Drone cameras

We've all seen videos of real time views from drones.  What hardware and software are used?  Can any of this be used for a dslr?

Drone cameras are usually a CMOS or CCD module, connected directly to a 5.8GHz transmitter for the cheapest option at around $30. You'll need a 5.8GHz receiver which is more expensive at around $200-300 to view and record the image/sound. After all of that you can get a 720x540 analog image that looks like it's from a cheap security cam.

People get higher quality images and video by attaching GoPros with hardware like this: http://www.getfpv.com/5-8ghz-light-250mw-vtx-for-gopro-3.html and budget $600-1000 including the receiver for high quality images

The range from drone-to-receiver is somewhat poor with stock monopole antennas. Antennas are chosen for their performance and application - people often use cloverleaf antennas for the transmitter and a helical antenna for the receiver.

@royg,

Thanks for your time and obvious expertise.  What I'm hoping to do is to find a way to transmit from an old stills camera to a tablet or laptop...effectively turning it into a giant viewfinder.  Even this oldtimer cam can be wired to a TV for live viewing.  I'm hopeful about finding a way to do this wirelessly.

Thanks again.

I am at work right now so can't type much but I've been flying for some time now. There are tons of options, live streaming included. I am currently using an Inspire. I'm shooting video at 4K. Images captured in both jpeg and raw formats. Really way too much to type right now, PM me. 

ETA: I think I misunderstood you original question. If you're just looking to transmit data, something like what's posted below (for an older camera) may be your solution, provided your camera has RCA outs.

What kind of camera (brand/model) is it? With the RCA output you can wire it up very affordably with a USB digital video adapter. Drones must have wireless because the application doesn't allow a tether of any type. At that point we're forced to worry about the right transmitters, receivers, antennas etc. Wired would be more reliable/stable as long as you can get away with it - requires less parts and no radio noise.

If it must be wireless then something like this might suit you: http://www.ebay.com/itm/PAT-630-5-8GHz-Wireless-AV-3RCA-Audio-Video-Sender-Transmitter-Receiver-IPTV-CCD-/301672302286 I have not bought this or used it so you would need to do your own research - all I know is that item does that job

Great jump off point!

Staff at Apple store said cam to laptop or iPad can't be done.  But I couldn't understand why.  Then last night I saw a remote device transmitting to a laptop.  I also recall seeing/hearing about drones with infrared cams used to check animal populations.  Seems these all transmit to a tablet or laptop, often in remote areas.  This implies, to me at least, that it's all done doable on battery operated gear.

If I were to go to a bricks and mortar shop for add'l info which would be a good place to start?

Thanks.