I'm trying to make a device that will record video using embedded camera modules (ccd or cmos) and then pass that information onto my computer where I'll be able to view it. I want to find out which is the best camera module(within reasonable price) and will give the best detail in video mode. Does anyone have any experience with this?
I should say first of all I am new to working with cameras at the hardware level and am still finding out new things everyday(if not every hour).
I need a total of 4 camera modules and using them I'd like to gain a 180 degree coverage(horizontal). So each of the cameras will face a different direction, and then the computer will collect the video feed from them and combine it into one image, sort of like a panorama(I haven't worked out yet how that's going to work, but I presume its possible).
I would like to squeeze out the highest detail possible, while keeping the overall size small(it needs to be portable). The cameras will output (indirectly, through the computer) to a projected screen roughly the size of a A5 paper. Detail will be critical, so the higher the frame rate or resolution possible the better. The overall implementation must be as small as possible, I've looked through how camera phones use really small plug and socket system to connect cameras, something along those lines if possible.
I'd like to spend £30-£60 on each module, so maximum of £240. However, if needed I wouldn't mind going over it. Needs must.
