Tasco Trail Camera 119274CW User Manual

Introduction

Your new Tasco Trail Camera is a digital scouting camera. It can be activated by any movement of live animals in a location, detected by a highly sensitive passive infrared (PIR) motion sensor, and then capture high-quality photos (12 MP resolution, depending on the model) or video clips (720p, 10 seconds in length).

The Tasco Trail Camera consumes very little power (< 0.1mA) in a standby (surveillance) state. This means it can remain on standby for up to twelve months when powered by eight AA alkaline batteries (70 images per day, 35 w/flash). As soon as motion is detected in the monitored area, the digital camera unit is immediately activated (usually less than 1 second) and then automatically captures photos or videos (your choice). The Tasco Trail Camera features built-in infrared (IR) LEDs that function as a flash, allowing it to deliver bright photos or videos (in black and white) even in the dark, and color photos or videos in sufficient daylight. The Tasco Trail Camera is designed for outdoor use and is water-resistant.

Parts and Controls

Unfasten the two latches on the right side of the camera and rotate the front cover to the left to access the controls. A 3-way power/mode switch is used to select the main operating modes: OFF, AIM, and ON (Fig. 1).

When the power/mode switch is in the middle AIM position, the camera is in setup mode. The AIM position can also be used to verify the area the camera is monitoring. The LCD screen displays the camera's current settings in setup mode. The UP, DOWN, and OK buttons are used to set the date and time (to be printed on each photo/video), change the interval or "detection delay time between images" while an animal remains within the camera's sensor range, select Photo or Video capture mode, set a camera ID number for reference, and format the SD card (erasing all files). After setting up the camera, switch it to ON for normal operation.

Fig. 1: Diagram showing the Tasco Trail Camera with labels for Lens, LCD Display, "Up" Key, "OK" Key, "Down" Key, Power/Mode Switch (ON/AIM/OFF), PIR Sensor, Battery Tray Eject Button, Light Sensor, IR Flash, and AIM/Status LED.

Fig. 2: Diagram showing the battery tray with 8 AA batteries inserted and the Eject Button.

Fig. 3: Diagram showing the side of the camera with the Card Slot.

Installing Batteries and SD Card

Before using your Tasco Trail Camera, you must first install a set of batteries and insert an SD card. While this may seem straightforward, take a moment, as there are a few important notes about both batteries and SD cards that you should be aware of. Please take the time to read the following instructions and warnings.

Installing Batteries

Press the battery tray eject button to unlock the battery tray and pull it out to load it (Fig. 2). Turn the camera OFF when loading/unloading batteries. Ensure that you place each battery so that its polarity (+/- direction) matches the polarity indicators on the bottom of the battery tray. The camera can operate with only 4 batteries installed if necessary, but a full set of 8 batteries should normally be used to ensure the longest operating time. Tasco recommends using eight new Energizer Lithium AA batteries or alkaline AA batteries. Rechargeable NiMH batteries can also be used, but they may have a shorter lifespan due to their reduced efficiency over time and in low temperatures.

Installing the SD Card

The Tasco Trail Camera uses a standard SD (Secure Digital) memory card to store your photos (.jpg format) or videos (.avi format). SD and SDHC (High Capacity) Class 4 or higher speed cards, up to a maximum of 32GB, are supported.

Ensure the write-protect switch on the side of the card is "off" (NOT in the "Lock" position). Insert the SD card with the power/mode switch in the OFF position into the slot on the upper right side of the camera (Fig. 3) until it clicks into place. If the card is facing the wrong way, you will not be able to insert it without force – there is only one correct way to insert cards.

If the SD card is not inserted correctly, or if there is no card in the slot, "Card" will appear on the LCD screen and the camera will not operate (Fig. 4). Other card status messages: "FULL" indicates that the card's memory is full and there is no more space to store files (see below). "Err" indicates a card read error (try another SD card).

It is recommended to format the SD card before using it for the first time, especially if a card has been used in other devices. This can be done using the camera's "Format" function (page 8, "Format SD Card"). Ensure you have backed up any recordings you wish to keep on a previously used card, as formatting will erase ALL recordings.

To remove the SD card, gently push the card inward (do not try to pull it out without pushing it in first). The card will pop out of the slot and be ready for removal when you hear the click. Ensure the camera is turned OFF before removing or inserting SD cards.

Setup Mode

Once the batteries are installed and an SD card is inserted, you are ready to enter Setup Mode to prepare the camera for use, with all options set to your preferences. While this can be done in the field (no computer or internet access is needed), most users will likely want to set up the camera at home beforehand. There are only a few settings to make, so the process is quick and easy. To begin setting up your Tasco Trail Camera:

To enter setup mode, set the power/mode switch to the middle (AIM) position (Fig. 1). The display will turn on and show the initial Setup screen (Fig. 5). Note: Do not worry if you notice the STATUS LED blinking during the setup process. This is normal, as the AIM switch position has a secondary function discussed later in this manual.

Press the OK button to begin. If the display is flashing, you can use the UP and DOWN buttons to change the setting of the currently selected option or item. When you are finished changing a setting (or leave it unchanged), press OK to lock in the setting and proceed to the next option/item. If there is a setting you do not need or wish to change from the default or current setting, simply press OK to confirm and proceed to the next item/option. Once you go through the settings mode and change a few settings, you will see how easy it is.

Setting the Time and Date (Fig. 6)

After the Initial Setup screen, the following screens will display the current time and date, ensuring that the time/date stamp printed on all your photos and videos is correct when captured by the camera. To change the time and date to be current, starting with the default screen "12:00" (see Fig. 6):

Press OK and use UP/DOWN to set the hour (24-hour/military time format). Press OK to confirm.

Use UP/DOWN to set the minute. Press OK to confirm.

Use UP/DOWN to set the month. Press OK to confirm.

Use UP/DOWN to set the date. Press OK to confirm.

Use UP/DOWN to set the year. Press OK to confirm and proceed to the next Setup item, Interval Time.

Setting the Interval Time (Detection Delay) (Fig. 7)

The Interval or Detection Delay option allows you to set the time between captured images when an animal remains within the camera's sensor range after first being detected and the camera is triggered. Use UP/DOWN to select 5 sec (display shows "00:05"), 15 sec (default), 30 sec, 60 sec (display shows "00:60"), or 3 min. Press OK after setting.

Setting the Capture Mode (1 photo, 3 photos, or video) (Fig. 8)

Use UP/DOWN to select your preferred capture mode: single photo per trigger (display shows 1 + a camera icon), rapid burst of 3 photos per trigger (display shows a camera icon + 3), or video clips that are 10 seconds long at a 720p resolution (display shows a film camera icon). Press OK after setting.

Setting Camera ID # (for use with multiple cameras) (Fig. 9)

Use UP/DOWN to select a reference ID# (from "01" to "99") for this camera, which will be printed along with the time and date on all photos/videos. If you are using only one camera to monitor an area, just leave it at the default setting "Id: 01". Set a second camera in a group of multiple cameras to "02", and so on. Press OK after setting.

Formatting the SD Card (Erasing All Files) (Fig. 10)

The display will show "FOrN" (see Fig. 11). IMPORTANT: Ensure you back up any files you wish to keep and save them first, as formatting will completely erase all files from the card. It will then be difficult or impossible to recover them from the card.

If you are sure you want to format a previously used card, use UP/DOWN to change the "N" after "FOr_" to "Y" (Yes), then press OK to confirm and erase all files from the card.

Restoring Default Settings (Initializing Camera Settings) (Fig. 11)

The display will show "dEFN" (see Fig. 12). Use UP/DOWN to change the "N" after "dEF_" to "Y" (Yes) to reset the Interval, Capture Mode, and Camera ID# back to their original, "factory default" settings, then press OK to confirm.

Note: Your time and date settings will not be changed from their current settings to the original defaults, and your SD card will not be formatted. Only the Interval and Capture Mode settings will be reset to their defaults.

Mounting and Aiming the Camera

Mounting

After setting the camera's time/date and other options to your preferences, you are ready to take it out and capture images of animals in the area you wish to monitor. When setting up the Tasco Trail Camera for scouting animals in their environment or other outdoor applications, be sure to mount it correctly and securely. We recommend mounting the Tasco Trail Camera on a sturdy tree with a diameter of approximately 6 inches (15 cm). For optimal image quality, the tree should be about 15 to 20 feet (5 to 5 meters) away from the area to be monitored, with the camera positioned at a height of 2 to 3 feet (7 to 1 meter).

Also, keep in mind that you will get the best results at night when the subject is within the ideal flash range, no further than 72 feet (22 meters) and no closer than 10 feet (3 meters) from the camera.

There are two ways to mount the Tasco Trail Camera: using the included adjustable web strap or the tripod mount.

Using the Adjustable Web Strap

Thread one end of the strap through the two brackets on the back of the Tasco Trail Camera (Fig. 12). Thread the end of the strap through the buckle. Securely tighten the strap around the tree trunk by pulling the end of the strap firmly so that there is no slack. Note: It is not possible to use a cable lock (in the upper part of the bracket) and the web strap simultaneously.

Using the Tripod Mount

The camera is equipped with a mount on the bottom to allow mounting on a tripod or other mounting accessories that use a standard 1/4"-20 screw thread.

Detection Angle and Distance Test

To test whether the Tasco Trail Camera effectively monitors your chosen area, this test is recommended to check the detection angle and monitoring distance of the Tasco Trail Camera. To perform the test:

Set the camera's power/mode switch to AIM. You can ignore the Setup display; you do not need to change any settings (provided you have already set the time/date and other Setup Mode options). Make movements in front of the camera in various positions within the area where you expect game or subjects. Try different distances and angles from the camera. If the AIM/Status LED (Fig. 1) blinks, this indicates that the position can be detected. If it does not blink, that position is outside the detection area.

The results of your tests will help you find the best placement when mounting and aiming the Tasco Trail Camera. The vertical height from the ground for placing the unit should vary appropriately with the size of the animal. Generally, 3 to 6 feet is preferred.

You can prevent possible false triggers due to temperature and motion disturbances for the camera by not aiming the camera at a heat source or near tree branches and bushes (especially on windy days).

Turning the Camera On

Once you set the power/mode switch to ON, the AIM/Status LED will blink for a few seconds. This gives you time to close and latch the front cover of the Tasco Trail Camera and walk away. During this time, the AIM/Status LED will blink continuously. After it stops blinking, the PIR sensor is active, and any movement detected by the sensor will activate the capture of photos or videos as programmed in Setup mode. Be sure you have read the Camera Setup Mode section. Note that the PIR is highly sensitive to ambient temperature. The greater the temperature difference between the environment and your subject, the greater the possible detection distance.

Before leaving the camera unattended, check the following: Are the batteries inserted with the correct polarity and do they have sufficient power? Does the SD card have sufficient available space, and is the write-protect (lock) disabled? Is the power/mode switch in the ON position?

Saving Photos to Your Computer

Downloading and Viewing Image Files from the SD Card

Each new image or video is sequentially numbered in order of capture time. You will see file names such as "IMAG0001.JPG" or "IMAG0001.AVI". By the file's formal suffix, you can distinguish whether the file is a still photo (with a .jpg suffix) or a video (with an .avi suffix). Your computer should have the option to display files as thumbnails instead of file names/types (Windows: More options > small to large icons, Mac: Display as icons). By double-clicking on an individual file, you can view the photo or video full screen within the application associated with that file format.

Select all files you wish to back up and drag or copy/paste them to your computer's hard drive, where you normally store photos and videos. You may want to create a new folder named "Tasco Trail Cam" or another specific title to keep them separate from family photos, etc. Once a backup of the files has been made on the card, you can delete any files you do not wish to keep.

The same card can then be used in your Tasco Trail Camera for new recordings. Use the format function in setup mode to erase the entire card if you want to have full capacity available to store as many images as possible before it fills up and you have to go through this process of delete > download > back-up > format > reuse. Using higher capacity cards and/or swapping multiple cards will reduce how often you need to do this. Note: Maximum card capacity is 32GB).

Troubleshooting / Frequently Asked Questions

Camera Continuously Takes Photos of No Subject

A camera has a so-called "false trigger" when the PIR sensor thinks there is motion and heat in front of the camera lens when there is no subject in view. These "false triggers" are the result of placing the camera in an environment where there is motion associated with tree branches creating movement for the camera or in an area with high heat in the foreground and any movement from the wind can trigger the camera. Placing a camera over water is also a possible cause of this problem. To remedy this situation:

1. Try moving the camera to an area where these problems do not occur, or if possible, remove any potential obstructions near the lens.
2. If the camera continues to take photos without a subject, test the camera by placing it indoors and pointing it at a spot where there is no motion.
3. If the camera continues to take photos without a subject, there is likely a problem with the electronic component. In that case, contact Tasco customer service to send the camera in for repair.

Battery Life is Shorter Than Expected

1. Battery life is dependent on operating temperature and the number of photos taken over time. Typically, the Tasco Trail Camera can take several thousand photos before the batteries are depleted.
2. Ensure you have used new alkaline or lithium AA batteries. Tasco recommends using a full set of 8 Energizer Lithium AA batteries for maximum battery life.
3. Ensure the power/mode switch was in the ON position and not in the AIM (Setup mode) position while in the field.
4. Ensure you are using an SD card from a reputable brand of good quality in your camera. Tasco recommends SanDisk SD cards up to 32GB. Our experience is that poor quality SD cards sometimes shorten the battery life of your Tasco Trail Camera.

Camera Stops Taking Photos or Takes No Photos

1. Ensure the SD card is not full. If the card is full (display shows "FULL."), the camera stops taking captures.
2. Check the batteries to ensure they are new alkaline or lithium AA batteries. See the note above regarding short battery life.
3. Ensure the Power/Mode switch is in the ON position and not OFF or AIM.
4. Ensure you are using a good quality SD card in your camera. Tasco recommends SanDisk" SD cards up to 32GB.
5. If the SD card's write-protect switch is in the locked position, the camera will not take photos.
6. If you have used an SD card in another device before inserting it into your Tasco Trail Camera, you may try formatting the card using the "Format" option in setup mode (page 9). Be sure to back up all important files first, as formatting will erase all previous files. In some cases, other devices may alter the formatting of the SD card, causing it not to work properly with the Tasco Trail Camera.

Camera Will Not Start

1. Ensure you have placed all batteries into the battery compartment, filling all battery spaces without "gaps." Note that the camera can be used with only 4 batteries if necessary, but they will need to be replaced more often.
2. Tasco recommends using a full set of 8 Energizer Lithium AA batteries.
3. Ensure the batteries are inserted correctly, paying attention to the correct polarity. Always place the negative (flat) end of each battery in contact with the spring side of the slot in the camera.
4. After setting the switch from "OFF" to "AIM" or "ON," ensure the switch is in the correct position to ensure the correct mode (avoid positions "between" two modes).
5. Do not move the switch directly from "ON" to "AIM" – always move the switch all the way down to "OFF" first, and then back up to "AIM."

Photo and/or Video Quality Issues

Night Photos or Videos Appear Too Dark

1. Check the battery indicator icon to see if the battery is full.
2. The flash stops at the end of the battery's life.
3. You will get the best results when the subject is within the ideal flash range, no further than 22 meters from the camera. Subjects may appear too dark at greater distances.
4. Keep in mind that when the camera is set for a rapid burst (3 photos), or with very short interval settings, some images may appear darker than others due to the quick response and rapid re-triggering of the camera, leaving less time for the flash to fully recharge before firing again.

Daytime Photos or Videos Appear Too Dark

Ensure the camera is not aimed at the sun or other light sources during the day, as this can cause the automatic exposure to yield darker results.

Night Photos or Videos Appear Too Bright

You will get the best results when the subject is within the ideal flash range, no closer than 3 meters from the camera. Subjects may appear too bright at closer distances.

Daytime Photos or Videos Appear Too Light/Dark

Ensure the camera is not aimed at the sun or other light sources during the day.

Red, Green, or Blue Color Cast

Under certain lighting conditions, the sensor may become confused, resulting in poor color images. If this is observed regularly, the sensor may require servicing. Contact Tasco customer service.

Video Clips Are Too Short/End Prematurely

1. Check if the SD card is full (display shows FULL).
2. Ensure there are good batteries in the camera.
3. The maximum length of videos is 10 seconds per clip to ensure long battery life.

Date/Time Stamp on Images is Incorrect

1. Ensure you have set the current time/date in setup mode.
2. Check if the batteries still have sufficient power. Always replace all batteries at the same time.

Photos Capture No Interesting Subject

1. Try placing your camera in a location where there is no heat source within the camera's field of view.
2. In some cases, placing the camera near water causes the camera to take photos without a subject. Try aiming the camera towards the ground.
3. Try to avoid placing the camera on small trees that may be moved by strong winds.
4. Remove any overhanging tree branches or tall grass that are directly in front of the camera lens.

AIM/Status LED Blinks/Does Not Blink

1. When the camera's power/mode switch is set to AIM (Setup Mode), an AIM/Status LED on the front of the camera will blink when it detects motion. This is for setup purposes only and helps the user position and aim the camera to check the detection/coverage area.
2. During use, the LED will not blink when the camera takes a photo. This is to keep the camera hidden from any unwanted visitors with malicious intent.

LCD Screen / Problems

LCD Screen Turns On But There is No Text

1. After setting the switch from OFF to AIM or ON, ensure the switch is in the correct position to ensure the correct mode (avoid positions "between" two modes).
2. Do not move the switch directly from ON to AIM – always move the switch all the way down to OFF first, and then back up to AIM.

Camera Does Not Retain Settings

Ensure that you save the changes to all settings you made in setup mode by pressing the OK button after you have changed the setting. If you do not save your new setting after changing it, the camera will retain the original default setting for that item/option.

Technical Specifications

ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Your Tasco product is warranted to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for one year after the date of purchase. In the event of a defect under this warranty, Tasco will, at its option, repair or replace the product, provided that you return the product postage prepaid. This warranty does not cover damages caused by misuse, improper handling, installation, or maintenance provided by someone other than a Tasco Authorized Service Department.

Any return under this warranty must be accompanied by the items listed below:

1. A check/money order in the amount of $10.00 to cover the cost of postage and handling.
2. Name, address, and daytime phone number for product return.
3. An explanation of the defect.
4. A copy of your dated proof of purchase.
5. Do not send in accessories (batteries, SD cards, cables) with the product for repair.

Product should be well packed in a sturdy outside shipping carton to prevent damage in transit, and shipped to the address listed below:

IN U.S.A. Send To:
Tasco
Attn.: Repairs
9200 Cody
Overland Park, Kansas 66214

IN CANADA Send To:
Tasco
Attn.: Repairs
140 Great Guff Drive,
Unit# 8 Vaughan,
Ontario L4K 5W5

For products purchased outside the United States or Canada, please contact your local dealer for applicable warranty information.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have other rights which vary from country to country. ©2021 B.O.P.

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

A shielded interface cable must be used with this equipment to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Specifications and designs are subject to change without notice or obligation by the manufacturer.

C FC CE

Contact Information

For further questions or additional information, please contact:

TASCO
9200 Cody Overland Park,
KS 66214
1-800-423-3537
www.tasco.com

©2021 B.O.P.