Searching
Tracker3 operates using the 457 kHz international standard frequency.
It is fully compatible with all avalanche transceivers adhering to this
standard. Do not use with 457 kHz transceivers designed for firefighter
rescue.
When searching, keep Tracker3 at least 16" (40 cm) away from
electrical equipment, including cell phones and video cameras.
Turn all electrical equipment off if possible.
The search process includes four phases: the signal search, the coarse
search, the fine search, and the pinpointing/probing phase (See Figure E).
Figure E
SIGNAL
SEARCH
> 40 m
20 m
20 m
COARSE
SEARCH
3–40 m
FINE
SEARCH
< 3 m
Signal Search: The signal search refers to the process of establishing a
search pattern and looking for a signal. The search pattern will be defined
by the victim's last seen area, the size of the slide, and the number of
searchers. Refer to Figure F to establish a signal search pattern. If the slide
is less than 40 meters wide, the signal search path will be directly up or
down the center. If the victim's last seen area is well defined, the signal
search will follow a direct path along the fall line (up or down) from this point.
Operating Instructions
Objective: Locate signal
• If no "last seen point," search entire path
• Rotate Tracker in all directions
• Max 40 m between searchers or switchbacks
40 m
20 m
Objective: Move quickly to 10m, slowly to 3 m
• Follow general direction of center 3 lights
• Make sure distance readings are decreasing
• Slow down at 10 m
Objective: Locate smallest distance reading
(strongest signal)
• Use Tracker3 close to snow surface
• Ignore fluctuations in distance and direction
• Begin probing at lowest distance
• Probe in concentric circles 10" (25 cm) apart
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