Skip to main content

Ortovox recalls avalanche transceivers to fix potentially risky software bug

Ortovox avalanche transceiver
Image used with permission by copyright holder

When adventurous skiers and snowboarders venture into the backcountry, one of the most important pieces of gear that they carry with them is an avalanche beacon or transceiver. These devices produce a pulsed radio signal that can detect other beacons nearby, making it much easier to find someone who is buried under a mountain of snow by an avalanche. Skiers carrying a transceiver are far more likely to be found and rescued than those without one, which is why it is vital that they work properly at all times.

To that end, Avalanche transceiver manufacturer Ortovox has issued what it calls a “precautionary” recall of its 3+ models of beacons. In a statement posted to its website, the company says that a bug in the device’s software has been discovered that could put users at risk. All devices running Ortovox software 2.1 are part of the recall. The error found in the code could potentially cause the device to temporarily stop transmitting a signal, which in theory could be the difference between life and death during a search and rescue operation.

Ortovox says that there have been no known accidents due to this software bug, but in order to maintain a full level of safety, it is urging all 3+ owners running the problematic software to return their devices for an update. Version 2.2 of the software reportedly addresses the problem, ensuring that this all-important piece of gear continues to function as expected during emergency situations.

ORTOVOX Avalanche Transceiver 3+: Reading the software version and serial number

In order to determine which version of the software your Ortovox 3+ transceiver is currently running, move the “search/send” switch to the “send” position. The button must be pushed in for it to properly display the information that you’re looking for. Next, switch the device on and watch the screen during its boot-up cycle. It will first display the 10-digit serial number for the beacon, followed by a display test screen and the remaining battery life. Finally, it will also show the version of the installed software. If your beacon happens to be running version 2.1, your device is covered under the recall. If the software is 1.1, 2.0, or 2.2, it is not affected. If no number is shown, the transceiver is running version 1.0 and is also not affected.

To find out more, including how to contact Ortovox to have your device updated, visit the company’s website.

Editors' Recommendations

Kraig Becker
Kraig Becker is a freelance outdoor writer who loves to hike, camp, mountain bike, trail run, paddle, or just about any other…
Best grill deals: Summer savings on gas, charcoal, and pellet grills
People grilling outside.

Warm weather is here, and so is grilling season. Now is as good a time as any to set out in search of one of the best outdoor grills, and it’s never a bad time to keep an eye out for a discount on one as well. Whether you’re a grilling beginner ready for some burgers with the family or a seasoned pro looking to host summer gatherings around one of the best smart grills and smokers, we’ve tracked down all of the details you need to land a deal on a grill that’s right for your needs. Read onward for more details.
Everdure CUBE charcoal grill — $150, was $199

The Everdure CUBE charcoal grill is a unique little grill that can truly go almost anywhere with you. It’s lightweight and only 17-inches long, yet still can handle almost any grilling challenge a griller on the go could hope to throw at it. It has a built-in heat protection shield and chrome handles that remain cool while cooking, and the removable charcoal tray offers easy cleanup when you’re finished at the campground or on the beach. Wherever you intend to do some grilling this summer, the Everdure CUBE charcoal grill is a great option as a copilot.

Read more
Speed up your daily commute with these e-bike deals
ENGWE EP-2 Pro e-bike right side shot next to an unmowed field.

The best electric bikes have come a long way in recent years and we don't just mean in terms of the miles you travel. With technology changing quickly, there are also an increasing number of electric bike deals around and we've picked out some of the very best. Electric bikes are a great way of getting around more easily and without necessarily needing to use as much stamina as a regular bike. Below, you'll find fantastic e-bike bike deals from many different retailers. There'll be something for every need here. Let's take a look at them.
Jasion EB5 Electric Bike -- $430, was $750

With a 350w brushless motor, the Jasion EB5 Electric Bike can achieve a top speed of 20 MPH with a range of up to 25-40 miles per charge. It has four working modes with a PAS mode where the motor assists with a moderate amount of power as you pedal, along with a Pure Electric Mode, a Pedal Mode, and a Booster Mode where the bike assist on hills and anywhere else you might be struggling. 26-inch puncture-resistant tires provide excellent durability while there's a high-strength front fork suspension, Shimano 7-speed gears, dual lights, and an LCD display. The latter offers controls for adjustable backlight brightness with one of five levels, along with mode controls.

Read more
Jackery graduates from pioneer to sustainable master with latest launch
Jackery 2000 Plus used outdoors while camping

This content was produced in partnership with Jackery.
In 2012, at a critical time when sustainability efforts were ramping up everywhere, Jackery was born. The prevailing vision behind its creation was to provide accessible green energy to everyone. Years later, in 2016, Jackery launched the world's first outdoor-friendly portable power stations, and soon after, introduced the world's first portable solar panels. They would change many lives for the better but also transform an entire market that's now dedicated to green, sustainable energy solutions. Today, over 11 years later, Jackery is still going strong, and getting ready to launch one of its most advanced products to date, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus.

Ideal for outdoor applications, portability, and emergency backup usage, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus delivers some incredible features that honor Jackery's original mission -- "to make green energy accessible anytime and anywhere". More importantly, it offers safe and reliable power independence for all, thanks to a combined software and hardware defense system, which we'll explore in more detail below, and industry-leading fast-charge technology to get you working, playing, or back in the game as quickly as possible.
Learn More
 
Advanced technology for a better anywhere experience

Read more