COVERT SCOUTING CAMERAS LB-A Transmission Unit Instruction Manual

COVERT SCOUTING CAMERAS LB-A Transmission Unit

Congratulations on your purchase of the AT&T LB-A Covert Scouting Camera! We truly value your business and will continue to provide you top quality customer service should you ever need help with any of our products. Check out our other products on our website at: www.covertscoutingcameras.com We hope you enjoy the hassle-free performance from this quality product for years to come.

Camera Button Control Diagram

Installing the Batteries

Your LB-A can function short-term on 4-AA batteries. Improved battery life on 12-AA, but we suggest you use 12-AA rechargeable batteries paired with a solar panel to get the most out of your camera’s battery life, especially if you do not use the upload delay and connect more than 3 linked cameras. Using Covert rechargeable NiMH, 2300mAh, AA batteries will extend the battery life significantly when paired with a Covert Solar Panel.
DISCLAIMER

Do not use an external power source (Example: Solar Panel) with a non- rechargeable AA battery installed in the

Downloading the Mobile App

Search “Covert Wireless” in your Google Play Store or Apple App Store. camera. Pay attention to the(+) or(-) molded into each sleeve to determine if you insert the positive or negative end into the sleeve first. The negative battery terminal always contacts the spring.

Accessing the Web Portal:

• Open your web browser to: www.covert-wireless.com
• Purchasing Your Plan: Follow these simple steps to activate or renew a data plan:

1.  **Open your web browser to:**<https://secure.covert-wireless.com>
2. Select the type of plan you would like to add and create your account.
3. Log in and scroll down to “My Services and Equipment”
4. Enter the IMEI for your Covert LB-A found on the inside white-label of the camera and on the outer packaging.
5. Enter your ICCID number found on the SIM card included in the packaging of your camera.

Installing the SD Card and SIM Card

Now that you have activated your data plan, you will need to install an SD card on the side of the base unit, (a Covert SD card is recommended). Push in until it clicks and releases. To remove, repeat that
process, the card will pop out enough to remove.
You can use any SD card size up to 32 GB. We
recommend using any type of SDHC (not ultra or
high performance). The SIM card will push in until it clicks and release, similar to the SD card. To
remove, repeat that process and the card will pop out enough to remove. See the diagram on page 6 for reference.
You must have the SD card in the camera to be able to turn the camera on and the SIM card to search
the network.

Setting Up the Wireless Network

While finding the network connection, you will see the words Searching Network in red on the screen. Once it is connected, you are ready to move on.

Quick Tip: If your camera doesn’t connect successfully, first make sure your SIM card is active on a Covert Wireless plan, and then turn the camera OFF and then back ON. (Power Cycle.)

Main Screen Interface:

Select and Link to an LC32 Camera
First, turn the LB-A (base unit) on to set up. Press the M button to go to the menu. Select Choose linked IDs. Select the IDs you want to use. (For example, if you have 3 linked cameras to attach, then you can choose any 3 IDs out of Sl-S9.) Second, turn on the LC32 (linked camera) to the setup mode. Choose the net tab to set the Base ID.

See photo for reference

Then, type the base unique ID showing on your LB-A main screen and select LoRa linked camera ID here. For example, if you set it as S1, you will see S1 on your LB-A main screen after it is successfully linked.

Base Unit Tips

The LoRa system is using the base unit to receive photos via the 2.4G channel and upload photos by AT&T’s 4G/LTE network. We highly recommend mounting the base unit at the highest elevation point on your property. Then do a 2.4G test on the LC32 camera. This is a manual photo to make sure the camera is connected to the base unit. We highly suggest you use a solar panel and rechargeable batteries with the base unit to get the best user experience. Covert highly recommends using Covert’s 2.4GHz booster antenna (SKU: 2014) on the base unit to increase the LoRa connection distance.

4G Test Mode

4G Module Info gives you the IMEI and the module-info of the camera. 4G Switch means if you turn this off, it will not send pictures to the Covert app & web portal. This will turn off the cellular function.

Select 4G Test Mode on the menu. Press OK to enter. Press start and press OK again to save. This will send the Covert Wireless logo to the app and web portal to ensure the base unit is connected to the wireless network. The camera will upload a photo to the Covert app & web portal. You can see the sending progress on the screen. It will show sent successfully when it is done. It is very important to test this before you leave the camera there.

Base Unit Name

You can edit your camera name via the Covert wireless app, like the photo below:

Base Work Mode

Upload Delay Settings

The default setting is 30 mins. The base unit will wake up and communicate with LC32 cameras every 30 minutes. If there are 3 linked cameras (Sl, S2, S3) connected, the base unit will wake up and check on S1. If there are new photos, it will receive and upload those photos. And 30 minutes later, it will wake up to communicate with S2. This is the power-saving technique designed to optimize your battery life. If you set the camera to Real-Time, the base unit will work instantly, and whenever there are photos from the linked cameras, they will upload to the portal & app immediately. We suggest only using real- time if you are using some type of auxiliary battery backup on the base unit. Max Number of Images Per Day This is the total number of photos per day for every linked camera connected to the case unit.  For example, if you set the max number of photos as 30, every linked camera attached to the base will upload a maximum of 30 photos to the base unit and then to the app & web portal per day. You can  choose from 5-50. If you want an unlimited number of photos, then turn it OFF. We suggest unlimited only when your base unit is using auxiliary power. (Solar panel with rechargeable batteries and a 6V, etc.)

• Set Clock: The clock is set automatically from the wireless network. You can manually set it on camera too.
• Format the SD Card: This will erase the contents of your SD Card.
• Default: With a reset to factory settings, all your customized settings will be lost.
• Software Version: Indicates the software version for manufacturer’s use and troubleshooting only.
• MINI USB: Your camera can use a mini USB cable to hook up to your computer or TV to look at the photos.

Troubleshooting

COMMON ERROR MESSAGES:
Reasons for error:
Login Fail:

1. The service in your area is insufficient to run the camera.
2. You need to add money to your AT&T account.
3. Make sure that your antenna is attached securely.

Send Fail:

1. The camera does not have sufficient service to send the picture.
2. You need to add money to your Covert Wireless account.
3. Make sure that your antenna is attached securely
4. Default the camera and try again

Others: If you cannot power up the camera, please load new batteries and try again.

Network Busy:

1. The AT&T Network service provider is busy.
2. The camera does not have sufficient service to send the picture.
3. Network busy can also mean you do not have an active plan with Covert Wireless.

If it is a cellular service issue you may need to purchase a booster antenna from Covert Scouting Cameras to help boost the signal. These can be very effective in boosting the signal to your camera in a poor signal area. You will only need to purchase one booster antenna on the left side of the camera should you need to boost your signal.

1. If you are still having problems, contact customer service at 877-462-1799 or e-mail [email protected] If you e-mail or just leave a message, we will get back to you as quickly as we can.

Cannot access the SET-UP menu

Reasons for the issue

1. SD card not inserted
2. SD card is corrupted
3. Batteries are low

Suggestions to remedy

1. Install new SD card
2. Replace batteries

Tricks and Tips on Field Setup

• For best results, mount the camera approximately 3 feet off the ground facing straight forward, as level as possible.
• To enhance the flash, we recommend positioning the camera in an area with a backdrop to reflect the maximum amount of light. For instance, place the camera 20-30′ from a field edge facing the woods. For the inside of timber, position the camera facing a thicket approximately 20-30′ away.
• Try to set the camera up so it is not facing directly into the sun either in the morning or the evening when game movement is at its peak.
• use the Covert Tree60 mounting system to mount the camera up higher pointing down on them for a better look. Works great when you do not have a straight tree to attach to.
• The FW version is a reference to our engineers to ensure a speedy and efficient warranty repair should the need arise.

Covert Scouting Cameras Warranty

Covert Scouting Cameras warranties this product for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase. This warranty only covers manufacturer’s defects and does not cover damage caused by misuse or abuse of the product. This warranty includes two years of repair or replacement service on the product from the date of purchase. If you have problems with this product, please do not contact the store you purchased it from. Contact Covert Scouting Cameras Customer Service toll-free at 877-462-1799 or e-mail [email protected]

Proof of purchase required for replacement

Covert Warranty Policy and Procedure:

To receive repair or replacement by Covert Scouting Cameras’ two-year warranty, we ask you to do the following:

-All returns must have a Return Authorization (RA#} prior to sending in the camera.

1. E-mail or call our customer service department:
   • [email protected]
   • toll-free: 877-462-1799 Please explain to the technician what issues you are having with your camera.
2. If you are asked to return your camera to Covert Scouting Cameras, you will be responsible for the cost of shipping to Covert Scouting Cameras. In return, Covert will provide fast and exceptional service as well as incur the cost of shipping back to you. (Only within the Continental United States.)
3. Please include the following information when sending in your camera.
   • RA# on the outside of the package
   • Return address
   • Telephone and Email address
   • Brief description of the problem
   • Copy of proof of purchase
4. Please make sure all the accessories are removed (i.e. SD Cards, batteries, solar panels SIM cards, straps, ETC.) before shipping. All accessories received by Covert Scouting Cameras will NOT be returned.
5. This warranty only covers manufacturer’s defects and does not cover damage caused by misuse or abuse of the product.

Covert International Warranty Policy and Procedure

1. Outside the US, service is available through the distributor/reseller of purchase.

2. All returns must have an RA# provided by Covert. Copy of Proof of Purchase is required for all returns.

3. Covert is not responsible for lost or damaged products incurred during the shipping process.

4. Insurance for returns is at the discretion of the customer. Additional charges apply for return shipping.

In the maintenance of the product, Covert Scouting Cameras may use new or like-new assemblies or products for equal or improved quality. All defective parts, assemblies, and products become the property of Covert. Returns and claims will be handled according to the current Covert Scouting Cameras, Inc. procedure. These warranties shall not apply to any defect, failure, or damage caused by improper use or inadequate maintenance and care. Covert shall not be obligated under these warranties to repair:

• a. Damage resulting from attempts by personnel other than Covert representatives to install, repair or service the product unless directed by a Covert representative.

• b. Damage, malfunction, or degradation of performance resulting from improper use or connection to incompatible equipment or memory.

• c. Damage, malfunction, or degradation of performance caused by using non-Covert supplies or consumables or the use of Covert supplies not specified for use with this product.

• d. An item that has been modified or integrated with other products when the effect of such modification or integration increases the time or difficulty of servicing the product or degrades performance or reliability.

• e. To perform user maintenance or cleaning or to repair the damage, or malfunction.

• f. Damage, malfunction, or degradation of performance resulting from use of the product in an environment not meeting the operating specifications set forth in the user manual.

• g. Damage, malfunction, or degradation of performance resulting from failure to properly prepare and transport the product as prescribed in published product materials.
  h. Any failure to register the product warranty ‘within 10 days of purchase.

• i. To replace items that have been refilled, are used up, abused, misused, or tampered with in any way.

• j. To install replacement items that are not considered customer-replaceable.

• k. To support software not supplied by Covert

• I. To provide software or firmware updates or upgrades.

Any service identified in the above list and provided by Covert at the Customer’s request shall be invoiced to the customer, at Covert’s then-current rates for parts, labor, and shipping. THE ABOVE WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN BY COVERT WITH RESPECT TO THIS PRODUCT AND ITS RELATED ITEMS IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. COVERT AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR ANY SIMILAR STANDARD IMPOSED BY APPLICABLE LEGISLATION. COVERT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE, FOR DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS AND RELATED ITEMS IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR BREACH OF THESE WARRANTIES. Some states, provinces, and countries do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or exclusions or limitations on the duration of implied warranties or conditions, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state, province, or country. TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LOCAL LAW, EXCEPT FOR THE OBLIGATIONS SPECIFICALLY SET FORTH IN THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT, IN NO EVENT SHALL COVERT AND ITS VENDORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING LOSS OF PROFITS) WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY AND IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER COVERT OR THE VENDOR HAS ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGES.

FCC Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
• To assure continued compliance, any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party.
• Responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. (Example- use only shielded interface cables when connecting to computer or peripheral devices).
• This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
  1. This device may not cause harmful interference
  2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
• FCC Radiation Exposure Statement:
  • The equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.

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