IR Cameras

The IR Cameras when used in combination with the DVR are a valuable piece of equipment for catching movement during investigations. The cameras are designed to be used in either daylight or complete darkness. We mount the cameras on either tripods or mounting brackets facing potential hotspot areas. The benefit is that you can continuously monitor these areas, store the video on the DVR and review later.

DVR with Monitor

The DVR is used in combination with the IR cameras to continually store the recordings during an investigation. The DVR works much like the ones in a cable box except we utilize the IR cameras as the video source. Our particular system is capable of monitoring up to four cameras. All four cameras can be viewed either individually or simultaneously on the monitor we use. The DVR has a built in hard drive, which allows for storing of data. The particular unit we use had a CD driver, which makes it convenient for burning and providing copies to clients.

The digital camera is one of the first items every paranormal investigator should purchase. Each of our investigators has their own camera, some with video and audio recording capabilities. Though the older 35mm cameras can be used, the technology behind the digital cameras provides numerous advantages. A large number of pictures can be taken and stored on either embedded memory or storage card. Pictures can be immediately viewed, stored and downloaded for emailing or printing.

The EMF (Electro Magnetic Fields) detector is used to measure the level of electrical and magnetic fields during our investigations. We begin our investigations taking baseline readings in a facility to pinpoint potential areas with above normal readings. We develop this baseline to determine if an increase in the readings, during the investigation, is a result of paranormal activity. The idea is that when an entity is present, there may be an increased level of EMF.

High EMF readings can be a result of a number of non-paranormal factors since EMF is present in every home as a result of any electrical device. High readings can be a result of improperly insulated/protested wiring and breaker panels. There are numerous EMF detectors available with price ranges varying. Both analog and digital varieties are available with our group using a digital unit.

In addition to the digital camera, a digital voice recorder could be considered one of the most important pieces of equipment in any investigators bag. The voice recorders are used to capture EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena), which are defined as disembodied voices. Many times, these voices cannot be heard by ear but can be picked up on these devices.

These recorders are relatively inexpensive and come with useful features such as filters that can help reduce background noises. Being a digital device, it is easy to transfer the files via emails and other storage devices. We provide additional filtering and isolating of the recordings using audio software packages.

The K2 is a newer device to the field of Paranormal Investigations that measures frequency and magnetic fields. The device has a number of multi-colored lights with the strength of the field indicated by the number of lights lit at one time.

A popular use for the device in investigations is in trying to communicate with an entity.
The idea is to ask the entity to communicate by flashing the lights in response to the investigators questions. This device has gained popularity and we are experimenting with ourselves with some interesting occurrences.

The motion detectors we use are similar to those used in home security systems. They are relatively inexpensive and portable. They are wireless and operate off a single battery. The idea is to locate the detectors in a room to provide indication of movement. This indication can help investigators focus on the location when in other areas.

Many of the motion detectors are available with audible alarms that can be disabled.

When funds allow, the video camera can prove to be a valuable investment to the investigator. Whether you have an older 8mm or a newer digital unit, the benefits of these devices are obvious. They provide a portable means for recording audio and video during investigations.

We will use these devices as a handheld device and in other instances; mount them on tripods for continuous recording in remote areas. Some of the products on the market are available with night vision capability. The units offered by Sony refer to this as Nightshot.

Additional viewing distance can be achieved by use of IR Light Extenders. These can be attached directly to the video camera and utilize IR LEDs to extend the viewable distance in low and no light applications.

The digital thermometer is a useful device in determining potential cold spots during investigations. The idea behind cold spots is that entities will draw energy for the surrounding to manifest. During investigations it is quite common to feel cold spots in a localized area without explanation.

There are numerous products available and selection is dependant upon your preference. The unit we use is a digital unit with a lighted display that measures in both degrees and Celsius. The unit has a laser pointer that is directed on an object or area and can take measurements at a significant distance.