Toolbox

Paranormal investigators use many types of tools to gather evidence during an investigation.
Although it is not required to have loads of expensive equipment, these tools can be proven useful during an investigation.
And as a paranormal investigator, it is important to gather as much quality evidence as possible.
Here is a list of some of the basic items used in investigations, and their purpose. This would be a good list to get anyone started with ghost hunting.

Camera - A camera is the most basic of all equipment that every investigator should have. A simple disposable camera will work as well as any other camera. If you are using digital it is wise to also use a standard 35mm camera for backup proof of your findings as digital cameras do not have negatives. There are some drawbacks to digital cameras, such as they tend pick up "orbs" such as dust particles and moisture droplets more frequently than a standard 35mm. This is one reason why it is recommended to have a 35mm on hand along with a digital.

Flashlight - A flashlight is basic common sense for safety's sake. Every investigator should keep one handy just in case, and have spare batteries as well.
Adding a red lens attachment is also a good idea to help preserve night vision.

Notebook and Pen - It is essential to keep records of your investigation. Always write down the date, weather conditions, moon phase, solar activity, temperature, start time, stop time, EMF readings, feelings, cold spots, anything that might be relevant. Not only is this a professional approach, but may help later when reviewing camera or EVP evidence.

Electro-Magnetic Field Detector - Also known as an EMF detector, this device reads the natural electromagnetic fields during an investigation.
It is used to locate and track energy sources. An investigator will use this device to take initial readings around energy sources such as electrical outlets before starting an investigation. During the investigation if any abnormal EMF spikes occur this could be a sign of spirit energy and a signal to take photos and temperature readings. EMF detectors can range in price from under $20 to hundreds of dollars.

Video Camera - A video camera or camcorder is another potentially useful item. While a still shot camera is wonderful, a video can take your ghost hunting experience to a new level. Not only are video cameras good for backup evidence alongside a still camera, they can show much more than what a still camera can. Many of the video cameras on the market are equipped with night vision which uses infrared light and can pick up some energy that can not be seen by the human eye.

Thermometers - The two types of thermometers used in paranormal investigations are digital and infrared. The most common is the infrared thermometer, it can instantly read a temperature change and even track the movement of cold or warm air. A digital thermometer usually will not be an instant read, but it still can detect a change in temperature, and any major drop in temperature could be a sign of a spirit presence. Digital thermometers are typically less expensive and more easily found in stores and are good to measure ambient temperature and humidity.

Digital Voice Recorder - In paranormal investigations, a voice recorder is almost a required tool for use in picking up voices of spirits, also called electronic voice phenomenon or EVP's. The best voice recorders to use are digital recorders because this eliminates the mechanical noise that a typical tape voice recorder would produce. Some recorders are voice activated, which can be a great feature if you leave the recorder in a room while you investigate elsewhere, thus eliminating the hassle of listening to potentially hours of tape. Either type of recorder is just as capable of picking up EVP's, but digital tends to have the best clarity. You will also want either a USB cord or patch cord to transfer the audio to a computer for analysis.

Batteries - Essential to have for any investigator, batteries power the majority of equipment. It is a good idea to keep spare batteries on your equipment case or bag. And if you can afford to spend a little extra on rechargeable batteries they are very useful and and will save you money.

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