Soulseekers Equipment

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Equipment

Every investigator uses a slightly different approach, but the equipment used is basically uniform. There is a range of high-tech gadgets available from motion sensors to expensive ion meters, but here is what is commonly found in an investigator’s kit:

Beam Alarm

Used to detect movement across the set path of the beam.

Batteries

Always carry spare batteries for equipment. A vigil can have an unexpected heavy drain on power.

Camcorder

A camcorder is an expensive, but invaluable piece of equipment to document an investigation. One with infrared is best for recording in pitch black. They can often pick up anomalies that the naked-eye cannot. It is also a permanent record of the events.

Camera

Digital seems to be the best for capturing orbs, but for any evidential work, a 35mm is recommended as this produces a negative that can be used to confirm any findings.

Candles

Useful for detecting draughts and when the torch fails to work.

Compass

A compass can be a very good indicator of something un-natural occurring. It is commonly known that anomalies can effect the magnetic qualities of the compass.

Dowsing Rods

Two "L" shaped rods made of anything, usually copper. Originally used to find water underground and then later used to find metal pipes and electrical currents. It is said that they can also be used to communicate with spirits.

EMF meter/Tri-Field meter

Otherwise known as a Gauss meter, these pick up on electro-magnetic fields, which are believed to be related to paranormal activity. There are many types of meters available with varying levels of functionality, but one with an audio signal is recommended. An earphone socket is beneficial. A primary reading is taken before vigils to establish background levels.

First Aid Kit

A basic first aid kit is essentail. An accident can occur at anytime, in any place. If you are on medication, make sure you bring these as well. If you have any allergies to medications or food, let your lead investigator know, prior to the investigation.

Ion Meter

This is an expensive piece of equipment and it is used to measure the amount of positive and negative ions in the area. Spirits are believed to cause a lot of positive ions because they give off high amounts of electromagnetic discharges.

Matches

Or a lighter. To light candles or in case of emergency or power outage.

Mobile/Cell Phone

In case of an emergency, one should be available for getting outside help. Please do not leave them switched on during an investigation.

Motion Sensors

Good for use in 'locked-off' rooms. You can get freestanding ones very cheaply, usually with their own built in speaker. These differ from Beam Alarms as any nearby movement can trigger the alarm.

Night Vision

An expensive piece of equipment, mainly for the professional teams, but very useful given the darkness that you work in on investigations.

Notepad

It is always a good idea to keep notes. Recording of the times, conditions, activities, temperature, weather, subjects, equipment, noises and any other important information. This information can be analyzed and be vital to compare to other findings.

Pen or Pencil

To record notes and write down any vital information.

Sound Recorder

A sensitive sound recording device is useful for capturing Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVPs). These can be tape dictaphones, mp3, digital voice recorders, even mobile phones. When played back, noises and voices may be heard.

Thermometer

Various types are available, but the favourite would appear to be the Laser variety, for detecting hot, or more commonly, cold spots.

Torch/Flashlight

A good reliable torch, or flashlight, is required for your own safety in moving around in total darkness, and to be able to see for setting up.

Trigger Objects

A trigger object can be anything left to tempt a spirit to move it. If possible, sometimes something of sentimental value to the spirit is used. But any object can be used(crosses, baby toys and coins seem to be favourites). To check if the object has moved, it is generally either placed on a piece of white paper, with a line drawn around it, or in a pile of salt/baby powder, as this will show up any movement.

Walkie-Talkies

If the investigation is split into separate teams, these are an absolute must to stay in communication with other members. Also, if you are doing a lone vigil, it is comforting to know someone is at the other end.

Watch

There should be at least one person with a watch in each team, for the benefit of notes and if you have arranged to all meet up again at a specific time.

Please remember that there is no proof that devices detect the presence of ghosts or spirits. These are only theories. And do not feel you need a lot of expensive, high-tech equipment to do your own paranormal investigating. The best piece of equipment is yourself.