Ortovox S1 Avalanche Scanner Transceiver Review

The Ortovox S1 Avalanche Scanner Transceiver is no longer available except for on Ebay.

We recommend the Ortovox Diract Avalanche Transceiver for Emergency Search & Snow Rescue.

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The S1 plus Smart Antenna Technology to help YOU get found.
During practice or real-life recoveries, your Ortovox S1+ Avalanche Scanner/Transceiver immediately scans the debris field, showing you how many victims were buried, their orientation in reference to you, and the distance to each signal. Improving the original S1, the 2011 S1+ features Smart Antenna Technology, which actually improves your chances of being recovered by transmitting from the most effective antenna based on its position in the burial.

Ortovox S1 Avalanche Scanner Transceiver Review
5 out of 5 Stars
Impressive how easy to use this beacon is, especially for multiple burials. I’ve been using the Tracker for the past 8 years and it was good and I was very capable with it on single burials, however not very good on multiples.
I’ve used it in avalanche practice parcs and it works just fine. Not too much going on on the screen! I like the way it changes from sending to receiving by just opening the beacon. I found it very easy to use, after a bit of practice I could find multiple beacons (3) in under nine minutes.

I’m not any faster with the S1 because it requires the user to move more slowly. It will give you the “stop” sign if you move too fast, which is annoying at first, but you get accustomed to it. The beacon really shines on multiples. Easy to view on the screen, then flag and move on to the next. There are other features aren’t all that useful. It is nice to be able to check other peoples beacons to see if they are functioning properly.

More Info – Ortovox S1 Avalanche Scanner Transceiver Review
Smart Antenna Technology is the first in the industry to use two of three antennas to transmit your signal, and it turns on or off the antennas that are most likely to be detected based on your orientation beneath the snow.

Auto Scan function starts scanning as soon as you open the flip-up S1 so you can quickly make the best decisions with the best possible information.

Navigator uses a bearing line, direction arrow, and distance value to guide you to first victim.

Fine search mode helps you find the right spot to probe with a clear circle and arrow display as well as the distance down to a tenth of a meter.

Once you pinpoint one signal, mark it with the glove-friendly flag button and move onto the next victim without other signals clouding your search.

Also features vital backcountry tools including an inclinometer, compass, and thermometer.

Neoprene bag with elastic keeper strap secures the S1 to your body with a comfortable strap system.

Fully updateable microprocessor lets the S1 remain cutting-edge for years.

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Why would you need an avalance transceiver?

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring snowy, mountainous terrain for skiing, snowboarding, or mountaineering, an avalanche transceiver becomes an essential piece of equipment. Avalanches are unpredictable and potentially life-threatening natural events in these environments. In the event of being caught in an avalanche, an avalanche transceiver significantly increases your chances of survival. This device emits radio signals that rescuers can pick up using their own transceivers, facilitating a rapid and precise search. This expedites the process of locating and rescuing buried individuals, making it a critical tool for both self-rescue and assisting others in peril.

Moreover, having an avalanche transceiver isn’t just about personal safety; it’s also about collective responsibility in a group setting. When venturing into avalanche-prone areas with companions, each person equipped with a transceiver enhances the overall safety of the group. It allows for a coordinated rescue effort, enabling quick location and retrieval of buried members in the unfortunate event of an avalanche. Therefore, these devices serve as crucial safety measures, fostering a safer environment for exploration and adventure in snow-covered landscapes.

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