Can I perform my own colonoscopy with this camera?

Well, there are some limitations here. First, the length of the flexible cable is a limiting factor. Since you would have to be able to visualize the image (as in your "own" colonoscopy), you've already lost a foot of the cable outside of the body. Also the image would be upside-down, though this would probably not be an issue since all you are looking for are polyps at a particular location. But, the two feet of cable past the anus would only provide a view of the sigmoid and part of the descending colon. So, this would not be practical for a complete colonoscopy. You would obviously be able to gain that foot if you performed the colonoscopy on a loved one or friend. However, at best, this would only take you to the splenic flexure.Second, the flexibility of the cable is questionable in a non-rigid, thin-walled space such as the colon. It would be possible to easily punch a hole through the wall, leading to a significant case of peritonitis. Even if you didn't breach the wall of the colon, there would be some terrific discomfort, as in the old rigid sigmoidoscopy days. So, you would want to get yourself (or your subject) good and drunk, or perhaps use a wooden or rubber mallet on the head to induce unconsciousness. Finally, there are some lesser, but nonetheless important technical issues. The LED lights do not provide illumination beyond a few inches. You cannot direct the camera in a direction you want after it has been inserted per anum. This is also a problem when used inside of a wall in your house. Finally, there are no surgical tools for removal of polyps. Though, I guess you could fashion your own from some wire and a large car battery for electrocautery.All in all, I believe that springing for the insurance co-pay is much preferable to the overall cost of peritoneal infection, surgical repair of the wall, limitations resulting from cable length, and extreme discomfort.I should add, this device is almost ideal for use on your pets, with the qualification that no surgical tools are included.

What is the tip diameter?

The tip is 9mm (also shown on the Box as 9mm Model SL-9651), but the hole will need to be a little bigger if you want to see around something, also the camera is housed in a 2 inches solid case that cannot bend, so you will need to clear about 3 inches before you can change the direction of the camera or have an even bigger entry hole.

does it actually take pictures?

Of course, one could always use their smart phone and take a picture of the image.

how do you "steer" it to go up or down bor left or right?

You need this product to do that "articulating". http://www.amazon.com/Vividia-Performance-Borescope-Articulating-Diameter/dp/B00G80MD10/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1417893570&sr=8-18&keywords=vividia

Manufacturer	Solar Eclipse
Part Number	SE001CAM
Item Weight	1.55 pounds
Package Dimensions	14.9 x 11.5 x 3.2 inches
Item model number	SE001CAM
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No
Color	RED
Item Package Quantity	1
Certification	certified frustration-free
Batteries Included?	No
Batteries Required?	No

Solar Eclipse SE001CAM Wall and Pipe Inspection Camera with 2.4" Color LCD Monitor

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Common Questions