Flicker Free LIghting

[DreamsofaGamer]

I have done a search and have read a number of chats in different topics about lights to use for a 180fps camera. Most come down to using 3k or 5k single bulbs that can be put into a track lighting system. I wanting to see if anyone had any suggestions around a larger ceiling type light that I don't have put yet another track system up to use these types of lights. I purchased this light, per the forum to state that they were flicker free and found that was not true, my lights still flicked when turning on the cameras (https://www.hykolity.com/products/co...k-etl-approved )

Thank you for any suggestions.

[jasonreg]

So having gone through a similar issue I ultimately went with these (examples - there are many different models): Neewer 2 Pieces Bi-color 660 LED Video Light and Stand Kit Includes2)3200-5600K CRI 96+ Dimmable Light with U Bracket and Barndoor and (2)75 inches Light Stand for Studio Photography, Video Shooting : Amazon.ca: Electronics

I like that I can very easily adjust where I get the most lighting depending on what I am focusing on. I also like the "Barndoor" shields that help prevent light on the impact screen. Being able to adjust the temperature seems to help as well. I run my cameras at 180 fps and no flicker at all. Only downside might be that when not in use, they are a bit "in the way" but for me positives outweigh the negatives.

[DreamsofaGamer]

Thank you! That was exactly what I was looking for, a unit that I could actually move when using the cameras and then takeaway when I play 18. Thank you for your insight on this one.

[preludesam]

By chance do you have a video of your issue? I checked the light it looks like the same light pathfindr used for his setup and he had great results.

https://golfsimulatorforum.com/forum/build-your-own/computer-systems/136645-automatic-swing-recording-and-slow-motion-playback-with-kinovea/page11#post308287

https://golfsimulatorforum.com/forum/golf-simulator-forum/simulator-builds/321105-lighting-for-impact-swing-camera-high-fps#post321970

I wonder if the company you bought from switch out and used a cheap driver. It could also be flickering from your projector and not the lighting.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJNzDFoRx6o

[halfelite]

I bought the same light and it flickered for me as well. lowering the FPS to match the frequency almost eliminated it. Anything over 200 FPS would show the flicker. I was using BlackFly S gig cameras which are 291 fps. setting the camera above 200 really showed it.

[DreamsofaGamer]

Thanks for the conversation!! I must be doing something wrong with my set-up. I am using the Swing Optix Uneekor cameras for my set up. I don't believe I can adjust down the fps used for the cameras, but maybe I am missing something, any help on this setting it would be great. I am also not sure If i actually hooked the lighting up correctly. I only used the white/black/green wires from the hykolity unite I referenced above. How do you check the driver, and am I missing something with the set up? The flicker is not strong with the lights, but it is apparent. I keep my projector off and only use my computer monitor to record my swings. All thoughts are so appreciated!

[DreamsofaGamer]

I looked at the light I referenced, the label is different than what was posted by pathfindr. I purchased mine from the Amazon link and it doesn’t mention anywhere in the unit that is is CC. That must be why that particular one is flickering. I will try to contact company to discuss.

[preludesam]

Yes, so the driver decides the frequency cycle of the LED being powered. Companies can offer a cheaper product using the same LED but with a driver that does not cycle as quickly (less cost). Hence your camera is picking up the on/off strobing.

[pathfindr]

I replied back to DreamsofaGamer in a DM but thought I will post it here for the benefit of other folks reading this thread.

If it doesn't say Constant Current driver, they might have changed the component to a non-constant current driver or something different to save cost.  I know because of Covid and supply chain issues, manufacturers often have to switch parts due to part shortage. I would check with the vendor to see if that light still uses a constant current driver.  Also, turn off other light sources like the projector, to confirm the flicker is due to the light.  I didn't have to do anything.  The light was flicker free out of the box.  I would return the light since it's not flicker free anymore.  I have since switched to a LED track light system when I moved my setup from garage to inside. see this link https://gunghogolf.com/articles/indo...video-lighting


Also see my other post about my new light setup https://golfsimulatorforum.com/forum...071#post372071

[jasonreg]

Yeah the key is the power being delivered to the lighting element. You really need DC power so unless you are running through converter, and especially if the light is direct wired you are running AC. The lights I mentioned in my earlier post are Battery powered - or - AC powered through the AC to DC converter.

[DreamsofaGamer]

So regardless of fixture, I am going to have to get a converter attached or used the battery powered lights. Thank you for that insight!