8 best personal locator beacons

Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are compact and portable electronic devices designed to help individuals in distress to alert search and rescue authorities of their location. PLBs are primarily used in outdoor activities, such as boating, hiking, and backcountry skiing, as well as by mariners, aviators, and adventurers in remote areas where cellular coverage is unreliable or non-existent. Here's what you need to know about PLBs:

  1. Functionality: PLBs operate on the 406 MHz frequency and are equipped with a GPS receiver. When activated, they transmit a distress signal with your precise GPS coordinates to a network of satellites operated by COSPAS-SARSAT, an international search and rescue organization. This signal is then relayed to the nearest rescue coordination center.

  2. Activation: PLBs can be manually activated by the user when they are in a life-threatening situation. Some PLBs also have a water-activated feature that triggers when they come into contact with water. This can be especially useful for boaters and sailors.

  3. GPS Integration: The inclusion of GPS technology in PLBs ensures that search and rescue teams can quickly pinpoint your exact location, significantly improving the chances of a successful rescue.

  4. Battery Life: PLBs typically have a long battery life, with many models capable of transmitting distress signals for up to 24-48 hours. Regular testing and battery replacement are essential to ensure the PLB's reliability.

  5. Registration: It's crucial to register your PLB with the appropriate authorities (such as the NOAA in the United States) to link your device with your personal information and emergency contacts. This registration helps expedite the rescue process.

  6. Regulations: PLBs must comply with specific regulations and standards, including waterproofing and buoyancy requirements.They should also have a built-in strobe light to aid in visual identification during nighttime or low-visibility conditions.

  7. Usage: PLBs are intended for life-threatening emergencies only. Misuse or false activation can lead to serious consequences, as search and rescue teams may be dispatched unnecessarily.

  8. Cost: PLBs are available in a range of prices, but they are generally considered a valuable investment for those who engage in activities far from civilization.

  9. Additional Features: Some PLBs come with extra features like built-in digital displays, self-tests, and the ability to send non-emergency messages via satellite networks (e.g., Iridium or Globalstar). These features can be beneficial depending on your specific needs.

  10. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including testing and battery replacement, is essential to ensure the reliability of your PLB. Most manufacturers provide guidelines for testing and servicing their devices.

In summary, Personal Locator Beacons are vital safety devices for individuals who venture into remote or high-risk environments. They offer a lifeline in emergencies by transmitting your precise location to search and rescue authorities, ensuring a quicker and more accurate response. Proper usage, registration, and maintenance are crucial to maximize their effectiveness.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best personal locator beacons on the market
  

RESCUEME PLB1 Personal Locator Beacon - USA Programmed

Ocean Signal

Based on 30 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Wherever you are, at sea, on land, the rescueME PLB1 provides the reassurance that global emergency services can be alerted by the press of a button. The rescueMe PLB1 can be operated with a single hand in even the most challenging situations. A simple spring loaded flap covers the activation button preventing inadvertent use. The rescueME PLB1 works with the only officially recognized worldwide dedicated search and rescue satellite network (operated by Cospas Sarsat). As this is funded by governments there are NO CHARGES to use this service. When activated the rescueME PLB1 transmits your position and your ID to a Rescue Coordination Center via satellite link. Rescue services nearest to your are promptly notified of your emergency and regularly advised of your current location to assist prompt rescue. The rescueME PLB1 is provided with a flotation pouch to fit the PLB into to enable it to float. Please note that the PLB will not float in an operating position in the pouch. Please ensure the PLB is firmly attached to the pouch with the provided lanyard, using suitable self locking knots.

  • 7 Year Battery Life / 7 year warranty
  • 24+ hour operational life
  • Free to use, no subscription charges / Supplied with free flotation pouch
  • High brightness strobe light >1 candela
  • 66 channel GPS receiver / Unique mounting clip

User questions & answers

Question: What is the range
Answer: They give you a real phone number with the area code where you live.
Question: Once activated, is there any type of confirmation that your signal has been received
Answer:
Question: how difficult would it be to accidentally activate this device
Answer:
Question: will it work from inside a car or rv
Answer:

acr 2880 ResQ Link PLB-375 Personal Locator Beacon

Acr

Based on 111 reviews Check latest price

Product description

At 4.6 oz, the ResQLink distress beacon from ACR weighs less than a couple of energy bars. And topping just 3.9 inches, it's smaller than the cell phone in your pocket. Small and mighty, the ResQLink PLB is a full-powered, GPS-enabled rescue beacon designed for anglers, pilots and back country sportsmen. With three levels of integrated signal technology - GPS positioning, a powerful 406 MHz signal, and 121.5 MHz homing capability - the ResQLink PLB quickly and accurately relays your position to a worldwide network of search and rescue satellites. A built-in strobe light provides visibility during night rescues. Learn How A Rescue Works PLBs have been proven tried and true in some of the world's most remote locations and treacherous conditions. Just ask the 400 or so pilots, boaters and back country explorers who were saved by a PLB during a rigorous test program in Alaska. Based in large part on the test results, the federal government approved use of PLBs in the United States in 2003. Even in extreme conditions and situations, the ResQLink activates easily. Just deploy the antenna and press the ON button. With its powerful 66-channel GPS, the ResQLink guides rescuers to within 100 meters or less of your position. And, in the continental U.S., search and rescue personnel are typically alerted of your position in as little as five minutes with a GPS-enabled PLB such as the ResQLink. Two built-in tests allow you to routinely verify that the ResQLink is functioning and ready for use - with the push of a button, you can easily test internal electronics and GPS functionality.

  • This Personal Locator Beacon is pre-programmed for registration with the US country code. Whilst it will function anywhere around the world, the initial point of contact during an emergency situation would be the US Search and Rescue authorities
  • Should you wish registration outside of the US, please purchase our from our ‘ACR ResQlink Non-Buoyant PLB - Programmed for Rest of World’ and advise us which country you require for registration. The device can be registered in the country of your choice
  • This PLB is programmed for registration with the US country code. Whilst it will function anywhere in the world, the initial point of contact during an emergency situation would be the US Search and Rescue authorities with whom the PLB would be registered
  • PLBs have been proven, tried and tested in some of the world's most remote locations and treacherous conditions.Even in extreme conditions and situations, ResQlink activates easily.Just deploy the antenna, pull the anti-tamper seal and press the ON button
  • This PLB should only be used in situations of grave and imminent danger to life. False alerts endanger lives and cause expensive disruption to Search and Rescue services. Deliberate misuse of the device could result in a penalty
  • Battery, typical Performance : 30 Hours @-4°F (-20°C)

User questions & answers

Question: Does this have the option to send an "I'm ok" or similar pre loaded/loadable message? Thanks
Answer: The watch face is 3.5cm (~1.5 inches) in diameter.
Question: How does a test show it worked
Answer: I wouldn’t recommend using it in ocean only in a traditional pool....salt water is different than regular water
Question: Is there a "lock" to keep it from being accidentally set off in a backpack
Answer: Yes, it measures altitude.
Question: What is annual service cost
Answer: Si

ACR GLOBALFIX V4 and ResQLink 400 Survival Kit with EPIRB, Personal Locator Beacon, Ditch Bag, and Safety Gear

Acr

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price
  • GlobalFIX V4 GPS EPIRB with Manual Bracket (Category 2)
  • ResQLink 400 Personal Locator Beacon
  • Firefly PRO Waterbug and HemiLight3 Rescue Strobe Lights
  • Signal Mirror with Res-Q Whistle
  • RapidDitch Express buoyant ditch bag

User questions & answers

Question: Is there one of these kits with the ResQLink 425 included instead
Answer: Unfortunately no. The ResQLink 425 would have to be purchased a part. Thank you
Question: Is there a version for registration outside usa? (more specifically, brazil
Answer: Unfortunately only US units are allowed to be sold in the US. Thank you
Question: What is the cost for battery replacement (after 7 years)? Do all distributors replace for free if used in actual emergency
Answer: The price is usually around 1/3 of the full price, but it will depend on the conditions of your beacon once it's sent to the battery replacement center. If you are in an emergency you can just notify the manufacturer and they should replace it for free.
Question: I plan to use it in taiwan (national code 416). is it possible to pre-set artex plb with 416 code
Answer: Unfortunately no. Every unit sold in the US is built with a US code.
Question: I noticed that it said that it was non chargeable is there a place i can go to replace the battery
Answer: When the battery expires (after 7 years), you can send it in to ACR to have it replaced for $150. Or if you like taking risks with your life, you can replace it yourself for $5(it runs on 3 CR123A cells, welded and heat shrinked into a single battery pack).

Product features

World Wide Range

No matter where you go the ARTEX PLB will work. Units purchased in the US can be registered with NOAA and in case you are in an emergency overseas NOAA will notify your local SAR agency of the distress signal.

How It Works?

When activated, the ARTEX PLB transmits your position and your ID to a Rescue Coordination Center via satellite link. Rescue services nearest to you are promptly notified of your emergency and initiate the Search & Rescue process.

What else comes with it?

The ARTEX PLB features a unique mounting clip and a flotation pouch: The PLB can be firmly attached to the pouch with the provided lanyard to enable it to float. These materials are proved and tested to endure all types of environments.

Smaller than your hand!

The Artex PLB 8110 is small and convenient. 2.1 (L) x 1.3 (W) x 3.0 (H) inches (51 x 32.5 x 77 mm)

Weight: 4.09 oz (116 g)

Battery is good for 7 years and operating for 24 hours.

Operation: 2 steps: deploy antenna, press ON button, giving clear view of sky

Waterproof: 15 m at 20°C

GlobalFix V4 + ResQLink 400 Kit

  • GlobalFIX V4 Cat. 2 EPIRB
  • ResQLink 400 Personal Locator Beacon
  • Firefly PRO Waterbug
  • Signal Mirror
  • WW-3 Res-Q Whistle
  • HemiLight3
  • RapidDitch Express Bag

ResQLink 400

Small but resilient, the ResQLink 400 has been professionally engineered to ensure it can withstand even the harshest elements. This buoyant Personal Locator Beacon requires no subscription for use and can be utilized to enhance your safety in a wide variety of environments. Whether on land, at sea, or in the air, trust that the ResQLink’s satellite precision and military durability, puts rescue in the palm of your hands.

GlobalFix V4 offers the very latest in marine electronic lifesaving technology

  • Highly visible LED strobe - Energy efficient
  • Internal 66 channel GPS – Faster acquisition from a cold start
  • High-efficiency electronics – Performance you can count on
  • User-replaceable battery – 10-year battery life
  • Professional grade design - Built for years of use in harsh environments
  • Simple manual activation – Keypad with a protective cover to prevent false alarms
  • Made in the U.S.A.

McMurdo Fast Find Ranger PLB - Programmed for US Registration

McMurdo

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The McMurdo FastFind Ranger Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a rugged, handheld, and waterproof (non-buoyant) GPS-enabled rescue beacon which is small enough to be easily carried in a back-pack or pocket. Upon initiation of a distress call, the Fast Find Ranger's built-in GPS will fix your position to within a few meters and then utilizes a powerful 406 MHz signal to relay your distress call to orbiting satellites. The Fast Find Ranger is subscription-free and does not rely on commercial call centres, meaning your request for help is received directly by Search and Rescue authorities. When triggered, the Fast Find Ranger broadcasts a unique registered distress signal that not only tells rescuers where you are, but who you are. This is typically within 5 minutes, but can be up to 45 minutes depending on satellite coverage. The Fast Find Ranger features a 121.5 MHz secondary homing transmitter which means that once Search and Rescue teams have been deployed, they are able to home in on your exact location. The unit also features a flashing SOS light which can be used to attract attention. The Fast Find Ranger's lithium power cell offers a minimum 24hr continuous operation and a 6-year battery storage life. Performing a full functional self-test of the PLB's internal circuitry, battery voltage & power and 406 MHz transmission gives you the peace of mind knowing your PLB will work the moment you need it the most. Should you wish to register your device in the US, please choose our ‘Programmed for US Registration’ listing. For registration outside the US please choose our ‘Programmed for Rest of World’ listing and advise us of your required country of registration after purchase so we can program the device for you. Please note that some countries, such as Spain and Germany, do not allow PLB registration unless registered to a vessel. Users in these countries without a vessel can register their devices in the US if required.

  • This PLB includes a free reprogramming service which will enable you to register the device in the country of your choice. Should you wish to register the device in the US please purchase our separate listing, ‘McMurdo Fast Find Ranger PLB - Programmed for US Registration’.
  • Please note that some countries, such as Belgium, Spain and Germany, may not allow PLB registration but devices can be registered in the US and used anywhere in the world
  • Registering your Personal Locator Beacon is required by law in most countries. Registering is very important because should your beacon ever be activated, it is how Search and Rescue Teams will know who you are, and contacts provided may be able to supply information about your specific travel plans. In the absence of this information, it may take longer for a search-and-rescue operation to begin.
  • PLBs have been proven, tried and tested in some of the world's most remote locations and treacherous conditions. Even in extreme conditions and situations, the McMurdo Fast Find Ranger PLB activates easily. Just deploy the antenna, pull the anti-tamper seal and press the ON button.
  • This PLB should only be used in situations of grave and imminent danger to life. False alerts endanger lives and cause expensive disruption to Search and Rescue services. Deliberate misuse of the device could result in a penalty.

User questions & answers

Question: If I register this device in the US, and then go overseas with it, will it work in other countries
Answer: This worked great for me and my wife on the Allure of the Seas! We set up one in our room as a relay and each kept one in our pockets. We could text wherever, and we even bounced messages through 2 nodes once - meaning someone else on the ship was also using them. 10/10 recommend for cruises.
Question: How is this different from the fastfind
Answer: Not sure

OLAS Wearable Mob Crew Tag - 4-Pack

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The ACR OLAS Tag is a Wearable Crew Tracker that integrates OLAS (Overboard Location Alert System) technology. The ACR OLAS mobile application technology detects a break in its "virtual tether" to the tag within 8 seconds of a Tag going missing. The mobile phone(s) then sounds an alarm and records the latitude and longitude of the incident using the phone or tablet's GPS. ACR OLAS then aids the crew with the MOB recovery, clearly directing them to the GPS location where the MOB occurred with clear visual signals and bearing data. ACR OLAS stores all location data and time of incident required by the rescue services. Activate Solo mode on the app (2G phone signal required) when boating alone and the OLAS app will automatically text message (SMS) your emergency contact with your GPS coordinates in the event you get separated from your boat. Users can track up to 6 different OLAS Transmitters with 1 phone/tablet and each individual OLAS Transmitter can be tracked by an unlimited number of phones/tablets. If you want to track more OLAS Transmitters, add the ACR CORE base station or Guardian Engine Kill Switch and scale your system to monitor up to 15 OLAS Transmitters. The ACR OLAS Tag is a compact, "Smart", man overboard system. It can easily attach to adults, children, pets and objects such as overboard floatation devices or Personal Locator Beacons. It is small and portable and can easily be taken from boat to boat to ensure you are always protected. Each tag is supplied with a universal silicone wrist strap with stainless steel buckle and a pre-installed CR2477 Battery (user replaceable). Start small or go big, the ACR OLAS is the only solution that can scale to meet your boating needs. The range of the ACR OLAS transmitters allows for coverage on vessels up to 40 ft in length. However, the transmitter is part of a larger scalable ecosystem of ACR OLAS products (transmitters and receivers) that offer additional safety features and can be combined to track large crews on larger vessels. You can even ditch your phone and utilize your ACR OLAS Tag with the OLAS Guardian Engine Kill Switch or OLAS Core Base Station as part of a more permanent solution.

  • ACR OLAS Free Mobile App Integration
  • Versatile Attachment Solution (Wrist worn, life jacket, dog collar, attach to Personal Locator Beacon)
  • Waterproof (IP 67)
  • Bluetooth 4.1 Compatible
  • Low Battery Indicator Light

User questions & answers

Question: Does the app have to be open & in foreground? Will the alarm sound if the phone is in silent mode, or volume low? Is there an alt. base or just phone
Answer: Yes it does
Question: Will these work even if I lose cell service? When I go 40 miles offshore
Answer: I'm not sure of the exact weight but it is more like 6 pounds.
Question: If the person who has gone overboard is drifting, does their location get updated as they move
Answer: by the look of it , they look like both metric & imperial. it is always handy to have a combination of both as up till about 1972 imperial was used in early aussie cars , also imperial is slightly bigger in their sizes , which means that it fits in the middle of 2 metric sizes. for example 1/2 inch imperial fits in between 12 mm & 13 mm metric , hope this information is helpfull to you both & have a merry christmas and a happy new year.

acr PLB ResQLink View Survival Kit

acr

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The ResQLink 425 Survival Kit is an excellent option to make sure you have your essentials.

  • ResQLink View Personal Locator Beacon
  • C-Strobe H2O Rescue Light
  • Res-Q Whistle
  • RapidDitch Drybag
  • Signal Mirror

User questions & answers

Question: Can u overnight so i can get by thrusday this week
Answer: The SPOT X device requires an active service subscription to properly perform 2-way satellite messaging, tracking, S.O.S. capabilities, and all other device functions.
Question: What model # plb in this survival kit, ACR
Answer: Yes, you will need to enroll in there service plans. Please find the activation plan details here - https://www.findmespot.com/en-us/products-services/service-plans#spot-gen4-plans
Question: Does this already have the GPS chip in it
Answer: With the push of a button, GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center provides your GPS coordinates and information to local response teams - for example contacting 9-1-1 responders in North America.
Question: So is this international? Can use in Malaysia? Thanks
Answer: You type a preset text into your online account, the SPOT will send this text repeatedly until you get online, and log into your SPOT account and change it. . The bill is either paid in full for a 12 month period, or monthly installments deducted from your personal account or credit card. REMEMBER you must give a minimum of 30 days in advance to stop recurring charges. Their system is set up to bill month after month, or yearly renewal. A lot of people didn't read the fine print on subscription charges, and billing policy. Because of this they had a hard time stopping billing when they wanted it to stop, and ended up paying more than they intended.

Garmin inReach Explorer+, Handheld Satellite Communicator with Topo Maps and GPS Navigation

Garmin

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You may venture off the grid, but you’re never out of reach as long as you’re carrying an inReach SE+ or inReach Explorer+. These handheld satellite communicators are designed for the outdoor enthusiast who wants to roam farther and experience more without compromising their loved ones‘ peace of mind. From backcountry experiences to international adventures, inReach provides communication, location sharing, navigation and critical SOS functions for anyone who loves getting away from it all, on land, water or in the skies.

  • 100 percent global Iridium satellite coverage enables two way text messaging from anywhere (satellite subscription required)
  • Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center
  • Track and share your location with family and friends. Water rating : IPX7. Battery : Rechargeable internal lithium ion
  • Pair with mobile devices using the free earthmate app for access to downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more
  • In reach explorer+ device adds preloaded Delorme topo maps with onscreen GPS routing plus built in digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer

User questions & answers

Question: Can this device be used as a gps without an active satellite subscription
Answer: Yes it can. Without a subscription the inReach Explorer+ has a 24k scale topo map of North America built-in and the ability to navigate using its compass, barometric altimiter, and accelerometer. But why would you pay $450 for these features when Garmin and other companies give them to you for much less in other devices. The significant reason to buy the inReach is its satillite communication features, including GEOS Search and Rescue response. Please note, if you don't have an active subscription you CAN'T TURN IN ON from the trail. If you get into an emergency situation you won't have satellite access. Therefor you can't get an SOS through. You can't send an email to DeLorme (now Garmin) to turn it on. You're isolated from the outside world even though the device has the features you need. Without the active subscription they won't work. Because of this, I choose to subscribe to the ANNUAL plan which is always active. The cheapest version is under $15 / month including taxes. That way I'm always assured of communications even if I break down on the Interstate outside of cell phone range. Their other FREEDOM plan is a bit more expensive but allowes you to turn the subscription on or off on a monthly basis. This seems like a great option if you only hike during the Summer months. But don't look to it when you slide off the road in January and you have no active service.
Question: Does it cost when you receive messages or is it included in the plan
Answer: You are charged for messages sent and also messages received. You also pay for tracking points (your location) sent to your online map for friends to follow you. What you are charged depends on the level of service you choose and the subscription plan you have. The basic SAFETY level at $11.95 (Annual Contract plan) or $14.95 (Freedom plan - no contract) each month. It gets you 10 messages and no tracking points. Additional messages are $0.50 each. Tracking points are $0.10 each. The RECREATION level has unlimited messages and tracking points and costs $49.95 or $64.95 each month depending on your plan.
Question: I'm trying to figure out the satellite subscription. does it include any search & rescue insurance? find me spot does, but i don't like their device
Answer: Yes, a subscription to GEOS (the same search and rescue service offered with a SPOT) is included with the monthly fee.
Question: If the Iridium service is suspended, does this device become a paperweight like the Explorer, locking you out of the gps, tracks, msg history, etc
Answer: Iridium is used for two functions, messaging and track updates to your MapShare page. The GPS features are self contained, like other Garmin units. So without the satellites you still have your exact location on a 24k scale map, digital compass, track log on the InReach for easy return via the same route, pre-loaded waypoints and routes for navigation, and the ability to connect to a Smarphone where you may have pre-downloaded additional maps, such as color satellite views. What you lose if satellites are down (which they never are) is connectivity with the outside world through messages and track reporting to your MapShare site. Think of it this way. If you had a GPS app on your phone and the cell service went down you still could see where you are on your app but you couldn't text home.

Product features

Garmin inReach Explorer+

Handheld Satellite Communicator with Maps and Sensors

Explore Anywhere. Communicate Everywhere.

Using the worldwide coverage of the Iridium satellite network, these go-anywhere portable devices let you exchange text messages with any cell phone number or email address anywhere – while using GPS to track and share your journey’s progress.

In case of an at-risk situation, you can also use inReach to trigger an SOS to the 24/7 monitoring center, text back and forth about the nature of your emergency, and receive confirmation when help is on the way.

Track and Share Your Whereabouts

Turn on the tracking function of your inReach SE+ or Explorer+ communicator, and let family and friends follow your progress on their computers or mobile devices, using the web-based MapShare portal. The inReach device will send waypoints at preselected time intervals, so followers can track your whereabouts online. You can also invite your crew back home to use MapShare to ping your inReach unit and see your GPS location, track your movements and exchange messages during your trip. You can even embed your MapShare page on a blog, website or social media.

Get Weather Wherever

The optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach device, compatible smartphone or tablet paired with the Earthmate app, so you’ll know what conditions to expect en route. Basic and premium weather packages are offered. And you can request weather forecasts for your current location or any other waypoint or destination on your itinerary.

Who Will Answer Your SOS? GEOS Will.

GEOS is the world leader in emergency response solutions and monitoring. They’ve supported rescues in more than 140 countries, saving many lives in the process. And they’re standing by 24/7/365 to respond to your SOS, track your device and notify the proper contacts and emergency responders in your area. Then, while help is on the way, GEOS will continue to text back and forth with you, providing updates and critical information until your situation is resolved.

Pair with Your Mobile Device

For even more capability and convenience, the free Earthmate app syncs your inReach handheld via Bluetooth with your compatible Apple or Android device so you can access unlimited maps, aerial imagery and U.S. NOAA charts. Plus, Earthmate allows you to conveniently use all of the inReach features on your paired mobile device. For easier messaging, you can also sync your inReach device with your phone’s contact list to reach anyone, anywhere – with fewer keystrokes.

Ocean Signal rescueME MOB1

OceanSignal

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The MOB1 is intended to be installed within the life-jacket and will activate automatically on inflation, sending the fi rst alert within 15 seconds.

The MOB1 communicates with the vessel you have been separated from and other vessels in the vicinity (up to 5 miles range dependent on conditions). To alert rescue authorities, an alternative product the rescueME PLB1 communicates directly via a dedicated search and rescue satellite network.

In an emergency rescueME MOB1 provides 2 methods of rapidly communicating your position, accurate to a few metres, back to the vessel, plus providing visual indication via its built in strobe light.

The best chance of rapid rescue if you fall overboard comes from your own vessel. Your crew needs to be immediately aware of the incident and keep track of your position whilst recovery is carried out. Even in the most moderate of seas it is alarming how quickly a visual sighting of a man overboard can be lost.

Once activated your MOB1 will transmit an alert to all AIS receivers and AIS enabled plotters in the vicinity. The integrated GPS ensures precise location is sent to your vessel and any others that may be assisting.

Compatibility: Most modern AIS plotters and DSC VHF comply with the standards required to receive MOB transmissions. It is however, especially if you are using older equipment, recommended that you check compatibility with the equipment manufacturer.

An additional feature of the MOB1, is its ability to activate the DSC alarm on your vessels VHF, alerting your crew to the situation.

  • Integrated DSC transmitter (digital selective calling)* * DSC functionality is subject to regulations of country. Subject to warranty statement.
  • The MOB1 communicates with the vessel you have been separated from and other vessels in the vicinity (up to 5 miles range dependent on conditions).
  • Automatic activation, Simple lifejacket integration, 7 year battery life, 24+ hours operational life, 5 year warranty, Fast accurate positioning
  • Introducing the world’s smallest AIS MOB device with integrated DSC – the rescueME MOB1 from Ocean Signal. The MOB1 is compatible with even the most compact inflatable life-jackets.
  • The integrated strobe light ensures maximum visibility in low light conditions.

User questions & answers

Question: Hello everyone, i purchased the mob1 but i have misplaced the "fob" for programming it. does anyone know where one can be purchased
Answer: Hi Jack, I'm sorry I don't know where to get one separately. However, the programming fob doesn't do anything except keep the screen a certain distance from the sensor and help minimize external light entering. My guess is you could jury-rig something that's good enough to get the job done, like some dark-colored tubing and performing the programming in a dark room. Worst case, borrow one from a consignment chandlery if you have one available nearby. Best of luck, Chuck.
Question: Could this be used as a Solo Sailer? Can it be programmed to somehow disengage the autopilot so the boat would turn into the wind
Answer: This can be used at sea and would need to be on the person at all times. This type of device cant be programmed.
Question: Are you able to re-program a new mmsi for a different boat later
Answer: I don't have my device and instructions available to me right now (winter storage) but knowing how it is programmed, I would be astounded if it could not be.
Question: How does this activate? Hydrostatic
Answer: You can activate it manually or it has an auto deploy via rip cord. The unit attaches to the manual inflate tube on the life jacket and there is a cord that attaches via an adhesive strip to the inflated part of the jacket. So, when the jacket deploys it pulls the rip cord and activates the device.
Question: What's the difference between this and the more expensive aqualink
Answer: I agree with previous answer. Hopefully this device is something we'll never have to use. this device is quite compact, like a small walkie talkie. I did not get a sense of how small it was when viewing it before purchasing it. Not a bad thing just smaller than I was epxecting.
Question: Are the batteries replaceable or do you have to send the unit in to get the batteries changed
Answer: Yes, you can replace it yourself. It takes 3 CR123A Lithium. About $2 each on amazon. I bought Panasonic brand. I was ready to replace it but then I read the battery shelf life is 10 yr ( even AA alkaline has 10 yr shelf life ) and there is no soft switch that can continuously drain the battery. I assume the recommended 5 yr replacement period is to take into account the manufacturing to consumer time. There used to be a YouTube video but now I can't find it. You just need a screw driver and a soldering iron. Hope this answer your question.
Question: Is there a reason for boaters to buy AquaLink instead? Stronger signal is offset by larger size. Are there other features to justify the higher cost
Answer: All Cospas-Sarsat 406-MHz beacons (of which this is one) are tested against the same specifications for likelihood of successful communication with the satellites. So one is not "more powerful" than another. The only operational difference that size is likely to make would be a larger battery for a longer operational duration after activation or features such as a strobe light. Check the manufacturers' specifications. But all Cospas-Sarsat beacons are required to transmit for at least 24 hours at specified temperatures (-40 degrees C for type 1 certified beacons and -20 degrees C for type 2 certified beacons). http://www.cospas-sarsat.int/en/beacon-ownership/how-do-i-select-and-purchase-a-406-mhz-cospas-sarsat-beacon
Question: Is the battery rechargeable
Answer: No - Good for 5to6 years. Read the information at ACR website.

Product features

Cell Phones

Dead Batteries.

Limited Coverage.

Not Rugged.

Search & Rescue relies on you for position information.

Satellite Phones

Poor Satellite Reception.

Costly Subscription Fees.

Fragile.

Poor Battery Life.

GPS Satellite Recievers

GPS Receivers tell you your location, but do not transmit to Search & Rescue.

Low Power Level.

Poor Satellite Reception.

Satellite Messengers

Limited Range, Low Power.

No Redundancy.

Uses a 3rd party emergency coordination center.

Subscription fees.

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