What is an avalanche transceiver ?

An avalanche transceiver (or beacon) is a piece of equipment that emits and receives a signal in order to rescue someone or be rescued in the event of an avalanche. This means that someone wearing a transceiver can rescue someone buried beneath the snow if the latter is also wearing a transceiver. This device helps to save precious minutes before search and rescue professionals arrive on scene.

Choose the right transceiver by reviewing the performance characteristics and features that you need. A device’s performance is expressed in search strip width. This means the width of an area the device is capable of “scanning” to indicate whether or not an avalanche victim is buried in the area. In addition to this, there are several other functionalities or search options that you might need.

How to choose your avalanche transceiver ?

All ARVA transceivers include certain standard functions that enhance performance and make them simple and easy to use. All of our devices are digital, equipped with 3 antennas, and feature the marking, group check, and auto-test functions.

Three-antenna transceiver

The three antennas provide distance information in three dimensions. The main antenna, also referred to as the Y antenna, is the longest antenna. In transmit mode, it emits the signal, and in receive mode, it provides greater range. The secondary or X antenna orients then signal. This antenna provides reliable directional information. The third or Z antenna provides depth information during the fine search to avoid the multiple spike effect. Combining these three antennas provides a full signal.

Digital transceiver

Through digital processing, the signal is then translated into a distance and a direction indicated by an arrow. The search is made much easier through clear, visual indicators.

As digital avalanche transceivers have become the standard in the avalanche safety device market, the difference between the models is now based more on the processor speed. This can become more apparent during the fine search phase, the cross-search when you get closer to the victim. So you will have to be careful not to go too fast, depending on your device. Carrying out a preliminary simulation is very useful as it gives you an idea of the speed to adopt in a search situation.

The quality of the information displayed on the screen may also vary between the 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 in choosing your transceiver. The effective range is the maximum distance at which your transceiver can receive a signal. The search bandwidth is twice the useful range.

So, when you are in the middle of a flow, if your useful range is 30 metres, you will be able to receive a signal from the victim if they are within 30 metres on your right and on your left, that is to say, 60 metres in total. The greater the effective range, the greater the chances of picking up the victim's first signal.

Group Check, Self-test and Victim marking

The auto-test is also a standard feature on all of our devices. It checks to make sure the device is working properly as soon as it is turned on : transmit, receive, and battery life.

The group-check feature allows you to make sure that everyone in your group is wearing a transceiver and that their transceivers are transmitting properly.

The marking feature rounds out all of these useful and essential functionalities. During a multiple burial search, the marking feature allows you to isolate and eliminate the signal of a victim who has already been found in order to focus on the next burial.

The key accessory : the holster

If you are not familiar with the transceiver holster, here is an illustration. The holster is essential for keeping your avalanche transceiver as close as possible to you while allowing you to move around easily. Remember, in the event of an avalanche, an avalanche transceiver placed in your trouser pocket, for example, could be swept away by the snow. So it is better to have it as close as possible to you, in a holster, which also guarantees you maximum freedom of movement.

Our Avalanche Transceivers

Which ARVA to Choose

ARVA EVO5

EVO5, a miniature avalanche transceiver: The EVO5 is the smallest avalanche transceiver ever designed by ARVA. At just 11 cm tall and 7 cm wide, it is one of the most compact transceivers on the market. Its size and lightweight design of 170g allow it to go unnoticed while still delivering performance in an emergency situation.

ARVA EVO 5 ARVA SAFETY EVO 5 Pack

ARVA EVO4

The EVO4 is the simplest model in the range. In addition to a 40m search strip width, it offers basic features to ensure maximum safety without complicating the search procedure. It is the perfect device for beginners or occasional users.

ARVA EVO 4 ARVA SAFETY EVO 4 Pack

ARVA NEO BT PRO

The NEO BT PRO combines performance and connectivity with an 80m search strip width and Bluetooth technology. Connect your device to the ARVA app to configure it, prepare your outing, or even train for rescue!

ARVA NEO BT PRO ARVA SAFETY NEO BT PRO Pack

No matter which model suits you, the transceiver-shovel-probe trio is always essential!

Maintaining Your Avalanche Transceiver

Servicing is not mandatory, but we strongly advise you to periodically check the condition of your safety equipment, regardless of the brand. To increase the frequency of checks, some connected devices perform self-diagnostics. However, these do not replace servicing by the manufacturer, who provides a thorough check using calibrated measuring tools.

To ensure their performance and prolong their lifespan, avalanche transceivers require regular maintenance. Here are our recommendations:

• Check the battery level before each outing; they should be replaced when below 50% (do not use rechargeable batteries)
• Avoid impacts
• Dry your device after each use
• Store it in a dry and temperate place
• Remove the batteries at the end of the winter season
• Install new, high-quality batteries at the start of the season

It is also recommended to have your device serviced. This allows the manufacturer to ensure its proper functioning and accuracy.

Request a Service