# Setup: Before Deployment

1. Fully charge batteries
2. Load **charged** batteries into Sentinel and Camera

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Sentinel can take anywhere from 2-7 batteries (if you have a battery extension)
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**ONLY USE FULLY CHARGED BATTERIES**
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3. Check your Sentinel

* Check it turns on! (and then turn it off)
* Micro SD card is inserted
* Batteries are secured with strap (on right side)
* No internal cables are loose

3. Set your camera settings! You dont want to have to do this in the field

* Date/Time (this is very important)
* Camera Name
* Trigger Settings (don't use timelapse)
* Photo Mode (no video)
* **If Reconyx - enable Loop Record with** [**custom Sentinel firmware**](https://conservation-x-labs-1.gitbook.io/sentinel-multi-language/in-the-field/loading-custom-reconyx-firmware)

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See our guide to [deploying a camera trap](https://conservation-x-labs-1.gitbook.io/sentinel-multi-language/in-the-field/deploying-a-camera-trap). 
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4. Check you have everything.

* Sentinels
* Cameras
* SD card cables \[Spypoint] (+50% extra spare)
* Mounting straps/cables 
* Satellite Antennas 
* Optional (Laptop + SD card reader (to read data off cards))

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Don't travel with antennas installed on Sentinels, as this can damage the antenna connection.
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If possible, bring more Sentinels/Cameras than necessary so you don't have to troubleshoot in the field!
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