Beacon Range

[MNSLEDNECK56308]

I was out doing some test finds, with two BCA beacons. What is range on these units? I could only pick up the other beacon from about 30 meters?? Is this normal or was this from the interference of all the electroncis in my neghiborhood. Just wondering what to expect on the mountain.
Thanks for any info.

 

[snowww1]

Where were you doing the testing?

I did some testing with BCA last winter trying to see how much interference a snowmobile would create. We checked the range of all the beacons and here is what we found:
Tracker: 38 meters
Tracker 2: 56 meters

This is getting three readouts in a row.

All the information can be found on the BCA blog on their web site: Here's the link:

http://backcountryaccess.com/blog/?p=1382

Hope this helps. Mike Duffy

www.avalanche1.com

avalanche education for mountain riders

 

[MNSLEDNECK56308]

Mike,
I was testing in my neighborhood, with hiding spots fairly close to the house and other houses. But if you were getting the same 30ish meter readings that must be normal. I would have thought that it would be more, but that just goes to show you need to use the last visual sign and work off of that. See you in Sauk Centre Dec. 2nd! Thanks Mike
Darin

 

[95RXL]

We tried some searches in a neighborhood a couple years ago too and really struggled. Lots of interference. I'll prob see ya at the Sauk Center class too.

 

[snowww1]

Underground cables, electricity, etc can really mess with beacons. Best to go out in a field. I've even had problems with satellite relay stations on ridges 10 miles from the nearest town. Hope to see you in Sauk Centre. Mike

p.s. I will be doing on the snow rescue classes in MN again this winter. Finalizing the schedule now. They will start in mid December. I'll post the info on the forum.

 

[Putzy]

I have a Tracker and figured it's usually about 30 meters. That's why you use 40 meter spacing between searchers.