Authored by Gary Dawson 01-Jan-2012 TX-129 Fort Worth Senior Squadron Modified by Lt Colonel Fred Blundell TX-129 Fort Worth Senior Squadron For Local Training Rev Jan-2014

This Training Slide Show is a project undertaken by Lt Colonel Fred Blundell of the TX-129 Fort Worth Senior Squadron, Fort Worth, TX for local use to assist those CAP Members interested in advancing their skills. The information contained herein is for CAP Member’s personal use and is not intended to replace or be a substitute for any of the CAP National Training Programs. Users should review the presentation’s Revision Number at the end of each file name to ensure that they have the most current publication.

What are the advantages?  Reliable Technique can use anywhere  Simple Equipment  Cheap to buy  No fancy Antennas or Accessories  Radio can fit in your pocket

How does it work?  If you can hear the signal you can track it  The closer you get to the signal the stronger the volume  The farther away the weaker the signal  The math equation that relates to the square of the distance goes here but I didn’t have time to look it up

How do you track the signal?  Go in one direction until the signal is really strong  If the signal is getting weaker you are going away from the transmitter  When the signal is strong and you cannot determine if it is ahead or behind you tune off frequency  Tuning off frequency acts as an attenuator turning down the sensitivity of the radio

How do you track the signal? (Continued)  Use a grid pattern to determine the direction of the transmitter  The body may be used to as an attenuator also. (Some people have higher signal blocking properties than others)  When you are really close to the signal you may want to take off the antenna to provide additional attenuation

What about after you find the signal?  If you find a real downed plane with injuries call 911 and notify the IC  Get the tail N number  Contact someone to turn off the transmitter in case the plane is locked  If possible get the model and brand of the ELT and report it to the IC

Legal and Safety Stuff  Don’t try to be a hero. This is Texas and the rules change after dark. You don’t want to get shot  Don’t go on private property unless you see a crashed plane with people calling for help.  If you think you know about where the signal is coming from get a law enforcement escort before entering private property  Get the help of Airport Security if working on a airport.

Questions? Always Think Safety