Spectre Detectors
Here’s a round-up of what a ghost hunter needs in their kit: the gadgets … and why you need them!
These days everyone is talking about the science of looking for ghosts, and yes, investigation is a science!
Although the evidence for hauntings from mediums is often nothing short of astounding, we need to be able to measure what is happening. Why? Well for one, the scientific community will never accept that Spirit exists unless we prove it with hard, scientific measurements and evidence – and rightly so. Two, we need it for us, too! It is easy to become convinced of paranormal activity when there is, in fact, a rational explanation. Back up your conviction with scientific readings, and you may be part way to proving what you saw. The best thing about this investigation kit is that you don’t need a degree in science to operate or understand it. Neither do you need a small mortgage to buy it. It is not definitive, but it's a good start! So what’s in your kit?
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The Electro-Magnetic Frequency Meter (EMF or Gauss Meter) |

Made famous by its appearance on Most Haunted, the EMF meter is a staple in most investigator’s’ toolboxes. It is affordable and easy to use.
What it is?
An EMF meter measures the changes in frequency of electromagnetic fields (hence E.M.F.).
What does it do?
An EMF meter can detect either magnetic, electric or both types of field together. It can tell you if there are electric cables in the vicinity, it can also tell you if the natural EMF in the surroundings is fluctuating.
What doesn’t it do?
A common misconception is that EMF meters can tell you if a ghost is present. They can’t.
Why use it?
It is believed that spirits use electricity in its various forms as an energy source, to help manifestation or spirit communication. Therefore, if there is an inexplicable fluctuation in the EMF reading, you may experience paranormal phenomena.
How to use it
Be sure you are working on the correct scale. Always use up and down, or right and left movements – do not wave wildly!

What is it?
An EVP is not a piece of equipment, but a technique of recording ‘spirit voices’. EVP means Electronic Voice Phenomena.
What does it do?
If the recording is done correctly, the equipment may pick up low-level voices that could not be heard when the recording was made … Spirit (allegedly!)
What doesn’t it do?
Prove ghosts exist. It can provide ‘evidence’, though.
Why make an EVP?
Voices on the recording that match other anomalies will support your evidence … and scare you stupid!
How to do an EVP
Leave recording equipment overnight in a room that is locked, then check on it later. Or, make a recording asking ‘thin air’ a series of question, hoping that Spirit will answer in the gaps between questions.
What is it?

Geomagnetometers are highly-sensitive variations of EMF meters.
What does it do?
Geomagnetometers measure the earth’s magnetic field or detect magnetic fields from a distance.
What doesn’t it do?
Detect ghosts.
Why use it?
Paranormal activity often centres on changing geomagnetic fields.
How to use it
As with EMF meters.
What is it?
Negative ion detectors detect (wait for it) negative ions.
What does it do?
Detects fluctuations in the amount of negative ions in the atmosphere.
What doesn’t it do?
Detect ghosts (notice the recurring theme)
Why use it?
It is believed that ghosts are in some way associated with an excess of negative ions.
How to use it
Be aware that meters without a scale can be set off with static electricity – so don’t brush your hair before use!
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Infra Red / Zero Lux / Night Shot vision Camera / Camcorder |

What is it?
A popular piece of kit for visual evidence is a camera or camcorder that has the ability to shoot pictures in the pitch black.
What does it do?In fact, there isn’t really such a thing as pitch black, there is usually some light (even if only a little) in most places, and it is this that a Zero Lux camera will use to make its image. Whatever variation of night shot you use, the picture is usually black and greeny-white. It is worth remembering this: it is possible for a night shot camera to change the colour of the clothing you’re wearing and sometimes make clothes see-through. Bear this in mind when you choose what you wear – or suffer the consequences (as I have done in the past!).
What doesn’t it do?
Allow you complete freedom to wear what you want!
Why use it?
You are more likely to get ‘evidence’ on this kit than possibly anything else. A picture speaks a thousand words!
How to use it When choosing a night shot, it is important to get the highest definition that you can afford. Try to keep a steady hand, avoid areas where there may be reflection.
What is it?
A digital thermometer detects temperatures in Fahrenheit or Celsius.
What does it do?
It accurately measures temperature, even in hard-to-reach places!
What doesn't it do?
Tell you what is causing a heat flucutation. If you have a huge change in temperature between one reading and another, look for practical reasons why before you assume "ghost"!
Why Use it?
In theory when a spirit / ghost starts to manifest, it will draw any energy around the area. In this case it takes in heat energy in the air, causing a cold spot. In some cases a hot spot may form.
How to Use it
The first thing you want to do is make sure the thermometer is set to the scale you wish to use. Unravel the cord and probe to give you a more accurate reading. Take a base reading to compare to your other readings later on. During the investigation, walk around and look for any differences in temperature. When the investigation is complete write down your temperature reading in the field report.
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