When you start off-piste and going into fresh snow it is essential to equip yourself with an avalanche avalanche transceiver to facilitate localization in case you are hit by an avalanche. Since life expectancy depends on the timeliness of rescue if one is buried under a snow avalanche, these devices can really make the difference between life and death. But not all ARVA avalanche devices are the same, and it is good to know their characteristics and evaluate them based on the type of trips you intend to do.
ARVA anti-avalanche device: which one to choose
All ARVA transceivers include some standard features that improve performance and make them simple and easy to use. All ARVA devices are digital, equipped with 3 antennas and have marking, group control and self-test functions.
THREE ANTENNAS TRANSCEIVER
The three antennas provide distance information in three dimensions. The main antenna, also called Y-antenna, is the longest antenna. In transmit mode it emits the signal and in receive mode it provides a longer range. The secondary – or X – antenna then orients the signal. This antenna provides reliable directional information. The third, or Z, antenna provides depth information during the search to avoid the multiple peak effect. The combination of these three antennas provides a complete signal.
DIGITAL TRANSCEIVER
Through digital processing, the signal is then translated into a distance and direction indicated by an arrow. Searching is made much easier thanks to clear visual indicators.
As digital avalanche transceivers have become the standard in the avalanche safety device market, the difference between models is now based more on processor speed. This may become more apparent during the final search phase, the cross-search as you approach the victim. So you’ll have to be careful not to go too fast, depending on your device. Carrying out a preliminary simulation is very useful because it gives an idea of the speed to adopt in a research situation. The quality of the information displayed on the screen may also vary between different models, depending on whether it is sunny or overcast.
USABLE RANGE AND SEARCH BANDWIDTH
These two concepts are often confused, but they are extremely important when choosing your transceiver. Effective range is the maximum distance at which the transceiver can receive a signal. The search bandwidth is double the useful range.
So, when you are in the middle of a stream, if your range is 30 meters, you will be able to receive a signal from the victim if they are within 30 meters to your right and left, i.e. 60 meters in total. The greater the effective range, the greater the chance of picking up the victim’s first signal.
GROUP VERIFICATION, SELF-TESTING AND MARKING OF THE VICTIM
Automatic testing is also a standard feature on all our devices. Check the correct functioning of the device as soon as it is turned on: transmission, reception and battery life. The group check function allows you to ensure that all members of the group are wearing a transceiver and that their transceivers are transmitting correctly.
The marking function completes all these useful and essential features. During a search for multiple burials, the marking function allows you to isolate and eliminate the signal of a victim already found to focus on the next burial.
THE KEY ACCESSORY: THE HOLSTER
The holster is essential to keep your ARVA as close to you as possible and allow you to move easily. Remember that in the event of an avalanche, for example, an avalanche transceiver placed in your trouser pocket could be swept away by the snow. It is therefore better to have it as close to you as possible, in a holster, which also guarantees maximum freedom of movement.
ARVA EVO 5
The EVO5 device is the smallest DVA ever designed by the ARVA brand. Measuring just 11cm high and 7cm wide, it is one of the most compact headlights on the market. Its size and light weight of 170 g allow it to go barely unnoticed while wearing it without neglecting its performance in an emergency situation.
Maximum performance, minimum dimensions. The compact EVO5 is equipped with the right technology to make it easier to use during a search. Both daily and casual users will love this device.
Recommended retail price: €279.90
ARVA EVO 4
The EVO4 is our easiest transceiver to use. In addition to the search band width of 40 meters, it includes all standard features to ensure the highest level of safety without increasing the complexity of the buried search. This is the perfect device for beginners or casual users.
The EVO4 needs no introduction! This device works well in the hands of both new and experienced backcountry enthusiasts who are looking for an easy-to-use avalanche transceiver.
Recommended retail price: €238.90
ARVA NEO BT PRO
The practical NEO BT PRO with a search strip width of 80 m and Bluetooth technology will appeal to both professionals and the new generation of backcountry enthusiasts. Users can connect their NEO BT PRO to the ARVA app to access a wide range of services, including setting up their transceiver, planning an outing or even practicing rescues. Experts will appreciate the improved analog mode with automatic calibration and a maximum range of 90 meters. For multiple burial situations, the SCROLLING mode offers rescuers maximum efficiency during the search phase. The NEO BT PRO features a soft holster to fit a wide range of body sizes.
Recommended retail price: €355.90
READ ALSO: ARVA obligation for ski mountaineers and off-piste snowshoes: in which regions?
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2024-01-25 13:51:56
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