WingScapes Auduborn BirdCam WSCA03 User manual

BirdCam
User’s Guide
For Models:
WSCA03 - Audubon BirdCam
WSCA02 - BirdCam 2.0 w/ Flash

© 2009 Ebsco Industries, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Made in China
This product is covered by one or more of the following US Patents: 6735387, 6768868, 6834162. Other patents pending.
WARNING! This product may contain lead, a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects and
other reproductive harm.

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Customer Support
Phone: 888.811.WING (9464)
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.wingscapes.com/support
Address: Wingscapes
150 Industrial Road
Alabaster, AL 35007
Photogallery: wingscapes.com/photogallery
YouTube: youtube.com/wingscapes
Blog: wingscapes.typepad.com/wingscapes
Facebook: facebook.com/Wingscapes
Twitter: @wingscapes (or tweet with hashtags #birdcam
or #plantcam)
Find Us Online

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Table of Contents
How to reach Wingscapes 1
Welcome 3
Quick Start Guide 4
Getting to Know the BirdCam 5
Mounting the BirdCam 12
MODE Menu 17
SETUP Menu 19
AUTO Mode 34
MANUAL Mode 35
TIMELAPSE Mode (Model WSCA02 only) 36
Accessing Photos and Videos 38
Troubleshooting 40
BirdCam Accessories 44
Warranty 46
Additional Information 47

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Welcome
Using technology to automatically detect wild birds is a science that
requires some artfulness on the part of the user. Wingscapes has
designed the BirdCam to be simple for beginning users, but also to be
flexible enough to work in a variety of conditions.
The easiest way to get started is to...get started. Refer to the “Quick
Start Guide” in the following pages and begin experimenting with a
simple setup. (We think the best way to get started is to simply set the
BirdCam on the ground — with bird seed scattered 2 to 4 feet in front
of it.)
Weather, bird species, feeder type, feeder placement, and other factors
all influence BirdCam performance. Custom settings allow you to
optimize the BirdCam for a variety of conditions. Finding the correct
combination of settings and BirdCam placement for a given situation
may require some experimentation and practice. At any time, you can
reset the BirdCam to its factory default settings in the SETUP menu.
Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with this guide and the
basics of operating the BirdCam. If at any time you need assistance or
have questions about the BirdCam’s operation, please visit the support
section of our website (www.wingscapes.com) or contact us via e-mail
or phone.

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Quick Start Guide
The following steps outline the quickest way to begin using your
BirdCam. We recommend that you scan the remainder of this user’s
guide before using your new BirdCam.
1. Remove BirdCam from packaging.
2. Remove rear battery compartment door and insert four new
D-cell batteries.
3. Mount the BirdCam so that it is aimed where a bird will land
(preferably within 4 feet). (Refer to the chapter on Mounting
the BirdCam for suggestions.)
4. Using the included tape measure, adjust the focus ring to
match the distance between the BirdCam and the target.
5. Move the BirdCam’s power switch to the ON position.
6. Close the door and secure the latches of the BirdCam.
What Happens Then?
The BirdCam will be in the MODE menu. After a 30-second countdown,
the BirdCam enters AUTO mode using the factory default, EASY-PHOTO
settings. After another 30-second countdown, the BirdCam will watch
for and photograph birds until either the memory is depleted or the
batteries are drained.

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Getting to Know the BirdCam
The following sections will help you familiarize yourself with the
Wingscapes BirdCam.
What’s in the Box
• BirdCam
• Stretch cords for mounting (2)
• USB cable for downloading photos and videos to a computer
• TV Out cable for viewing photos and videos on a TV
• User’s Guide
• Warranty Registration Card
• Tape measure for setting focus

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Getting to Know the BirdCam
infrared sensor
display photocell (turns BirdCam
off at dusk / on at dawn)
loop for aiming
Flash (WSCA02 only)
camera lens
shutter button
(in MANUAL mode)
cutaways for
attaching
stretch-cords
latches
security hasp
for padlock
(not included)

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focus distance settings
shutter button (in MANUAL mode),
laser ON/OFF (in SETUP menu)
USB out cable plug
slot for optional SD memory card
TV out cable plug
mode button
menu navigation buttons
photocell (turns BirdCam off
at dusk / on at dawn)
power ON/OFF switch
plug for optional 12 Volt
DC power supply
focus ring and camera lens
Flash (WSCA02 only)
laser aiming device
(READ LASER
WARNINGS FIRST)
Getting to Know the BirdCam

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Getting to Know the BirdCam
Wingscapes BirdCam Specifications
Operational Modes AUTO, MANUAL, or TIMELASPE (WSCA02 only)
Housing Weather-resistant and lockable
LCD Status Display Operating Mode, Photos/Video taken,
Photos/Videos remaining, Battery strength,
BirdCam status
Camera Resolution 5.0 Megapixel (WSCA03); 8.0 Megapixel
(WSCA02)
Built-in Memory 32 MB
Memory Card Up to 4 GB SD card (optional)
Format JPEG (Photos), AVI (Videos)
Image Output USB OUT, TV OUT, SD Card (optional)
Auto/Timelapse Delay Variable: No Delay - Daily
Multiple Shots / Event 1-10
Lens multi-element glass, fixed aperture f/2.8
Lens Field of View 52 degrees (roughly equivalent to a 46mm
focal length in film camera)
Shutter Speed 1/8 - 1/400
Focus 18 inches - infinity
Infrared Sensor Passive
Max. Detection Distance 8’ for birds, 32’ for humans
Detection Field of View 22 degrees
Weight with batteries – 2 lbs. 8.4 oz
without batteries – 1 lb. 4 oz
Power Supply 4 D-cell Batteries
Duty Cycle 4 weeks average
Laser Aim Class II (READ WARNINGS)
Size 9” H x 3 5/8” D x 5 1/2” W
Optional Accessories BirdCam Mounting Arm, Solar Panel,
AC Power adaptor

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Getting to Know the BirdCam
Memory Capacity & Storage
Your BirdCam has two types of memory:
1. Internal memory (32 MB)
When the BirdCam is used without an SD memory card, images
are automatically stored in the BirdCam’s internal memory. The
images stored in internal memory are only accessible when the
BirdCam is connected to a computer or TV.
2. Optional SD Memory Card (sizes up to 4 GB)
When the BirdCam is used with an optional SD memory card,
images are automatically stored on the SD memory card. The
images stored on the SD card are accessible when the BirdCam
is connected to a computer or TV, or by using an optional SD
card reader.
IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT SD MEMORY CARDS:
a. Always turn the unit off when inserting or removing an SD card
to avoid damage and ensure that the BirdCam properly updates
the memory information.
b. When an SD card is inserted in the BirdCam, any photos stored
in the BirdCam’s internal memory become inaccessible, but are
not lost. When the SD card is removed, images in the internal
memory become accessible again.
c. Number of pictures or videos stored is determined by the card
capacity with a maximum of 9,999 files.
d. For error messages related to SD card problems, see trouble-
shooting section.

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Getting to Know the BirdCam
Memory Capacity & Storage continued
Memory Capacity for Audubon BirdCam (Model WSCA03)
Resolution
Internal Memory
32 MB
Optional SD Memory Card
(capacity shown for 2 GB)
Photo – Low 640 x 480 242 9,999
Photo – Medium 1328 x 996 61 3,789
Photo – High 2048 x 1536 24 1,480
Video Clip (10 sec.) 640 x 480 7 430
Memory Capacity for BirdCam 2.0 (Model WSCA02)
Resolution
Internal Memory
32 MB
Optional SD Memory Card
(capacity shown for 2 GB)
Photo – Low 640 x 480 100 6,750
Photo – Medium 1328 x 996 30 1,800
Photo – High 2048 x 1536 15 750
Video Clip (10 sec.) 640 x 480 7 430
*Estimates. Actual capacity will vary based on image properties.
*Estimates. Actual capacity will vary based on image properties.

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Getting to Know the BirdCam
Battery
The BirdCam runs on four D-cell batteries. When inserting fresh
D-cell batteries, ensure that polarity (+/-) is correct. Battery life is
approximately 4 weeks, depending on outside temperature and
BirdCam usage. If longer run times are required you can use an
optional external 12Volt power source.
When the BirdCam is active, the amount of remaining battery capacity
is displayed as a percentage. When display reads B20% (or lower),
replace batteries.
Photocell
The BirdCam is equipped with a light-sensitive, photo-cell which con-
stantly measures available light. In very low light, the photo-cell forces
the BirdCam into NIGHT mode. This conserves battery power when
there is not enough light to take pictures. When the light level increases,
the photo-cell will ‘wake-up’ the BirdCam, which will resume operations
according to current settings. Exception: on the WSCA02 model, you
can turn the FLASH setting to AUTO in the SETUP menu. Configured in
this way, the BirdCam will not sleep in low light, but will use the flash.
Remaining battery capacity

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Mounting the BirdCam
The BirdCam has been designed to offer a balance of mounting
flexibility and ease of setup. There are several easy ways to mount the
BirdCam. With some ingenuity, you should be able to aim the BirdCam
almost anywhere a bird will land.
Important Mounting Considerations:
• The BirdCam needs sufficient daylight to function. It will not
operate properly in a dark situation (e.g. – inside a nest box).
• When mounted, the BirdCam should not move (e.g. – do not
‘hang’ the BirdCam).
• Position the BirdCam so there is no obstruction – like branches
or leaves – between the BirdCam and its target.
• Remember, unlike bird feeders, the BirdCam does NOT need
to be mounted where you can see it. It watches birds when
(and where) you cannot.
• Think about image composition. Frame your shot. Position the
BirdCam so the background is appealing.
• Consider the sun’s position. Images will look better if the
BirdCam is positioned between the sun and the target.
See figure below.
sunlight

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Mounting the BirdCam
About the Laser Aiming Device
The BirdCam’s laser aiming device will help aim the BirdCam accurately.
When turned ON, the laser projects a red dot where the center of the
image will be.
IMPORTANT: Looking into the laser may be hazardous to the eyes. Do
not stare into the beam or aim at other people. Read the warning label
on BirdCam before operating the laser.
To operate the laser aiming device:
1. With the BirdCam door open, use the MODE button to display
<ENTER SETUP> and press to enter the SETUP menu.
2. With the BirdCam pointed toward its target (and away from
people), press the LASER AIM button. This will activate the laser
aim while you adjust the positioning on the BirdCam.
3. To turn off the laser and re-enter SETUP mode, press the LASER
AIM button again. If the laser is not turned off manually, it will
time-out after 90 seconds.

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Mounting the BirdCam
Scenario #1 – Birds on the Ground
Perhaps the easiest way to set up the BirdCam is to simply position
it securely on the ground and place some bird food in front of the
BirdCam. This is an excellent way to get close-up photos and videos of
many birds that do not regularly visit feeders.
Scenario #2 – Mount with Included Stretch Cords
The two included stretch cords can be used to attach the BirdCam to
a tree or large post. To do this, simply hook the cords to the recessed
cutaways on the back of the BirdCam. This is the best way to target a
feeder hanging from a tree limb.

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Mounting the BirdCam
Scenario #3 – Mount with Standard Camera Tripod
The bottom of the BirdCam features a standard female tripod thread
(size: 1
/
4– 20). This enables the BirdCam to work with the vast majority
of standard camera tripods. Camera tripods offer great stability and
adjustability, so they are a great option to use with the BirdCam. (Note:
Most tripods are NOT weatherproof.)
Shooting through Glass Windows
A tripod is a great option for users
who want to setup the BirdCam
indoors, aimed out of a window.
However, the BirdCam’s infrared
sensor can not detect bird
activity through a pane of glass.
If you plan to set up the BirdCam
this way, use the TIMELAPSE mode
to take photos or videos at a
specified interval. This can result in
more empty images, especially if
feeder traffic is light.

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Mounting the BirdCam
Scenario #4 – Using the BirdCam Mounting Arm
(optional accessory)
Wingscapes has designed an accessory bracket that makes it easy to
mount a BirdCam on any round feeder pole with a diameter of ½”
to 1½”.
For more information about this accessory, contact your local
Wingscapes dealer or visit www.wingscapes.com

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MODE Menu
This Mode menu allows you to move between the BirdCam’s three
operating modes (AUTO, MANUAL, and TIMELAPSE*) and the
SETUP menu.
Enter the MODE menu:
At any time, press MODE to enter the MODE menu.
Navigate the MODE menu:
To navigate between the three operating modes (AUTO, MANUAL,
and TIMELAPSE*) and the SETUP menu, press either the MODE, +,
or - button.
Enter your selection:
From the Mode menu, you can press the button to activate a selection.
NOTE: In the MODE menu, if no button is pressed within 30 seconds,
the BirdCam will enter whichever selection is displayed.

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Press MODE, +, or -
Press MODE, +, or -
Press MODE, +, or -
Press MODE, +, or -
Mode Menu
At any of the above screens, press > to enter your selection.