Ortovox Announces Recall on 3+ Model Avalanche Beacons

Ortovox 3+ models running software version 2.1 are affected by a precautionary recall. Ortovox photo.

Ortovox has announced a recall on ORTOVOX 3+ avalanche transceivers running their software version 2.1 after discovering temporary disruptions of the transmission function. According to Ortovox, there have been no known accidents attributed to the software error, but thanks to further testing from their Safety Academy partners, users found the defect.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, the recall affects nearly 20,000 units in the U.S., and an additional 7,000 sold in Canada.

A recall form will be available starting May 25 on the Ortovox website to return 3+ beacons and have the software updated free of charge by the manufacturer. Given the time of year, Ortovox will offer a loaner beacon for those affected by the recall and wish to keep skiing.

If you own an Ortovox Beacon, here is how to check your software version, per Ortovox’s instructions:

Push the search/send switch into the send position. For this to work, the switch has to be pushed in! Now switch on your 3+. This information will be displayed consecutively:

If 2.1 is displayed: YOUR DEVICE IS AFFECTED BY THE RECALL.

If 1.1, 2.0 or 2.2 is displayed: Your device is NOT affected.

If NO NUMBER is displayed, your device is running software version 1. This device is NOT affected