EPIRBs and PLBs

[andantesail]

Hi again. I need a new EPIRB or PLB. I'm wavering between the ACR AuaLink 406 PLB and the ACR GlobalFix PRO. Any wisdom would be much appreciated.

Thanks
Karl "Andante" PSC 34 #276

[Norstar]

We recently researched and went with the ACR GlobalFix iPRO model. It is bracket mounted below in the nav area and is connected via optic cable to NMEA out of our GPS for real time fix. The optical cable which is supplied with unit is easy to connect but does not have a wired connection to unit. (This would hopefully eliminate surge in the event of a lightning hit) The unit also has independent GPS receiver as well. If your looking for something more portable, then the Aqualink 406 PLB would be a good choice. Also much less initial cost to purchase. Registration with either unit is easily handled on line.

John S.
PSC 34 #201
Norstar

[MC1]

Although not exactly a response to your question . . . I've also recently researched PLBs and decided to pick up a couple of the new McMurdo Fast Find for crew to carry on their person. They're now becoming small and light-weight enough that this is possible, and it's a significant safety improvement in a worst-case MOB scenario.

Here's a pretty thorough / fair review of it, in case anyone is interested: McMurdo Fast Find PLB - Initial Evaluation - EQUIPPED TO SURVIVE (tm)

[jackdale]

I am doing a delivery this summer and wanted a PLB. I found a smalll one that fits comfortably on the strap on my inflatable.

ACR AquaLink Personal Locator Beacon - GPS Central Canada

[MC1]

Originally Posted by jackdale

I am doing a delivery this summer and wanted a PLB. I found a smalll one that fits comfortably on the strap on my inflatable.

ACR AquaLink Personal Locator Beacon - GPS Central Canada

The ACR is a little larger (5.8" tall vs. 4.2" tall) and heavier (9.2oz vs. 5.3oz) than the McMurdo (and a little more expensive), but is a quality unit and it's very nice that it floats, just in case. Although smaller / lighter, the McMurdo comes with a warning label that it is not to be used on or in the water without the optional buoyancy pack. There's a spot to attach a lanyard so it can be attached to a life-vest, but one of the criticisms in the review was that the attachment point needs to be made stronger.

I have the predecessor ACR PLB model, which is a little larger and heavier yet, and it's a pain to carry on your person. I was concerned the newer ACR was still not quite small enough, so I thought I'd try the McMurdo this time around (the 210, with GPS capability).

So, one has to decide between a smaller / lighter unit vs. one that's sure to float (or get the buoyancy pack, but that introduces a little more bulkiness again). I'm planning to attach the unit via lanyard and also store it in a secure vest pocket.

Either way, the cost has come down on these enough that by the time the unit is due for a battery change, it's best to just move up to a newer and (presumably in the future) more advanced model.

[BirdBrain333]

Dear Kari, if you are still wavering, I just saw that Practical Sailor has an article on EPIRBs in their latest edition (April, 2010). It may help shed some light.

Jay

[andantesail]

Thanks for all the info. I decided on the new ACR Aqualink. Hope I never need it.

Regards,
Karl
Andante PSC 34 #276

[andantesail]

One new bit of info. With the ACR Aqualink you can sign up for a service that, when you press the "check" button to be sure the unit's working, will send emails (to 5 recipients) that give an "I'm OK" message and your lat and lon and also accesses a map/chart showing where you are. It costs $60 a year.

Karl
Andante PSC 34 #276

[jackdale]

Originally Posted by andantesail

One new bit of info. With the ACR Aqualink you can sign up for a service that, when you press the "check" button to be sure the unit's working, will send emails (to 5 recipients) that give an "I'm OK" message and your lat and lon and also accesses a map/chart showing where you are. It costs $60 a year.

Karl
Andante PSC 34 #276

I have not seen a reference to this service. Can you send a link or some information.

Thanks

Jack

[andantesail]

The service is 407Link.com

Karl
Andante PSC 34 #276