How to Use a Altimeter Watch
Using an Altimeter Watch
First we should acknowledge that an altimeter watch, no matter how great or how much we paid for it, it is not a laboratory quality altimeter.
Most altimeter watches have multiple functions and the altimeter is just one of the many. For most people they use the altimeter function to assist them with decision making along the way. For example, if you are climbing a steep trail and come to a point that would be great for camping, you need to make a decision. Do you keep going? Do you camp? If you decide to keep going, how far is it to the summit? See, that's where an altimeter watch can come in handy. Assuming you started out knowing how far it is to the summit, you are prepared to make a better decision.
They are also handy for calculating things like total ascent or decent. Knowing your altitude can be quite helpful along the trail.
So how do alitimeter watches calculate the altitude? In reality they are not calculating the altitude at all. They are calculating barometric pressure. That's why you need to set the watch when you first receive it so it knows it's 'reference point'. The altimeter reading shown is really a translation of the barometric pressure reading. The higher we go, the less atmospheric pressure and an altimeter watch uses that to shown an estimation of the altitude. The computer chip in the altimeter watch is programmed to translate changes in atmospheric pressure and show the result as the ASL (Above Sea Level) reading.
When depending on an altimeter watch it is a good idea to re calibrate the watch from known positions ASL. Some people recommend performing the recalibration every hour, some people say every 4 hours, some people say every morning. The importance of how often you recalibrate your watch will depend on your specific requirements at that time.
Using the multi functions of an altimeter watch, along with other aids like maps or accurate surveys can make your trip more enjoyable and make you more knowledgeable along the way too.
Each manufacturer will require different steps in order to calibrate and use your altimeter watch. It is important that you know exactly how to properly use the functions of the watch if you are going to depend on it for making important decisions. Study the user manual and commit the operations to memory. If possible take the users guide along with you until you are absolutely sure you know the proper steps to take.