Avalanche transceiver how does it work

When it captures a radio signal magnetic in the case of a beacon , it filters and amplifies it before broadcasting at an audible frequency. An analog beacon works in a similar way. But keep in mind that a weak signal at a long range needs a well-trained user. This is where digital beacons simplify everything. A digital beacon takes that signal, filters it and amplifies it just like an analog beacon.

The signal is then digitized to allow for a microprocessor to run algorithms based on the signal strength, shape and direction. The result is an audible and visual display that includes a direction and a distance to the victim.

A transceiver antenna only emits in one plane. This is why, in order to calculate the distance and the direction of a victime, a digital beacon needs to triangulate based on the flux pattern of two antennas. These two antennas are used for coarse search, but as you get closer to an emitting beacon, the signal of its antennas become tangled and cause bursts of erratic signals, called spikes.

This is especially true in deep burial situations. Calculations in all three dimensions help greatly with locating a victim with more accuracy. An internal view of an avalanche transceiver, with the X and Y antennas visible. The optimal orientation for transceiver search to work at its best is if the antennas of the receiving and the emitting beacon are aligned together. This explains the variability in search range.

How well do you know your beacon? Do you adapt your search strategy to optimize results? Let us know how in the comments below! Have used these devices for helisking and going for CSA1 Avalanche next month. Please note that avalanches do occur in the East. Online Since Online Chat. What's New? Snowsafe Blog. Transceivers — How do they Work? Shopping Cart. More info. Because these areas are not monitored, dangerous conditions such as heavy snowfall on weak underlying snowpack can sometimes occur.

This is why carrying an avalanche beacon is essential if you venture into the backcountry. You have no way of knowing how stable or unstable the snow beneath your feet will be. To start with, every member of your party should carry their own beacon. Wear your beacon inside your ski jacket to keep the batteries warm. This is our most important tip, so take note: Make sure that everyone activates their beacon before setting off into the backcountry.

When functioning correctly, the beacon will transmit a quiet electronic beep about once a second. This frequency is universally used because of its long wavelength. It can pass through snow, rocks, and vegetation without bouncing off other objects. The closer they move to the buried transceiver, the stronger the signal will become. Get familiar with the best search patterns , perhaps holding a few practice sessions at the start of each season.