PixController - Automated Camera Control Systems

PixController "Completed Unit" Outdoor Setup Tips

1.	When setting up your completed trail camera unit remove any twigs, brush, or tall grass within about 10 to 15 feet in front of the *PixController board. This may interfere with the Pix*Controller PIR sensor and the ability to detect animals. This will also help you see your subjects better in front of the camera. The flash will also wash out anything that is directly in front of the camera like a leaf or twig.
2.	Never place your *PixController board pointing towards the sun rising or the sun setting (east or west). The sun can cause the PIR on the Pix*Controller board to take false photos. Pointing your system facing north is the ideal setup.
3.	Never attach your completed controller to tree that can move in the wind. Attach your controller to a firm tree or pole for best results. This can set off the camera system. If you don't have a large tree in the area you can mount your unit to a metal or wooden stake. If you are mounting your *Pix*Controller unit to a tree, make sure you mount the camera to a tree that is at least 7 to 8 inches in diameter so that the wind will not sway the tree trunk and set off the camera. Mount the unit 2 1/2 to 3 feet off of the ground for best results.
4.	The PIR sensor detects the difference between the air temperature and the animals body heat temperature. In colder temperatures the detection distance is much greater. However, in air temperatures above 85 deg. F the detection distance can be cut by more than 20 feet. Under air temperatures around 70 deg. F your PIR detection range should be about 80 feet. During the summer months it is best to place your *Pix*Controller in shaded areas.
5.	Using deer scents in front of your camera system can improve your chances to capture photos, and it will keep the animal in the area longer. Making mock scrapes in the fall time is an excellent way to bring many does and bucks in for a closer look. Putting deer scent in the trail to get the deer to stop and investigate works well with trial camera systems. If you want better photos of the racks on bucks, put the scent up on a limb to get the buck to show off his rack better. If you're after varmints like bobcats or foxes, tie a feather onto a limb with some string so it will flutter in the breeze.
6.	If you want to capture photos of predator animals such as coyotes, foxes, or bobcats the use of predator urine, baits, and feathers works well.
7.	If you plan to place your setup in front of a feeder try to not place it directly in front of the feeder. Place your unit on the trails leading up to the feeder. The constant flash going off at night can disturb animals feeding. Also, you won't get that ugly feeder in the background of all of photos!
8.	When checking your camera system, bring along a spare media card (for digital systems) or film (for 35mm systems) and batteries. This way you can swap media cards/film and batteries (if needed), and keep your camera system out in the woods longer. We recommend the use of NiMH rechargeable batteries. They will last up to 4 times longer than standard batteries, and you will save money too on buying batteries.
9.	It is recommended that you use the Master LockÒ Pythonä Cable to lock your completed *Pix*Controller unit. It is always better to be safe than sorry, and protect your investment!