RECCO
RECCO is the brand name of the avalanche search system sold worldwide by RECCO AB ( Sweden ) . The RECCO system works with passive reflectors and active search devices based on the principle of harmonic radar . The reflectors do not need their own energy supply and can therefore be built into winter sports clothing and equipment at low cost . The system can help professional rescue teams find spills.
technology
The system is based on the principle of frequency doubling using a semiconductor diode . According to the manufacturer, the maximum range of the RECCO system is 200 meters on the surface and 30 meters when searching in snow. The search system can be used from helicopters.
The mountain rescue services must be equipped with an active search device. This hand-held device sends out radio signals which are reflected back by the reflectors (attached to clothing or equipment). The reflector consists of a copper antenna with a soldered-on diode. The detector device weighs 1.6 kilograms and sends a signal with a max. Of 915 megahertz. 5 watt peak power. The detector receives the frequency-doubled signal to 1830 megahertz and contains a frequency filter that suppresses the transmitted signal.
Many electronic devices such as B. Cell phones, cameras, radios can reflect a RECCO signal even when they are switched off (reflection on metal). The range is limited, however, from a few centimeters to several meters.
In the early 1990s, RECCO had difficulties establishing itself on the market. Winter equipment in every price range is now available with RECCO reflectors. Many avalanche rescue services in larger ski areas are equipped with RECCO search devices. Outside the Alps (e.g. in low mountain ranges) there are usually no RECCO locators available for use.
criticism
A major disadvantage of the RECCO system is that the search device is only available to emergency services. An additional safety for the athlete suggested by the RECCO system is to be assessed critically because the probability of survival in an avalanche depends directly on the duration of the burial. The reflectors can in no way replace other systems such as an avalanche transceiver .
Alternatives
With the help of an avalanche transceiver, an avalanche probe and an avalanche shovel, the members of a ski touring group who have not been buried can immediately start looking for the buried subject, thus significantly increasing the buried victim's chances of survival. An avalanche airbag can act as a self-protection against a complete burial.
Individual evidence
- ↑ RECCO on the HIGHWAY By Mike Stanford ( Memento from February 15, 2006 in the Internet Archive )
- ↑ [1] Recco R9 Detector - Brief Instructions for RECCO Theory & Search Methods
- ↑ ÖAMTC air rescue: In action after avalanches ( page no longer available , search in web archives ) Info: The link was automatically marked as defective. Please check the link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , ÖAMTC press service of January 13, 2010
- ↑ 90 percent of all buried subjects survive if the helpers can rescue them in the first 15 minutes ( page no longer available , search in web archives ) Info: The link was automatically marked as defective. Please check the link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , World of Wonders , February 6, 2005
- ↑ RECCO search system for the planned use of Dale Atkins (PDF; 1.5 MB)
