Please find below Frequently Asked Questions and their answers about LathamCams and Latham Stick Cam use and maintenance.
What is the camera resolution?
The camera is a 1/3 CCD colored camera with 470TV lines of resolution. It has a varifocal auto iris zoom lens of f2.6mm-6.0mm.
Are the cameras digital?
No, the cameras send an analog signal out and they are recorded on a digital deck.
Do you sell the cameras separately?
Yes, we can sell individual cameras without the rest of the equipment and/or packages.
Will the boat have a clean look with the cameras?
Yes, the cameras are small and they fit in the palm of the hand. They have an anodized aluminum housing that blends in with the riggers and hardtop. They do have a very
clean look.
Are the cameras easy to use?
Yes, you don't have to do much. Just use the Latham remote control ON/OFF switch to record the action you want. It is as simple as using your VCR at home.
Are the cameras operated by remote control to pan/tilt and zoom?
No, they are fixed cameras. The cameras are ready-mounted to capture the proper angles.
If I have two or more cameras do I record on one recording deck or can I use the other
recording decks?
It is imperative that each camera has its own recording deck. LathamCams strongly suggests that you do so. If you try to switch to different cameras you may accidentally turn on the wrong camera. It is also important to remember that everybody has their own job to do while fishing and there is no time to be switching cameras.
Are the cameras reliable and durable?
Yes, the cameras are reliable and durable. They have been put to the test time and time again throughout the years. The LathamCams have been installed in many fishing boats and have traveled constantly all over the world.
Will the mounting brackets rust?
No they will not rust; the camera mounting brackets are made of aluminum.
How big are the cameras?
The cameras are small and they fit in the palm of the hand.
Are the cameras waterproof?
Yes they are waterproof, you can dunk them in the water right out of the box.
Will the cameras hold up with the sun, sea salt and every day washing?
Yes they are strong and durable; the camera housing is made of anodized aluminum that can endure the sun, sea salt and everyday washing. They are built to last.
What is the best upkeep for the cameras?
Wash the cameras the same way you would wash the boat. When you wax the aluminum, also wax the cameras. Remember that you should treat the cameras as a part of the boat.
What about the camera lenses, do they get dirty? If so, how do I clean them?
Put it this way, when your sunglasses get dirty, it's time to clean the camera lenses.
Yes, the salt and mist will get them dirty but you can clean them with a dry cloth or paper towel. It is recommended to put a little Rain-X on the camera lens to keep off the
water spots.
Do the cameras come with a warranty?
Yes, they have a two year limited warranty.
Is the Latham remote control ON/OFF switch easy to use?
Yes, it is as simple as locking and unlocking your car.
Which recording format do you use?
We use Mini DV tapes.
What is the recording time on the Mini DV tape?
The Mini DV tape has a recording time of 60 minutes in standard play and 80 minutes extended play, but we recommend that you record in the standard play mode.
How big are the recording decks and where can I put the recording decks?
The Sony decks are about 6" x 5" x 2 ½" high with the LED flip up monitor. The recording decks can be mounted in a drawer, underneath a couch, and/or in a small cabinet. We strongly suggest the equipment gets mounted in a dry air conditioned area.
Should I record the entire fishing day?
No, we suggest you only record the fishing action and release shots. Keep your Latham remote control ON/OFF switch handy for when the time comes. It is better to record the fishing action than to record unending hours of trolling footage.
Can I record to DVD?
You can record to a DVD but it is not recommended because the video will get heavily compressed on the DVD. Making a copy that plays on a DVD makes it accessible for viewing but puts it in the MPEG2 video format, which is not very useful for editing.
Can I record to a hard drive?
Yes you can record to a hard drive. The problem is that when the hard drive fills up, you can't record additional fishing footage. If you want to continue recording, you will need to clean up the hard drive.
Can we get audio with the packages?
The Offshore package and the Sportfish package come with the audio. You can add audio to any package you choose to purchase, but that will be an additional charge.
Can we use the Stick camera for trolling?
No, the stick camera was not made for trolling. If you are interested, we do sell trolling cameras.
Can we use the Stick camera as a drop camera?
No, the Stick camera was only made to go down about 15 to 20 feet. We also sell drop cameras.
Can I dive with the Stick camera?
No, the Stick camera was made to be put on a pole and get the release shots around the boat, and/or to be used for props inspections.
Does the Stick camera Pelican case have to be mounted?
No, the Stick camera is built in a custom Pelican case that is a portable unit.
Can I use the Stick camera remote-control for the boat camera decks?
No, the Stick camera and the boat cameras remote-controls are two totally different units. Use the boat camera remote-control for the boat cameras only, and use the Sick camera remote-control apart for the stick camera.
Can I travel with the Stick camera package?
Yes, you can travel with the Stick camera package from boat to boat. Don't forget that it is a small portable unit that you can carry anywhere. It's great for traveling if you are invited on fishing trips, or if you go on charter boats.
How do I know when the battery is running low on the Stick camera?
The custom pelican case has a volt meter that monitors the battery output, it will show you when the battery is low.
How soon can I get the cameras delivered to the boat?
These packages are custom built. They are special orders and they will take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks for delivery. In some cases we are able to deliver sooner if cameras are in stock.
How do I order the LathamCams camera packages?
To order LathamCams simply contact us via telephone at 954-647-1702 or e-mail. If you decide to call us and you get a voice mail, we ask you to be patient, just leave a message and we will contact you as soon as possible.
Is the installation price included in the price of the Camera Packages?
No, installation is separate from the price of the camera package. Check our Installation Page for general information regarding installations.
My boat is outside of the state of Florida how can I get cameras installed on the boat?
Contact LathamCams and we will try our best to refer you to an electronics company around your area. In most cases we are able to provide you with a company but sometimes that is not possible. We usually tell our clients to work with their local electronics company. (We do installations outside of Florida; please see our Installation Page for more information).
LathamCams Frequently Asked Questions