What is PLB?
A PLB is a self activated device which aids in quick rescue in the event you become lost or disabled in remote areas. When activated, these units send out a signal to an overhead satellite that is part of a multi-nation network known as COSPAS-SARSAT, which is a coalition of U.S., Canadian, French and Russian satellites. These are also linked to the GOES and POES satellites operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). That signal is then relayed to a ground receiver station where it is relayed to the Air Force’s Search and Rescue Center in Suitland, Md. Once the satellite receives this signal, the entire chain of events can happen within a matter of minutes. In the case of the PLB, the signal sent to the satellites is at a specific frequency that has been encoded with identifiers specific to that unit. When the PLB is purchased, the buyer is required to complete a registration form that lists the buyer’s name, address, phone number and other pertinent informa
