WLAN retrofit to remote control your DSLR via Wi-Fi and transfer data, offers numerous advantages. You need fewer cables, can see your pictures immediately on the smartphone and do not have to go through the PC. We will show you how to do it.
WLAN retrofit is worthwhile. This allows you to wirelessly control your DSLR via Wi-Fi, and conveniently access data from the camera. If you already have a modern SLR or current mirrorless DSLM, you should already benefit from integrated WLAN. But how can photographers retrofit WLAN with their old camera and also enjoy this comfort? Read on.
WLAN retrofit: Wi-Fi cards for DSLR and Co.
To Wi-Fi the fastest with a DSLR retrofit, Wi-Fi memory cards are available to play the game. These are special SD cards, for example from Toshiba, Transcend and Eye-Fi, which build a WLAN hotspot. And view and copy JPEG and RAW files on the memory card.
This works quite well now and needs only less technical knowledge. However, WLAN memory cards also contain a few disadvantages. Starting with the price, which is several times higher than with regular SD cards. In addition, these models boast no speed at all: in the laboratory, the fastest card reaches a maximum write rate of less than 20 MB per second. For huge RAW files and serials, it is therefore hardly recommendable. But if you have two card shafts flashing in its camera, you can use this card to store smaller JPEGs.
Nikon and Canon DSLR: WLAN professional upgrade
The WLAN solutions from Nikon and Canon work more quickly and professionally. For the manufacturer’s DSLR range, special WLAN adapters are launched, which plug into the USB port or even function as a battery grip.
The WLAN adapter Nikon WU-1a for the four-digit D-series and a handful of Coolpix cameras beats about 50 euros. The WU-1b for the D600 and D610 as well. The official compatibility list can be found here. If a Nikon D800, D4S or a Canon EOS its own, must be much deeper into the pockets. The Canon WFT-E5 facilitates photographers around USD 533, the Nikon WT-4 even around USD 686 euros. This is probably only for very ambitious hobby and professional photographers.
Wi-Fi Adapter for Canon and Nikon DSLRs:
Price wise between the CamRanger settles itself and also connects via USB connection to current DSLRs of Canon and Nikon. The functionality of the Wi-Fi app makes the CamRanger an interesting partner for demanding photographers. Users are given access to virtually all important setting options – from exposure to white balance to ISO sensitivity, or entire HDR series. For this, the Wi-Fi app can score with professional features such as a histogram as well as an over- and under-exposure warning. The camRanger transfers the photos taken directly to the PC, smartphones and tablets. The CamRanger is compatible with all current Canon and Nikon DSLRs.
DSLR Dashboard: CamRanger in house
If you have some technical understanding, you can build your own CamRanger and much cheaper. The WLAN router TP-Link TL-MR3040, which you connect to the camera via USB, serves as the basic module. Replace the factory firmware with the open-source firmware OpenWRT. Then configure the WLAN function to your liking. Now you need the control software “DSLR Dashboard” for PC, Android or iOS and plug into the WLAN of the router. Once connected, you can remote control the camera and transfer pictures wirelessly using your Wi-Fi.
