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Autonomous Timelapse with Rayfin MK2

SubC Imaging’s Rayfin MK2 cameras are engineered for extended underwater time-lapse operations, capturing stills and recording video to document slow-moving or subtle underwater processes. We offer two distinct versions of cameras, each designed for autonomous time-lapse operations and tailored to different operational needs based on deployment duration and environmental conditions:

  1. Rayfin MK2 Camera

  2. Rayfin Hibernation Camera

All Rayfin MK2 Cameras and Rayfin Hibernation Camera model utilize pre-configured visual scripts to control their operation autonomously. These cameras are perfect for monitoring marine life, geological changes, and other phenomena over extended periods, making them highly effective for long-term, continuous observation.

Both camera models are equipped for autonomous time-lapse applications, utilizing a visual script that allows them to operate independently. They are designed to meet the needs of both short-term and long-term deployments, offering flexibility for various project durations.


1. Rayfin MK2 Camera

All Rayfin MK2 Camera versions are capable of short-term autonomous time-lapse operations, making them ideal for projects that require continuous monitoring over periods ranging from hours to days. It is particularly well-suited for capturing slow-moving processes, such as marine life behavior, Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) Systems, underwater geological changes, and other transient events.

  • Use Case: Short-term time-lapse (hours to days)

  • Power Source: Operates on standard battery power or a Permanent Power Supply, making it suitable for deployments lasting from several hours to a few days.

  • Features: Includes essential time-lapse functionality such as still image capture, video recording, and support for auxiliary devices (e.g., LEDs, lasers).

The Rayfin MK2 Camera is the ideal choice when continuous monitoring is required for shorter durations.


2. Rayfin Hibernation Camera

The Rayfin Benthic Hibernation Camera is specifically engineered for long-term autonomous time-lapse operations, executing a short script once, twice, or multiple times per day. It features an advanced Hibernation Mode, allowing the camera to enter a low-power state between wake-up intervals. This power-saving feature dramatically extends the operational lifespan, enabling continuous operation for extended periods(typically ranging from several months to years, depending on the battery size) with minimal energy consumption.

  • Use Case: Long-term time-lapse (months to years)

  • Hibernation Feature: The camera enters a low-power hibernation mode during idle periods, waking up periodically to execute the scripted tasks (such as capturing stills or video) before returning to hibernation. This dramatically extends the battery life.

  • Power Source: The long-term battery life is enhanced by the hibernation mode, making it perfect for projects that require continuous monitoring over extended periods.

  • Features: Includes all the capabilities of the Rayfin MK2 Camera, along with the added advantage of extended operational duration due to power conservation during idle times.

For projects requiring monitoring over several months or even years, the Rayfin Benthic Hibernation Camera is the ideal solution.

The minimum Hibernation period is 5 minutes and the maximum is 255 hours.


Choosing the Right Camera for Your Deployment

  • Short-Term Deployments: If your project involves time-lapse operations that last hours to a few days, the Rayfin MK2 Camera is the best choice. It provides excellent performance with standard power consumption for short-duration tasks.

  • Long-Term Deployments: For projects that require time-lapse operations over several months or up to a year (depending on the battery size), the Rayfin Hibernation Camera with the Hibernation feature is the ideal option. By significantly reducing power consumption during idle periods, this camera can operate for extended durations without requiring frequent battery replacements.


SubC Imaging’s Rayfin MK2 and Rayfin Benthic Hibernation cameras provide flexible and reliable solutions for a wide range of autonomous time-lapse applications. Whether your project involves short-term monitoring or multi-year research, SubC has the perfect camera to meet your needs.

For more information on selecting the right camera or configuring the Hibernation feature, please refer to the Hardware Datasheet and Info product documentation.

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