In an effort to improve the code performance we did a lot of weeding out stuff from the DigitalSuper8 cartridge C++ code. We simplified the code quite a bit and also used Mutexes to prevent multiple threads from trying to alter or test certain variables at the same time. Seems that errors have lessened but more testing is required.
New: Color monitoring while filming
Importantly we managed to ‘upgrade’ functionality with color image monitoring while shooting raw images. It used to be B&W for performance purposes.
Safer multi threading and queuing
Also we are using the Qt framework which is a C++ library framework with added functionality such as threadsafe communications between objects. We changed the code so as to send ‘Mat’ arrays that contain the captured images (using OpenCV libraries for that) from one thread to another, that way achieving a safer queuing mechanism as well.
Monitoring explained
As further Information: the Digitalsuper8 cartridge runs it’s own webserver and WiFi accesspoint so that a user can fully control the functions and settings of the cartridge and can monitor the captured frames in real-time through a browser on a smartphone or iPhone.
How this real-time monitoring works:
Next to capturing and storing RAW images from the Ximea subminiature camera and sensor in the cartridge, the cartridge sends image file names for each captured and written frame to the browser via server sent events. The browser uses that file name info to load the image and display it on the smartphone. So the videostreaming solution is actually a frame by frame retrieving of images at 18 fps by the browser, triggered by server sent events
Hey Patrick!
I tried to find your email but couldn’t so here I am. I just got a Yashica Super-40 last sunday and found your project in the process of hopefully looking for an actual tutorial on how to do this exactly. That being said I would love to talk about the project itself and would like to know how I could go about getting the information for me to build one of my own! I am in the process of understanding code and can get a hold of a 3D printer. If you could email me back and let me know what you think that would be wonderful!
Peace and Blessings
Phil Love
Hi Phil, thanks for your kind reaction! Building a digital super8 cart on your own is an endeavor.. I am perfecting the 3D print design and at some would be able to share it. But assembling all hardware such add the Nanopi Neo Air and the battery, charging system and the camera board… complex. And you would have to get all software and tooling installed. Anyway, my vision indeed is to make the assembly much simpler so that people can indeed give it a try to build themselves. Or a product that can be built on order. All the best, keep following Digital Super8!
I’m so excited about this project. When can I buy a cartridge? Robert +1 650 797 8471
Hi Robert, thanks so much for your interest in the Digital Super8 cartridge! Unfortunately it’s not a commercial product so it’s not for sale. Once we feel the product is more fool proof we may build to order. Costs of materials such as the Ximea Mu9 subminiature camera and sensor and all the rest amount up to the cost of buying and processing approximately 10-15 rolls of real super8 film.
When can I buy a cartridge. I’m so excited for this project!
Hi Robert, see my earlier reactions I am sorry this isn’t yet for sale. At some point we might build to order. Thanks for you me kind interest in digital super8!
I think you could try crowdfunding!
I think there are a lot of people out there who would be very intrested in buying this product!