I used to dream of one day being like the cameraman on “Max Headroom” — walking around with my camera completely wireless and mobile. Granted, at that time I didn’t imagine any of the pitfalls, like the assignment desk being able to watch everything I do during the day.

I could put up with the paranoia that I’m being watched while eating my lunch in exchange for the creative flexibility of wireless video.

Microwave Radio Communications (MRC) has developed a great tool for TV crews to add to their video arsenal. The MDR-2 is a new wireless diversity receiver that uses two separate antennas and sophisticated electronics to minimize the chance of weak or lost signals from a roving wireless camera.

This lightweight, briefcase-style portable receiver uses something called “Maximal Ratio Combining” (often called MaxRC — I call it hocus pocus), which electronically adds the individual inputs for improved performance and range. Combining an MDR-2 with an MRC digital wireless camera transmitter can improve coverage and reliability for live sports, news, major events… and just about any situation.

Basically it uses the same two antenna “diversity” idea you have on your wireless microphone to prevent fadeout from reflections off buildings and hard-headed reporters.

The MDR-2 includes an integrated MPEG-2 decoder that can furnish video and audio feeds in either analog or digital formats. The receiver and its antennas can be tripod mounted or rack mounted. The power input can be AC or DC.

Run… Be free! and have your reporter find something other than your cables to trip over.

Visit http://www.mrcbroadcast.com/products/MDR-2.htm for more info.