GH4 Using an Android tablet as a field monitor.

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estarkey7

Well-known member
I just purchased (really, I got it for free) an LG G Pad 7 from Sprint. I really had no use for another device, but since it was so cheap, I said what the hell.

So now I'm wondering if I can repurpose this as a field monitor with my GH4. So is anyone doing something similar? If so, how do you mount it on your rig? Has the performance been acceptable?

I ask these questions because I keep losing connection with my device, so I didn't know if Panasonic's app is compatible with tablets or not.
 
I don't think it's reliable enough to use as a field monitor, too much lag and the picture quality isn't great. At most, I'd let a director use it as a second monitor. Or maybe if you're on a steadicam or gimbal or a jib or other scenario where you have to control the camera remotely.
 
Yeah, I don't know about a field monitor. The resolution is poor so if you're doing any kind of manual focus, it's not going to fit the bill. I use my iPad as a remote when shooting myself, and lag isn't bad in my experience, I don't think there's enough to be an issue. Mainly just resolution and the fact that you can't go full screen, but for framing, if you don't mind using only 1/3 to 1/4 of the screen, it could work I think.
 
I recently picked up a refurbished Asus 10" transformer tablet and it comes in handy. I don't use it to monitor during recording or for color reference but it is nice to bring it on set and make adjustments to to the set and see it realtime without walking back to the camera or monitor. The other day I used it while shooting footage while driving my car. The camera was in the back seat on a tripod and I could start and stop recording and monitor framing on the tablet. I was glad I had it.
 
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