8 best gps plbs
GPS Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are safety devices used to transmit distress signals to search and rescue authorities in emergency situations, particularly in remote or outdoor environments. These devices are not related to handheld flashlights or flashlights in general but fall under the category of safety and security tools. Here's what you need to know about GPS PLBs:
Emergency Signaling:
- GPS PLBs are designed for use in life-threatening situations where immediate assistance is required. They are typically used by hikers, boaters, pilots, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Distress Beacon:
- A GPS PLB is equipped with a distress beacon that, when activated, sends a distress signal with your precise GPS coordinates to satellites orbiting the Earth.
Global Coverage:
- GPS PLBs can work globally, making them suitable for use in remote areas where cellular or radio communication may not be available.
Search and Rescue Coordination:
- When a GPS PLB is activated, the distress signal is relayed to search and rescue organizations, allowing them to pinpoint your location and initiate a rescue operation.
Registration:
- To use a GPS PLB, you typically need to register it with the appropriate authorities or organizations, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the United States.
- Registration ensures that your emergency contact information is associated with the device, expediting the response in case of activation.
Battery Life:
- GPS PLBs are designed to have long battery life, with some models offering several days or even weeks of continuous operation.
- Periodic battery checks and replacement are essential to ensure the device functions when needed.
Water Resistance:
- Many GPS PLBs are designed to be water-resistant or even waterproof, making them suitable for use in marine environments.
Size and Portability:
- GPS PLBs are compact and portable, often designed to be carried in a backpack, pocket, or attached to a life jacket.
Activation Protocol:
- GPS PLBs usually have a two-step activation process to prevent accidental activation. You may need to deploy an antenna and press an activation button.
Cost:
- GPS PLBs typically have an upfront cost, and there may be additional fees associated with registration and any necessary subscriptions for satellite monitoring services.
It's important to note that GPS PLBs are serious safety devices meant for use in emergencies only.False activations should be avoided, as they can divert resources from genuine emergencies. Users should be trained on how to operate these devices properly and understand when to use them in life-threatening situations.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best gps plbs on the market- No Subscription Required
- 406 MHz Emergency Distress Signal with Homing Signal
- GPS and Galileo GNSS / Cospas-Sarsat / MEOSAR
- Global Coverage
- LED Strobe and Infrared Strobe
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the battery life? How much to replace it |
Answer: | Battery is 5 years. For battery replacement please contact one of our battery replacement centers and they will give you a quote. |
Question: | How do you charge it |
Answer: | These units don't need charge. They will last for 5 years if never used. If you do use them we will replace it for free once you submit your survivor story. |
Question: | Does this product work in the Bahamas? World wide |
Answer: | Yes. It will work world wide. |
Question: | Does it come with a case |
Answer: | Hi there! No case. This unit comes with a clip system that you can use to attach the PLB and different locations. |
Product features
Features and Benefits
- No Subscription Required
- Built-in Digital Display
- GPS and Galileo GNSS
- Built-In Buoyancy
- Strobe and Infrared Strobe
- Global Coverage
- MEOSAR Compatible
- 5 year battery life
- 24+ hours Operational Life**
- Multi-function Clip System Included
What's in the box?
Due to innovative design elements, multi-function clips can be used in conjunction with the beacon, providing numerous wear-ability options that address a variety of usage applications. The increased ease of incorporating the ResQLink View on your person, or with your gear, just made all your adventures not just safer, but more convenient too.
Follow Your Own Path
Designed to work world-wide no matter what your adventure looks like!
- Fishing / Boating
- Hiking / Camping
- 4x4 / ATV / RV
- Hunting / Flying
- Skiing / Snowmobiling
- The sky is the limit
Product description
Small but resilient, the ResQLink 400 has been professionally engineered and tested 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. With three levels of integrated signal technology – GPS positioning, a powerful 406 MHz signal, and 121.5 MHz homing capability – the ResQLink 400 quickly and accurately relays your position to a worldwide network of search and rescue satellites. Additionally, a built-in strobe and infrared strobe facilitate nighttime, or other low visibility rescues. Wherever your adventure takes you, whether it’s a trip to the highest mountain peaks, the most undiscovered terrain, or the vastest of oceans, rest assured that the ResQLink 400 always activates easily. Simply deploy the antenna, press the ON button, and the beacon will do the rest for you by effortlessly guiding rescuers to within 100 meters or less of your position. Due to innovative design elements, multi-function clips can be used in conjunction with the beacon, providing numerous wear-ability options that address a variety of usage applications. The increased ease of incorporating the ResQLink 400 on your person, or with your gear, just made all your adventures not just safer, but more convenient too.
- No Subscription Required
- 406 MHz Emergency Distress Signal / Homing signal
- LED Strobe and Infrared Strobe
- Global Coverage / Cospas-Sarsat / MEOSAR
- GPS and Galileo GNSS
User questions & answers
Question: | Does it really use AAA batteries |
Answer: | Hello, XL should be more suitable. |
Question: | Once activated how long will it transmit before the battery runs dead |
Answer: | It’s stretchy material so you shouldn’t have a issue it fits pretty nicely |
Question: | How do you know when the batteries will expire; is the unit marked with an expiration date |
Answer: | Last year on a two week trip to French Polynesia, I wore the two long sleeved shirts nearly everyday for outside activities. The shirts were very comfortable and functional with their sun screen properties. Wuite satisfies with the wear and tear and if the were smelly, I didn't notice and my friends and family either didn't notice a smell or were to tactful to bring it up. Give it a shot you are on vacation. |
Question: | does this require a monthly or yearly subscription |
Answer: | sorry, I live in arizona and its not humid! but, it's hot. I got these to wear in the pool for aerobics. |
Product features
Features and Benefits
- No Subscription Required
- GPS and Galileo GNSS
- Built-In Buoyancy
- Strobe and Infrared Strobe
- Global Coverage
- MEOSAR Compatible
- Small and lightweight
- 5 year battery life
- 24+ hours Operational Life**
- Multi-function Clip System Included
Three Levels of Integrated Signal Technology
With three levels of integrated signal technology – GPS positioning, a powerful 406 MHz signal, and 121.5 MHz homing capability – the ResQLink 400 quickly and accurately relays your position to a worldwide network of search and rescue satellites. Additionally, a built-in strobe and infrared strobe facilitate nighttime, or other low visibility rescues.
What's in the box?
Due to innovative design elements, multi-function clips can be used in conjunction with the beacon, providing numerous wear-ability options that address a variety of usage applications. The increased ease of incorporating the ResQLink 400 on your person, or with your gear, just made all your adventures not just safer, but more convenient too.
Perfect for Low Visibility Weather
It comes with a built-in strobe and infrared strobe to facilitate nighttime or other low visibility rescues.
Follow Your Own Path
Designed to work world-wide no matter what your adventure looks like!
- Fishing / Boating
- Hiking / Camping
- 4x4 / ATV / RV
- Hunting / Flying
- Skiing / Snowmobiling
- The sky is the limit
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 |
Product description
A personal location beacon (PLB) is a personal safety device designed to alert search and rescue services and allow them to quickly locate you in the event of an emergency, on land or sea.
- 406/121.5MHz plb
- Easy to operate
- No subscription needed
- High brightness LED SOS light
- Minimum 24hr continuous operation
User questions & answers
Question: | Is there any service fee or any monthly cost |
Answer: | There are no monthly fees, you just need to register the device. It is strictly for rescue only--not like some beacons that allow you to send out an I'm OK ping. The battery is supposed to last 6 years. |
Question: | How easy would it be to accidentally activate the beacon, thanks |
Answer: | Not very easy. You have to deliberately remove the top first. I have never had a problem in two years. I carry it in my backpack. |
Question: | how do you make sure the battery doesn’t die while you’re out on a hike |
Answer: | Do the test function outlined in the owners manual. |
Question: | It is a one time use? If yes, then after using what do you do with it? Send it back to manufacture or just throw it in the garbage |
Answer: | I believe you would send it back to the manufacturer for a battery replacement. This service is recommended after about 5 years anyway to ensure you have good batteries. Then it can be used an additional 5 years before it is retired. Hopefully, if you ever need to use the device to summon a rescue, you won't be worried about the cost of a battery replacement. |
Question: | What is the range |
Answer: | It works wold wide in any location as it communicates with the satellite. However once it's activated it will be transmitting signal for 24 hours. If you are in a distant location that search and rescue needs more than 24 hours to find you then we recommend getting any of our EPIRBs, GlobalFix V4, Pro, or iPro. They last from 48 to 65 hours. |
Question: | Once activated, is there any type of confirmation that your signal has been received |
Answer: | The unit will keep blinking while the signal is been transmitted. There is no return confirmation only sending out. However, you are able to test the unit before going out on a trip by performing a self-test. |
Question: | how difficult would it be to accidentally activate this device |
Answer: | I'd say fairly difficult. That yellow flap on the front protects the activation mechanism and the spring is fairly robust. |
Question: | will it work from inside a car or rv |
Answer: | Yes. It is a radio frequency- sat freq. may not work inside a cave, deep and narrow canyon, or below a multi-level parking garage. |
Product description
Garmin GPSMAP 78. Garmin international is pleased to announce the next generation in marine handhelds: the GPSMAP 78 series. Incorporating a sleek, new design and must-have features, these rugged units are a great fit in Garmin's best-selling lineup of color marine handhelds and they float! Featuring a bright 2.6-inch LCD color display with built-in basemap and high sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix, the GPSMAP 78 series takes recereational navigation to a new level. All three models are waterproof, include a built-in microSD card slot for loading additional maps and have a dedicated MOB (man over board) button. If you're looking for the ultimate high-performance marine handheld, take your pick from the GPSMAP 78 series. Features:. High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver and HotFix Floats Rugged, waterproof (IEC 60529 IPX7) Worldwide built-in basemap with shaded relief 1.7 GB of internal memory, plus microSD card slot for optional mapping and data storage Bright 2.6" LCD sunlight readable color display (160 x 240 pixels) Up to 20 hours of battery life, battery type: 2 AA (not included) NiMH or lithium recommended Weight: 7.7 oz with batteries. Package Includes:. Unit, USB cable, wrist strap and quick start manual
- battery: 2 aa batteries (not included); nimh or lithium recommended
- memory: 1. 7 gb
- display resolution: 160 x 240 pixels
- "display size: 1. 43" x 2. 15"; 2. 6" diagonal"
- "physical dimensions: 2. 6" x 6. 0" x 1. 2"
- marine-friendly handheld with high-sensitivity gps receiver and 2. 6-inch color tft display
- perfect for boating/watersports-waterproof to ipx7 standards; floats in water
User questions & answers
Question: | Is this model the 78sc |
Answer: | as per the picture of this model it does NOT look like it is the sc model. i have the 78sc and it is labeled that way on the front of the unit |
Question: | hi again, morning. does the gamin model 78 have build in compass? thanks |
Answer: | In spite of the large number of "yes" answers, the answer is NO. The 78 has no compass, but you can select the more expensive 78s, near the top of the listing. It and the even more expensive 78sc DO have a compass (and a barometer/altimeter). You don't really need a compass with a GPS, since walking a few feet in any direction can produce a track on the screen, which shows you the direction you're moving. A GPS is much more useful than a compass. To be clear, the 78 does have a compass "page" which can show you which way you're moving, but if you stop it doesn't work. It can also show your altitude, but without an altimeter the altitude estimate averages about twice the error as the location estimate, so it might not be too useful. |
Question: | Does theGarmin GPS78sc come with already downloaded marine charts or not? I need one for the greater Puget Sound area, but and need charts for it |
Answer: | Direct from garmin site on 5/15/16 ....For boaters and watersports enthusiasts who want to run with the best, the rugged GPSMAP 78sc includes preloaded U.S. coastal charts and features a 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, crisp color mapping, a high-sensitivity receiver, new molded rubber side grips, plus a microSD card slot for loading additional maps. And it floats!Explore Coastal WatersGPSMAP 78sc comes with built-in BlueChart® g2 coastal charts and a worldwide basemap with imagery - perfect for all your outdoor pursuits. Map detail includes shorelines, depth contours, navaids, harbors, marinas and more for the U.S. and Bahamas. And, like the rest of the 78-series, 78sc is IPX7 waterproof and even floats in water. |
Question: | what is the difference between 78 and 78sc |
Answer: | 78sc = Sensors and Charts78s= Sensors , no charts78= no sensors, no chartsSensors are Barometer and Compass |
Question: | Can this be used as a chart plotter |
Answer: | Yes, this unit comes pre-loaded with Bluechart g3 maps. Mike, Garmin |
Question: | can bluechart g2 maps be loaded on to the device |
Answer: | It has BlueChart® g3 Coastal Charts already on it. Mike, Garmin |
Question: | Does it have talk to text |
Answer: | No. Mike, Garmin |
Question: | Is the gpsmap 86sci handheld compatible with activecaptain |
Answer: | At the time of my order it did not, but there was an update a few days ago for autopilot... so maybe it works now. |
Product description
SPOT Gen3 gives you a critical, life-saving line of communication when you travel beyond the boundaries of cell Service. The latest generation of award-winning SPOT devices, SPOT Gen3 lets family and friends know you're okay, or if the worst should happen, sends emergency responders your GPS location - all with the push of a button. Add this rugged, pocket-sized device to your essential gear and stay connected wherever you roam. Long live adventure. Service agreement required.
- S. O. S. - in an emergency, send an S. O. S. With your GPS location to geos, who facilitates search and rescue
- Check in - let contacts know where you are and that you're okay with a pre-programmed message
- Help/spot S. O. V. - request help from your friends and family at your GPS location. OR, ask for help from professional assistance organizations
- Custom message- let contacts know where you are by sending a pre-programmed message with your GPS location
- Track- automatically send and save your location and allow contacts to track your progress using google maps
- Service agreement required.
User questions & answers
Question: | how does this gadget let use text around the globe and where is the bill chargeable |
Answer: | No Smart Phone Required... just a quiet room and Good hearing. |
Question: | Does the SPOT Gen3 come with the first year Basic subscription($150 first year cost)or is that an additional cost(150unit+150sub=$300 first year cost |
Answer: | No ,it is use battery ,but RF batteries are not come with , you need another buy 2 pc 1.5V AAA batteries ,available at the 99 cents store . |
Question: | What is the term of the Basic Tracking Service Plan included with SPOT Gen3? Is it one full year from date of activation or shorter or longer term |
Answer: | This is hard to answer.It is easy to hear in the same room , but if in the other room I feel like I'm playing cold, warm, hot ...After all, everyone’s hearing ability is different. |
Question: | How many days do the lithium batteries last when using 10min tracking .. roughly |
Answer: | no idea, email the company who sold you the product through amazon. they should know something. a |
Product description
Floating Pouch for Res QLink Part #: 9521This pouch is light weight and small enough to be easily carried in a pack or pocket for any situation while keeping the device safe and provides buoyancy. Product : ACR 9521 FLOATING POUCH FOR RESQLINK Manufacturer : ACR ELECTRONICS Manufacturer Part No : 9521 UPC : 791659095218
- Lightweight
- Small enough to be easily carried in a pack or pocket
- Keeps the Relink safe and providing buoyancy
- For ResQLink PLB-375
User questions & answers
Question: | How do you activate it |
Answer: | As documented on the back of the device, the batteries were replaced February 2013. Thanks for your interest. |
Question: | Does a ResQLink 400 fit |
Answer: | Yes, the aquafix 406 has on-board gps. You can check all the specs and features here: https://www.acrartex.com/products/catalog/legacy-products/aquafix-406-gps-plb/#sthash.Xcs1gZ7L.dpbs |
Question: | Will it work fot the ResQ Link plus |
Answer: | Brushed |
Question: | I have this pouch for the Plus..doesn't fit good like posted... is there a model that does fit good |
Answer: | No, they go over top of the stock ones. They come with two sided tape for easy install. |
Question: | What's the difference between this and the more expensive aqualink |
Answer: | Yes I have a 2016 4 door unlimited sport and it fit. Now the 3m tape it came with did not work well we emailed the company and they sent a roll of very good 3m and it was been on and looks good for about a year now |
Question: | Are the batteries replaceable or do you have to send the unit in to get the batteries changed |
Answer: | I don’t know if it will fit or not However I sent the product back because it was very cheap looking just wasn’t satisfied at all |
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: | Thank you for your question. Trim Shine is designed for use on vinyl, plastic and rubber trim but can be used on fiberglass. We recommend you test in an out of the way area for compatibility before widespread use. Also, we make a quick detailer called Speed Bead (product # 92354) that works very well on clearcoats and fiberglass. Go to www.stonercarcare.com for more information. Dave Scranton Inside Sales Manager Stoner Inc (makers of Stoner Car Care products) [email protected] |
Question: | Is the battery rechargeable |
Answer: | number on the can is: 1-717-786-0804 8-5 EST - call 'em. Can does post "NO CFC" NO mention of UV protection -- bought for wax removal from non-metal trim and like the shine results. |
Question: | can you confirm the battery replacement date from the back of these available units |
Answer: | I'm not sure what an engine bay is; but, the product is labelled as "extremely flammable", so I'm guessing that using it on something that gets very hot, like a vehicle engine, is not a good idea. |
Question: | can you please confirm if this has an on-board gps |
Answer: | Thanks for the questions! Absolutely! Trim Shine will work great on your chrome trim! |
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.
Product description
McMurdo FAST FIND 220 Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) (45016)
A personal location beacon (PLB) is a personal safety device designed to alert search and rescue services and allow them to quickly locate you in the event of an emergency, on land or sea.
UST SplashFlash Waterproof LED Flashlight, Orange
The multi-function, glow in the dark UST SplashFlash LED flashlight works as a mini-lantern, safety light and personal locater. Runtime of 11hrs on steady and ~16hrs of SOS signal. It features an IPX7 waterproof rating, protecting it against water immersion. It features a high-impact ABS plastic with a molded-rubber lens protector for easy one-handed operation, an unbreakable bulb that provides 25 lumens of light and a handy carabiner clip that attaches anywhere and can double as a key chain.
- Product 1: 406/121.5MHz plb
- Product 1: Easy to operate
- Product 1: No subscription needed
- Product 1: High brightness LED SOS light
- Product 2: BRIGHTNESS: 25 lumens of bright, clean light with Steady On and SOS modes
- Product 2: DIMENSIONS: 3” H x 1” W and weighs 1 oz with AAA batteries (included)
- Product 2: EASE OF USE: Easy twist collar ON/OFF and mode cycle operation and includes a carabiner clip that attaches anywhere or doubles as a keychain
- Product 2: RELIABLE: 11 continuous hours of runtime with an unbreakable LED bulb that never needs to be replaced
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