What is the RepTrap?

The RepTrap is a "motion detector" and camera trigger designed to detect small and/or cold-blooded animals such as frogs, lizards, birds, and other wildlife. It doesn't detect motion directly but instead identifies changes in height within the range of its four Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors. Any height change within this range triggers a connected camera's shutter.

Made for science, but usable by everyone!

During my visit to the NGO FaunaForever in Peru, based on the lands of Wilderness International, I aimed to identify problems in biodiversity research and conservation that could be solved with technology. My goal was not only to develop a device dedicated to scientific needs but also to make it accessible to everyone. By increasing production, costs for scientific use can be reduced, supporting much-needed research.

Traditional animal research often uses pitfall traps, which consist of containers (e.g., buckets) and guide-fences. However, these traps have significant downsides:

• Captured animals remain trapped, making them vulnerable to predators.
• Adverse weather, such as heavy rain, can flood traps, endangering the animals.
• Some animals avoid the traps entirely, leading to missed data.

The OpenThing 2 RepTrap addresses these challenges, offering an addition to traditional methods.

What makes it special?

The RepTrap is built for harsh environments and is water-resistant. It can detect animals as small as ~1 cm in height (depending on the setup) and up to ~13–15 cm. Using ToF laser sensors, it can detect cold-blooded animals, such as lizards and frogs, which are often invisible to conventional PIR infrared sensors. Instead of relying on heat signatures, it detects changes in reflection.

Key features include:

• Triggering within ~100 ms.
• Compatibility with many DSLR cameras (not all tested).
• A durable aluminum CNC-machined enclosure designed by www.formfjord.com.
• IP67-rated USB-C and 3.5 mm audio-jack connectors.
• A magnetic on-off switch for 100% waterproofing.
• An IR-Filter Glass to protect the sensors
• Works at day and at night

The device is powered by an ESP32-S3 with Bluetooth. When connected via USB-C at startup, it boots into BLE mode for configuration and firmware updates. While the app is under development, BLE documentation is available upon request.

For wildlife photographers, the RepTrap is a great tool for precise shots. Position the laser curtain to align perfectly with your camera’s focus, ensuring sharp images every time.

Product Details

• Triggering Time: ~100 ms
• Battery Life: ~5 days (with 18650 battery, 3200 mAh)
• Water Resistance: IP67
• IR Filter: works at day and night

Camera Cable Compatibility

Ensure the correct cable for your camera. The list below is based on supplier information, but compatibility cannot be guaranteed.

C1 Cable:

Compatible with:

• Canon: PowerShot G series, SX series, EOS 1300D, 1200D, 700D, etc.
• Pentax: K series
• Samsung: GX, NX series
• Contax: 645, N series
• Hasselblad: H series

C3 Cable:

Compatible with:

• Canon: EOS 10D, 20D, 5D series, 1D series, etc.

N1 Cable:

Compatible with:

• Nikon: D800, D3, F series
• Fujifilm: S5 Pro, S3 Pro
• Kodak: DCS-14n

N3 Cable:

Compatible with:

• Nikon: D7200, D5500, D750, etc.

S2 Cable:

Compatible with:

• Sony: A5000, A7 series, Cyber-shot series

If the device is sold out, you can pre-order via Tindie to indicate demand for the next batch.

How does it work?

Before using the RepTrap, ensure your camera is waterproofed. Camtraptions offers suitable gear.

Setup Steps

1. Placement: Position the RepTrap above the target area, pointing down. Use poles or straps for mounting.
2. Camera Setup: Set up your camera and lights, and connect the trigger cable. Ensure the focus aligns with the "laser curtain."
3. Power On: Turn on the RepTrap.

The device will enter calibration mode (green/yellow LED). It measures average distances to the ground. Ensure the detection area is clear during this process. Calibration completes when the LED blinks green and turns off.

To test detection, place your hand below the sensor. A detection will light the LED purple and trigger the camera.

Known Issue:

If the sensor triggers endlessly after calibration, turn it off, adjust the height (10–30 cm from the ground), and recalibrate.

Applications

• Birdwatching: Place near feeding stations or nests.
• Small animal monitoring: Use at burrow entrances.
• Frog crossings: Monitor crossing areas near roads.
• Jumping action shots: Capture pets or humans mid-air.

Note: An extension cable is always required for the sensor, as not every cable will fit the sensor’s enclosure. Be sure to use the specified cable for proper compatibility.

Share Your Shots!

If you’ve captured great images using the RepTrap, share them on Instagram and tag @batonature. You can also email your photos, feedback, or suggestions to info@open-things.de.