How to Make Your Own Ghost-Hunting Equipment: Best Tips for Budget Gear

In the realm of paranormal investigation, the right equipment is paramount. Yet, the cost of professional-grade tools can often be prohibitive. 

This guide, however, illuminates a different path. By harnessing the power of ingenuity and resourcefulness, it’s entirely possible to construct a DIY ghost-hunting kit that’s both budget-friendly and effective. 

Whether you’re an experienced investigator or a novice eager to explore the spectral world, crafting your own ghost-hunting equipment can enhance your investigative prowess while fostering a deeper understanding of the technology used in this field. 

This comprehensive guide will provide you with practical steps to create your own ghost-hunting gadgets, offering valuable tips for assembling budget gear without compromising on quality.

Understanding Ghost-Hunting Equipment

Ghost-hunting is a field that combines elements of science, technology, and the supernatural. The equipment used in this pursuit is designed to detect and record phenomena that are typically beyond the range of normal human perception. 

Each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in a ghost hunt, providing different ways to detect and document potential paranormal activity. The EMF meter and thermometer can provide quantitative data, such as electromagnetic field strength or temperature readings. 

In contrast, the EVP recorder, infrared camera, laser grid, and spirit box can provide qualitative data, such as audio recordings, images, or video footage.

Recommended read: What is a Spirit Box? A Comprehensive Guide

Let’s look at some of the most common types of ghost-hunting equipment and their roles in a paranormal investigation.

EMF Meters

Electromagnetic Field (EMF) meters are among the most essential tools in a ghost hunter’s arsenal. These devices measure fluctuations in electromagnetic fields, which some believe are a sign of paranormal activity. 

The theory is that ghosts and other entities can manipulate these fields, causing noticeable spikes on the meter. EMF meters can detect these changes, providing investigators with potential evidence of a spectral presence.

EVP Recorders

Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) recorders are used to capture sounds and voices that are not audible to the human ear. These devices can pick up frequencies beyond our hearing range, often resulting in recordings of unexplained voices or sounds. 

Many ghost hunters use EVP recorders to communicate with entities, asking questions and waiting for a response that can be analyzed later.

Infrared Cameras

Infrared cameras capture images and videos in low light or complete darkness, conditions often associated with ghost-hunting. 

These cameras can detect infrared light, which is not visible to the naked eye, allowing investigators to see potential paranormal activity that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Laser Grids

Laser grid pens project a grid of dots onto a surface, creating a field of light that can help detect movement. If an entity moves within the grid, the dots will be disturbed, providing visual evidence of the activity. 

This tool is handy in detecting shadow figures or other subtle visual anomalies.

Thermometers

Paranormal entities are often associated with sudden temperature drops. Thermometers, particularly infrared thermometers that can take spot readings, are used to detect these paranormal cold spots as potential signs of a ghostly presence.

Spirit Boxes

Spirit boxes, also known as ghost boxes or Frank’s boxes, rapidly scan through radio frequencies. The theory is that spirits can manipulate this white noise to form words or sentences, allowing for real-time communication with the other side.

Read more on how to find the best spirit box.

DIY Ghost-Hunting Equipment

While numerous professional tools are available for ghost-hunting, creating your own equipment can be a rewarding and cost-effective alternative. 

Related: Cheap Ghost-Hunting Equipment: Your Guide to Affordable Paranormal Tools and Accessories

Here, we’ll guide you through making your own EMF Meter, converting a regular camera into an infrared one, creating an EVP recorder, and setting up a laser grid for ghost-hunting.

DIY EMF Meter

Creating your Electromagnetic Field (EMF) meter can be exciting and educational. Not only does it provide a hands-on experience with electronics, but it also gives you a deeper understanding of the tools used in ghost-hunting. 

Here’s an expanded step-by-step guide to creating your own EMF meter:

1) Materials

The first step in creating your EMF meter is gathering the necessary materials. 

You’ll need:

1. Arduino: This popular microcontroller board is easy to use and perfect for beginners. It’s the brain of your EMF meter.
2. Magnetic Field Sensor: The HMC5883L is a good choice. It’s a three-axis digital compass capable of measuring magnetic fields and detecting changes in those fields.
3. Breadboard: This is a device for prototyping electronic circuits. It allows you to connect components together without needing to solder them.
4. Jumper Wires: These are used to connect the components together on the breadboard.
5. LED Light: This will serve as an indicator, lighting up when the magnetic field strength exceeds a certain threshold.

2) Assembly

The assembly process involves connecting the sensor to the Arduino using the jumper wires. 

Here’s how to do it:

1. Connect the VCC pin on the sensor to the 5V pin on the Arduino: This provides power to the sensor.
2. Connect the GND (ground) pin on the sensor to the GND pin on the Arduino: This completes the circuit, allowing electricity to flow.
3. Connect the SDA (data) pin on the sensor to the A4 pin on the Arduino: This allows the sensor to send data to the Arduino.
4. Connect the SCL (clock) pin on the sensor to the A5 pin on the Arduino: This controls the data transmission timing.

3) Programming

Once the assembly is complete, you’ll need to program the Arduino to read the data from the sensor and light up the LED when the magnetic field strength exceeds a certain threshold. 

Here’s a basic outline of how to do this:

1. Install the Arduino Software: You’ll need the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) to write and upload the code to your Arduino. You can download it for free from the Arduino website.
2. Write the Code: The code needs to do three things: initialize the sensor, read the data from the sensor, and turn on the LED if the magnetic field strength is above a certain level. Many tutorials and code examples are available online to help with this step.
3. Upload the Code: Once you’ve written the code, you’ll need to upload it to the Arduino. Connect the Arduino to your computer using a USB cable, select the correct board and port in the Arduino IDE, and click the “Upload” button.

4) Testing

Once everything is assembled and programmed, you can test your DIY EMF meter. 

When you bring a magnet close to the sensor, the LED should light up. This is because the magnet creates a strong magnetic field, which the sensor detects and sends a signal to the Arduino to light up the LED.

Remember, safety should always be your first priority when working with electronics. 

Always double-check your connections before powering up the circuit, and never touch the circuit while it’s powered. With patience and practice, you’ll have your own DIY EMF meter in no time.

How to Convert a Regular Camera into an Infrared Camera for Ghost-Hunting

Infrared photography can open up a whole new world of imaging, revealing invisible things to the naked eye. 

It’s handy in ghost-hunting, where it can help capture images in low light or complete darkness. However, infrared cameras can be costly. 

Fortunately, with a bit of patience and technical know-how, you can convert a regular digital camera into an infrared one. Here’s a more detailed guide on how to do it.

1) Materials

Before you start, make sure you have the following materials:

1. A digital camera: Any digital camera with a removable lens should work. However, an older model is recommended as you won’t risk damaging your primary camera. You can also purchase a cheap digital camera and start from there.
2. A screwdriver set: You’ll need this to disassemble and reassemble the camera.
3. An infrared (IR) filter: This can be purchased online. Make sure to get the right size for your camera’s sensor.
4. A clean, well-lit workspace: You’ll be dealing with small, delicate parts, so it’s essential to have a clean, well-lit area.

2) Disassembly

The first step is to carefully disassemble the camera. This process will vary depending on the camera model, so looking up a guide specific to your camera may be helpful. 

Generally, you’ll start by removing the outer casing, the lens, and the sensor assembly. Be sure to keep track of all screws and parts, and handle everything carefully to avoid damage.

3) Removal of the IR Block Filter

Most digital cameras have an IR block filter over the sensor to prevent infrared light from affecting regular photos. 

Once you’ve exposed the sensor, you’ll need to remove this filter. It’s usually a piece of glass or plastic that sits directly over the sensor. 

Be careful during this step, as the sensor is very delicate.

4) Installation of the Infrared Filter

After removing the IR block filter, you’ll install the infrared filter in its place. The filter should fit over the sensor. You may need to cut it down to size if it’s too big. If it’s too small, you can use a non-conductive material like plastic or paper to hold it in place.

5) Reassembly

Once the infrared filter is installed, you can reassemble the camera. This should be done in reverse order of disassembly. Be sure to replace all screws and parts in their original locations.

6) Testing

Now it’s time to test your converted camera. The camera should now be able to capture images in the infrared spectrum. 

A simple test involves photographing a TV remote while pressing a button. The camera should capture the infrared light emitted by the remote, which will appear as a bright light in the photo.

On the same topic: Ghost-Hunting Equipment for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide

Remember, converting a camera to infrared is a permanent modification, and the camera will no longer be able to take regular photos without further modifications. 

However, capturing the unseen world of infrared light can be a valuable tool in your ghost-hunting arsenal.

DIY EVP Recorder

Creating an Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) recorder is a fascinating project that can significantly enhance your ghost-hunting experiences. 

While most digital voice recorders can capture EVPs, there are ways to improve the quality and clarity of your recordings. 

Here’s an expanded guide on how to create and use an EVP recorder effectively:

1) Materials

To start, you’ll need a digital voice recorder. This doesn’t have to be an expensive model; even a basic one will do. However, look for a recorder with a high-quality microphone, a good signal-to-noise ratio, and the ability to transfer files to a computer for analysis.

Sony ICD-PX370 Mono Digital Voice Recorder with Built-In USB Voice Recorder, Aiworth 72GB Digital Voice Recorder Voice Activated Recorder, or the GStore 48GB Digital Voice Recorder are excellent choices.

Next, you’ll need an external microphone. This can help improve your recordings’ quality by reducing internal noise from the recorder itself. A directional microphone can be instrumental as it allows you to focus on sounds coming from a specific direction.

Finally, you’ll need audio editing software. Many free options are available, such as Audacity, which offers a range of tools for analyzing and enhancing your recordings.

2) Setting Up Your EVP Recorder

First, connect the external microphone to your recorder. Test it to ensure it works correctly and that the recorder picks up sound from the microphone. You may need to adjust the recorder’s input settings for the best results.

Next, set the recorder to the highest quality recording setting. This will use more memory but result in clearer, more detailed recordings that are easier to analyze.

3) Conducting an EVP Session

When conducting an EVP session, creating the right conditions is important. 

Choose a quiet location and eliminate as much background noise as possible. This includes turning off any unnecessary electronics that can create electromagnetic interference.

Start by introducing yourself and explaining your intentions. This can help to create a positive atmosphere and may encourage any entities present to communicate.

Ask clear and concise questions, leaving a gap of around 20 seconds after each question to allow potential responses to be captured. Speak in a normal tone of voice and avoid whispering, as this can be mistaken for an EVP during analysis.

DIY Laser Grid for Ghost-Hunting

A laser grid is an invaluable tool for ghost-hunting, providing a visual method for detecting movement and visual anomalies during an investigation. 

The concept is simple: a grid of light is projected onto a surface, and any grid disturbance could indicate paranormal activity. 

Here’s a more detailed guide on how to build and use a laser grid for ghost-hunting:

1) Materials

To create a laser grid, you’ll need the following items:

1. Laser Pointer: A standard laser pointer will work, but consider using a green laser pointer for best results. The green light has a wavelength that is more easily detected by cameras, making it ideal for capturing potential evidence. My favorite green light laser pointer is, by far, IVVTRYI Green Laser Pointer Long Range High Power Tactical Green Beam.
2. Tripod: A tripod will hold the laser pointer steady, ensuring a consistent grid pattern. Any stable, flat surface can work as a substitute if you don’t have a tripod.
3. Cardboard: A piece of cardboard will create the grid pattern. The size of the cardboard will depend on the size of the grid you want to project.
4. Craft Knife: A craft knife will be used to cut the grid pattern into the cardboard.

2) Creating the Grid

Creating the grid is a straightforward process, but it requires precision:

1. Design: Draw a grid pattern on the cardboard using a ruler and a marker. The size of the squares will depend on your preference, but a 1-inch by 1-inch grid is a good starting point.
2. Cutting: Using the craft knife, carefully cut out the squares to create the grid pattern. Remember to place a cutting mat or another protective layer under the cardboard to protect your work surface.
3. Attachment: Attach the cardboard to the laser pointer. You can use rubber bands or tape to secure it. Ensure the laser shines through the grid pattern when turned on.

3) Setup

Setting up the laser grid involves finding the right location and positioning the laser pointer correctly:

1. Location: Choose a location where you suspect paranormal activity. This could be a specific room or a particular area within a room.
2. Positioning: Mount the laser pointer on the tripod and position it so the grid pattern is projected onto the area you want to observe. The distance between the laser pointer and the surface will affect the grid size. Experiment with different distances to find what works best for your investigation.

4) Observation

Observing the laser grid is where patience and attention to detail come into play:

1. Monitoring: Watch the grid pattern for any disturbances. This could be a dot disappearing, a line wavering, or a general distortion in the grid.
2. Recording: Consider recording the grid with a video camera. This allows you to review the footage later and also provides potential evidence of paranormal activity.
3. Interpretation: Any disturbance in the grid should be noted but not immediately considered paranormal. Always look for rational explanations first, such as drafts, insects, or other natural causes.

Creating a laser grid for ghost-hunting can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Not only does it provide a visual method for detecting potential paranormal activity, but it also allows you to engage with the investigation in a hands-on way.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Make Your Own Ghost-Hunting Equipment

Ghost-hunting can be an expensive hobby, especially when it comes to purchasing equipment. However, with some creativity and resourcefulness, you can make your own ghost-hunting gear without breaking the bank. 

Here are some tips and tricks for creating budget-friendly ghost-hunting equipment:

Repurposing Common Household Items

Many everyday household items can be repurposed for ghost-hunting. Here are a few ideas:

1. Baby Monitors: Baby monitors can be used as a simple surveillance system during ghost hunts. They can pick up sounds from other rooms and even capture EVPs. Look for monitors with a high-frequency range for the best results.
2. Flashlights: A simple flashlight can be a crucial tool during a ghost hunt. Some investigators even use flashlights for communication, asking spirits to turn the light on or off in response to questions.
3. Mirrors: Mirrors can be used for scrying, an ancient divination technique. Some believe that spirits can communicate through images seen in the mirror.
4. Talcum Powder: Sprinkling talcum powder on the floor can help detect physical movement. An entity moving across the powder may leave footprints or other disturbances.
5. String and Bells: A simple string with bells can be used as a tripwire to detect physical movement. If an entity moves through the string, the bells will ring.

Affordable Materials for DIY Ghost-Hunting Equipment

There are many places where you can find affordable materials for your DIY ghost-hunting equipment:

1. Thrift Stores and Yard Sales: These are great places to find used electronics that can be repurposed for ghost-hunting. Old radios, for example, can be modified into spirit boxes.
2. Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Amazon often have affordable electronics and components. You can also find used equipment on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
3. Electronic Stores: Stores like RadioShack or Best Buy often have clearance sections where you can find discounted items.
4. Hardware Stores: Hardware stores often have a variety of materials that can be used to make your own ghost-hunting equipment, such as wiring, casing, and more.

Budget-friendly Tips and Tricks for Ghost-Hunting

Ghost-hunting can be an expensive hobby, especially when you’re just starting out and need to build your equipment kit. However, with a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can gather a robust set of tools without spending a fortune. 

Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Ghost-Hunting Tips, Techniques, and FAQs

Here are some budget-friendly tips and tricks to help you on your ghost-hunting journey:

1) Learn Basic Electronics

Understanding basic electronics is a fundamental skill for any DIY ghost hunter. 

It can help you repair and modify existing equipment, create new tools from scratch, and better understand how your equipment works, leading to more effective investigations. 

There are many free resources online that can teach you the basics. Websites like Khan Academy and Coursera offer free courses on basic electronics. 

YouTube is also a treasure trove of tutorial videos. Channels like EEVblog and GreatScott! provide in-depth explanations and practical examples to help you quickly grasp the concepts.

2) Recycle and Reuse

Don’t be afraid to take apart old or broken electronics to salvage parts. You’d be surprised at what you can repurpose. 

An old radio, for example, can be turned into a spirit box, while the infrared LED from a discarded TV remote can be used in an IR illuminator. 

Websites like Instructables have a wealth of DIY projects that can inspire you to recycle and reuse old electronics.

3) Collaborate

Joining a local ghost-hunting group or an online forum can provide you with a community of like-minded individuals who can offer advice, guidance, and even spare equipment. 

Websites like ParanormalSoup Forums and Ghostvillage have active communities of ghost hunters who share their experiences, tips, and techniques. 

Collaborating helps you learn faster and makes the ghost-hunting experience more enjoyable.

4) Be Patient

Building your ghost-hunting kit is a process. Start with the basics and gradually add to your collection as you learn more and gain experience. 

Don’t rush to buy the most expensive equipment right away. Instead, focus on learning how to use each tool effectively and understanding the principles behind them. 

Recommended read: How to Start Ghost-Hunting: Expert Techniques, Tips, and Tools

Patience is key in ghost-hunting, waiting for paranormal activity, and developing your skills and knowledge as an investigator.

5) Shop Smart

When you do decide to purchase equipment, shop smart. Look for sales and discounts, consider buying used equipment, and compare prices from different sellers. 

Websites like eBay and Amazon often have good deals on ghost-hunting equipment.

Pros and Cons of Using Smartphone Apps for Budget Ghost-Hunting

In the digital age, ghost-hunting has become more accessible than ever. With the advent of smartphone apps designed specifically for paranormal investigations, anyone with a mobile device can try ghost-hunting. 

However, the efficacy and reliability of these apps are subjects of ongoing debate among paranormal enthusiasts and investigators. 

So let’s take a closer look at some popular ghost-hunting apps, their pros and cons, and see if they are really a solution for budget ghost-hunting.

Overview of Ghost-Hunting Apps

Numerous ghost-hunting apps are available in various app stores, each offering different features and tools. 

Here are a few notable ones:

1. Ghost Radar: This app claims to detect paranormal activity by interpreting various sensor data on your phone. It provides a radar screen and a log of words supposedly spoken by spirits.
2. EMF Detector: This app turns your smartphone into an EMF meter. It uses the magnetic sensor in your phone to detect electromagnetic fields.
3. Ghost Detector: This app uses various smartphone sensors to detect ghosts. It provides a radar screen and a log of detected entities.
4. EVP Recorder: This app is a digital voice recorder designed specifically for capturing EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena). It allows you to record, save, and analyze your recordings.
5. Ghost Hunting Tools: This app provides a range of tools for ghost-hunting, including an EMF meter, EVP recorder, and a word analysis tool that supposedly interprets the communication of spirits.

Pros and Cons of Using Smartphone Apps for Ghost-Hunting

Pros:

1. Accessibility: Ghost-hunting apps are readily available and easy to use. They provide a convenient way for beginners to start exploring the paranormal.
2. Affordability: Most apps are free or cost significantly less than physical ghost-hunting equipment.
3. Versatility: Many such apps offer multiple tools in one, such as EMF detectors, EVP recorders, and more.

Cons:

1. Accuracy: The accuracy of ghost-hunting apps is often debated. While they can provide interesting results, they should not be relied upon as the sole source of evidence. According to an article on Higgypop, the creator of the Spirit Story Box app admitted that his app is essentially a random word generator, with the hope that a spirit will know how to interfere with the app and force a word of their choosing.
2. Reliability: The performance of ghost-hunting apps can be affected by various factors, including other apps, phone settings, and even the model of your phone.
3. Limitations: While smartphone apps can mimic some ghost-hunting equipment, they cannot replicate all tools. For example, a smartphone cannot capture full-spectrum photos or infrared video.

How to Effectively Use a Smartphone App During a Ghost Hunt

Understand the App: Before using a ghost-hunting app, take the time to understand how it works. Read the instructions, check reviews, and experiment with it before investigating.

Use Multiple Tools: Don’t rely solely on a smartphone app. Use it with other tools and methods, such as personal experiences and historical research. For instance, if you’re investigating a historic location, understanding the history and reported paranormal activity can provide context to the readings or responses you get from the app.

Be Skeptical: Approach the results with a healthy dose of skepticism. Remember, the app is just a tool, and it’s up to the investigator to interpret the data. It’s essential to question the results and not take everything at face value.

Document Everything: Keep a log of any significant events or readings. This will help you analyze the data later and look for patterns or correlations. Noting down the time, location, and any surrounding circumstances when you get a significant reading can provide valuable context when reviewing the data.

Encourage Interaction: When using an electronic speech synthesis app, try to encourage the spirits to provide you with answers to your questions rather than just leaving the app to run of its own accord. Call out to the spirits and ask questions to elicit their response. As Higgypop suggests, only intelligent answers relevant to your questions are likely to result from spirit interaction.

Consider the Limitations: Understand the limitations of your smartphone’s sensors. As pointed out by Live Science, the magnetometer in a phone is designed to detect the Earth’s magnetic field and is less sensitive and accurate than a dedicated EMF meter for detecting subtle changes in electromagnetic fields.

Combine with Traditional Methods: While apps can be a fun and accessible way to get started with ghost-hunting, they should be combined with traditional methods and equipment for a more comprehensive investigation. This could include using EMF meters, infrared cameras, and EVP recorders, as well as conducting historical research and interviews.

In conclusion, while ghost-hunting apps can be a fun and budget-friendly way to dip your toes into the world of paranormal investigation, they should not be relied upon as the sole source of evidence. 

It’s essential to approach the results with skepticism, understand the limitations of the technology, and use them in conjunction with other investigative methods and tools. 

As with any tool, the key to effective use is understanding how it works, what it can and can’t do, and interpreting the results within the larger context of the investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions