The SPYPOINT LINK-MICRO-LTE is a compact cellular trail camera designed for hunting and outdoor surveillance. Its small size and camouflage coloring allow for easy concealment in various environments. The camera's primary function is to capture still images and transmit them wirelessly to a user's smartphone or tablet via the SPYPOINT mobile app, leveraging an LTE cellular network connection. This remote access capability allows users to view photos, check the device's status, and configure settings from a distance.
Function Description
The LINK-MICRO-LTE operates by detecting movement within its detection range, triggering the camera to capture photos. These images are then stored on a microSD card and simultaneously transmitted to the SPYPOINT app. The camera is equipped with a photo lens for image capture and four powerful LEDs for night illumination, enabling clear black and white photos in low-light conditions. A light sensor automatically adjusts picture settings based on ambient lighting, capturing color photos during the day.
The device features a detection lens that enlarges the motion sensor's detection area, ensuring a wider coverage for activity monitoring. A STATUS light provides visual feedback on the camera's operational status, including signal strength and recording activity. During startup, the STATUS light flashes green while searching for a signal, then indicates signal strength (red for insufficient, orange for acceptable, green for optimal). It also indicates low battery with an orange flash. During normal operation, it signals when the camera is recording or transferring files. A delay light flashes red for 30 seconds during installation, allowing the user to move away without being photographed before the photo mode activates.
The camera's cellular functionality is enabled by a pre-installed and pre-activated SPYPOINT SIM card, which is essential for the transmission of photos to the mobile app. Users can choose from various photo transmission plans to suit their needs, including a free monthly plan for up to 100 photo transfers.
Usage Features
The LINK-MICRO-LTE is designed for ease of use and remote management. Once activated through the SPYPOINT app or website, users can fully configure the camera's settings remotely. This includes adjusting the delay between detections, multi-shot mode (up to 2 photos per detection with a 5-second delay), detection sensitivity (low, medium, high), and naming the camera for easy identification, especially useful for users with multiple devices.
Cellular configuration options allow users to set the first transfer time of the day and the transfer frequency (1, 2, 6, 12 transfers per day, or each detection). There's also an option to take a photo at the next transfer, which will automatically be sent to the app. Advanced configuration includes setting date and time formats, temperature units (°C/°F), and the camera's operating period (24 h/7 days or specific hours). The trigger speed can be set to "optimal" for better image quality or "fast" to ensure capturing quick-moving subjects, though this may result in poorer quality. Photo quality can also be adjusted between "high" (10 Mpx) and "normal" (2 Mpx). The cellular mode can be activated or deactivated as needed.
For installation, the camera comes with a strap that loops through a dedicated slot. It is recommended to install the camera on a solid, non-moving tree at the animal's mid-body height, approximately 25 feet (7.5 meters) away from the targeted animal. The area in front of the camera should be clear of branches or twigs to prevent false detections. For brighter night photos, reflective elements in the background are beneficial. The antenna can be adjusted for optimal signal reception.
The SPYPOINT app serves as a central hub for managing cameras and photos. Users can configure camera settings, manage account preferences, monitor data usage, and view and sort their captured photos. The app also provides notifications for important camera status updates, such as low battery or microSD card issues. An online camera and photo manager on the SPYPOINT website offers similar functionalities for managing devices and photos.
Maintenance Features
Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of the LINK-MICRO-LTE. The camera requires a microSD card (up to 32 GB, sold separately) for storing photos and status files. Before initial use, the microSD card must be formatted via a computer. The camera supports continuous file recording, meaning it will overwrite the oldest files once the memory card is full. To prevent file deletion or damage, the camera should always be turned OFF before inserting or removing the microSD card.
Power can be supplied by 8 AA alkaline or lithium batteries (not included), a rechargeable 12 V battery kit (#KIT-12V, sold separately), or a rechargeable 3.7 V lithium battery pack (#LIT-10, sold separately). The #LIT-10 battery pack is recommended for longer charge times. It's crucial to use only new alkaline or lithium batteries and avoid mixing old and new ones or using rechargeable AA batteries, as their lower voltage can cause operational issues. If an external 12 V battery is connected, it becomes the primary power source, with AA batteries used only after the external battery is depleted. Battery levels can be checked via the SPYPOINT app or by observing the STATUS light, which flashes orange when the battery is low.
The camera is designed with a locking latch to secure the door, providing access to the battery compartment, microSD card slot, STATUS light, and OFF/ON switch. A cable lock hole allows for the installation of a padlock cable (#CLM-6FT, sold separately) for added security. The antenna support helps protect the antenna during transport by securing it in a downward position.
For troubleshooting, the manual provides solutions for common issues such as the camera not turning on, not responding, not taking pictures, not transmitting photos, or not receiving a cellular signal. It also addresses issues with dark night photos and false detections. Users can reset the camera to its default settings via the app. SPYPOINT offers customer support through chat, email, and a dedicated support website for further assistance and updates. The device is covered by a 2-year warranty for parts and workmanship, emphasizing the importance of using original spare parts and accessories for repairs.