camera. That would also absorb and small vibrations as well as provide electrical insulation.
I’d take a 3x5 index card and use that. First of all, it fits in your pocket. Second, it fits on the track, certainly better than a paper towel or 8 1/2 by 11 piece of paper. If you’re going to video a layout, the last thing you want to do is mess up someone’s close-in scenery. For that reason, I’d avoid using paper towels. They are soft enough to catch on small details like utility poles or chain-link fence, but strong enough to dislodge them when you pick the towel up.
Now would these 3X5 small plastic bags work? I think I have some of these. They are small enough to fit under the camera, but would they be enough to prevent any electrical conduction.
The metal tripod mount is under the camcorder, but it is tucked into the camera a bite with a couple of centimeters of plastic “frame” to keep the metal from contacting anything.
I wouldn’t use those.
At work, we deal with sensitive electronic equipment. We have a lab area, and before we can even get access to it, we have to take a course (every year) in Electrostatic Discharge. Those plastic bags are right up near the top of the list of things to keep away from your electronics.
Keep them away from your trains, and keep them away from your camera. Why take a chance?
I assume Ziploc bags are included?
Yeah, I’d avoid all of those. This kind of material is actually a fantastic insulator, which is why it’s a problem. It can hold a large static charge, and dump it all at once. It’s the same thing as walking across a carpeted room on a dry winter day, and getting a shock when you touch a wall switch to turn on the lights.
To be honest, I’ve never damaged trains or any other electronics with static electricity. But, then again, I don’t take unnecessary chances. You might get away with it.
Really is not worth the risk. I was not sure what kind of plastic material would be safe and worked. I guess no one really wanted to risk either the layout or camera to find out.