● RECGlossaryResearched2026
Trail camera glossary
A camera with a 0.1 s trigger / SD-card trail camera
GardePro E5S
$48.99 listed price, changes often64MP1080p video0.1s trigger
See it on Amazon | Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cellular trail camera | A trail camera with a cellular modem that sends photos to a phone app over a mobile network. Needs a data plan and signal. |
| Detection angle | The width of the wedge in which the motion sensor notices a warm moving body, often narrower than the lens field of view. |
| Detection range | How far out the PIR sensor reliably notices an animal. Shrinks on hot days. |
| Flash range | How far the infrared LEDs light a night photo. Can be shorter than detection range. |
| Hybrid mode | A capture mode that takes a photo and then a video clip on the same trigger. |
| Interval (delay) | The pause after a trigger before the camera can fire again. Also called quiet period. |
| Low-glow | Infrared flash at about 850nm with a faint red glow, longer night range. |
| No-glow | Infrared flash at about 940nm, invisible to people and most animals, shorter night range. |
| PIR sensor | Passive infrared sensor: detects the heat of a moving body against the background. |
| Recovery time | How quickly the camera is ready for the next photo after one is taken. |
| SDHC / SDXC | SD card classes: SDHC is up to 32GB, SDXC is 64GB and up and needs camera support. |
| Time-lapse | Photos at fixed intervals regardless of motion, used to watch fields beyond sensor range. |
| Trigger speed | The delay from detection to the photo being taken, typically 0.1 to 0.7 seconds. |
The basics, bought once
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between trigger speed and recovery time?
Trigger speed is how long the camera takes to fire after the sensor detects motion. Recovery time is how long it takes to be ready again after a photo. A fast trigger catches a moving animal at all; a fast recovery gets more than one photo of it.
Researched from published specifications, brand plan lists and verified owner reviews; we do not claim hands-on testing. General information, not professional, legal or security advice. Trail camera rules differ by state: some restrict transmitting cameras during hunting seasons or on public land, so check your state wildlife agency. Recording and audio laws vary; only record where you have the right to.