JimEaco

For Wireless Transfer using a Nikon d810 (also d7100) :
Reading Nikon on-line, it appears two accessories are necessary:
WT-5A Wireless Transmitter (works on D4 stand-alone)
UT-1 Communication Unit (via Ethernet)

I'm being a bit of a Block-Head trying to understand what & how...

As I read the specks on UT-1 it communicates via Ethernet; I'm assuming that happens wirelessly.
Therefore, I envision needing a wireless Ethernet switch (I am thinking of using an LTE Hot Spot) with the UT-1 to communicate to my Laptop;

The WT-5A Wireless Transmitter can be connected to the UT-1... why do I need it? Is this replacing the need of the (my perceived need) Hot Spot?

Now then... if I use both, will it be faster than just the UT-1 through a MI-FI (Hot Spot)

Here is what I'm trying to do, and wish to accomplish:

I currently use Nikon tethered to a Laptop (USB Cable) with an eTrex GPS Receiver also Tethered to the same Laptop. Via proprietary software, the camera, laptop and GPS are synchronized in real time (Zulu)
Files (images) are recorded to Hard Drive of Laptop.
The proprietary software is also writing data to the EXIF file in real time.

System works wonderfully, however, I do not like being tied to the laptop via the USB cable.

So I'm hoping to replace the USB Cable with a Wireless Transmitter. With which I have ZERO experience.
On paper it should work?

Can someone(s) please comment on the speed, and reliability of the UT-1 and WT-5A?

Do I need both?

Am I "getting it" with the need for the MI-Fi to use the UT-1 without the WT-5A.

Looking for next to "real time" viewing of images on the laptop screen. Just like now using the USB Cable.
Should I expect lag with wireless, and if so, how bad?

Gitchigumi Loc: Wake Forest, NC

I'm replying because I want to learn what other answers you get... :lol:

However, I also have the D7100 and a Nikon WU-1A Wireless Mobile Adapter to got with it. I've experimented a bit, but, to be frank, I'm not all that impressed. However, it does work, but there are a couple of things to know about it.

First, the file being passed is a JPG. So, while your camera may be set to RAW, the file being passed is a JPG. Not ideal, but given that it is being sent to an iPad or and iPhone, it works good enough. Second, there is a lag in moving the file from the camera to the receiving device (iPhone, iPad, etc.). Just a fact of having to move a huge data file, it takes time. Lastly, there is a practical limit to the distance between the devices. That could be 20-30 ft and I have not tested for that.

I've also looked at CamRanger and see where that could be exactly what I'd like to have/use. However, it is about $300... Sadly, that is a bit out of my budget at the moment. :-(

In any case, I am interested to hear what others might say on this topic. Good luck to you!

Shellback Loc: North of Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands - Kansas

Previous discussion on wireless and a DIY kit that accomplishes the same as the CamRanger but for $30.00 vs $300.00...
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-179769-1.html

Gitchigumi Loc: Wake Forest, NC

Pretty good solution... IF you have a Canon camera and an android device. Unfortunately, if you have a Nikon camera and an iPhone or iPad, its of no value... :-(

Shellback Loc: North of Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands - Kansas

Ahhh, don't give up so easily :)
It's now available for ios...
http://dslrdashboard.info/qdslrdashboard-available-for-ios-now/

JimEaco

My question was intended to be specific to the
UT-1 Communication Unit & WT-5A Wireless Transmitter;
{However any and all information is helpful and appreciated}
Upon additional research both are needed, and can be bought as a bundle.
Individually:
WT-5A Wireless Transmitter $877.00
UT-1 $470.00
(or $1,347.00 for both)
As a Bundle: $1,299.00

I sidetracked into d750 reading to see if the built-in Wi-Fi in it may be a better option only to read: “For faster wireless transfers, transmit images over FTP using the WT-5A Wireless Transmitter + UT-1 Communication Unit.”

So I’m back to investigating the UT-1 & WT-5A bundle.
For now, I am resigning to continue with a tethered USB connection, and just plan to add cable restraints, length, and be very fussy with the quality of the cable (particularly connections).
But in the big picture, I am adamant to become “untethered” or lose the cable between the Camera & Laptop.
The bulk and connection method of the UT-1 & WT-5A bundle may off-set the perceived freedom from cable. I am not ready to part with $1,300.00, only to create another objection.
Until I can bring my gear to NY and do a hands-on at B&H... the cable will remain.

MtnMan Loc: ID

Mostly you should expect to get really annoyed with Nikon's threaded adapter on the D8xx. It totally sucks.

I mourn for the infrared trigger of my less expensive Nikons.

If it isn't too late get a D750!