GBTimelapse using a Netbook computer

A small inexpensive netbook computer is perfect for using GBTimelapse in the field. A typical netbook has plenty of computing power, battery life and storage to capture a multi-hour time-lapse.

On a recent trip to Paris, I set up my Toshiba Netbook NB205 on a wall of the Trocadero overlooking the Eiffel Tower. The computer and PowerShot SX110 IS camera were lightweight and easy to carry in my backpack.

I used Manual shooting mode so it wouldn't change exposure while clouds passed overhead. I chose an image setting of Large/Superfine (3456x2592) and a time interval of 5 seconds.



Here's a copy of the GBTimelapse session log. You can see that despite four capture errors, GBTimelapse recovered and kept on running.

07:25:30-Sunday, 20 September 2009-GBTimelapse 2.1.16.0, Start session log
07:25:30-Camera connected, Canon PowerShot SX110 IS using PRSDK
07:25:30-Mode=Manual, ISO=100, Tv=1/1250, Av=f/5.6, AFLock=True, AF=Auto, WB=Daylight, Exp comp=-1/3, Flash comp=None, Meter=Eval, Size=Large/Superfine, Focal length=36.00 mm
07:25:30-Begin new session in Capture\090920_0725\
07:31:00-Warning! Camera capture failure at image 68
07:37:56-Warning! Camera capture failure at image 151
07:40:11-Warning! Camera capture failure at image 178
07:49:46-Warning! Camera capture failure at image 293
08:02:06-Time-lapse stopped
08:02:30-Camera disconnected, Canon PowerShot SX110 IS

An inexpensive netbook is a great way to run GBTimelapse. I picked up my NB205 for less than $350.