Frequently Asked Questions — PlotWatcher Pro

What are the main advantages of the PlotWatcher Pro over the PlotWatcher Original?

The biggest advantage of our Pro version when compared to the Original version is the battery life.  With the Original, you can expect to collect between 25,000 and 35,000 images on a set of (4) AA batteries.  With the Pro, you can expect about 30 times more battery life using (8) AA batteries! 

Additionally, there are several new features like an external power port, the ability to set the camera up to begin working at a future date, on-board set-up, the ability to start and stop the camera based on light OR a specific time and the Pro uses an SD card rather than a USB flash drive as its storage device.

What are the main advantages of the PlotWatcher Pro over other time-lapse scouting cameras?

While we have not tested every competitive camera on the market, we have tested several.  From these non-scientific comparisons, it seems that there are two areas where the PlotWatcher Pro really excels over the competition.

First, our battery life is far superior.  The best way to compare battery life is to compare the number of video images each camera can capture before its batteries die.  While competitive cameras capture between 5,000 and 30,000 images, the PlotWatcher Pro will collect an astounding 750,000 and 1,000,000 images!!!  The Pro is 25 to 33 times better in battery life!!!

Second, we store our video files in what we call Tru-Video format.  What this means to you is that our video is much simpler and takes much less time to load and view.  In technical details, we capture and store our images in a real video file.  Most of our competition stores individual pictures that have to be “stitched” together before they can be viewed in a video player.  This is cumbersome and time-consuming and, in our humble opinion, diminishes the experience and excitement associated with reviewing your video files.

Will videos from the PlotWatcher Original and the PlotWatcher Pro both play on the same GameFinder viewer software?

Yes, if you have version 1.4 or later of the GameFinder.  If you have an earlier version, it will only play files from the PlotWatcher Original.  You can download the latest version from our website.  Simply go to the Support tab on our home page and proceed to the appropriate version of the GameFinder software.

How many and what type of batteries are required to operate the PlotWatcher Pro?

The PlotWatcher Pro employs 8 AA batteries.  You can use standard alkaline, lithium or rechargeable batteries.

Can I use just 4 batteries instead of 8?

Yes. You can use either 4 or 8.  If you use only 4, you need to load either the top or bottom section of the battery compartment.  Don’t put some in the bottom and some in the top.