Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AvyScanner?

The AvyScanner is a hand-held device that detects and displays unstable layers in the snow which are likely to produce a human-triggered avalanche, and offers other useful backcountry functions as well.

So it’s like a transceiver beacon?

No, the AvyScanner is for avalanche avoidance, not search/rescue. Anyone traveling in avalanche terrain should always carry and be trained on the use of a transceiver, probe, and shovel.

How does it work?

The AvyScanner uses ultrawide-band radar and an artificial neural network to display a snowpit-style stability profile, highlighting layers of concern. The AvyScanner sends a radar pulse through the snow which is absorbed and reflected by layers of different density based on their dielectric constants. The radar returns are processed to identify range and dielectric constant of each layer.

An artificial neural network converts the range and dielectric constant to depth and hardness. The information is then shown on the display in a variety of ways, and includes location, elevation, time, slope aspect, slope angle, and temperature. All scans are saved for tracking spatial variability and stability trends over time.

What is an artificial neural network?

An Artificial Neural Network is an information processing model that is inspired by the way biological nervous systems, such as the brain, process information. Such systems use a variety of input variables to "learn" to perform tasks by considering examples, generally without being programmed with task-specific rules.

For more information on artificial neural networks, click here.

How is it used?

Simply hold the AvyScanner at knee height, pointed toward the snow surface, and press the Scan button. After a radar pulse of 1 millisecond and processing time of less than one second, the Avyscanner shows a profile of the layers in the snowpack and highlights layers of concern (those which differ from an interfacing layer by more than two full steps on the Hand Hardness Scale).

This example shows a total depth of 180 cm with layers of concern at 155 and 102 cm.

If the AvyScanner indicates a layer of concern, the novice user should stick to slope angles below 30°, while the experienced or professional user can combine this information with other observations to build a more complete picture of the stability.

Avametrix recommends a best practice of digging a pit at the beginning of the day to get your hands in the snow and become familiar with the stability. Then use the AvyScanner throughout the day to track spatial variability. If the scans show a significant change in stability, another pit is recommended to accurately access the conditions.

What are the AvyScanner’s other functions?

In addition to displaying snowpack stability, the AvyScanner includes a GPS map and magnetic compass for backcountry navigation, a slope angle meter, and wind speed indicator, local time, temperature, and wind chill display, and a detailed activity log.

Who is the AvyScanner designed for?

The AvyScanner is for anyone who is concerned about avalanche safety: skiers, boarders, backcountry guides, snowmobilers, showshoers, ice-climbers, mountaineers, ski patrol, search and rescue professionals, military, researchers, and more.

What frequency does it use?

The AvyScanner radar operates on the international unlicensed band of 7.29 GHz.

Will in interfere with an avalanche transceiver?

No, the AvyScanner only transmits and receives for 1 millisecond each time a stability profile is generated. However, like any electronic device, it should be kept separated from your transceiver.

How deep can it scan?

The AvyScanner can detect weak layers down to at least two meters.

Does it work in wet snow conditions?

The AvyScanner is optimized for use in dry snow conditions to detect weaknesses that cause slab avalanches, which are the hidden killers. High moisture content snow tends to produce wet loose slides that are naturally triggered, rather than human triggered, so they are less of a concern.

Can I share stability profiles with others?

Yes, a web portal will allow AvyScanner profiles to be uploaded and share with others. This allows the user community to track stability across a region and trends over time.

How long does the battery last?

The battery lasts at least 10 hours under normal usage. Increased use of the display backlight (only needed indoors) and higher GPS track point frequency can reduce the battery life.

Is the display usable in direct sunlight?

Yes, the AvyScanner’s transflective display was selected specifically for use in all lighting conditions, including bright sunlight. The brighter the ambient light, the easier the display is to read, even with sunglasses.

Is it a touch screen?

Yes, the AvyScanner’s elegantly simple user interface uses a glove-compatible touch screen.

How much does it cost?

The AvyScanner’s retail price has not yet been finalized, but it will be comparable to an entry-level avalanche airbag or high-end avalanche transceiver.

Can the AvyScanner be upgraded as new features become available?

Yes, the AvyScanner software can be upgraded using a personal computer and a USB cable.

What is the warranty?

The AvyScanner comes with a one-year warranty. An option for unlimited extended warranty will be available, which will also include software upgrades with new features.