Patrick -
Good news about the latest versions. I am with you re the cost of the camera!
Do not want to hijack your thread, but for those who are interested, here's a link for some really cheap digital vidcams that could be used pretty easily and all cost under $100. I have seen the Mustek and JVC cams used in 20+ G HPR launches and they have taken plenty of abuse. For $60 (or less if you are willing to dig a bit deeper) they are almost throw-aways.
[link=http://techbargains.pricegrabber.com/search_attrib.php?topcat_id=&form_keyword=digital+ video+camera&page_id=47&lo_p=0&hi_p=100&Update+Res ults=Update+Results]cheap DVC's[/link]
barry
PS - Buck's right [&o] no where to fly Jets in our neighborhood (SoCal) until we get some rain...and the fire season just started off.