{"id":48326,"date":"2022-03-21T11:43:27","date_gmt":"2022-03-21T01:13:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/?p=48326"},"modified":"2023-01-11T16:03:32","modified_gmt":"2023-01-11T05:33:32","slug":"podcast-plb-comparisons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-plb-comparisons\/","title":{"rendered":"Ep49 &#8211; PLB Comparisons"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"for-amp wp-block-heading\">Listen to the full episode here:<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"buzzsprout-player-10284913\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t <script src=\"https:\/\/www.buzzsprout.com\/1259564\/10284913.js?container_id=buzzsprout-player-10284913&amp;player=small\" type=\"text\/javascript\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n\t<div class=\"wp-video-popup-wrapper\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-video-popup-close\"><\/div>\n\t\t<iframe class=\"wp-video-popup-video is-hosted is-landscape is-resizable\" src=\"\" data-wp-video-popup-url=\"https:\/\/youtube.com\/embed\/47SucqMnGIo?autoplay=1\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen allow=\"autoplay\">\n\t\t<\/iframe>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"for-amp wp-block-heading\">Or watch the video version here:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Ep 49 - PLB Comparisons\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/47SucqMnGIo?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Beyond the beaten tracks, past suburban abodes, and smack-bang in the middle of barren landscapes,<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>our normal way of communicating with family, friends, and services may not always suffice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a beacon for that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this episode, Ben and Lauren enter the Snowys satellite and activate an extensive analysis of the various Personal Locator Beacons and communication devices available to avid adventurers. Be it spare tyres from mates, or dire straits \u2013 a Personal Locator Beacon or satellite message device activates assistance in those off-chance, off-grid emergencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Short Cuts:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>00:00 \u2013 Introduction<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>01:18 \u2013 PLBs and Satellite Message Devices<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>02:41 \u2013 What is a PLB?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>07:12 \u2013 Satellite Messages Options<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>11:11 \u2013 PLBs Vs Satellite Message Devices<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>16:18 \u2013 Considering a PLB<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>19:47 \u2013 When to NOT Use a PLB<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>24:55 \u2013 Which PLB Should I Buy?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mentioned in this episode:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Snowys Pages<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=safety\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Personal Locator Beacons<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/spot\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Spot brand page<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/zoleo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zoleo brand page<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/gme\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GME brand page<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/acr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ACR brand page<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Products:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/gen4-satellite-gps-messenger\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Spot satellite message device<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/global-satellite-communicator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zoleo global satellite communicator<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/spot-x-2-way-satellite-messenger\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Spot X 2-way satellite messenger<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/accusat-mt610g-gps-plb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GME Accusat MT610G PLB<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/rescueme-plb1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">RescueMe Ocean Signal PLB<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/resqlink-view-plb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ACR ResQLink View PLB<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/resqlink-400-plb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ACR ResQLink 400<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Podcasts:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/OkzqvGObvKo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ep36 &#8211; UHF Radios with GME<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>PLBs and Satellite Message Devices<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When we discuss this particular branch of emergency and safety equipment, we refer to the relevant devices as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=safety\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Personal Locator Beacons<\/a> (PLBs). Examples of such include EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and ELTs (Emergency Locator Transmitters).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An EPIRB is designed for water vessels, mounted onto a boat and required at two nautical miles (almost four kilometres) from the shoreline. On the contrary, an ELT is fixed to an aircraft and activated in mid-flight accidents. That said, these regulations are as they stand at the time of this podcast recording \u2013 so it\u2019s wise to check a beacon\u2019s current guidelines at the time of purchase and use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/gen4-satellite-gps-messenger\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">satellite message device<\/a> serves a similar purpose to a PLB, with added functionalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is a PLB?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=safety\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PLB<\/a> is a small GPS device that sends an emergency signal via a satellite to the mission control or safety centre of the country you\u2019re currently situated in \u2013 all with the press of a button. A PLB uses the Search and Rescue satellite network and serves the sole purpose of transmitting a rescue signal. Once activated, help is on its way almost instantaneously \u2013 and for this reason, it\u2019s important to only utilise a PLB in dire strait situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PLBs provide last-resort relief in situations where it would be unreasonable or inappropriate to call an ambulance or emergency service otherwise contactable via a mobile phone. For example, in an outback ordeal where your car may have rolled, phone reception is weak or absent, and civilisation is still kilometres beyond dry, barren landscape \u2013 a PLB is necessary to turn to.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Emergency beacons also require registration with the authority of the country you live in. In Australia, PLBs are registered with the AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority). When travelling overseas for short periods, a PLB needn\u2019t be registered with another country. That said, re-locating overseas to live indefinitely requires registering for the country to which you\u2019re headed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Given the Search and Rescue satellites work on an international basis, a PLB will function as normal if activated in another country. Essentially, the satellites reflect a somewhat coordinated peace effort between particular countries around the world. For example, if one was to travel to France from Australia and set off a PLB, the Search and Rescue response in France will take control of the rescue mission while communicating with Australia to obtain information on the subject (such as family details). That said, some countries prohibit the activation of PLBs on the ground, while some airlines also forbid PLBs on-board their aircrafts. For this reason, it\u2019s recommended to review any relevant guidelines before travelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Satellite Messages Options<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As well as PLBs, <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/gen4-satellite-gps-messenger\" target=\"_blank\">satellite message devices<\/a> also allow for communication with rescue personnel off the grid. Brands such as <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/spot\" target=\"_blank\">Spot<\/a> and <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/zoleo\" target=\"_blank\">Zoleo<\/a> are available for purchase at Snowys, while Garmin offer a satellite communicator model called inReach. Unlike a PLB, these devices operate via a private satellite network, where the rescue process is coordinated by a personal security response team. The primary function of a satellite message device is for communicating in situations where a mobile phone is unusable. For those without an accompanying PLB, these devices feature an SOS function for use in extreme circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Zoleo and Garmin operate via Iridium satellite communications, with GEOS (Geostationary Operational and Environmental Satellite) as the Search and Rescue organisation coordinating their response. Alternatively, Spot function via the Globalstar Network, while their Search and Rescue coordination is operated by the private health security firm FocusPoint International.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Spot-Gen4-Satellite2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A man with a red cap is standing with his backpack to the camera in a hot, dry environment, with a Spot satellite communicator hanging off a carabiner attached to his pack.\" class=\"wp-image-48331\" title=\"Satellite message devices also allow for communication with rescue personnel off the grid\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Spot-Gen4-Satellite2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Spot-Gen4-Satellite2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Spot-Gen4-Satellite2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Spot-Gen4-Satellite2-10x7.jpg 10w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Spot-Gen4-Satellite2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Satellite message devices also allow for communication with rescue personnel off the grid.&nbsp;Credit: Spot<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the case of a Spot device, activating the SOS function in any country sends the message directly to Spot\u2019s rescue response team in America. This is unlike a PLB\u2019s process, which otherwise transmits the message to the mission control centre of the country help has been requested from. Spot\u2019s team coordinate the rescue and communicate with the subject\u2019s home country, conducting the entire search and rescue effort via their own private avenues in America. Essentially, this is private management as opposed to a public government operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So which approach is more reliable? How fast might one\u2019s response time be over the other? Within the scope of this podcast, stating that the power of influence in public operations is higher, or that private is better than public, isn\u2019t that simple. Essentially, all employees within these businesses are committed to sitting at their computers, monitoring phone lines, and coordinating rescues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>PLBs Vs Satellite Message Devices<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike a satellite message device, a PLB often sends a distress signal with a GPS location to enable the Search and Rescue team to narrow down where you are located. Contrasting to a PLB, a satellite message device requires a subscription. As per a satellite phone, users will need to sign up for a plan. Without a subscription, the SOS function (i.e. for use as a PLB) is also ineffective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That said, a satellite message device is a beneficial option for solo adventurers who require and desire the ability to check in with loved ones throughout their ventures. A subscription unlocks additional features as well as an SOS function, while some brands such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/global-satellite-communicator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zoleo<\/a> also offer reduced costs when the device isn\u2019t in use.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Zoleo requires the presence of a mobile phone, the new Spot message device demands Bluetooth connectivity. Put simply, Zoleo devices boost a mobile phone\u2019s signal and maintains this ability with WiFi connection too. While it\u2019s possible to pre-program messages reflecting your status (\u201cI\u2019m OK\u201d, or \u201cI\u2019ve arrived safely\u201d), communicating predominantly requires the corresponding phone app.<br>On the other hand, the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/spot-x-2-way-satellite-messenger\" target=\"_blank\">Spot X<\/a> model offers both. This is helpful in situations with a flat phone battery, though the interface of the device itself is inferior. The black and white screen allows the user to view weigh points and breadcrumbs to indicate tracking and progress. The associated app overlays with more detailed maps and greater functionality. Essentially, while the Spot X model offers multiple abilities via its screen and keypad, the app enables easier navigation of the device.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All the above considered, the main difference between a satellite message device and a PLB is how they\u2019re most likely to be used. For example, Ben doesn\u2019t venture on remote adventures every weekend, so his PLB mostly sits in its box. He registers it yearly, checks its battery regularly, and nestles it safely in his vehicle on long trips away. On the other hand, someone who travels alone \u2013 beyond patches with phone range and throughout remote environments \u2013 would likely benefit more from a satellite message device. Given it offers both communication and emergency-based services, the device aids in scenarios where adventurers simply require support over more serious safety assistance. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Considering a PLB<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Aside from the above, Ben and Lauren conclude that a PLB should be considered simply for the sake of your own safety. Be it foreseeing yourself in a problematic situation on an outback trip, knowing you\u2019re unlikely to be in proximity to local towns, or planning to travel without others \u2013 it\u2019s recommended to incorporate a PLB into your essentials.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On family trips, Ben suggests teaching children how to operate a rescue beacon in the case a parent, caregiver, or capable adult is unable to do so. Given her previous work in Customer Service online, Lauren supports this recommendation, having identified a large portion of PLB buyers as parents and children who aim to feel a sense of safety and security on their off-grid adventures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PLBs also operate via one of two frequencies, sending a signal on either 406MHz or the Local Area System of 121.5MHz. The former is for broader GPS coordinates, while the smaller signal is designed for when Search and Rescue authorities are only a matter of metres away. Most PLBs have the capability of transmitting both frequencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When to NOT Use a PLB<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Rustic, remote, and reckless venturing aside \u2013 a PLB is also necessary for use in dangerous scenarios that unfold within metropolitan areas. For example, a motorbike accident in the Adelaide hills involving broken legs, a smashed phone, and a rogue bike, calls for a PLB device. This is one of the few life-threatening examples concerning an area within a five-kilometre radius of the suburbs that is necessary for more immediate emergency service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the contrary, breaking down in the outback with adequate levels of food, water, and means of setting up camp for the night is not deemed as severe. In these circumstances, one shouldn\u2019t call on a PLB \u2013 just the RAA, or state-equivalent! Ultimately, becoming bogged off the beaten track without phone signal many prompt the telling question \u2013 \u2018Should I <em>not<\/em> activate this PLB, will I find myself in increasingly more danger?\u2019 Put simply \u2013 if the answer is yes, it\u2019s time to pull out the PLB.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scenarios like the above often shed light on satellite message devices as more viable options. As mentioned, pre-programmed messaging allows flexibility to send updates to friends or family members reflective of the type of assistance needed \u2013 for example, \u201cI\u2019m not in fatal danger, but please send help\u201d, or simply \u201cI\u2019m running a day late \u2013 I\u2019m not going to return home on [date]\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sending the Search and Rescue authorities for emergency operations is an expensive affair. For this reason, it\u2019s just as important to first de-activate a PLB before disposing of it. This will prevent the accidental triggering of a rescue signal during the rubbish disposal process \u2013 and arriving at the tip without cause brings a whole new meaning to \u2018a load of rubbish\u2019!<br>As an additional precautionary step too, this approach should be applied even when a PLB\u2019s battery has reached its expiry date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which PLB Should I Buy?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the case of satellite message devices, Ben and Lauren encourage buyers to first assess the features, options, subscriptions, and services available that best suit their lifestyle. For example, spending hundreds of dollars on a device upfront, before a further $60 or so per month moving forward, is likely to be less ideal than other plans on offer. For general use, assess what functions and features the device offers through your phone too.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s wise to consider that Search and Rescue services aren\u2019t offered for situations that unfold within organised events. For example, while an arranged desert race should already involve the appropriate safety equipment and integrate relevant procedures in the case of an emergency, it\u2019s wise to first determine what the private company constitutes as a search and rescue effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In regards to a PLB, these devices deliver the same, sole function \u2013 triggering distress signals in the case of emergencies. With this in mind, consider what your primary activities involve:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you a kayaker, a stand-up paddleboarder (SUP-er), or a recreational fisherman?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you travel overseas often \u2013 and if so, where to?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you plan to re-locate indefinitely?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, is Australian-made important to you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the latter, Kinetic Technology International (KTI) was initially Australian-made before it was bought by a Norwegian company and eventually ceased operation in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. When KTI devices were still in production, they boasted a ten-year battery life and a small, compact design &#8211; popular among the avid adventurers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another Australian-made brand is <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/gme\" target=\"_blank\">GME<\/a>, offering products such as the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/accusat-mt610g-gps-plb\" target=\"_blank\">Accusat MT610G PLB<\/a> for all-round land use with a seven-year battery life. It\u2019s important to note that the battery life lasts to its full extent when not in use or activated. Considering this, it\u2019s recommended to replace the battery at the three-year mark following the activation of the PLB\u2019s distress signal. While Snowys have ceased stocking of KTI locator beacons, GME are available on the shelves and online.<br>As well as PLBs, GME also manufacture EPIRBs and radios such as those for marine operations for many years. Given their long-standing services, the company operate via many service centres around the world where customers can have their PLB assessed, and batteries replaced. For more on GME and their history, services, and products, check out Ben and Lauren\u2019s interview with GME employee Tony in <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/OkzqvGObvKo\" target=\"_blank\">Ep36 \u2013 UHF Radios with GME<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/EP49-Body-Image-1-2.jpg\" alt=\"A hand is holding a GME Accusat PLB with yellow detailing. The backdrop is leafy and green.\" class=\"wp-image-48334\" title=\"GME offers products such as the Accusat MT410G PLB for all-round land use, boasting a seven-year battery life.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/EP49-Body-Image-1-2.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/EP49-Body-Image-1-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/EP49-Body-Image-1-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/EP49-Body-Image-1-2-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>GME offers products such as the Accusat MT410G PLB for all-round land use, boasting a seven-year battery life. Credit: GME<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the GME Accusat PLB can go from country to country, the KTI was unable to be re-coded \u2013 that is, re-registered with the country to which you\u2019re moving to. In the event a user decides to re-locate, most PLBs sold in Snowys stores can be re-coded to other nations.<br>GME PLBs can also be de-activated. Some locator beacons such as the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/rescueme-plb1\" target=\"_blank\">RescueMe Ocean Signal<\/a> and the GME MT10G enable a 50-second delay after activating, allowing for any accidental triggering to be resolved quickly. A PLB\u2019s manual will indicate how to determine when the beacon will transmit \u2013 but even in the case of de-activating a PLB within the 50-second window, it\u2019s recommended a user contacts the AMSA immediately to quote the PLB registration number and confirm that Search and Rescue services are not required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/acr\" target=\"_blank\">ACR<\/a> ResQLink \u2013 an American-manufactured product \u2013 is available in two units. The <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/resqlink-view-plb\" target=\"_blank\">ResQLink View<\/a> includes a wireless detection component that allows your phone to read the beacon\u2019s battery life when held at an adequate distance. The standard <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/resqlink-400-plb\" target=\"_blank\">ResQLink 400<\/a> model is of a similar construction and displays your current GPS location \u2013 a handy additional feature that is uncommon in most PLBs, dismissing the need for a satellite message device subscription.<br>While ACR devices also allow for worldwide battery replacement, recoding, and de-activation \u2013 they prompt an instant rescue transmission once the PLB has been activated. Essentially, this will leave adventurers more red-faced after accidentally triggering a distress signal on an ACR beacon, than if they do so via a GME.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Popular with aqua adventurers, the RescueMe Ocean Signal PLB is waterproof up to 15 metres. That said, this device isn\u2019t to be used onboard a boat that exceeds two nautical miles from the shoreline as per an EPIRB. Instead, an Ocean Signal is best utilised for recreational watersports such as SUP-ing and kayaking. With this in mind, multi-watersport adventurers will benefit more from a device with a 15-metre waterproof rating over that of only one metre.&nbsp; While GME and ACR beacons feature inbuilt flotation devices, they don\u2019t offer the same IPX (waterproof) rating as an Ocean Signal which instead requires a pouch for use in water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While all the gadgets discussed throughout the podcast boast a robust blend of durability, quality, and user-friendly technicalities \u2013 there\u2019s always a buy that\u2019s better built for your unique outback endeavours. For the adventurers who value Aussie-made equipment, GME is a highly recommended label to explore \u2013 while Ocean Signal offer the most apposite, aqua-based devices for those after small, compact tackle designed to withstand water. Lastly, for ultimate security amid outback serenity, the ACR ResQLink range is fancy, flash, and fosters greater functionality \u2013 including access to GPS coordinates, battery life status, and a worldwide network of search and rescue satellites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Thanks for listening, tune in again for next week\u2019s episode!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Thanks for tuning in to this week\u2019s episode of the Snowys Camping Show Podcast. Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to us on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCgpO6k-UyaYgwyLg0ESceCg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">YouTube<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/0wy9b822eekXe00bAIqPbX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Spotify<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/au\/podcast\/snowys-camping-show\/id1527530990\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">iTunes<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/music.amazon.com\/podcasts\/db56692e-96e7-418d-929d-88c5fde70b1a\/Snowys-Camping-Show\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amazon Music<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.iheart.com\/podcast\/269-snowys-camping-show-79675943\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">iHeartRadio<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pca.st\/z1mx2k64\">Pocket Casts<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/podcastaddict.com\/podcast\/3281467\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Podcast Addict<\/a>, or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/s?fid=618483\">St<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/s?fid=618483\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">i<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/s?fid=618483\">tcher<\/a>&nbsp;so you never miss an upload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any questions for Ben and Lauren, make sure you head over to our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/snowys\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Facebook group<\/a>&nbsp;and let us know as we\u2019d love to hear from you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Catch you out there!<\/p>\n<div class='watch-action'><div class='watch-position align-left'><div class='action-like'><a class='lbg-style1 like-48326 jlk' href='javascript:void(0)' data-task='like' data-post_id='48326' data-nonce='1983114f35' rel='nofollow'><img class='wti-pixel' src='https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/plugins\/wti-like-post\/images\/pixel.gif' title='Liked it' \/><span class='lc-48326 lc'>1<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div> <div class='status-48326 status align-left'><\/div><\/div><div class='wti-clear'><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In this episode, Ben and Lauren enter the Snowys satellite and activate an extensive analysis of the various Personal Locator Beacons and communication devices available to avid adventurers.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1638,"featured_media":48337,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1570,1569,1571,854],"tags":[1262,1264,1260,1261,1268,1259,486,1266,1265,1270,1269,1272,1274,1273],"class_list":["post-48326","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-podcast-4wd","category-podcast-camping","category-podcast-hiking","category-podcast","tag-acr","tag-acrresqlink","tag-gme","tag-kti","tag-oceansignal","tag-personallocatorbeacon","tag-plb","tag-rescueme","tag-resqlink","tag-satellitemessagedevice","tag-searchandrescue","tag-spot","tag-spotx","tag-zoleo"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48326"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1638"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=48326"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48326\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":52239,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48326\/revisions\/52239"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/48337"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=48326"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=48326"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=48326"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}