Tactacam Reveal X Gen 2.0 Cellular Camera
Instruction Manual
Visit us at: REVEALCELLCAM.COM
Reveal App Download
Download the Tactacam Reveal App from your app store.
The app provides a user interface for managing your Reveal Cellular Camera, allowing you to view photos, check camera status, and adjust settings.
Introduction
What is in the Box?
- (1) Trail Camera
- (1) Instruction Manual
- (1) Mounting Strap
- (1) Antenna
- (1) Verizon & AT&T SIM Card
What You Will Need
- Full-size SD Card - Class 10, U3, 16GB-32GB
- Recommended Brands: Tactacam, Lexar, SanDisk (other brands may be incompatible)
- (12) AA Batteries Required (Lithium recommended for colder temperatures)
Recommended Camera Accessories (Not Included)
SD Card: A Class 10, U3 SD card with a capacity of 16GB-32GB is required.
Solar Panel: An optional solar panel can extend battery life.
Lockable Security Box: Provides protection against theft and damage.
T-Post Mount: For mounting the camera on T-posts.
Adjustable Camera Stake: For flexible camera positioning.
View and purchase all accessories at REVEALCELLCAM.COM
Camera Overview
1 Lens: The primary lens for capturing images.
2 Antenna: For cellular signal transmission.
3 IR LEDs: Infrared LEDs for night vision.
4 Camera Working Status Indicator: Indicates the camera's operational status.
5 Device Status Indicator Light (Green/Blue): Shows the status of the device.
6 SD Card Indicator (Red/Green): Indicates SD card status.
7 SIM Slot: For inserting the cellular SIM card.
8 Power Switch (ON/SETUP/OFF): Controls the camera's power.
9 PIR Motion Sensor: Detects motion to trigger image capture.
10 Wi-Fi Indicator Light (Blue): Indicates Wi-Fi connectivity status.
11 Microphone: Records audio.
12 Battery Level Indicator: Shows the remaining battery power.
13 4G Signal Indicator: Displays the strength of the 4G cellular signal.
14 SD Card Slot: For inserting the SD card.
15 Test Button: Sends a test picture.
16 Battery Eject Button: Ejects the battery tray.
17 Reset Button: Resets the camera to factory settings.
18 External Battery In/DC Port: For connecting an external power source.
19 USB Port: For data transfer or firmware updates.
20 Tripod/Mount Attachment: For mounting the camera.
Quick Start Guide
Setting Up the Camera
- Install the camera's antenna. Do not overtighten.
- Install a Class 10 U3 SD card (16GB or 32GB). Recommended brands: SanDisk, Lexar, Tactacam.
- Install 12 AA batteries, ensuring correct orientation (+/-).
- Verizon and AT&T SIM Card Install: Locate the provided SIM card (Verizon or AT&T) and insert it into the SIM slot. The carrier choice does not need to match your cell phone carrier, but should offer the best signal coverage in your area.
Data Plans and Coverage Map: Visit https://www.revealcellcam.com/data-plans to view data plans and coverage.
Note: SIM cards are specific to the camera; do not mix SIM cards between cameras.
Setting Up Your Account
For first-time activation, visit https://account.revealcellcam.com/activation to set up your account. You can also access the Web Portal from the app by clicking 'My Reveal'. If you have an existing account, log in and add your camera following the instructions on page 8.
Downloading the App
Download the Tactacam Reveal app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Sign in using the same email and password created on the website (https://account.revealcellcam.com).
Add Camera to the App
- Navigate to the Reveal app and log in. Click the home icon.
- Click the camera icon at the top.
- Click the (+) icon in the bottom right corner of the camera page.
- Select 'Reveal X' and continue.
- Follow the in-app prompts to activate your Reveal. Ensure the selected SIM (Verizon or AT&T) matches the SIM card inserted in the camera.
- Scan the QR code located inside the camera door when prompted by the app.
- After activation, turn the camera to 'SETUP' mode. The signal status indicator will search for signal and then display signal strength.
Pairing Your Camera to Your Phone Through Wi-Fi
Connect your phone to the camera's Wi-Fi to change and apply settings remotely. This requires being near the camera.
- Turn the Reveal X to SETUP mode.
- When the Wi-Fi light blinks blue, it is ready to pair.
- In the app, go to the Account page and click 'Connect to Reveal X/SK Wi-Fi'.
- Follow in-app instructions or manually connect via your phone's Wi-Fi settings. Select 'REVEAL' and enter the password 'Reveal2021' (case-sensitive, no spaces).
- View the preview on screen. A red line indicates the point of focus.
- To send a test picture, press the 'Test' button on the camera.
Additional Wi-Fi Features:
- Instantly apply setting changes from the app.
- Format the SD card via the app.
Remotely Change Camera Settings from the App
Click the tool icon ⚙️ on the camera page in the app to access settings. Select 'Apply Settings' to save changes.
Note: In the app, navigate to SETTINGS > Settings Check > Daily to check settings every 24 hours, or Instant for immediate updates (consumes more battery).
Sending a Test Picture
- Allow the camera to connect to 4G signal. The LED signal indicator light will be constant green.
- After activation, the signal status indicator will search and then show signal strength.
- Once connected, press the test button on the camera to send a photograph. The status light will blink during transmission.
- A successful test picture will turn the status light green. A red light indicates an issue, likely due to signal strength or the SD card.
Leaving Your Camera in the Field
- While connected to your phone via Wi-Fi, you can access a live preview for camera setup and placement.
- Ensure the antenna is securely tightened.
- Wipe down the seal to remove dirt or debris.
- Turn the camera to the ON position.
- Ensure your phone has a signal. Motion-detected pictures will be sent to your phone via the app, which may take a few minutes.
Settings / Specifications
Feature | Specification |
Camera Mode | Photo; Photo+Video |
Day/Night Mode | Daytime: Color, Nighttime: B+W |
IR Range | 96+ Feet |
PIR Angle | 45° |
Flash | No Glow IR Technology effectively eliminates all visible flash |
Operating Keys | 1x Power button; Navigation arrows |
Lens | F=6mm; F/No=2.0; FOV=60° Auto IR-Cut-Remove (at night) |
SD Card | Class 10, U3, 16GB-32GB, minimum 90MB/Sec |
Status Indicator | 1 LED |
Picture Format | JPEG |
Video | Optional |
Trigger Speed | 0.5 seconds |
SD Card Loop | Optional |
Operation Power | 9-12V |
Battery | X = 12xAA Cartridge. Optional external power source (12V external battery pack or solar panel). Barrel plug reducer size 4x1.7mm. |
External DC | 12V-2A |
Best Practices
Proper Camera Placement
- Location and placement are critical for optimal camera performance.
- Avoid hanging the camera on small trees prone to wind movement.
- Place the camera about waist high on a tree or post.
- Point the camera down about 7 to 15 degrees, using shims if necessary.
- For best lighting, face the camera North, avoiding direct sunlight.
- If placed too high and angled down, the field of view narrows. This is useful for bait stations or scrapes.
- On a food plot: Camera height and angle are critical for the widest field of view. Do not place too high.
- On a trail: Angle the camera looking up or down the trail, rather than perpendicular to it.
Batteries and Cellular Trail Camera Performance
- Use recommended batteries: Energizer Lithium, Duracell Max Alkaline, Rayovac UltraPro Alkaline.
- In cold weather, use lithium-ion batteries for optimal speed and performance.
- Expected picture count (in temps above freezing): Lithium: 4,000+ pictures; Alkaline: 2,500+ pictures.
- If using the Tactacam External Solar Panel (sold separately), lithium batteries serve as a backup power source.
Troubleshooting
Camera Sends Pictures of Nothing
Motion sensors (PIR) detect heat and motion. False triggers can occur on hot, windy days due to vegetation or precipitation.
- Clear branches, brush, and weeds from the camera's field of view (5-10 yards in front).
- Motion Sensitivity: Start with 'High' sensitivity. Decrease if receiving too many false triggers (9=highest, 1=lowest).
Night Vision Flash Range Doesn't Meet Expectations
- Ensure batteries are fully charged.
- Use 'Max Range' setting for better IR flash range.
- High-quality 1.2V NiMH rechargeable AA batteries can improve IR flash range. Lithium batteries are recommended for cold weather for consistent results.
- Surroundings (trees, walls, ground) can affect flash range. Aiming into an open field with nothing to reflect the IR flash back may yield poorer results.
To Help Prevent Theft or Damage
Use a protective security box available at www.revealcellcam.com.
Camera Stops Taking Images or Won't Take Images
- Ensure the SD card is not full. Enable 'SD Card Loop' to overwrite older images.
- Verify alkaline or NiMH-AA batteries have sufficient power.
- Format the SD card using the camera before use or if the camera stops taking images.
Internal Condensation on Lens
The Reveal is IP66 waterproof. Condensation may occur if the antenna is not screwed in properly, or if the seal has dirt or debris.
- Remove the SD card and let the camera sit open in a ventilated area for 3-4 days.
- Place the camera in a sealed container with rice for 24 hours to absorb moisture.
- Clean the seal and tighten the antenna.
- Replace the camera in the field.
If the Camera Has Accidentally Been Submerged in Water
- Do not open the camera immediately.
- Dry the exterior housing to prevent internal water damage.
Limited Warranty
How Long Does This Coverage Last?
- One year from the date of purchase.
- Register your Reveal under warranty at https://www.revealcellcam.com/warranty-registration.
What Is Covered?
Manufacturer defects in materials and workmanship, including:
- Defective buttons
- Cracked/chipped glass lens
- Broken SD card or SIM card spring mechanism
- Broken USB port
Covered cameras will be repaired or replaced by a certified technician.
What Is Not Covered?
- Damage caused by owner modification, attempted repairs, or alterations.
- Damage caused by people or animals (e.g., antenna, strap, lens, housing).
For damage caused by owner or animal, contact customer support for repair options.
FCC Regulations
This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Measures to correct interference:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase separation between equipment and receiver.
- Connect to a different circuit.
- Consult a dealer or experienced radio/TV technician.
Unauthorized modifications may void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Contact Information
DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO YOUR RETAILER
For warranty issues or questions, contact Tactacam:
CALL: 218-282-5650
EMAIL: SUPPORT@REVEALCELLCAM.COM
110 N Sunset Blvd, Caledonia, MN 55921