Details

Sound recording is accomplished in two ways. Since the built in microphones built into most cameras are poor quality and perhaps located very far from the action, shotgun microphones place at strategic locations are used. The audio signal from the microphones are sent to the Tascam DR-60 where they are recorded. In addition, the DR-60 has the capability to output the audio signal to the cameras. This greatly improved the audio recording at the cameras over their built in microphones.

This method allows the conversations at the launch pad to be recoded on the video cameras located far from the launch pad. If desired the user can synchronize the highest quality audio files recorded in the Tascam with the video files from the cameras.

Hacking into the Tascam RC-10 remote is very easy but does permanently alter the remote. To disassemble the remote, start by peeling away the button decal. Start at one corner and gently pull off the button decal like you would remove a label. The exposed circuit board with the contact pads is not the preferred place to solder wires to. By removing the six screws, the circuit board can be removed from the housing.

The preferred location for soldering wires to the board is on the bottom of the board (the side with the components on it). The contacts for the RECORD button are circled on the photograph. Since there is no ON/OFF switch the unit is powered all the time the battery is installed. It may be preferred to solder wires onto the power contacts. That way external batteries and a power switch can be used to turn on and off the remote.

The wires attached to the RECORD button are connected to a solid state relay that is triggered by the Video with Override output of the Launch Controller. Every time the video camera are turned on the Tascam will start recording sound. Likewise, every time the video stops recording, the Tascam goes back into Standby. It is important to remember to put the Tascam in Standby prior to trying to record video (see the Tascam owners manual).