Cellular cameras are revolutionizing commercial pest management and offering professionals a new suite of tools as they seek to solve pest problems for clients.
Using cellular cameras in buildings, particularly in difficult-to-reach areas like basements and attics, can give you the ability to monitor areas 24/7 and act quickly when pests are detected.
Why Use a Cellular Camera for Pest Monitoring?
- Remote access: Cellular cameras transmit data via mobile networks, allowing you to view footage from anywhere, anytime via an app or web portal without needing to connect to a client’s Wi-Fi.
- Real-time alerts: Cameras like the AwareX send immediate notifications when motion is detected.
- Inconspicuous monitoring: These cameras are compact and discreet.
- Saves time and money: With cameras in place and motion detection on, you can skip site visits until an issue is detected.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Cellular Camera for Pest Monitoring
Thinking about a cell camera for professional pest monitoring? Here’s how to set one up.
Step 1: Choose the right camera
The Aware X cell cam is an excellent choice for pest monitoring because of its user-friendly features and strong connectivity. Before purchasing a cellular camera, consider the following:
- Resolution: Ensure the camera has a high enough resolution to capture clear images and videos of pests.
- Motion detection: Ensure the camera has motion detection with customizable sensitivity to minimize false alerts.
- Battery life: Look for a camera with a long battery life with a rechargeable battery pack and solar power option for outdoors.
- Weatherproofing: If you're placing the camera outside or in a basement or attic, it needs to be durable and weather-resistant.
- Data plan: Most cameras require a cellular data plan to transmit images, so make sure you select a plan that fits your needs.
Step 2: Find the best locations for camera placement
Focus on areas where pests are most likely to be active. In all cases, inspect the area to look for signs of recent pest activity and place cameras in those locations.
- Attic: Position your camera near entry points (vents, gaps, and roof edges).
- Basement: Place the camera in corners, near pipes, or around storage areas.
- Crawl spaces: A well-positioned camera here will help monitor any activity. A camera with low-glow IR technology and adjustable night illumination will pick up images of pests without needing to use a visible flash.
- Garages and storage areas: These areas are common for pest entry. Find gaps, holes, or other unsecured entry zones and set cameras up there.
Step 3: Set up the camera’s cellular network
Now your camera is ready to connect.
- Insert the SIM card, install the antenna, and install batteries or rechargeable battery.
- Activate the data plan: Insert the SIM card, set up your account online, and download the app.
- Add the camera to the app: Follow the in-app instructions to activate your camera; this includes scanning the QR code on the camera door with your phone; once this is complete, turn your camera to setup mode.
- Pair your camera to your phone using the camera’s Wi-Fi: You must be adjacent to the camera for this to work.
Step 4: Mount the camera
- Find a stable location: Mount the camera on a sturdy surface that won’t be easily disturbed. This could be a ceiling beam, a shelf, or an attic rafter. Ensure the camera is aimed at a spot with a clear line of sight to areas where pests are likely to be active.
- Install the mounting bracket: The AwareX can be secured using an adjustable mounting bracket or a fabric strap.
- Avoid obstructions: Ensure nothing is blocking the camera’s field of view and that the camera is positioned to capture as much movement as possible.
Step 5: Configure camera settings
After connecting your camera to the network, you can configure the settings in the app:
- Adjust motion sensitivity: Fine-tune the motion detection sensitivity to minimize false alerts but not miss actual pest activity.
- Set preferences: This includes send frequency and check-in pictures.
- Enable alerts: Set up push notifications or email alerts to receive real-time updates when motion is detected.
Step 6: Monitor pest activity
Once everything is set up, you can start monitoring the camera feed:
- Use the app: View photos and videos in your app.
- Check for signs of pest activity: Review footage for signs of pest activity.
Step 7: Perform ongoing camera maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your camera works efficiently:
- Check the battery: The app makes this easy to do remotely.
- Clean the lens: Periodically clean the camera lens to avoid blurry images.
- Request a check-in image: Request an on-demand photo in case you go a long period of time with no activity; this will ensure the camera is operating correctly and is still correctly aimed.
Cellular cameras are revolutionizing pest management, saving professionals time and money. Getting your camera set up correctly is the first step in supporting your clients.