Helmet Camera - History

History

The first documented helmet camera was a Canon CI-10 camera mounted to the side of Dick Garcia's helmet by Aerial Video Systems (AVS) of Burbank, CA at the Nissan USGP 500 World Championship at Carlsbad Raceway in Carlsbad, CA on June 28, 1986. Not only was this the first time the helmet camera was used, but AVS transmitted the images from this camera live via portable microwave to the ABC broadcast truck to integrate into their live broadcast. This revolutionary system offered the viewers an unprecedented perspective of the race as it unfolded.

Another early innovator of the helmet camera technology was Mark Schulze, who created a system for use while producing "The Great Mountain Biking Video" in 1987. "Schulze stripped-down a red motorcycle helmet and jury-rigged a mounting for the first consumer color video chip camera. A cable ran from the camera to a padded backpack that contained a Panasonic VHS portable video recorder and a DC-lead-acid battery for power, which made the rig heavy, unwieldy, and hot.

This pioneering technology brought a whole new perspective to live sports television and action sports videos and eventually gave way to button and lipstick cameras. The helmet cam soon became a standard piece of equipment, worn by umpires, catchers, goalies and referees for live television as well as BMX riders, surfers, skiers, skydivers and other sports aficionados, to record and share their experiences.

In 1991, the World League of American Football introduced the innovation of a miniature camera mounted on the right side of the VSR-3 Riddell helmet worn by quarterbacks. This rig was developed by USA Network and Aerial Video Systems (AVS). An antenna was placed in the crown of the helmet between an inflatable pad and the shell. Each of these Helmet-Cams cost $20,000 and transmitted live game action. These helmet cams were briefly used to provide live player's-eye-view footage in professional American football. However, their use was discontinued after players complained of the extra weight, and TV networks became concerned about the aggressive behavior the cameras captured.

The newest generation of helmet cameras offer features like on-screen menus, high-definition format, wireless transmitting to an offsite recording device, waterproof enclosures and 3D capabilities.