VAXIS ATOM 600 KV – Wi-fi Video for RED Komodo

The VAXIS ATOM 600 KV wireless video module for RED Komodo was announced some time ago in March 2020 (read our first coverage here). As we all know, 2020 did not go as planned from then on. But now the ATOM 600 KV appears to be ready for prime time. Let's look at that again!

The VAXIS ATOM 600 KV is a simple old wireless video transmitter (TX), but with a twist. It was developed exclusively for the RED Komodo Cine Camera. In this way, the device fits the camera perfectly and offers a battery holder for using normal V-mount batteries with the Komodo. On the other hand, you can't really use this transmitter with any other camera. Also, you can no longer use Canon BP-9XX series batteries.

VAXIS ATOM 600 KV. Image credit: VAXIS

VAXIS ATOM 600 KV

Since this device was specially designed for RED Komodo, it has some nice tricks up its sleeve. First, the ATOM 600 KV is not just a wireless video transmitter, it also acts as a battery plate. In addition, it offers cross-conversion of the incoming video signal, which can be looped through to an SDI output or an HDMI output (a port that the Komodo lacks).

SDI / HDMI loop through. Image credit: VAXIS

The V-Mount battery plate can be rotated 90 ° for use with Mini-V-Mounts, making the device even more compact. The VAXIS ATOM 600 KV is routed through the power supply without additional cabling.

The ATOM 600 delivers 600 feet of wireless video with an impressive 80 msec latency. This is a line of sight, so the range will depend on where you are and how crowded the area is in relation to other radio signals. The two antennas work in the range from 4.9 to 5.8 GHz.

Different ways of mounting the battery plate. Image credit: VAXIS

The ATOM 600 supports video transmission at up to 1080p60 / 1080i60. To connect the ATOM to the Komodo, you need a short SDI cable. As stated above, however, the device offers an SDI output as well as an HDMI output, which can be very useful for third-party EVFs, for example.

Other properties

Since this is just a transmitter, you will need at least one receiver and all VAXIS ATOM receivers (RX) are fully compatible with this device. The ATOM 600 KV has a so-called smart fan, which is required for heat control. However, it can be switched off with a beep tone on the device itself or at least shut down a little.

Every VAXIS ATOM receiver works. Image credit: VAXIS

As with all AXIS ATOM transmitters, you can use your VAXIS Vision app and a QR code to connect up to 3 mobile devices via WLAN for security reasons. The app is only available in the Apple App Store, but an Android version also seems to be in preparation.

The device offers 13 channels, automatic channel search and selection. For convenience, everything can be set up using the built-in OLED screen and three buttons on the side of the ATOM. Finally, the device has a USB-C port, which is intended for firmware upgrades, but also provides 5 V / 2 A of power to charge your smartphone or other third-party accessories. Very nice gesture!

OLED screen for easy status display. Image credit: VAXIS

Prices and availability

The VAXIS ATOM 600 KV is available now and costs $ 749 (transmitter only) or $ 999 (with an ATOM 500 SDI RX unit as a kit).

Image credit: VAXIS

If you are a proud owner of RED Komodo, this device seems like a great addition for creating a sleek yet powerful device. However, if you switch cameras, this sending device will not really work with other functions. So you have to make a choice.

Link: VAXIS homepage

What do you think? Does that fit perfectly with the RED Komodo? Share your thoughts in the comments below!