Private investigator tools of the trade

Tools of the Private Investigator

Spy gadgets and security cameras Tiny Wireless Cameras, See & Record Everything

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Of course, no private investigator would be complete without gadgets. The first known private investigation gadget dates back to 1889. This glass magnifier was 3 inches round and 4/8 of an inch thick. It was handed out as a souvenir at the 1889 International Detective’s Conference in St. Louis, where private investigators from around the world gathered to share stories and secrets from the field of private investigation.

In 1905, the first camera disguised as a watch hit the private investigation market. This camera was capable of taking 12 pictures. By 1909, the hidden camera had evolved into a pocket watch camera. The first “cigarette pack” camera became available in the 1940’s.

More advances in hidden camera technology were made in the 1950’s. In 1954, a 16-exposure camera that looked like a cigarette lighter became available. Then, in 1955, private investigators were able to purchase the first camera disguised as a pen. This camera was capable of taking 18 pictures and the pictures were of a much greater quality than the original 1905 watch camera.

Taking pictures, however, is not the only job of a good detective. Therefore, the first wire recorder was unveiled in Chicago in the 1950’s, as well. This portable recorder made it possible for the private investigator to record interviews in order to transcribe them later.

In the mid to late 1950’s, these recorders evolved into much smaller versions that could be worn as body wires or placed as bugs in specific locations. The transmissions were sent to a regular radio band, which allowed anyone to hear what was being sent by the recorder.

Since these times, private investigator tools have continued to improve. From voice changing mechanisms, to bug detectors, to telephone taps, the private investigator has an entire arsenal tools available to him.
 

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