Swappable lenses are common, but one engineer is building a fully customizable modular camera system that can swap sensors, mounts, and software. Built by a German engineer, the Circuit Valley CHC5 could be the world’s first commercially available modular camera system.
The CHC5 modular design means that tinkerers can build a custom setup that ranges from global shutters to highly sensitive low-light sensors to even a black-and-white shooter. The initial Sony-built sensors available for the system range from a 1/2.3-inch sensor all the way up to a Micro Four Thirds.
The modular camera system also allows for a range of different lenses, including riggable mounts for Canon RF, Sony E, Micro Four Thirds, C Mount, and CS mounts. The swappable sensors and mounts work with an aluminum box-style enclosure, including a standard tripod mount and USB power.
With customizable software, the CHC5 is directed largely towards machine vision and industrial cameras. But the system feels like it could easily grab the attention of tinkerers who build their own rigs with Raspberry Pi, as well as purpose-built cameras such as astrophotography setups.
The system is also designed for custom software and firmware, using Linux and a web interface.
The modular camera system comes from Circuit Vally, a German company launched in 2011 that specializes in open-source embedded systems.
The company is taking to Kickstarter to fund the modular camera system and anticipates shipping in 2027. All crowdfunding carries some risk, and the CHC5 has yet to reach its initial funding goal.
Complete kits that include the camera base, sensor, and lens mount come with a €589 pledge – which is about $685 / £507 / AU$819 / CA$813.
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