LJ&L CamoCam II User manual
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
CamoCam II™
CAMOCAM™
REMOTE VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
Features
•Portable
•Lightweight
•Versatile
•Open Architecture
User’s Guide
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 2
Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publica-
tion. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this man-
ual.
Record the serial number and purchase date in the space provided be-
low. The serial number is located on the camcorder unit. All corre-
spondence concerning your unit should include the serial number and
date of purchase.
Prior to calling our help line, we would appreciate the user to com-
pletely read this manual and all other documentation pertaining to the
unit. Most problems are user error and can be eliminated if the in-
structions are read prior to use.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, me-
chanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise without the prior written
permission of LJ&L Products, Inc.
CAMOCAM™ REMOTE VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM
Model_________________________ Purchase Date__________________________
CamoCam™ is a trademark and a product of LJ&L Products, Inc. All other trade-
marks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective companies. Mi-
crosoft and Windows® are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.
Copyright © 1999 LJ&L Products, Inc.
All Rights Reserved—Printed in USA
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 19
Contacting Us
Here is a list of telephone numbers and addresses in the event you need
to contact our office.
HELP LINE — 1-318-894-9490
After hours call: 1-318-894-8451
Customer Service — 1-318-894-9490
Orders or Product Information — 1-318-894-9490
Warranty Information — 1-318-894-9490
Facsimile — 1-318-894-5905
Special Requests can be directed at 1-318-894-9490
We can custom tailor our systems for mission specific applications.
This includes different length cables. We have custom designed many
systems to meet many needs. Please inquire with anything that might
aid you in your application.
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 18
Warranty Information
Your CamoCam™ Remote Video Surveillance System is warranted for 1
year—both parts and labor on all components EXCEPT:
The camcorder warranty is 90 days parts & labor.
The warranty does not cover abuse, acts of God, or damage of any
kind resulting from improper care. Contact LJ&L Products prior to
sending the unit back for repair.
1. Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future
reference.
2. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on all of the products.
3. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and batteries prior to clean-
ing. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth
for cleaning.
4. Do not use this product near water while charging with the wall out-
let.
5. Do not place this product on an unstable surface which may cause
the product to fall, causing serious damage to the product or persons.
6. This product should be operated by the type of power indicated on
the labels, marked on the product or listed in this manual.
7. Never push objects of any kind into this product through slots or
openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out
parts that could result in a fire or electrical shock. Never spill liquid
of any kind on the inside of this product.
8. Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or remov-
ing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other
risks. Refer all servicing to qualified servicing personnel.
9. Replace batteries with the same type as the product’s batteries we
recommend.
10. WARNING!! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Keep
away from children and dispose of properly.
Important Safety Instructions
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 3
Table of Contents
Notices
2
Table of Contents 3
Connecting the CamoCam II™
4
Connecting the CamoCam II™ Continued
5
Connecting the CamoCam II™ Continued
6
Using the Camera
7
Using the Camera Continued
8
Tips & Tricks
9
Tips & Tricks Continued
10
Passive Infrared (PIR) Sensor
11
Setup Buzzer
12
External Camera 13
Optional Accessories (Seismic Sensor) 14
Optional Accessories Continued (Magnetometer) 15
Optional Accessories Continued (Infrared Illuminator) 16
Troubleshooting 17
Warranty & Safety Information
18
Contacting Us
19
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 4
Connecting the CamoCam II™
Connecting the CamoCam II is easy; just follow these steps:
_________________________________________________________________
NOTE: Make sure the purge valve is turned counter-clockwise when first
opening the case. The purge valve is located under the handle. After opening
the case, be sure to close the purge valve to ensure the case is watertight.
————————————————————————————————–
1. After opening the case, connect the gel cell battery as shown in Figure (a).
Red lead to red terminal, black lead to black terminal. NOTE: Should you
accidentally connect the wrong lead to the wrong terminal, the worst that
should happen is wiring damage and a blown fuse. This is easily repairable
so don’t panic.
Figure a Figure b
_________________________________________________________________
NOTE: The gel cell battery comes fully charged from the factory. Included
with your CamoCam is a PowerSonic recharger. You may connect the charger
directly to each battery terminal or using the gray cable labeled “External Bat-
tery” you can charge the battery externally. This cable also allows additional
power sources to be used.
_________________________________________________________________
2. Connect the silver programming cable to the Programming Port using the tele-
phone style jack. The opposite end connects to your computer’s COM port. See
Figures (b) and (c).
Figure c
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 17
Troubleshooting
I’ve got this thing hooked up and it doesn’t work….now what? Here is a list of
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) that might help:
1. The camera is powered up and connected to the computer, but it says
“SLEEPING”.
•Is there sufficient light for the internal camera to work? Do you
have the unit programmed in a Time Active mode or Interval
Record mode?
2. I turned the system to the “ON” position but nothing seems to hap-
pen.
•Are your batteries charged and properly connected? Are the
camcorder switches in the correct positions? Have you tried
reprogramming the unit with the software? Re-read this manual
and double check your connections.
3. When I checked my video tape, the camera came on and recorded but
there isn’t any activity that can be seen on the tape.
•Are you using the PIR? Is it properly deployed? Have you tried
setting your sensors to activate early enough for the camera to
power up and start recording after a trigger? Contact the Help
Line if this continues.
4. My batteries don’t seem to last very long
•Very cold temperatures will affect the performance of any bat-
tery. If temperature isn’t a factor, are you using quality alkaline
batteries with your sensors? Are you sure your batteries are
fresh? A solar panel helps keep batteries fresh in cold weather
5. I’m using the internal camcorder as my camera but I can’t get a pic-
ture when setting the unit up.
•Is the lens cap on the case? Is there sufficient light for the cam-
corder to function? Have you adjusted your “Advanced Pa-
rameters” settings that might affect the camera’s performance?
The internal camera will not function if the light level is less
than 0 on your View Com screen...you can change this in
“Advanced Settings” but contact our Help Line first.
6. The tape will not eject from the camera.
Make sure the power cable is disconnected from back of the
camera.
Infrared Illuminator
Infrared illumination gives you the advantage of lighting up an area with-
out the use of visible light to the human eye. The video camera can see
the light, but the human eye cannot. The illuminator can be located up to
2600 feet (line of sight) from the camera. The optimum illumination
range of the light is about 45 feet. This illuminator is designed to only
function at night so as to conserve battery power.
1. Plug the battery cables to the terminals and be sure to observe the
correct polarity. RED TO RED AND BLACK TO BLACK.
2. Plug the illuminator receiver into the connector on the case labeled
ILLUMINATOR RECEIVER.
3. Plug the illuminator cable into the connector labeled ILLUMINA-
TOR.
4. Plug the illuminator transmitter into the connector marked ILLUMI-
NATOR TRANSMITTER located on the camera system case.
That’s all there is to it. The illuminator will now come on when the
camera system sends a signal to the unit.
Remote
Infrared
Illuminator—
Capable of
providing cov-
ert lighting
from a remote
location—
triggers on
only when the
camera needs
it.
PAGE 16
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 5
Connecting—Continued
3. Connect the system receiver cable, external camera cable, remote illumi-
nator transmitter cable and auxiliary transmitter cable (Setup Buzzer) to the
top of the case. You may not have the
illuminator with your unit; this is an
optional accessory. See Figure (d).
*NOTE* The system receiver must be
connected for the system to recognize a
signal from one of the sensors.
Figure d
4. Next, connect the bullet camera and setup monitor as shown in Figure (e).
This is a very simple procedure that most people make difficult due to the
number of connections that need to be made. Let’s examine the photo. The
external camera cable has 4 connections; on one end, a power and two video
RCA connectors (one male and one female) , and on the other end, a Lemo
connector (yellow ). To connect the monitor all you need to do is plug in
the RCA cable into the female RCA receptacle on the External Camera Ca-
ble. The monitor has a power switch that needs to be turned on and that’s it.
The monitor unit has it’s own battery source that may need recharging once
in a while. The cables are all marked accordingly. All we have left is the
bullet camera. You will notice
that it only has two plugs on it,
power and video. The power
connector (red) plugs into the
power plug on the external
camera cable, and the video
RCA connector (yellow) plugs
into the male video plug on the
external camera cable.
Figure e
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 6
Connecting—Continued
5. Now all that you need to do is press the
setup button on the control panel, and then
turn on the monitor. Pressing the setup
button allows you to aim the camera, us-
ing the monitor, for ten minutes before it
will begin the program for which it is
switched to. It will ony give you video
through the setup monitor, and will not
record onto the tape.
NOTE: The setup monitor is a color LCD screen with a contrast adjustment
wheel on the side. You may need to adjust the contrast once the camera is con-
nected and running in order to see the picture. This is a common issue that we
receive calls about and it is easily remedied by making an adjustment. .
6. Now that everything is connected, you must install the software into your
computer. Follow the instructions on the diskette or CD for installation pro-
cedures. Using the software is as simple as point & click. Instructions re-
garding programming are included with your unit, so please read those as
well.
7. Let’s turn the unit on and run through a test. Note in Figure (g) the ON-
OFF switch is located inside the lid. Flip to the ON position and press your
keyfob as shown in figure (h). The camcorder should respond by turning on
and start the recording process. If the setup monitor is connected, you’ll
have an image. Also, if the setup buzzer is powered up, and the auxiliary
transmitter is connected, you will hear an audible tone.
Figure g
PAGE 15
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 15
Magnetometer
This sensor has been preprogrammed to the camera system. The sen-
sor has been checked out and is fully functional when the included
AA battery pack, located inside the camo case, is connected. This
AA battery pack should last approximately six months. The sensor is
designed to be buried by the roadway with the cable partially buried
some distance from the sensor head (21" white tube). The small
camo case attached at the opposite end of the cable from the sensor
head MUST BE LOCATED ABOVE GROUND.This case contains
the transmitter and cannot send a signal to the camera system if it is
buried. The enclosed paperwork contains detailed instructions about
placement and sensor activation. The system will only trip once
every 20 seconds, so please do not expect the sensor to trip continu-
ously. There is a 20 second reset period that occurs after the sensor
has been tripped. In other words, the first vehicle will trip the sensor,
but the second vehicle following will not trip the sensor unless the 20
seconds has elapsed.
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 14
Seismic Sensor
The seismic sensor can be used to pick up seismic vibrations on the ground. Things
such as automobiles, ATV’s,or even footsteps cause these vibrations.
1. Install the two 9 volt batteries in the green sensor head. The batteries
will last approximately 6 months.
2. Sensitivity on the seismic sensor is located inside the green sensor
head and is preset for setting 5. Setting 1 is less sensitive and setting
10 is more sensitive. Adjust as needed.
3. The transmitter in the camouflage bag should not be buried, and
should be hung up from the loop to keep rain from entering into the
bag and short circuiting the transmitter. The transmitter must be
above ground so that it can communicate with the system receiver.
4. The sensor should be buried and packed in the ground for optimum
performance.
5. The sensor is labeled on one side THIS SIDE UP. The sensor must
be placed with the labeled side UP to function properly.
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 7
Using the Camera
1. Figure (h) represents the wireless
“keyfob” that allows you to test
your unit’s sending and receiving
capability. Once pressed, the key-
fob LED flashes, letting you know
it’s sending multiple signals to the
receiver. After pressing the keyfob,
please wait approximately 10 sec-
onds before pressing again. The
setup buzzer will alert you if the
system is triggered.
Figure h
2. Switch the camera to the ON position while connected to your computer and
have your CamoCam™ software up and running. Most computers use COM
PORT 1 when programming the camera. You should see the word “READY” on
your screen indicating the camera and computer are communicating with each
other. CamoCam™ is the only camera on the market utilizing the power of
Microsoft Windows® as its programming format. Our simple Point & Click
method of programming makes it quick and convenient to use.
NOTE: The keyfob is not the only device that allows you to trigger the unit in
the ON position. Any of our wireless sensors will allow you to “test” the
camera. Just connect the power sources to the sensor and use them as your
triggering device in the ON position. This allows you to confirm that the
distance between the camera and the sensor is within range. Listen for the
audible tone from the setup buzzer.
3. After you have made your adjustments with the camera(s) and have decided on
your final programming, you are ready to remove the setup monitor from the
external camera cable and pack up.
NOTE: If you are using the internal camera as your only video source, you
can still use the external camera cable for setting up the viewing angle of the
camera. Just use the RCA video connector on the external camera cable and
plug into the video adapter on the setup monitor. Unplug the external camera
cable from the case when finished.
_________________________________________________________________
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 8
Using the Camera—Continued
4. The camera has 9 pre-programmed settings allowing quick setup for most ap-
plications without the aid of a computer. To select one of these settings, have the
system power in the “ON” position and select one of nine settings using the
wheel switch as illustrated below in figure (j).
Figure j
It really is that simple. Try experimenting with different light levels, different
camera angles and different programming configurations BEFORE using on an
actual set. You’ll find that your level of frustration will be minimal if you’ve had
an opportunity to use the camera prior to depending on the camera for evidence.
Amazingly, most people don’t use the camera until it’s needed and then it be-
comes a crash course over the phone with our help line trying to work out the
bugs…..PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT!!
CAUTION!
Inserting a cassette into the camcorder is accomplished as follows. Failure to
read the camcorder operating guide may result in damage which is not cov-
ered under warranty.
1. To use the EJECT function, the power cable must be disconnected from the
back of the camera.
2. Press the small blue button on the EJECT switch and slide it in the direction
of the arrow. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens.
3. Insert a cassette with the window facing out.
4. Gently close the cassette compartment by pressing the “PUSH” mark on the
cassette compartment. The cassette compartment automatically goes
down.
PAGE 13
The external camera pictured
above is a low light sensitive cam-
era. It operates in .001 lux. This
means that it will get a good pic-
ture in near dark situations. Used
with the infrared illuminator, it will
light up the night. To connect it,
attach the external camera cable to
the EXTERNAL CAMERA port
on the outside of the case. Then plug the BULLET CAM POWER plug
into the power jack and the BULLET CAM VIDEO plug into the back of
the camera. Focus the lens at the point you are aiming the camera at, and
place it inside of the camouflaged tube.
External Camera
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 12
Setup Buzzer
This device should help in setting up your camera system and the various
sensors that come with it.
1. Place the camera and sensors about where you will want them to get
the best possible setup for your application.
2. Plug the SETUP BUZZER transmitter (blue) into the AUXILIARY
connector on the top of the case.
3. Connect the 9-volt battery to the receiver.
4. Test your sensor by tripping it. If the sensor is tripped, you will hear
an audible tone form the SETUP BUZZER receiver. If it does not
beep, adjust the sensor accordingly until you get it placed accurately.
5. When you finish setting up your system, remove the SETUP
BUZZER transmitter. This transmitter will only work with the
SETUP BUZZER receiver.
6. The 9-volt battery will last about 4 to 5 hours. DO NOT leave the
battery plugged in. When finished, unplug the battery. This should
give you 4 or 5 setups on the one battery.
NOTE: This is strictly for the purpose of setting up the unit and should
not be left in the field as it is not waterproof and would alert possible per-
petrators. This goes for the receiver as well as the transmitter.
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 9
Tips & Tricks
Here are a few things to remember that will make setting up your camera a more
enjoyable experience:
1. Make sure all batteries are fully charged before using the system.
2. Use a checklist to ensure all cables are with the camera before going into the
field.
3. Be absolutely certain the pressure valve is in the CLOSED position if using
outdoors. Get into the habit of checking it with each use.
4. Use FRESH batteries each time you use the covert PIR sensor, or the setup
buzzer.
5. If the camcorder has been removed from the case, be sure of the following:
a. All 4 cables are properly connected to the camcorder.
b. The camcorder battery is fully charged—it’s on the back of the
camcorder
c. The camcorder POWER switch is in the OFF position.
d. The camcorder START/STOP switch is in the STANDBY posi-
tion.
e. The tape is rewound or new.
f. The NightShot switch on the camcorder is in the OFF position
unless you intend on using the camcorder at night—using the cam-
corder in NightShot mode allows camcorder use at night.
g. The RCA connector plugs into the yellow VIDEO port on the
camcorder. The red & white AUDIO ports and the RFU DC OUT
ports are not used.
h. Make sure the DATE & TIME are visible when recording. To find
out, remove the camcorder from the case, slide the POWER
switch to CAMERA and press the DATE & TIME buttons on the
side of the camcorder.
i. Make sure the FOCUS switch is in the AUTO position.
6. The EXT. BATTERY/CHARGING PORT connector on the case can be
used to provide external power to the system via batteries or solar panel. It
can also be used as a method of recharging the internal batteries
simultaneously.
7. The EXTERNAL CAMERA connector on the case is used to connect ANY
12 volt DC camera, and also provides a means to view the setup monitor
while the case is closed using the EXTERNAL CAMERA cable.
8. The SYSTEM RECEIVER and ILLUMINATOR TRANSMITTER connec-
tors on the case only serve as their respective designations.
Help Line 1-318-894-9490
PAGE 10
Tips & Tricks—Continued
9. Be sure the small photocell inside the case is exposed to daylight through the
lens opening on the side of the case. It is easy to accidentally push the pho-
tocell down into the foam when inserting the camcorder back into the case.
This photocell is what allows your system to determine which camera to use
based on ambient lighting conditions.
10. When replacing the camera into the case, make sure that the camera does not
interfere with the control panel when the lid is closed. If it is not placed in
the very bottom of the case, the lens will not align properly, and it might
continually press the setup button, or even turn the system to the OFF posi-
tion. After placing the gel cell battery in its designated position, put the
camera in the case by placing the view finder in first and then pressing the
rest of the camera down into place. Make sure no cables are underneath it as
they may raise the camera off the bottom.
11. It’s a good idea to put together a “kit” of useful tools and components when
going on a set. Some of the things we believe to be useful are:
a. Camo tape—purchase at sporting goods
b. Cordless drill and paddle bit - use to attach sensors, transmitters,
drill holes, set screws, hide bullet camera, etc.
c. Camo netting—purchase at sporting goods
d. Extra batteries
e. Switch assortment - you never know what you might need to
trigger the camera, and any normally open/closed switch can be
connected to our transmitters
f. Utility knife
g. Screwdriver assortment
h. All of the above can easily be placed in a duffle bag or toolbox
PAGE 11
Passive Infrared (PIR) Sensor
The Passive Infrared (PIR) sensor is used to detect motion and heat.
It has a narrow detection range and care must be taken to properly
aim the sensor after installation. The radio link allows the sensor to be
located up to 2600 feet (line of sight) from the camera. At a 200 foot
range, the sensor target area is 20 ft. by 20 ft. At 100 feet, the target
would then be 10 ft. by 10 ft. For best results, the sensor needs a
solid background, such as the ground, a building, or dense tree line, to
shoot against. As with any PIR sensor, it must be mounted in such a
way that it will not move or vibrate. If it is mounted in a tree and the
wind moves the tree, the sensor will false trip. It is supplied with a
AA battery pack which needs to be connected to power the sensor.
The AA battery pack will last approximately six weeks. A 9V battery
may also be used, which will operate the sensor for about ten days.
CamoCam™
Remote Video Surveillance
PAGE 11
Table of contents
