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DIFFERENT WAYS OF POWERING YOUR TRAIL CAMERA

DIFFERENT WAYS OF POWERING YOUR TRAIL CAMERA

Different Ways of Powering your Trail Camera

Trail cameras are generally powered by a bank of AA batteries within the camera enclosure. However, most models do have provisions for external power supplies. This could be one of, or a combination of, DC (transformed from mains power), an external high capacity rechargeable battery, or a solar panel. These external power options have the effect of dramatically increasing camera longevity compared to AA batteries and may be especially useful for heavy use of flash, especially for video recording.

Non-rechargeable batteries have two common types, Lithium and Alkaline. Lithium batteries are generally better for trail cameras, but they are considerably more expensive.

Rechargeable AA batteries - rechargeable AA batteries offer cost-saving through multiple uses. We recommend always use good quality and high capacity batteries for the best performance.

In this blog, we wanted to focus on alternative ways to power your Trail Camera.

Before choosing an external rechargeable power bank or solar power, it is important to check the voltage of the power jack on your camera (eg 6V or 12V) and use the compatible accessories recommended by the manufacturer.

As choosing the right power adapter proves to be a daunting task for many Trail Camera enthusiasts, our team decided to test a few models from the most popular brands.

Below, you will find detailed information about Main Power adaptors compatible with specific models; we will touch on the sizes and shapes of the power connectors, including detailed photos and leaving no room for any doubts.

I will also talk through all the power options and accessories available for our Trail Cameras.

 

Types of Power Plugs and Connectors 

I would like to start with some general information on types of power connectors. 

Trail Cameras use coaxial connectors or pins to connect their power supply or power adapter, unfortunately, not all are the same and it is sometimes difficult to find the right one for your device. 

Not only you would have to consider different sizes of connectors, including the outer diameter of the plug (OD) and the inner diameter of the plug (ID), both measured in millimetres. 

You will also need to find the compatible shape (male, female, etc), and of course - the right voltage. 

We also have to bear in mind that plugs and switches are not the same in all the countries of the world and there are different standards depending on the region in which you are.

Below you will find all the information you need to get the right mains adapter for your trail camera. 

Let’s go! 

Powering Browning Camera

When choosing a mains power supply plug for your Browning Trail camera, you would check your instruction manual, which states what voltage is right for your model. 

You can also spot it on the output cover, which for our tested Browning Model is 12 V DC. 

The tricky bit is usually finding the right shape of the connector to match the camera’s output, as these small cylindrical connectors come in an enormous variety of sizes. 

Our clients often ask us for advice on the power plugs for various cameras, however, as sizes and shapes of connectors do not consistently correspond to the same names, power specifications across manufacturers and models, it is often an impossible task. 

Use of the wrong power supply may cause severe equipment damage or even fire, this is also why we would recommend taking your camera to electrical supplies shop, where specialists help can be offered. 


For the Browning Spec Ops Edge (BTC-8E) and for all the other Browning models, you will be looking for a 12 V DC /  Type A: 5.5 mm OD, 2.1 mm ID plug. 

To make it easier - this is how the connection looks like:

 

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