A small video transmitter is included with the module to transmit the raw video signal to an external processor or remote viewing station. Though not used by the Millibot, the camera module includes circuitry that allows the camera and its transmitter to be switched on and off via control signals from the Millibot. Control of the camera aids in effective power management. The camera need only be powered when an image is desired. The ability to remotely power down an individual transmitter also allows multiple robots to carry similar camera modules while using the same transmitter frequency.
Interference is prevented by powering only one transmitter at a time.
Additionally resources are minimized since only one receiving station and associated monitoring device is needed per Millibot group. However, though the camera module provides valuable visual information, it operates on the threshold of the Millibot's power budget. The current camera dissipates about 1.5 Watts of power. Due to the limited size of the battery, this type of sensor cannot be used continuously like other sensor packages. Modularity provides flexibility in both construction and data flow.