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Are all the transceivers compatible whatever the brand is?
Yes all the devices that operate on a frequency of 457 kHz are compatible.
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Does the battery power influence the unit performance?
For the analogues devices the range is directly linked to the battery power. Read the user’s manual carefully. For the digital devices, the transmission level is independent of battery power until the visual and acoustic indication of the device. Remark: do not use rechargeable batteries, because they have a sudden capacity loss. We recommend the batteries that are provided with the unit (it is recommended to have 4 batteries more in your backpack).
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How to ensure quick success with an ARVA?
Read carefully the user’s manual. Familiarise yourself with the use of the ARVA beforehand. Do not hesitate to ask a mountain professional or a training centre (ENSA, ANENA, CAF, FFME, FFS…). Many ski resorts are equipped with an avalanche training park. Ask the local tourist office or ski patrollers (those training parks are compatible with all the transceivers of the market).
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Is the indicated number of buried victims reliable?
If there are more than 2 victims, consider that the calculated number of burials displayed is uncertain as long as all the found devices are not switched off. During the search, signals may overlap or some interference may disturb the signals. This is why, the “multiple burials” icon does not appear always immediately. It may even happen that this icon does not appear at all. This is why, you must check the entire avalanche.
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What is the difference between an analogue device and a digital one?
With an analogue unit, the search is based on the sound. The receiving power is generally more important with an analogue device. But the search needs training.
A digital device is easier to use. The direction and distance indicators lead to the victim.
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Why are the numbers only an indication of distance and not real meters?
The signal wave is not a straight line. It is a flux line, travelling in a similar way to the magnetic forces of the earth. The device calculates the size of this wave. Furthermore, the emitting/receiving frequency is 457 kHz +/- 100 Hz.
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Why many antennas?
1ST antenna: allows having a large range. The purely analogue devices have only this antenna.
2ND antenna: allows showing the direction and the secondary search part is quicker.
3RD antenna: is only useful during the final search (last 3 meters) for a better pinpoint precision.
