Nikon offer a variety of options for using your camera wirelessly. Their solution is one of the most affordable and unlike Canon's offering, does not require that only top of the range cameras be used.
There are currently four wireless devices from Nikon:
WT-1
WT-2
WT-3
WT-4
Free Wireless Setup of your Equipment
We at System Insight provide help and advice on wireless equipment purchased from us and can provide this on a chargable basis for equipment purchased elsewhere.
Compatibility
The WT-2 transmitter works with the Nikon D2H, D2Hs, D2X, D2xs. The WT-3 is compatible with the D200 (although a simple firmware upgrade maybe required first).
How does it work?
There are two basic ways of using the Wireless System: FTP and PTP:
FTP: Allows the camera to send images to any PC anywhere on your network or the internet (if connected) via a Hub and / or PC. It is the same method that is used when creating and publishing webpages over the internet. Images are stored on the camera's card until they have been confirmed as being sent. They can then either be left on the card or deleted automatically (camera option). If the wireless signal is lost, the images are retained until you move back into range. You may also set the camera to send all images or have the user select which ones to send. Note: The use of Nikon software or open source (free) ftp servers are required on your PC.
PTP/IP: This option is used to send images to a single computer which is running proprietary Nikon software such as Camera Control Pro. PTP allows a two way communication between the camera and PC and is superb for controlling the camera from your very own PC!
It is possible to place a camera in a difficult or dangerous position and operate the camera remotely. Images are not stored on the card and cannot even be previewed on the camera. Should the camera go out of range, then it is not possible to take any images until communication is re-established.
How easy is it to setup?
Wireless networking is relatively simple providing you have a good knowledge of IT and networking. The manuals and software that comes from Nikon are very good and much easier to use than other software which may be cheaper but not as user-friendly.
The Advantages of Wireless Transmission
The main benefit of using wireless transmission is that any photos will appear on your PC or IT5000 event photography solution within seconds of being taken. This enables the photographer to continue taking photos while sales staff sell the images to the customers. The improvement in workflow, which is paramount in a event photography situation, maximises profit at an event.
Nikon Solutions Expo
System Insight were working in partnership with Nikon and Mitsubishi during the popular Nikon Solutions event at Olympia in December 2006.
Nikon had a large number of cameras that were being used wirelessly and this illustrated effectively to exhibition visitors how well the Nikon wireless system worked. Images were transferred from camera to an Apple server and then collected by a Mitsubishi IT5000 Click System for final printing. This enabled the images to be ready in minutes.
A Rough Guide to Camera Wireless Transmitter Pricing:
Canon WFT-E1/E1A
Approx.Price £779
Nikon WT-1/1A
Approx.Price £379
Canon WFT-E2/E2A
Approx.Price £649
Nikon WT-2/2A
Approx.Price £599
Nikon WT-3/3A
Approx.Price £399
Prices quoted above are for Wireless Transmitter Only - Accessories are usually extra:
Canon WFT-E1/E1a uses a BP-511A battery at £55 and needs a CB-5L charger at £40
(Canon WFT-E2/E2A doesn’t need a battery as it takes its power from the camera)
Nikon do not need special batteries for their wireless transmitters.
Prices as per June 2007
Conclusion: The figures speak for themselves - Nikon provide the most cost-effective solution
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Nikon Camera Control Pro Software 
