Item: The effect of communication equipment on avalanche transceivers
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Title: The effect of communication equipment on avalanche transceivers
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop Proceedings 2018, Innsbruck, Austria
Authors:
- Daniel Forrer [ CCS Adaxys AG, Lachen, Switzerland ]
- Kurt Müller [ CCS Adaxys AG, Lachen, Switzerland ]
- Ilari Dammert [ Mammut Sports Group AG, Seon, Switzerland ]
Date: 2018-10-07
Abstract: The ongoing replacement of analog communication equipment by digital equipment as well as the general tendency of increased use of electronic devices while touring as well as in rescue is a constant challenge to the user. The possible sources of interference include analog/digital VHF and UHF radios, using FDMA or TDMA, as well gadgets such as PMR radios, GPS devices, smart phones and wrist watches. The current avalanche transceiver technology is based on the concept of searching for buried subjects by following the flux lines of a 457 kHz transmitter. Interference related complications in rescue have been reported and are caused by portable electronic devices, communication equipment or metal objects such as carabiners, ice screws etc. In order to systematically analyze how the transmit mode may be compromised and the receive mode may suffer loss of range or show unreliable distance/direction indications, a laboratory study has been carried out. Based on measurements in an EMC (Electro-Magnetic-Compatibility) laboratory, the study provides results about how different communication equipment influences the transmit [SEND] and receive [SEARCH] modes of an avalanche transceiver. For devices which are critical in rescue, such as communication equipment, the study evaluates the required safety distances in order to allow the use of such devices on the accident site while a search is being conducted. The study provides a better level of understanding concerning interference issues and recommendations how to avoid situations which may lead to problems in the field. The measurements indicate that the interference is depending on the transmit mode or frequency of the communication device.
Object ID: ISSW2018_O18.4.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s):
Keywords: Avalanche Transceiver, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Interference, Rules concerning interference
Page Number(s): 1588-1595
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