IDX CamWave CW-5HD wireless video transmission system performance and compatibility

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2008Video Assist and Video Accessories forum

18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

The CamWave receiver can be positioned away from the camera on a stand or carried in a belt pack, with video transmitted wirelessly to a distant video village or truck via SDI cable without degradation of picture quality or latency.
The system initially had compatibility issues with Sony 24p format (24sfp) that the manufacturer was working to resolve through a software upgrade.
The CamWave performs reliably at 50i and 60i frame rates with strong signal until obstructed by solid barriers like steel doors.
The system works without issues when powering both a RED One camera and the CamWave unit together from a single V-lock battery mounted to the camera.
Transmission will be lost during elevator shots and similar enclosed vertical movements because the device lacks diversity antenna functionality.
The system does not have diversity receiver capability, limiting its resilience in certain difficult RF environments.
Operating the CamWave as a wireless link to a handheld monitor eliminates cables from the camera body and provides a clean video feed for camera operators.

Initial software did not support Sony 24p (24sfp) format; compatibility status after upgrade is not confirmed in discussion.
Signal is lost in obstructed environments such as enclosed spaces or when solid barriers exist between transmitter and receiver.
Device lacks diversity antenna functionality that would improve reception in RF-challenging scenarios.
One report mentions internal fuse failure when mounted between RED camera and battery due to high current draw, though this may have been corrected in later units.
Field reports mention issues when operating outdoors compared to stage environments.
System was tested primarily in 2008; newer camera formats and wireless standards may not be addressed.