Location of receiver
Similar to the location of the transmitter, any given signal can be
received at greater distance if the receiving antenna is high in the
air, therefore, a stronger signal may be obtained by positioning
the receiver higher off the ground. NOTE: It is much worse for
the receiver to be in a low terrain than the transmitter.
Triangulation
Consider the process of triangulation before embarking on a
cross-country search if any of the following conditions apply:
• If the transmitter is stationery
• Transmitter is located in difficult terrain
• Transmitter is at a great distance from the receiver.
This practice may be of limited utility for a fast moving transmit-
ter (hunting dog, vehicle, etc.) as the procedure may take some
time and the transmitter may have moved a great distance.
It is best to triangulate the transmitter from several locations (3
to 5 are best). Ideally, the locations should be widely dispersed
to allow plotting on a map. Use of a GPS receiver to pinpoint
locations and a compass to determine bearing of strongest signal
will improve the accuracy of the triangulation. In addition, a set
of headphones will allow the operator to detect minute changes
in the signal to assist narrowing the band of maximum signal
strength. With the correct equipment and technique the opera-
tor should be able to narrow the search to a small area.
Suggested procedure is as follows:
1. Select 3 to 5 “listening” points that are widely dispersed (ide-
ally separated 30 to 120 degrees from each other).
Locations at higher altitude or where obstructions are at a
minimum are preferred.
2. Travel to each listening point, unfold the antenna, turn on the
receiver and carefully adjust the gain so a strong signal can
only be detected in a narrow arc (for example 30 to 60
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