Equipment

Various pieces of equipment Haunted Auckland use during our investigations to record and document paranormal activity. For images of the team in action, check out our Investigation Reports.

Various Static and Hand-Held Video Cameras
Video is great to have, either to carry with you or to set up on a tripod and let it run in hopes of catching something anomalous. Make sure the video camera is equipped with some kind of night vision (such as SONY's Nightshot) so it can record images in minimal light. The choices with video these days is amazing. Again, get the best one you can afford. High-definition video has become quite affordable, and it's advantageous to get a camera that has either an internal hard drive or that records on memory cards. These allow you to easily transfer your video to a computer for editing and analysis.

Various Digital and DSLR Still Cameras
You don't need to have an expensive digital camera, but you should use one with as high a resolution as you can afford. The better the resolution you have, the more detail you'll be able to see in your images. Cell phone cameras are not adequate, even if they have a 5 megapixel or higher resolution, because the image sensors in cell phones are too small and the lenses are not very good. For those who take hundreds of pictures, the digital camera will save a small fortune for there is no film to buy, nor are there any processing costs. The pictures are immediate and ready to be enhance, enlarge or doctor. The pictures will last forever for there is no paper to deteriorate or negatives to fade. The storage of photographs requires minimum space. Prior to the advent of the digital camera, the 35 mm SLR camera is probably the most popular type among people interested in taking photographs. Available in various sizes, large, complicated a simple "point and shoot" 35 mm camera, sometimes small enough to fit in purse or pocket, replaces bulky cameras and all the necessary equipment.

Various Photographic and Videographic Lens/Filters

E.M.F. (Electro-Magnetic Field) Meters
EMF meters measure fluctuations in electromagnet fields (or EM fields). These fields are a direct result of electrical appliances in home, cell phones, power lines outside and even fluctuations in solar activity and weather. Beyond that, a primary theory in the paranormal world is that entities can manipulate these fields in their attempt to manifest themselves or interact with our world. The units of measurement registered on an EMF meter is called milligauss. Theories in the paranormal field suggest that ghosts have the ability to manipulate these fields. An EMF meter is a staple piece of equipment used to detect sources of these fields or possible manipulation in order to document and promote potential communication with these entities. Take base readings throughout the area you are investigating and make note of the numbers. This will help in detecting legitimate spikes and anomalies.

Zero-Lux Trap Cameras
The trap or game camera is a fairly new method of capturing possible Entity's. The game camera is usually set up in area High with Paranormal sightings of apparitions. The camera shoots out an infrared beam naked to the human eye with a sensor that if triggered takes a series of pictures or video clip.

Various Digital Voice Recorders
A good digital recorder is needed to record electronic voice phenomena (EVP). Digital recorders are preferred over cassette recorders by most investigators because they have no moving parts; you don't want motor noise in your recordings. Digital recorders from such manufacturers as Olympus, SONY, and RCA range in price from about $30 into the hundreds of dollars. Again, get the best one you can afford because the higher the price, the better the quality. You'll want a model that can record high-quality sound. Some of the more expensive models record in uncompressed modes, which gives you the best fidelity. With less expensive recorders, you might also want to add an external omnidirectional microphone.

Standard LED, Ultraviolet Torches and Infrared Torches
An infrared (IR) flashlight is a device designed to emit light that falls outside the normal visible spectrum. This can be accomplished through the use of special bulbs or light emitting diodes (LEDs) that only cast infrared light, though it is also possible to fit a normal flashlight with a filter. Active night vision, which requires some type of infrared light source, is the main purpose these devices are used for. When an IR flashlight is used in conjunction with a special camcorder, or other type of night vision device (NVD), it is possible to see even in complete darkness. LEDs are a smart choice because you don't have to worry about replacing bulbs; the LEDs last a long time. And don't forget to bring along extra, fresh alkaline batteries.

Motion Detectors
These devices are good for sensing movement when there should be none. One sensor can easily monitor an entire hallway or room. Motion sensors are actually detecting heat signatures. When something enters its field of coverage that is above the ambient temperature (in this case, it is assuming that the ghost gives off heat, like a person), the sensor will sound an alarm. Some models are equipped with cameras and will snap a picture. These sensors are calibrated so that the object must be somewhat sizable to set it off -- a mouse or a bug passing by won't trigger it.

Parabolic Audio Receiver Dish
A Parabolic Microphone uses a parabolic reflector (or dish) to collect and focus sound waves onto a microphone receiver, in much the same way that a parabolic antenna (e.g. satellite dish) does with radio waves. Typical uses of this microphone, which has unusually focused front sensitivity, can pick up sounds from many meters away, include nature recordings, field audio for sports broadcasting, eavesdropping, law enforcement, and even espionage. The advantage of this device is to amplify the sound wave of where the EVP is being produced from and give one a clearer yet amplified sound. The disadvantage is that to get the perfect location sound wave of where the EVP is coming from, one must point the parabola in its direction.

Strobe Lights (Large and Small)
A strobe light is a tool used in ghost investigating which simulates the shutter of a camera. The strobe light allows seeing things that usually would be moving too fast for the mind to perceive. Most believe manifesting apparition function on a much higher vibration than those on the physical plane. The faster the strobe light, the more effectively it works in ghost investigations. Researchers are leading toward the opinion that the strobe exercises the eyes and make them more capable of seeing an apparition. This is particularly true when seeing "shadow people" only seen with peripheral vision seen out of the corner of the eye.

Contact Microphones
A contact microphone, otherwise known as a pickup or a piezo, is a form of microphone designed to sense audio vibrations through solid objects. Unlike normal air microphones, contact mics are almost insensible to air vibrations but transduce only structure-borne sound. Often used as acoustic leakage probes, they also enjoy wide usage by noise music artists experimenting with sound. Plain contact microphones are passive and high-impedance and this can cause them to sound 'tinny' unless used with a matching preamp.

Assorted Tripods and Accessories
If using cameras, either video or for images, tripods are a good idea to have. Tripods can help steady a camera and are needed to mount video cameras in various rooms or areas on a site being investigated.

Geo-Spatial Data Loggers
Data loggers are becoming increasingly common in paranormal, usually haunting, research. A data logger is a device for collecting data over time from several channels simultaneously. If you are trying to monitor a haunted location to look for unusual environmental changes, particularly when they correspond to ghost sightings, data loggers are clearly worth considering.

Laser Grid
Laser grids are used to more clearly detect when movement happens and help define its shape and whether it actually has some kind of mass to it. It's best to place a laser grid in front of a running camera throughout the investigation. Upon review if movement happens it will be obviously apparent by the breaking of the laser pattern. You can from there go frame by frame in the video marking where the pattern shifts thereby drawing an outline shape of the entity itself. If the pattern moves a certain way you can even determine if the entity has 3-dimensional mass and map that as well.

Infra-red Laser Thermometers and Standard Thermometers
Thermometers can be a great way to detect temperature changes which may signify a paranormal presence. Taking temperature readings can also be a great way to find sources for 'cold spots' to debunk or find logical reasons for claims of activity. If you intend to take temperature readings at an investigation, consider a digital thermometer. Not only do they keep a memory of the highest and lowest monitored temperatures, most come equipped with alarms and take measurements several times a minute. The alarm feature is especially helpful in letting you know when sudden and drastic changes occur and allows you the convenience to focus your attention elsewhere. A more expensive option for instant temperature measurements are the new infrared laser scanners. A point-and-shoot device that detects temperature differences using infrared technology.

Cell Sensors
Calibrated at 835 MHz (with an accuracy of ±3dB), the RF meter measures the intensity of radiation from cellular as well as GSM mobile phones. Two analog scales: HIGH sensitivity 0-1 mW/cm2, and NORMAL sensitivity 0-10 mW/cm2. Gaussmeter feature is calibrated around 50/60 Hz and also offers 2 scales: 0-5 and 0-50 mG plus audio sound which corresponds to field strength. Remote probe with 2 foot extension cord allows user great flexibility and reach. Both RF and gaussmeter provide audio sound and large flashing light which corresponds to field strength.

TriField Meter
This meter offers magnetic, electric, and radio/microwave detection in one package. Includes an analog readout and an adjustable audio alert. This meter, however, focuses mainly on 'AC' or man-made electrical and magnetic fields. This meter is more so effective in detecting man-made currents to debunk claims of 'being watched' which can be caused by faulty wiring and/or electrical leakage.

Compass
A compass is not only very useful for navigation it is also great for picking up electromagnetic forces. A compass will react to any magnetic or electrical stimulus that may be out of the ordinary. For this reason it is probably better to avoid an electronic compass instead use the needle points north kind. It's easy to measure the deflection of the needle from magnetic North at known distances with this nice 1-3/8 inch diameter compass to quantify and compare DC magnetic fields, track down magnetized components, or evaluate magnetic shielding performance. A handy tool for any initial evaluation or to check your equipment readings!

DVR - Digital Video Recording System
These devices allow investigators to strategically place cameras around an investigation to provide a continuous feed of live video, while simultaneously recording for later review. Many times these devices are placed in areas with reported activity in an effort to either document the activity, or to provide clients with an explanation as to the cause of their reported events. DVR systems see infrared light allowing them to be of use on night investigations. These devices are pretty much the same as a handheld device except that a DVR system uses static cameras, and are not portable. We use a 4 channel DVR system with infrared technology. Camera's are placed throughout the investigative site with the hopes of capturing any paranormal activity in reported known areas.

Trigger Objects
Try using trigger objects in areas where there has been reports of things being moved. Lay down a piece of paper, select an object (ornament, coin, wooden cross etc), lay the object on the piece of paper and accurately draw round it with a pen. Leave the area alone for a while and then return to see if the object has moved. Be sure to alert everyone on the investigation to the whereabouts of any trigger objects to avoid accidental movement of the object. You can also use an Infra Red Motion Sensor in conjunction with the trigger object, this will alert you to any movement. Try taking photographs of the object before you leave, and then again when you return. We use balloons, coins, toys, balls, crepe paper, magnets, large ball bearings.....

ElectroSensor
This is the smallest gaussmeter available. With the push of a button, this simple and accurate gaussmeter measures the level of magnetic field emitted by all common electrical appliances and equipment. An easy to read 10 LED light bar scale gives readings from 1.3 to 30 mG in small increments. The ElectroSensor has a detection range of 50-60 Hz with an accuracy of ±3dB. A pickup coil in the tip of the unit can be rotated for increased directionality. EMF risk can be avoided if you know where it is.

Two Way Radios
Two Way Radios are recommended if the investigation involves splitting in to teams. This way you can easily communicate with the other team. Check that all radios are communicating on the same channel.

Audio and Photographic Analysis Software

Atmospheric Sensors

Electro-Magnetic (E.M.) Generators
The EMF Pump is constructed with a strong magnet and an electric motor to emit a strong electromagnetic field. EMF generators, (also called EM Pumps) are believed to enhance and strengthen paranormal EVP's by creating a low level magnetic field. It is also said that with the produced magnetic field it will give the spirits extra strength to be able to communicate with us. We make and use our own EM Pumps.

Infrared Illumination Lamps
These accessories are used as a way to see in the dark. Illuminators will usually be attached to the recording device by an arm or bracket and will provide a light source for the device's eye. Usually an infrared light.

Head Lamps
A must when moving about in the dark during an investigation! High intensity LED bulbs with low power consumption. Unique construction provides light that is super-bright to allow distant objects to be seen, while at the same time, maintains good lighting for close range work, or to move around in caves, camping, etc.

Military Grade Glow Sticks
Glow sticks are cheap, glow for several hours, and can be taped to objects to mark potential hazards. We use these for adding a little low ambient lighting when filming video with non infrared cameras.

Frank's Box / Spirit Box / Ghost Box
A device supposedly used for contacting spirits through the use of radio frequency. These devices or so called Spirit box also known as Ghost Box or Frank's box are used as an electronic medium for the purpose of direct communication with a spirit. The notion of using white noise to allow spirits to speak is nothing new. It's, in fact, one of the original "tenants" EVP that dates back to the experiments conducted by Dr. Konstantins Raudive in the 1940's, till his death in 1974. The belief seems to be, that since spirits manipulate energy in order to manifest and/or move objects, they need some form of energy in order to manifest sound. The original set up of "Franks box" was supposed to do a random sweep of the signals which would (seemingly) eliminate the possibility of picking up on any solid piece of signal for too long. Granted this still doesn't eliminate the possibility you could get frequency pollution from a CB radio or other broadcasting device. Meaning nothing you get is ever "unexplainable" because you can't eliminate those sources of potential explanation, but in the interest of open minded-ness we decided to create our own, thanks to Barbara's very handy hubby, (Instead of forking out ridiculous amount on a simple hacked transistor radio) and put it to the test.

Not everything in the investigator's kit is high-tech or requires batteries. A simple pen and paper are just as important on any investigation. More specifically, you should have a small pad of paper or notebook and at least two reliable pens. You'll need these to keep a log of what you're doing, where and when. Your digital voice recorder can help noting the same information, but what if the batteries run out or there's some other kind of malfunction? Keep notes about the readings of your other equipment, your experiences, and even your feelings.