Interactive Projection Setup

Make a CCTV camera interactive

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Before you start the guide, please review the following pages:

What you'll need

  1. An analog camera with a BNC (CVBS) output.
  2. A BNC‑to‑RCA adapter (if your grabber has an RCA input).
  3. A USB video capture device (grabber), e.g., EasyCAP or a higher‑quality model—make sure it’s compatible with your system.
  4. An RCA cable (if you don’t have a direct plug‑in adapter).

Step 1 - Select a camera

Contact your local CCTV dealer or use search on CCTV store pages to find the right camera and accessories.

Keep in mind the following (ask your CCTV dealer/consultant):

  1. Look for cameras that let you manually enable night mode.
  2. Choose a camera that can be opened so you can access the day/night (light) sensor—this lets you cover it if the camera doesn’t allow forcing night mode—and so you can mount a filter on the lens to block visible light.
  3. Check which video interfaces the camera provides, or ask the seller for the most convenient way to connect it to a computer. If you choose an analog camera, ask for a USB capture device (grabber) to connect it easily.
  4. Choose a camera with a field of view slightly larger than the projected area. If you’re unsure, pick a model with adjustable zoom (often via a dedicated knob).
  5. Choose quality accessories (power supply and cables) to ensure a stable video signal; low‑quality parts degrade overall performance.

Step 2 - Select video grabber (for analog cameras)

Order a few different capture devices (grabbers) and test them to see which delivers the best image quality and lowest latency.

Step 3 - Test the video signal from the camera

  • Connect the camera so you can view a live preview on the computer.
  • Assess the latency by comparing the monitor view with what is happening in front of the camera.
  • Check signal stability—look for blank (black) frames, flicker, or banding. These artifacts can later interfere with interaction in apps.
  • Also test the camera with third‑party software to confirm you have unrestricted access to the video stream (more information).

Step 4 - Adjust the camera to work with the projection system

See how to prepare a sample camera for use in a projection system.

Warning

The examples below are for informational purposes only. Before making any modifications, please review your camera’s warranty terms or consult your camera distributor/manufacturer to confirm whether the planned changes could affect warranty coverage and the safe operation of the device. Always follow health and safety rules when working with hardware.

LavaVision, the manufacturer of Motioncube software, is not responsible for any consequences of modifications you perform to your camera.

(guide under development ...)