An optical pickup lens for focusing a light beam from a laser light source on an optical information recording medium is a single lens. A first communication unit communicates a message to the power receiver on a first communication link A second communication unit receives data from the power receiver on a separate second communication link having a longer range. The support arms are coupled to the frame at an upper end of each arm, and are rotatable relative to the frame so as to be self-leveling. Methods and apparatus are also disclosed for generating a profile of snow layer hardness according to depth based on the sensed resistance to penetration and identifying areas of concern which may indicate an avalanche risk.