SPYPOINT SOLAR

Pros
Almost unlimited battery life
Fastest trigger speed/recovery we have ever tested
Bright, colorful pictures
Internal picture viewer

Cons
No built-in python bracket
Blurry night photos

Trailcampro Analysis

Ever seen a camera like the Spypoint Solar? Neither have we. Spypoint has always been known for innovative trail camera products, the Solar trail camera is the latest innovation.

The Spypoint Solar is a Force 11D with a solar panel permanently attached to the top of the camera.

Picture Quality: 73/100

Photo resolution: 12 mpxl (interpolated)

Video Resolution: 1280 x 720 w/ audio

Flash Type: Red Glow Infrared (very faint)

As expected, the picture quality is identical to the Force 11D. Daytime pictures have been very impressive. Bright color, good clarity and plenty of depth whether the camera was placed in bright sunlight or heavy timber.

Night pictures have pros and cons. There is a decent amount of flash range, but the pictures do have a slight halo (more light in the center of the image - less on the edges of the photo). We also have a high number of blurry photos. While Moultrie M-40 Game camera takes high quality images. The Solar has three modes in the settings that control night image quality:
IR Boost - Max flash range but higher frequency of blurry images
Blur Reduction - Less flash range, but better clarity on moving animals
Optimal - This is a compromise of the two modes above.

Our sample images are a combination of all the modes the camera allows. Overall, the night photos are a mixed bag. We consider the Solar's night photos to be very average.






Day video is shot with 1280 x 720 resolution. The video quality is good, but almost all the videos we retrieved are darker than their picture counterparts.

Night videos are very dark and lack flash range, especially on the left and right side of the videos. We consider night video quality to be below average.






Battery Life: 85/100*

Resting Power (on): 0.61 mW

Picture Daytime & Nighttime Power Consumption: 1.38 Ws | 2.26 Ws

Video Daytime & Nighttime Power Consumption: 17.9 Ws | 2.25 Ws

This is silly battery life. The draws are so efficient, this camera lasts forever before you even start to consider the solar panel.

Picture Mode

If this camera were to take 35-day pictures and 35-night pictures every 24 hour period, this camera would last 15 months in the field on a set of lithium batteries. This does not include the solar panel.

Video Mode

If this camera were to take 15-day and 15-night videos (10-second videos) every 24 hours, it would last 2 months in the field on a set of lithium batteries. Once again, considering the camera is only using 6 batteries, 2 months is very respectable video battery life. This does not include the solar panel.

*Solar Panel

How does the Spypoint Solar work with internal batteries and how does it know which battery source to draw from? The camera pulls power from the solar panel until the charge goes below 25%, at that point, it pulls from the 6 internal AA batteries. We highly recommend lithium batteries, as they do not have a daily self-discharge like alkaline or rechargeable batteries do.

Spypoint claims that if you buy the Solar trail camera you will "Never buy batteries again." In our opinion, if the camera continues to operate as it has to this point, that could very well be a valid statement.

Tenergy rechargeable batteries do not fit in the battery compartment. The batteries are too thick. For that reason, we only recommend lithium batteries with this camera.

Detection Circuit: 91/100

Picture Trigger & Recovery Speed: 0.05 s. / 0.50 s.

Video Trigger & Recovery Speed: 0.58 s. / 0.7 s.

Detection Range: 60 ft.

We had to test this several times just to make sure our eyes weren't lying to us. Fast doesn't even begin to describe the Spypoint Solar. Instant trigger and recovery - even when in video mode. This is still hard to believe.

When we first tested video detection, the times were really good. Spypoint took a look and said they could do better. A week later we had cameras in hand that can start a video in half a second and recover in under a second. This is unheard of in terms of speed. Spypoint put a lot of time into their R&D for the Force Solar and it paid huge dividends.

The 60 ft. detection range is average.

Overall, this is the best cumulative detection circuit we have ever scored.

Quality of Design: 89/100

Dimensions: 7" x 4.25" x 3.25"

Battery Type: 6 AA Batteries

External Battery Jack: 12-Volt

The solar panel immediately drew our attention. We talked to Spypoint extensively about this and they had some interesting things to say. We were worried that 90% of consumers would put the camera under a tree, negating the benefit of the solar panel. However, this particular solar panel doesn't need direct sunlight. It charges with any light that is present, even in thick timber. In fact, it was charging in our office just from our inside lighting.

"This solar panel doesn't need direct sunlight"

Better yet, on the internal menu, it shows a percentage that the camera is charging when you are positioning the Spypoint Solar. You can immediately see the benefits of angling the camera one way or another. The solar panel does not detach, it is fixed permanently on the camera. As this incredible technology is very new to us, we are continuing to test and evaluate this panel to learn more about how it works.

The Spypoint Solar is very small and would be easy to conceal in almost any environment. The camera has a detachable bracket for mounting or removing quickly from a tree. There is not a built-in python lock bracket, but there is a 1/4" x 20 threaded insert on the bottom of the camera for a tripod or Slate River Mount. It would have been nice to have a python bracket built into the case design.



On the back of the camera, there is a cover that unscrews to reveal the battery compartment (it requires 6 AA batteries). The batteries are easy to insert/remove and are held firmly in place. There is no chance they would become dislodged on their own. The battery cover feels a bit flimsy, but it attaches in a way that removes that as a concern. It is perfectly flush with the back of the camera and is not exposed to anything that would risk damaging it.

It hasn't been an issue, but it would have been nice for Spypoint to have a bigger, beefier latch. The internal viewer quickly scrolls through any pictures or videos the camera has taken. This is an underrated feature on the Solar trail camera, internal viewers make setup so much easier and ensure you walk away from a camera knowing it is monitoring the terrain exactly as you want it to.

Programming is incredibly easy and intuitive. Whether this is your first camera or 21st, you will enjoy the programming options and fluid navigation. All programming is done on the internal viewer, so for those of you that do not enjoy squinting at small LCD screens, you will appreciate the bigger font on the viewer.

The Solar trailcam has custom start/stop time, which is useful for anyone looking at this camera for security.

Durability has been outstanding. In the last 12 months, Spypoint has had one of our lowest warranty rates.

Overall, the case design could be beefed up to feel sturdier, however, we gave the Spypoint added points for having a solar panel that can charge without direct sunlight. That is pretty cool technology and could potentially save you a ton of money over the life cycle of owning this trail camera.

Spypoint Solar Conclusion: 83/100

The Spypoint Solar is unlike anything we have seen before. For all practical purposes, the Spypoint Solar is a Force 11D with a solar panel attached, which has made changing batteries a thing of the past. The Solar has a great internal viewer, easy programming, and insane speed. If the blurry night photos and dark night videos don't bother you, we give this camera our highest recommendation.

7 Things Your Customers Wish You Knew About Them

A busy work environment may occasionally blind business owners to the needs of their customers, but these needs extend beyond the routine products and services they regularly purchase into areas like customer service, convenience and attentiveness. Here are some of the key factors your clients take into consideration when seeking help from small business owners.

Make them feel like they matter

Your customers’ sense of self-worth plays a central role in your business's long-term success. Show them how much they’re valued by remembering and calling them by name each time they visit. Other ways to show clients how important they are is through rewards programs and by offering price breaks to those who provide steady business or provide referrals.

Acknowledgment is essential

For many customers, being heard provides a strong indicator that your business really cares. People appreciate prompt responses so it’s important to genuinely listen to both positive and negative feedback. Use online surveys, focus groups, social media, website forms and other means to connect with customers. Keep in mind that disregarding feedback can lead to a negative reputation and eventual profit loss.

Good service is better than fast service

While a quick response should always be the goal, the average customer prefers good service over a fast, but subpar resolution. A major reason customers abandon a brand is because of rushed service that is incompetent or incomplete. Take the time to ensure that you’ve fully met your customer’s expectations, ask if there is anything else you can do to assist, and always strive to go the extra mile.

Personalization counts

Sometimes, one size doesn’t fit all. Does your business adjust and adapt to meet the needs of your clientele? For instance, do your products come in enough shapes, and sizes? Are your services available at “standard”, “premium” and “elite” levels? Many businesses allow customers to add personal touches to or even design their own products, which often increases their overall satisfaction. This works especially well with handmade crafts, clothing, and food items. Take customization to the next level by leveraging user feedback and short questionnaires, which will give you a better understanding about your customer's preferences.

Offer rewards

Everyone enjoys a pleasant surprise, especially when it provides a financial benefit. An unexpected reward can evoke positive feelings, elevate you over competitors and encourage repeat business. Delight customers with time of purchase discounts, free shipping, or a small complimentary item and they are likely to remember the experience, refer you to friends and colleagues, and reward you with additional business in the future.

Simplicity is key

With our mobile society and increased demands for instant gratification, efficiency has become more crucial than ever. Customers are not only seeking the best value, but also the most time-saving and hassle-free opportunities. Think of all the areas where your business can be made simpler. Replace any paperwork your customers might be saddled with (such as registration forms, mail-in rebates or hard copy manuals and instructions) with online alternatives. Bundle services or provide them a la carte, whichever is easier for the customer to understand and purchase. Your online presence should follow suit. Email campaigns should have a single focus. Also be sure that all the sections of your website are well organized and intuitive.

Keep things lively

We all need to get things done but there’s nothing wrong with having a good time while doing so. Customers admire a business that takes itself seriously, but also understands that “professionalism” and “boring” are not synonymous. Little things like having pleasant in-store or office background music, a television near the checkout line or interesting decor create a positive customer experience.

Guest Post: How to Buy Used Luxury Watches Online

The internet and the technology that goes with it have lead to the developments in online shopping as we know it today. We can buy almost anything online, and that of course include used luxury watches. The sale of used luxury watches is big business and the competition among dealers is fierce.


So how does one choose a dealer if one wants to purchase a vintage or antique timepiece online?

You will find many websites claiming specialty in selling used luxury watches. Some specialisations are more general, while others are more specific, such as those specialising in only a particular brand, for example. There are others that satisfy what we would call a niche market. These include vintage watch dealers or antique watch specialists. Even though this is somewhat of a niche market there are a number of sellers trading on and off-line and the numbers increase everyday. So how does one choose a dealer if one wants to purchase a vintage or antique timepiece online?

Some people are sceptical about buying online because they are of the opinion that it is easier to verify the credibility of an on-site seller than that of an online one. This is not necessarily the case; the credibility of a business or a dealer is just as important whether they operate on or off-line. The serious online watch dealer is keen on delivering quality timepieces and excellent customer service, because they know that their viability will depend on this. As such you will find a number of reputable and honest vintage watch dealers online. However, not all will deliver the same quality standard or provide you with a memorable shopping experience. Here are some things to consider and look for when buying vintage used luxury watches online:

1. The refund policy outlined - are the terms reasonable? If a dealer does not accept returns, this is not the company you should want to do business with. Usually a dealer that is willing to accept a no quibble refund is one that is probably very confident in the quality product that they sell.

2. Have customers constantly complained? Look at the level of complaints, are you seeing many complaints about this business or many negative reviews? The reality is that no business will be able to please customers all of the time, but they should be able to satisfy a large majority of their customers more often not.

3. Ask questions about the used luxury watches, see how quick or how accurate the response is.

4. Can you readily identify the owners or managers of the business? You should be able to do this - look at the 'about us' page - the information should be there. The vintage watch dealer should be readily identifiable.

5. It also helps if the dealer, even though operating online, has an on-site base or office attached to a legitimate address.

6. Where payment is made online with the use of a credit card, especially when paying on the dealer's website, always look for 'https' at the beginning of the address, in the address bar, on the payment page. If this is not present, it would be advisable not to go through with the purchase. PayPal is however always a good option, whether you are connecting from the seller's website or not.

7. Is the dealer experienced? Especially where it concerns vintage used luxury watches you want to buy from someone who has experience and knows about used luxury watches.

Taking the above into consideration should help you in making a good vintage watch purchase - whether for purpose of a gift, for your own pleasure or as an investment. Happy shopping.

Why Being Risk Averse Is Risky

Have you ever heard a business success story that did not involve risks? Entrepreneurs have to bet big to win big, and the tales of many breakthrough companies include a chapter in which the founder almost loses everything. The ones who find a way through the dark times end up seeing the largest returns. Those who are risk averse create the lowest ceiling for a new venture.

The importance of thinking big

Building a new product may require the use of materials not in mass production. Therefore, betting big on the concept may involve making a side bet on suppliers helping send your goods to market. Large corporations can afford to invest in other companies to help them grow, but entrepreneurs have to find a more creative solution.

The Tesla Motors creation story offers a few examples of how this dynamic works. Tesla CEO, Elon Musk, had to depend on foreign battery suppliers when starting his electric car company. Without assuming a high level of innovation and adequate production of elements out of his control (a risky proposition), the automaker could not put these vehicles on the road. When the company found success with the Model S, starting the company's own battery facility became possible. Now, Tesla has its sights set on the mainstream automobile market with its Giga battery factory.

Risk averse at its riskiest

According to The Wall Street Journal, avoiding risk was a key factor behind the slow economic recovery after The Great Recession and the downturn the United States experienced in 2001. Companies held onto cash reserves rather than investing in new employees and technology. Investment groups were equally sheepish about backing entrepreneurs who sought funding to start new projects. As a result, the pace of added jobs and localized business booms was slower than it had been during periods of economic strength.

Data collected after the recession also revealed that employees were taking fewer risks in the workplace. Rather than leaving a dead-end job to plunge into a more lucrative job market, many workers chose to stick with their jobs in the past decade. This trend seemed prudent in a time when many people lost their jobs, but it does not reflect the culture of optimism, in which risk takers increasingly find success. Betting small and winning in small increments has not been the approach of any success story.

Risks worth taking

Small business owners are right to be risk averse when their life savings are on the line and their family's future is at stake. Identifying which risks are worth taking is the key to winning these big bets. For example, if you have done the research and know your product can penetrate the market upon arrival, taking on debt is not as risky as it may seem in the moment.

Alternative forms of financing, like using Kabbage to secure a loan, are worth your attention, as well. Whether you take on a loan or dive into the world of crowdfunding, this may be the financial boost you need to get that business idea off the ground. Sometimes, considering what you stand to win is more important than dwelling on what you stand to lose.

Being risk averse is a necessary trait for smart business owners. However, you cannot let your company be held back by a fear of all risks. Use these tips to know when to pick your battles and push your company to new heights.

Signs Your Business Is Ready To Expand

Starting a business might be more difficult than you first imagined but it might also become more successful than you thought. With the right mix of planning, skill, and hard work, you could find that you need to expand your business in order to maximize its potential. Here are some signs that growth is the next step for your company.

The business runs itself

Have you noticed yourself stressing out less about the fate of your company? When consulting with your manager or other employees, does it seem like they have everything under control? These are signs that you’ve done an excellent job starting and running your company and suggest that you’re ready for a bigger challenge, i.e., expansion. Could you handle running two or three locations as opposed to one? Perhaps you’re ready to take on more accounts (keeping in mind that each of these endeavors might require adding new staff.) If you feel ready for the challenge, it might be time to take the leap.

The competition has already done it

By expanding or encroaching on your customer base, your business competitors sometimes force your hand. Their success or failure could provide insight into what expansion might look like for your company. Use social media reviews and other types of research to determine how they have fared since opening up new locations. If you find mostly glowing reviews or positive comments it could mean you’ve been beaten to the punch. Rather than conceding defeat and regretting the missed opportunity, look for key takeaways that you can use when planning and executing your own expansion perhaps into a different region.

You have more tricks up your sleeve

Sometimes, growth means diversifying rather than duplicating your original model. For example, restaurateurs with popular desserts could consider opening a location where only desserts are served.To this point, your brand is more than the products and services you offer, so if you do choose to expand, you have a core group of customers to steer toward your next venture. This gives you a tremendous advantage and puts you in a great position compared to companies just starting out. Succeeding in business means using your leverage and having a loyal group of clients proves invaluable because you don’t need to sell them on your company; you only need to sell them on something new from a company they already love.

Picking the right time to expand can be tricky and it’s important to have access to all of the business services you need to make it happen, including financing, online marketing, and human resources. Once you’re ready, grow your business the right way.

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