Problems with Project lifesaver

[RiverAux]

Below is a link to an article describing some problems with the popular project lifesaver program which provides little transmitter units that are placed on people with Alzheimers and similar problems that police can use to track them if they wander away. 

One of the big issues apparently is interference between the tracking signals and digital tv signals and short transmitter ranges. 

I don't know if CAP has ever assisted in searches that also involve this technology (I'm not aware of any CAP units that have it either), but the issues around it should be of interest to the SAR geeks here.

http://hamptonroads.com/2009/09/public-safety-agencies-say-tracking-system-faulty

[cap235629]

Maybe now that 121.5 isn't being monitored by satellite any longer, they could change the homing frequency so that all DF equipment can track the signal and there is no interference from TV signals.  But that would make sense............

[chief2]

Looking at the frequency that is being used each transmiiter that is being used, has a different freq, somewhere between 215-216 mhz and the caregiver would have to provide us with the freq. code. also we would we need a reciver that would cover those freq.'s.

[jimmydeanno]

Looking at the frequency that is being used each transmiiter that is being used, has a different freq, somewhere between 215-216 mhz and the caregiver would have to provide us with the freq. code. also we would we need a reciver that would cover those freq.'s.

Aren't the new l-pers programmable to any desired frequency? 

[cap235629]

Looking at the frequency that is being used each transmiiter that is being used, has a different freq, somewhere between 215-216 mhz and the caregiver would have to provide us with the freq. code. also we would we need a reciver that would cover those freq.'s.

Aren't the new l-pers programmable to any desired frequency?

Yes but they tell us that the technologies aren't compatible (I think it has to do with the identifier that is transmitted)  But how about just adding 121.5?

[Airrace]

Below is a link to an article describing some problems with the popular project lifesaver program which provides little transmitter units that are placed on people with Alzheimers and similar problems that police can use to track them if they wander away. 

One of the big issues apparently is interference between the tracking signals and digital tv signals and short transmitter ranges. 

I don't know if CAP has ever assisted in searches that also involve this technology (I'm not aware of any CAP units that have it either), but the issues around it should be of interest to the SAR geeks here.

http://hamptonroads.com/2009/09/public-safety-agencies-say-tracking-system-faulty

I remember when I first heard of this change and told several people it would be a problem. I am just surprised it took so long for people to realize the problems.

[Jerry Jacobs]

Looking at the frequency that is being used each transmiiter that is being used, has a different freq, somewhere between 215-216 mhz and the caregiver would have to provide us with the freq. code. also we would we need a reciver that would cover those freq.'s.

Aren't the new l-pers programmable to any desired frequency?

Yes but they tell us that the technologies aren't compatible (I think it has to do with the identifier that is transmitted)  But how about just adding 121.5?

Project Lifesaver aren't quite like ELT's,  my understanding of it is that Project Lifesaver bracelets are constantly transmitting.  If we just changed the bracelets to 121.5 we would have a really hard time tracking our ELT's. 

[RADIOMAN015]

Here's another device/service that could be used in place of Project Lifesaver equipment
http://www.gpschildtracker.net/wireless-amber-alert-gps-person-child-tracking-device-system

A local vendor quoted me a cost of $199.00 & 14.95 for monthly service.

The only issue are saw with the device is that can be taken off by the individual or someone else since it is just clipped on the belt.  Also they were using TMobile as the data carrier & depending upon where you live might not offer good (or for that matter any) coverage.
RM

[sdcapmx]

In South Dakota we are on board with the project lifesaver program.  The local Sheriffs office has the tracking receiver and provides the bracelets as required.  If a patient is not easily found on the ground we will launch an AC with special antennas mounted on the wing struts and a deputy sheriff will usually ride with us.  We plug their receiver into our antennas and a right/left/both switch and the audio goes into the aux audio panel input in the AC.  On 10 October we are incorporating this into a SAREX with the deputy sheriff riding along with us.  The bracelet will be pre positioned and we will attempt to locate it.  I don't think their signal is very strong so probably only a couple miles range.