Equipment

EQUIPMENT INDEX

 

EMF Meters – K2/ Digital EMF/Gauss Meters/Mel Meters

Spirits are K2 Meterbelieved to create electromagnetic fields (EMF). To detect these emanations, many investigation groups across the world use an array of EMF-sensitive devices. These instruments are used to detect intermittent spikes of electromagnetic energy in the 3.0 mill gauss range or higher, to distinguish any unusual EMF spike from the steady electromagnetism of electrical appliance or any other source.

Digital Thermometers

Digital ThermometerSpirit activity is thought to cause changes in temperature; digital thermometers are used to capture unexplained temperature fluctuations. Cold or hot spikes are compared to a base reading of the suspected area’s overall temperature. Ideally, this will have been recorded at the beginning of the investigation for comparison.

Digital Still Cameras

Digital Still CameraGPI use various still cameras and often use a setting where shots are taken continuously. Although we utilize video cameras greatly, digital still cameras are great for reviewing a shot instantly.

Digital Sound Recorders

Digital DictaphonesElectronic voice phenomena are voices undetectable by the human ear that become detectable only during recorded playback. These are the most common indications of paranormal activity captured by investigators. In 1982, Sarah Estep developed a rating system for the voices, Class C are the faintest recordings, Class B voices are louder and clearer and Class A voices are very clear and can be heard without headphones. Digital recorders are extremely portable and most have an in built microphone, many have also an in built memory that can give you hours of recording and files can be managed easily.

External Microphones

External MicrophoneGPI often uses an external microphone in conjunction with a laptop. Data is recorded directly onto laptop hard drive for unlimited recordings and left running in a specific area. It is also a good idea to use it with a Dictaphone as it avoids picking up any sounds from the recorder itself or any “jostling” sounds whilst being handled in the record mode.

Digital Camcorder with Night Vision & Tripods

CamcorderPreferably, the camcorder should have Night Vision or Super Night Vision. Infrared video cameras are used to capture images in total darkness. We use our camcorders for continuous filming of an area we suspect of paranormal activity, especially during team/lone vigils or locked off with a trigger object. Video footage is not only beneficial for capturing evidence, but also to review footage that can give us a rational explanation for an incident we may have interpreted as paranormal at the time. We have found cameras with an internal hard drive most useful as there is not the need to constantly remove and clear memory cards.

Sony Camcorder I.R Lights

IR LightThis light fits directly onto a tripod and camera. It has an adjustable light beam. We have found this piece of equipment most useful and makes a huge difference to normal night vision.

Laser Grid Pen with Tripod

Laser Grid PenPut a laser grid against a wall or light up a room, and if something passes in front of it, it will block out sections of the grid. Great for detecting movement, shadows, or solid shapes moving in the room. Another Laser Grid that we will be testing in the near future is the Laser Grid GS1.

Mel Meter

Mel MeterThe Mel Meter can measure and be alerted to visual anomalies. The Mel-SDD device measures very subtle light contrast variations and convert the changes into audible tones that your ears can easily discern. The Mel-SDD is compatible with a LASER light and red, green and white light and comes with a red illumination source which has a range of 75'. Just setup your laser or other light source on one end of the room. Place the Mel-SDD on the opposite side of the room. When a contrast variation occurs between the light source source and the Mel-SDD, the audible tones will be heard alerting you to a presence or change in light. Ascending tones for light increase and descending tones for light decrease.

P-SB7 Spirit Box

SpiritBoxIt is a tool for attempting communication with paranormal entities. It uses radio frequency sweeps to generate white noise which theories suggest give some entities the energy they need to be heard. When this occurs you will sometimes hear voices or sounds coming through the static in an attempt to communicate. While this unit does have FM and AM sweep modes, the power has been specifically focused on the FM side for greater FM amplification. Because of this, some refer to this model as 'AM Detuned'. This provides more white noise energy through FM. By focusing this power in that direction, the AM side is now clear from white noise providing greater clarity while sweeping. The Box utilizes a milli-second adjustable Forward or Reverse frequency "sweep" technique coupled with a proprietary high frequency synthetic noise or "white noise" distributed between frequency steps. There are two discreet audio outputs; (1) Earphone, and (2) A Internal Speaker. It also features a bright LED back light display with manual ON/OFF select ideal for viewing in the dark.

Ovilus 4

Ovilus 4The Ovilus 4 converts environmental readings into real words. So you can get real words and phonetic responses to your questions. Theories suggest that spirits and other paranormal entities may be able to alter our environment such as electromagnet frequencies, temperature, etc. The Ovilus 4 takes advantage of this by using these frequencies to choose a response from a preset database of over 2,000 words. The idea behind this, is that an intelligent entity will be able to alter the environment in such a way that forces the Ovilus to "speak" an appropriate response.

Thermal Camera

Thermal CameraThese are the perfect tool to visualize temperature changes in the environment. Using high-end infrared sensors these cameras show you a map of heat and cool surface temperatures. One of our favorite bits of equipment. Through an infrared camera, warm objects—shown in red, yellow and white (if very hot)-stand out against cooler backgrounds, usually seen as blue or black. As a result, humans and other warm-blooded animals become highly visible against their environment, day or night. Thermal imaging cameras are so sensitive, you can see the residual body heat left by someone who’s no longer in the room.

Notepad/Paper/Pens

notepad with pen vector illustrationSounds quite basic but are extremely useful for making notes during investigation if compiling a report afterwards.

Extension/Leads and Masking/Electrical Tape

CablesVital if running leads from other rooms and masking tape to safely secure wires to floors etc to avoid any tripping accidents.

CCTV and DVR with Monitor

CCTVGPI also utilizes a SWANN CCTV system with I.R cameras and monitor which is great for locking off with trigger objects or to monitor particular areas.

Motion Detectors

Motion DetectorsIn an area of suspected paranormal activity, we suggest setting up motion detectors. If anyone (or anything!) passes the infra red beam, it will sound an alarm which will alert your team to any movement in that area. Try to lock off these detectors and inform all team members of the location to avoid any activation accidentally.

Trigger Objects

Trigger ObjectThe GPI use many objects as triggers from Bibles, crucifixes, coins to children’s toys in areas where objects have been known to move. We use a large piece of white paper and place the trigger object on it. Using a black marker pen, we accurately draw around the object. However if you are unable to draw around an object, we often place the item on floor which also enables us to track any movement. We then take a picture of the object, note the time and inform other team members of its whereabouts. On returning to the area, if the object has moved, you will be able to compare it to the picture taken on set up. Try to lock off trigger objects with a video camera or even a motion sensor.

Radios

radiosCommunication during an investigation is vital, especially in large locations. If your team is splitting into smaller groups, it is a good idea to provide each team with a radio and ensure that radios are all on same frequency. If team members encounter unexplained noises or movement, they can refer to the other group and find out their positions.

Batteries and Chargers

batteriesThe GPI always ensures they have plenty batteries and correct chargers for equipment as we have encountered inexplicable battery drainage during investigations.

Torches

TorchesGPI investigations often involve venturing into dark locations such as old disused buildings, cemeteries, even outdoors and this requires a portable light source.

Laptops

LaptopWe use this to transfer all the data we have gathered at the end of the investigation for reviewing.