N.E.P.R.I.S. EQUIPMENT
(*) Indicates equipment currently used by the NEPRIS.
*Open Mind:
Any
ghost hunter will tell you, "The main ingredient to a successful
investigation is an open mind". Your mindset, before you enter an
investigation, is of utmost importance. If you believe that you will not
get anything on your investigation, you probably won't. Instead, keep
an open mind and positive attitude when conducting an investigation. It
could make all the difference.
*Camera:
Still motion photography
is the means in which most evidence of ghostly activity is obtained. In
all honestly, any camera will do. The one most frequently used is 35mm.
I believe this choice is prevalent due to the popularity of 35mm
cameras in recent years over older models. I expect the next trend will
be digital cameras due to their growing popularity. Lets take a look at
both options:
1. Chances are, you probably already own a 35mm camera : Most people don't own a digital camera.
2. A good 35mm can cost around $100 : A good digital will cost over $400
3. A 35mm requires film which will be an expense for every investigation : Digital has no film but memory can be an expense.
4. Developing takes time and is another expense : Digital photos can be viewed on location and requires no developing.
5. With a 35mm you get what you get on film : Digital camera can delete unwanted images therefore freeing up memory for more.
6.
A 35mm battery will last a long time : Digitals use more power,
depleting batteries much quicker. Rechargeable batteries are
recommended.
7. 35mm film will provide tangible evidence in the
photo and negative : Digital images must be saved to disk and/or printed
on paper.
This list could go on. I have just listed a few of the
major differences. Ultimately, in the future, I intend to use both at
every investigation.
*Film:
The most widely used film for ghost
hunting is Kodak Gold 400 speed film. This seems to get the most
results. Kodak Gold 200 & 800 speeds are a close second. Keep in
mind that the higher you go with speed, especially with night time
photography, the images get more grainy in appearance.
Some ghost
hunters go as far as to use infrared film. It sounds like a fabulous
idea but is quite expensive. Not only does the film cost more, so does
the developing.
*Electro-Magnetic Field Detectors:
Otherwise
referred to as EMF meters, these devices can add an important element to
any investigation. Their purpose is to detect the presence of
electro-magnetic fields. Such fields can be generated by ghosts and has
been related to haunting activity. Be careful of jumping to conclusions
if you do get an EMF reading. First, you must rule out the possibility
of an electrical or magnetic source. Televisions, appliances, electrical
wires and (strangely) pipes in the walls or ground can generate EMF's.
EMF
meters can range from the relatively cheap ($20) to somewhat expensive
($200). First decide what you want in an EMF detector. Here are some
features to consider:
1. The frequency sensitivity range can vary
greatly between models. Some can detect between 20-10,000Hz. Others may
detect only between 40-60Hz. A substantial difference wouldn't you say?
2.
The way in which a measurement is displayed can also be of importance.
Some may only have a green and red light display allowing you to
document the range in which a magnetic field is. (i.e. 2.5 to 7
milli-gauss). Others have a needle resembling the speedometer on your
car. This will give you the comfort of documenting an exact reading.
Still, others have a digital display. Although more expensive, the
digital display will give you an exact reading to the decimal. Also,
they usually have a light feature so you can see what you are doing in
the dark.
3. An audible alarm is a helpful feature to consider. This
will inform you of an EMF detection without having to keep your eyes on
the device.
Compass:
A compass can make an inexpensive
alternative to the EMF detector. A ghostly anomaly will turn the needle
at least 30-35* away from magnetic North. Again, you must rule out the
possibility of an electrical source. The downfall to using this device
is that it has no light and you must always be aware of the direction of
magnetic North.
*Thermometer:
A nice addition to your equipment
is a temperature reading device. Cold spots are a frequent finding in
paranormal situations. A digital indoor/outdoor thermometer can allow
you the convenience of documenting such anomalies. If you consider this
option, get one with highest/lowest temperature memory and an alarm.
Average cost $25.
Thermal Scanner:
A more expensive alternative
to the digital thermometer, the thermal scanner uses infrared
technology to instantly detect temperature differences at a distance.
You can expect to spend about $200 for a good one. If you can bypass the
digital thermometer for this point-and-shoot gadget, I highly recommend
it.
*Video Camera:
This handy piece of equipment can capture
strange events as they occur. Most households have one (or at least
access to one). Carry it with you or strategically place it somewhere.
The decision is yours. What can you expect to see? Look for anything
unusual. Objects moving of their own accord, unexplained shadows or
lights, unexplained camera malfunctions and drained batteries are just
some things that have presented themselves.
*Night Vision Video Camera:
Similar
to combining a video camera with a night vision scope, this device
allows the recording of light not visible to the naked eye. A great
device to have at any investigation.
Many ghost hunters are
incorporating these "toys" into their work. They come in handy in a dark
cemetery. Many have seen things through these scopes that otherwise
would have been missed. Overall, an expensive item.
Thermal Imaging Scopes:
Imagine
your thermal scanner detects a temperature anomaly directly in front of
your team. Thermal Imaging Scopes will allow you the luxury of actually
seeing what your thermal scanner sees. Using infrared technology, you
can actually see the shape and size of that cold spot. This is still an
expensive item to have but well worth the money.
*Audio Recorder:
Ghost
hunters have come to know that ghosts are able to leave little tidbits
of their existence called EVP's on audio tape. Otherwise known as
electronic voice phenomena, the EVP is a fascinating event for any
investigation. Any recorder can be used to obtain an EVP. Fortunately,
most people already have a recorder in their possession to use. A strong
suggestion would be to use it.
*Digital Recorders:
Digital
recorders are fast becoming the item of choice for obtaining electronic
voice phenomena. We have had outstanding results with such devices.
Motion Detectors:
Motion
detectors can alert you to movement in an area where there should be
none. Easily, an entire room or hallway can be monitored with just one
device. Could be a great indoor tool!