Equipment

Crypto utilizes a combination of both standard and innovative tools including video and audio recording systems to document research, interviews and any unexplained phenomenon as well as environmental measurement and data logging equipment to detect and study a range of atmospheric conditions. Below is a list of some of the instrumentation used by C.P.I.

Electromagnetic Field Detectors

Elctromagnetic radiation or electromagnetic fields/EMFs are sources of invisible energy given off by everything in the known univers. This energy takes many forms: lighting, or electrostatic energy, radio waves, heat or thermal energy, even light. Electromagnetic field meters allow for the measurement of these invisible fields over various frequency rangers. Research in the field of parapsychology has indicated that certain areas within allegedly haunted locations, specifically areas where paranormal activity has been experienced, possess levels of electromagnetic radiation higher then the background average. Other data suggests that sources of high electromagnetic fields, generated by power lines or appliances, for example, may be the cause of many paranormal experiences due to their physiological and psychological affects on people. Research suggests that high levels of electromagnetic radiation stimulate portions of the brain that can induce the perception of a supernatural experience. Sensitivity to electromagnetic radiation varies from individual, those with electromagnetic hypersensitivity, may experience, nausea, dizziness, skin irritation, head aches, paranoia, the sensation of being watched and even hallucinations.

C.P.I.'s EMF meters cover a wide frequency range including: radio waves, VLF (very low frequency), ELF (extra low frequency) as well as devices capable of measuring the magnetic fields around living beings, the planet's geomagnetic field and static electricity. Crypto's electromagnetic survey procedures are carried out with 3-axis, digital, EMF meters capable of differentiating between ELF and VLF fields. Crypto is currently researching if electromagnetic and other environmental conditions are consistently affected when people have a paranormal experience or an anomaly is captured on video, audio or film.

Models used: Digital AC Gauss Meter, Trifield Meter 100Ex, Trifield Natural EM Meter, Cell sensor, 3-Axis Digital AC EMF Meter, 3-Axis Digital ELF and VLF EMF Meter.

Microwave Radiation Detector and Geiger Counters

Microwave radiation detectors and Geiger counters are used like electromagnetic field meters to detect sources of invisible energy in the environment and study a different portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Microwave detectors, as the name suggests, measure levels of microwave radiation, the type given off by microwave ovens, certain wireless devices and perhaps paranormal phenomenon as well. Geiger counters are designed to detect radioactive emissions of different types: Alpha, Beta, and Gamma. Unexplained radioactive or microwave fields are thought by some investigators to indicate the presense of supernatural activity. The presence of high levels of of either such radiation have adverse and damaging effects on individuals who have close or extended exposure to them and in some cases could account for their experiences. Crypto is currently researching if microwave, alpha or gamma radiation levels and other environmental conditions are consistently affected when people have a paranormal experience or an anomaly is captured on video, audio or film.

Models used: Digital Microwave detector, Victorian 717 Geiger Counter, Digital Data-Logging Geiger Counter.

Thermometers, Hygrometers and Barometers

Unexplained atmospheric changes, such as drops or in some cases increases in temperature, have long been associated with ghosts and supernatural experiences. Digital thermometers allow researchers to detect and study any change in ambient air temperature or with infrared thermometers, the surface temperature of any object. In addition, barometers are used to monitor the barometric or air pressure while hygrometers measure the atmospheric moisture levels, some paranormal researchers believe humidity must be low in order for paranormal activity to manifest. Crypto is currently researching if environmental conditions are consistently affected when people have a paranormal experience or an anomaly is captured on video, audio or film.

Models used: PYLE Environmental Meter, Wireless 4-zone Thermometer, 1310 Digital Thermometer, Mini Hygrometer, Wireless 2-zone Thermometer, Digital Local Remote Thermometer, Extech Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer.

Still Cameras

Since the earliest days of modern paranormal research, people have been using still cameras to capture supposed evidence of ghosts on film. From orbs and mists, to shadow figures and full boded apparitions, many paranormal phenomenon are visual and or photographic in nature. That being said, most early examples of spirit photography have been proven to be frauds, the trend continues today, the internet is littered with faked ghost photographs and other images that are simply a result of dust, lens flairs, a shaking camera or poor image quality. The smartphone era gave rise to apps which superimpose a variety of ghostly images onto photos and videos as a gag.

Standard 35mm cameras are still in use to an extent today, however, many investigators prefer to use digital as it provides instant feedback and increased sensitivity to the near infrared light spectrum, believed by some, to be the spectrum in which supernatural phenomenon exist. Polaroid cameras provide an interesting alternative due to some models ultrasonic (radar), range-finder technology.

Crypto utilizes still photography in numerous ways, from documenting locations and

investigations experiments, to attempting to capture anomalies on film.

Models used: Sony a7iii (digital mirrorless), Nikon FA (35mm), Minolta XG-1 (35mm).

Camcorders

Video cameras, both standard and specialized, facilitate numerous functions on investigations from recording interviews and research procedures to documenting unexplained phenomenon and personal experiences. Since they became readily available to consumers, users have recorded all sorts of strange and in some cases unidentified anomalies. Unexplained lights, mists and fogs, the movment of objects, sounds and voices and even figures have all been captured with video equipment, the interpretation of these findings, however, remains a subject of debate. Crypto investigators utilize a range of video units capable of recording in standard light or with night-vision in the near infrared spectrum, granting researchers the ability of perceiving the environment in an alternative light spectrum.

Models used: x7 Sony HDR-sr 10 HD-camcorders w/ Night-vision, x 4 Sony DCR-SR 30 HDD cams,

x4 Sony Mini DV Camcorders w/ Night-vision, x2 Sony NEX Fs100u HD Super 35mm Camera, Panasonic Ag-dvc30 (3ccd pro camera w/night-vision), Sony professional HI8 Camcorder w/ Night-vision,Gopro Hero 2, x 4 Gopro Hero 3 (black edition).

Full Spectrum Camera

Unlike standard or infrared cameras, full spectrum cameras are designed to see near infrared, near ultraviolet, and the visible light spectrum simultaneously. Multi-spectrum imaging is extremely import to paranormal researchers as human eyes cannot perceive near IR or UV light, but with full spectrum technology, investigators can see more of what is going on around them in the environment and study a broader portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. By using Full Spectrum imaging in tandem with other imaging devices, perceiving different portions of the Electromagnetic Spectrum, Crypto hopes to determine if paranormal manifestations occur with consistently within a particular specific spectrum. C.P.I. utilizes a custom modified 12 mega pixel camera/camcorder combo used in tandem with a external multi spectrum light source.

Thermal Imaging Cameras

Thermal imaging cameras are one of the most sought after tools by paranormal investigators. These sensors do not detect light, however, utilize technologies similar to a non-contact infrared thermometer to produce a false color image of the surface temperature of solid objects and in some cases even gases. Currently, thermal cameras, are being explored as a possible new means by which to document supernatural activity, however, can also be used to detect pipes in walls, vents, nesting animals, moisture damage and other natural phenomenon that are often mistaken for and may account for paranormal experiences.

Models used: x2 FLIR-b2(video/still), FlIR bx-320 (video/still), FLIR i5(still).

Digital CCTV Monitoring Systems

CCTV or closed circuit television systems are special devices that allow for constant video recording and live monitoring of multiple cameras placed remotely throughout a location. Unlike standard video cameras CCTV systems do not require you to changes tapes but instead records all footage to an internal hard drive while simultaneously displaying the live feed from connected cameras. Crypto's CCTV and DVR systems are each paired with Hi definition, reflective infrared, night-vision capable cameras. Night vision CCTV surveillance cameras connect directly to the digital video recording system or DVR. Crypto utilizes high-definition 0-Lux waterproof cameras equipped with infrared lights which allow the cameras to film targets over 100' away in complete darkness.

DVR SYSTEMS:

Models used: Swann 8 Channel HD 500GB DVR System, Swann 4-channel 500 BG DVR System, .

CAMERAS:

Models used: x8 HD 55mm infrared cameras, x8 24mm HD infrared cameras, x4 Sony long-range infrared cameras, x4 SVAT wide-angle infrared cameras.

Night Vision Goggles

Night vision goggles or NVGs grant paranormal investigators a means to see in the dark without the need of a flashlight or night vision camera. NVGs utilize reflective infrared technology which grants the user the ability to see in the dark by viewing the near to mid infrared spectrum, a spectrum of light invisible to the naked eye. Night vision tools allow researchers to observe an area while preserving the darkness and natural lighting conditions of dim environments.

Models used: Yukon generation-2 goggles.

Audio Recorders and Sound Level Meter

Audio recorders have been a key piece of paranormal research equipment for years. Both digital and tape recorder are used by paranormal investigators to record notes, interviews and document auditory phenomenon such as EVP or electronic voice phenomenon. Unexplained sounds, disembodied voices and footsteps are all common paranormal claims as well and investigators utilize sound gear to attempt to document such phenomenon during field investigations. Sound level meters are used to monitor ambient noise levels in an area and spectrum analyzer software and apps provide investigators a real time, recorded account of local ambient radio frequencies.

Models used: Zoom H4n, Zoom 2, x2 zoom1 recorders, Tascam dr-07 digital sereo recorder, x4 Sony tape recorders w/ voice activation, Panasonic professional full sized cassette recorder, Sony digital voice recorder.

SOUND LEVEL METERS/Software and Apps: 40Hz-240Hz digital sound level sensor with output, PYLE environmental sensor with sound level meter, Audacity (digital audio editing software), WavePad (audio editing software), SpectrumView Analyzer (realtime auditory spectrum analysis app by Oxford Wave Research)

Parabolic Audio Enhancer

High sensitivity microphones or parabolic audio enhancers are used to detect sounds far to high for the human ear to perceive. Parabolic microphones also have the added ability to help pinpoint the source and direction that a sound or voice comes from. One of the greatest advantages when using high quality microphones is that it allows researchers to obtain a much higher quality recording then using a built in or factory grade microphone, which can later be further enhanced, filtered or changed in speed.

Models used: Bionic Ear and booster by Sliver Creek Industries.

Motion Sensors

Motion sensors are an extremely useful tool in paranormal research, they can be used to detect the movement of people, objects and even unseen presences. Crypto investigators will lock off a room or area, monitored by motion sensors and other technologies, to alert them to the presence of people or any moving object with mass and a heat signature.

Models used: x4 P.I.R. (passive infrared) motion sensors.

MORE GEAR:

DJI Drone: DJI Phantom drone with gyrostabilized 2.4K hi definition camera. Used to collect areal video and stills of locations for visual aid as well as area mapping on wilderness expeditions.

Stroboscopic, Infrared and Ultraviolet lighting: Used in experimental imaging and low light observation procedures.

Laser-grid system: A laser projector, used with cameras or while observing an area, to detect and map the movement of objects or people.

Carbon Monoxide detector: For detecting and ruling out Co2 immersions in buildings. Symptoms of Co2 poisoning are often hard to identify in early stages and have been known to account for some paranormal experiences.

Luminol: A chemical agent for detecting the presence of blood stains.

IR Trail Cams: Motion activated cameras capable of recording video and stills of any target that trips the motion sensor. C.P.I.'s trail cameras are night vision capable and use passive infrared technology to detect the presence of any warm body such as humans or animals. Trail cameras are small and painted in woodland camo for easy concealment in the field.

Wilderness expedition gear: Tents, backpacks, water filtration, first-aid, bear spray.

Imac Computers, tablets and smartphones with video, audio and photographic capture and editing software .

Software used: Final Cut Pro, Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Motion, Adobi After Effects, Lightroom, FLIR Tools, WavePad, Audacity (for analysis and enhancement of video, audio or photographic evidence).