- Equipment -
Computers
Why use them for paranormal research?
Laptops
are a wonderful way to analyse and record data almost instantly.
Although it is still an expensive item to have - prices are
continually coming down. However, they are very useful for
studying photographs and video evidence on site as a laptop
will allow you to download images instantly for immediate
presentation and analysis. Also if they are coupled to other
devices they can be used for a multitude of purposes; which
can include video and sound analysis, statistical variations
in temperature / humidity / etc. However be warned the charge
can drain as quickly as batteries in other equipment.
Also if you have a web cam, a laptop can be tailored as another
video camera or even for showing images to a wider audience!
The use of laptops on a paranormal investigation will depend
on the type of software you have installed. While not an essential
piece of equipment it is also perhaps the most useful for
instantaneous analysis – if you wish to do that!
Sensors
Once again, depending on what software
you have, a computer can be set up for a wide variety of uses
and to collate a continual record of statistics for such things
as the variant levels of temperatures, humidity, light, vibrations
and sound at a number of different locations around the paranormal
investigation site. With the right equipment you can also
remove the need for the investigator to be present at all
times and so ensure they do not influence results by their
presence in the area.
You can connect up your computer to a number of relevant sensors,
with an interface circuit and some data logging software (e.g.
Picolog data acquisition / data logging software).
Can Computers be used to prove
the existence of ghosts or the paranormal?
By using some of the equipment already
mentioned computers can be very effective devices for an objective
and scientific approach. However, there is still no modern
technology known to man today, that can yet prove the existence
of a ghost! Nevertheless, computers are the way forward for
the dedicated researcher looking for undeniable evidence.
Ultimately though, if any "ghost" doesn't wish to assist and
be present for your equipment (and some believe that modern
technology might just put off your friendly neighbourhood
spirit presence!) then no amount of equipment will help you!
Even at the most paranormally active location; nothing can
often happen when equipment is set up. Computers, like other
electrical equipment can be prone to malfunction in "haunted"
locations! It is becoming apparent that there may feasibly
be a strong link between the paranormal and malfunctions relating
to equipment!