How to Use an Electronic Altimeter

Altimeters use pressure sensors to calibrate altitude. An electronic altimeter uses pressure sensors in a small housing that has a computer chip and display screen. There are many electronic altimeters on the market, some on wristwatches and some separate units. Using the altimeter requires prepping and calibrating it to a known altitude. The device needs to be re-calibrated after flying as the pressure from airplanes causes them to misinterpret the data.

Things You'll Need

  • Topo map
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set the altimeter up for your desired unit of measurement (feet, yards, meters). If the altimeter has a time function as well, set the time for your time zone, or the time zone where you use the unit.

    • 2

      Locate the calibration button. Many electronic altimeters have a dedicated button used to set the altimeter to a known altitude. Press the button and follow the on-screen prompts to calibrate. Take an altimeter reading on the topo map for your location. Enter the altitude into the altimeter to set it to the local altitude.

    • 3

      Set any altitude alarms you feel are necessary for your trip. Most altimeters have alarms that sound when an altitude is hit. This is helpful when ascending, especially at elevations over 14,000 feet. Thin air causes muddled thinking and affects decision making. Having an alarm reminds you of the altitude.

    • 4

      Store the altimeter inside your coat and near your body to keep body heat on the unit. This helps prevent the batteries from dying prematurely.

    • 5

      Turn the altimeter off at night in base camp to preserve precious battery power. Store it in the sleeping bag to heat the batteries.