Buying an avalanche transceiver: everything you need to know

What is an avalanche transceiver?

An avalanche transceiver helps to quickly locate people who are buried after an avalanche. You should wear an avalanche transceiver when doing snow sports – ski touring, freeriding or snowshoeing – off secured slopes. The device sends and receives signals to determine the location of people buried under snow. This means that every person in the group needs their own avalanche transceiver. While the group is on the tour, the devices remain set to ‘send’. If a person needs to be searched for, searchers switch their devices to ‘receive’. The direction and distance to the buried person/their avalanche transceiver will then appear on the screen.

The equipment is easy to use, but frequent training is essential to act quickly and correctly in an emergency. The training also teaches you how to dig for and rescue people after searching.

Important features of avalanche transceivers

What makes a good avalanche transceiver?

It’s important that the most up-to-date software is installed on the transceiver. Newer devices have much faster processors that process data and signals very quickly. Avalanche transceivers aren’t cheap, but they can save lives in an emergency – so it’s worth buying a new device and updating the software regularly.

Models from Mammut and Pieps are a good choice. They differ only slightly in their functions.

Carrying the avalanche transceiver correctly

Follow the instructions in the transceiver’s user manual. Most manufacturers have their own carry system that allows the avalanche transceiver to be fixed in front of the chest. Please note that if you wear the avalanche transceiver like this, it should always be covered with at least one layer of clothing: in the event of an avalanche, it’s better protected from damage and cannot be as easily torn away.

For some devices, manufacturers also recommend storing them in a trouser or jacket pocket. In this case, make sure that the pocket zipper is always closed. Otherwise, if you’re hit by an avalanche, the avalanche transceiver could easily fall out of your pocket.

The avalanche transceiver should always be at least 30 centimetres away from other devices such as smartphones or GPS watches so that you can avoid disruptions. If you’re storing the transceiver in your trouser or jacket pocket, make sure you put the other devices on the opposite side of your body.

Range of avalanche transceivers

The range indicates how far the device’s signal reaches, which impacts the area in which an avalanche victim can be found. Most devices have a range of up to 70 meters. In practice, however, this can vary greatly depending on the terrain and other external influences.

The search strip width – which specifies the width in which the device can receive signals – also varies depending on the device. The higher this value, the faster a person can be found, depending on the circumstances. Depending on the device, the search strip width covers up to 80 metres.

Please note that ranges and search strip widths vary depending on the terrain and external influences such as interference from other electronic devices, high-voltage towers or mobile communications antennas. Check the avalanche transceiver’s functionality regularly, use fresh batteries and practice using the device.

Avalanche transceivers and safety equipment

Avalanche transceiver are only one part of your safety equipment: a complete set also includes an avalanche shovel and an avalanche probe. Use the probe to check where exactly the avalanche victim is and how deeply buried they are after you’ve found them with the transceiver. Use the shovel to dig out the person – it’s not possible with your hands because avalanche snow is often heavily compressed. So, the safety equipment only works when all three components are together: avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel. It’s an extra load to carry, but it’s always worth being prepared for an emergency.

Care and maintenance

Check your avalanche transceiver regularly for mechanical damage such as cracks and scratches. Make sure that all buttons are working properly and that the batteries are sufficiently charged – at least 50% for a one-day tour. It’s best to remove the batteries from the device if you don’t need them for an extended period of time. This way, you can ensure the batteries won’t leak and damage your device.

At home, before setting off on your ski tour, check whether the send and receive mode is working and carry out a self-test if possible. It’s best to do this a few days before your planned tour so that you have enough time to either get another avalanche transceiver or have yours repaired if necessary. This way, you avoid going on the tour without a transceiver or with a defective one

Store the avalanche transceiver in a dry place. If there are any defects, have it checked by a specialist.