The HiViz WorkShop
Crossed-Beam Photogate (CBP O/F)
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The crossed-beam photogate uses a pair of infrared photogates oriented at right angles to each other. This type of photogate can be used to automatically actuate a camera shutter when an object passes through the beam intersection. This makes it useful for photographing birds and insects. If a camera is centered and focused at the beam crossing, the shutter will be actuated only when the object moves through the point of focus.
There are three parts to a crossed-beam photogate system: |
Click here or on the photo to enlarge and show the photogate circuit. |
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Electronics: We provide a kit (CBP-O) for the detection and triggering circuitry. A breadboard and all electronic components and hookup wire are included. Assembly is required.
Photogate framework: We provide a kit (CBP-F) with pre-cut and pre-drilled sections of tubing so that you can quickly assemble a framework and align the photogates. The assembled gate shown above is 10" square (inner dimension), large enough for insects and small birds. You don't need this kit if you're planning to make a framework of your own design.
Shutter cord: You'll need a cord to connect the output of the trigger circuit to your camera shutter. We have a variety of cords available.
Online tutorials--both video and text/image--are available to help in building and using the crossed-beam photogate. You may wish to view the instructions before purchasing in order to see what's involved.
While triggering a camera is the most common application for the crossed-beam photogate, the circuit can also trigger low-voltage (<80 V) flash units and wireless transceivers and can be connected to the external input of a Multi-Trigger in order to use the delay timer.
You can order the different parts of the crossed-beam photogate system below. |
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