Camera trap accessories - Frequently asked questions

How does the solar panel work?

The solar panel requires full sun to charge effectively.

Our own measurements of cameras' power usage suggest the solar panel should power a camera trap for approximately 7 days in the absence of charging - although this will vary depending on how often the camera is triggered and what the camera does when triggered. Lighting the camera flash for a fraction of a second to take a photo will consume less power than lighting the camera flash for 15 second to film video. The camera will consume more power again if it is also sending data via a mobile network.

The solar panels can be charged via USB - ie. back in the office or at home. The smaller port on the panel is a standard USB charging port while the larger port is used for connecting the panel to the camera.

A solar panel should be charged by USB for 12 hours prior to first use - this will ensure the panel's internal battery is fully charged when deployed.

Will a solar panel charge batteries if the camera has batteries installed?

No. The solar panel will not charge batteries in the camera.

If I use a solar panel together with batteries, will the camera use the batteries or the solar panel?

The camera will use whichever has the highest voltage charge.