The idea is to locate the hidden transmitter by means of radio direction finding. The person with the hidden transmitter transmits a signal on a set timetable on a previously announced frequency; be aware of last minute frequency changes due to interference. The trackers then have to locate the hidden transmitter by measuring the strength of the received signal from various locations that they decide to travel to between transmissions.

What do you need to go Radio Direction Finding?

  • A means of transport
  • Small beam antenna
  • Mobile (or preferably handheld) radio for the frequency being used
  • Map, normally OS Landranger Series, for MSARS we tend to use map#198
  • Pencil, ruler and compass
  • Variable attenuator is nice to be able to reduce the received signal when you get close.

What do you have to do?

The trackers normally start from one location, for MSARS, Cyprus Road Car Park is usual.

Make sure your radio is tuned to the correct frequency, and on the first transmission swing the beam to get the maximum signal level.

Mark the direction of the signal on the map with the aid of a compass if your sense of direction is not good. From here proceed to another point where you can park up safely, preferably 90 degrees from the direction of the signal and take another reading when the hidden transmitter transmits for the second time.

Repeat this a third time and you should have a triangle at the crossing points of the pencil lines. The transmitter should be in that area, but beware, 'it ain't necessarily so' - signal reflections can cause havoc!

Repeat the measurements until you find your target. The stronger the signal the more attenuation you can use. If you do not have access to an attenuator you use your beam horizontally, or remove the antenna all together, just using the handheld if you are very close but cannot find the transmitter.

You may need to abandon your vehicle in the latter stages if the target is very well hidden.

The person with the transmitter should be located in a publicly accessible area, but not necessarily in plain sight.

This is not an exhaustive guide but an insight into how to go about it for the first time.

Good Luck

Alan G8YKV

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