Ghost hunters Equipment

Know your equipment. The foremost important rule about equipment is to know how to use it properly before you conduct an investigation. So many times we've heard of people experimenting with their equipment on site. Not only does it look unorganized, a dark cemetery doesn't make for good learning conditions.

Compass. If you cannot afford an EMF meter initially, you can use a compass to detect magnetic fields. A ghostly anomaly will usually tilt the needle at least 30 degrees off Magnetic North. Again, be sure to rule out a possible electrical source.

Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP). When recording for EVP's, be sure that those present speak in a normal tone of voice. No one should ever whisper while recording for EVP's. Also, constant chatter should be avoided. Simply, speak only when necessary and in a normal manner. This will help you easily distinguish an EVP from people present at the investigation.

EMF Detectors. EMF meters detect the electro-magnetic fields oftentimes associated with ghosts and haunting activity. But, don't be fooled into thinking that EMF's are exclusive to the paranormal. First, before you run screaming "GHOST!", the possibility of an electrical source must be ruled out. Appliances, televisions, digital alarm clocks, power lines, etc. all emit EMF's while in use. To get a feel for your EMF meter, we suggest you begin by scanning your home. Put it close to the T.V. set while it is both on and off. When you get a reading, scan to see actually how far the EMF extends away from the set itself. Further than you thought, huh?

When scanning for ghosts, don't just hold the device in your hand. Put your detector into the area you wish to scan. Be sure to scan headstones, chairs, couches and other sitting surfaces, corners, closets and anywhere you think a ghost might go. Move your meter in all directions while scanning. For example, don't simply put it in a closet momentarily, scan the closet top to bottom, left to right.

Recording devices. Audio recorders are a means of obtaining EVP's, electronic voice phenomena. EVP's, to say the least, are difficult to capture on tape. To increase your chances, here are some tips to help. First, purchase a recording device that has a microphone separate from the frame. Microphones that are in-frame tend to record noise generated from internal motors and turning wheels. A detached mic will significantly minimize this type of unwanted noise. Second, place your recorder in an area where haunting activity is suspected to occur and when no people will be present during recording.

Temperature reading tools. 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.

Thermal scanner. When using your thermal scanner, be aware of surfaces that may read colder in temperature. In winter, windows, doors and any other surface exposed to the elements will show a significant drop in temperature. Also, lights, appliances and radiators will present as heat sources. Always rule out the obvious before accepting the inobvious!
Flashlights. There is no doubt that your investigations will sometimes include dark foreboding places. Cemeteries, old buildings (without electricity), battlefields and the like will all require a portable light source.