There are numerous tools used by Requiem Paranormal Investigations. Below we have a few examples of equipment we use during investigations to document and record possible claims of paranormal activity. Please keep in mind we are always changing our arsenal of equipment in order to achieve the best possible results during a scientific investigation. These new pieces of equipment will be posted up soon.
The digital audio recorder is one of the most important tools used by Requiem Paranormal Investigations. The digital audio recorder is utilized for capturing EVP or Electronic Voice Phenomenon, which is basically voices or noises found imprinted on audio recordings that where not heard during the time of recording. This is one of the most common forms of evidence recovered from a investigation. EVP generally occurs in a set frequency range out of the human hearing spectrum and is usually found during the review of evidence. For more information on EVP please see the Theories page!
The hand held camera is the next most often used item in the paranormal field. Visual evidence is not a common occurrence during investigations. During a investigation, camera placement is important in order to be focused on the right spot at the right time in order to capture evidence on video. Pictured above is example of the three most common types of cameras used by Requiem Paranormal Investigations, they are (in order from top) HI8, Mini DV and HDD. Another important feature is for the camera to be able to utilize IR illumination and be able to film within that spectrum of light. This is also known as “night vision”. The most commonly used brand of camera by Requiem Paranormal Investigations is the Sony Camcorder with Night Shot.
One of the most useful pieces of equipment is the IR DVR Camera. When using these cameras combined with a DVR system, it allows investigators to record and monitor multiple areas at a location at the same time. Usually these cameras are placed on tri-pods throughout a location and are fed into a DVR system for recording. The specific cameras used by Requiem Paranormal Investigations are a Sony 12mm camera inside a aluminum housing, with 84 IR LEDs. These cameras have a capability of operating under zero light conditions and have a range of 180 feet of IR illumination.
This is the other important part of the DVR system. It allows investigators to view what the cameras are recording in realtime and take notes of possible activity. It also allows us to review the evidence on the system after the investigation, and share our findings with the team members and for our records. The specific system Requiem Paranormal Investigations uses has the capability to run 8 different cameras at the same time. We will set up a mobile command center and run all the cameras to this system.
There is a theory in the paranormal field that entities will give off a EMF (Electro Magnetic Field) while either trying to manifest itself or try to communicate in some way. So a lot of investigators will use EMF meters to measure the level of EMF that may or may not be given off. There are many different meters out on the market that are available to use, the most common is the EMF field meter and the KII meter. Both are very useful tools, but hold very little value in validating claims of activity. Requiem Paranormal Investigations uses both the EMF field meter and the KII to debunk claims of activity. High EMF can cause harmful effects on the human body, the environment, and produce false positives. For more information on EMF, visit the Theories page.
Another theory in the paranormal is temperature fluctuation during a investigation. A theory exists that when a entity will try to manifest itself or try to communicate in some way, it will draw energy from surrounding area. Thus, producing a cold pocket of air. Unfortunately this does not authenticate any existence of paranormal activity, and is merely a theory. We use this Dual temperature digital thermometer to help debunk some of those cold pocket claims.
The geophone is a new piece of equipment we have utlized in the research of the paranormal. A geophone is a device which converts ground movement (displacement) into voltage, which may be recorded to help measure and document paranormal movement and activity. The deviation of this measured voltage from the base line is called the seismic response and is analyzed for possible explanations for paranormal activity. Requiem Paranormal uses custom build geophones to help with the investigation process. Examples of documented activity is: footsteps, taps, bangs, movement of objects and debunking claims.
The laptop is probably one of the most versatile pieces of equipment. They can be used for so many different applications ranging from wireless audio, live web casts, and evidence review. Investigators use these to review audio, video, as well as evidence review to a client. Requiem Paranormal Investigations uses many different brands of laptops ranging from Alienware, Toshiba, and Sony. They truly are the handiest pieces of equipment we have.
Although still photography is useful in a lot of cases, the evidence is easily tampered with, and is difficult to rely on to produce strong evidence in the field. Requiem Paranormal Investigations uses still photography more as a documentation tool rather then a evidential tool. Locations can be documented thoroughly and can give the investigators a better understanding of how the location is laid out, as well as positions for equipment.